Stories of anticipation, fear, and packing panic.

On January 12, 2018, it was my birthday, which I naturally had to celebrate with Tim and all my loved ones. It quickly turned into a farewell party with way too much food and also some tears. Of course, our friends had something special planned for us. They had prepared a presentation with all of our stops. It was about typical food, sights, and do's and dont's. In addition, we were constantly treated to local delicacies, such as spring rolls for Vietnam, a delicious Caipirinha for Brazil, and a cream cheese bagel for New York. We said our goodbyes with tears and heavy hearts. Thank you - you are the best!

Saturday came and after everything was cleaned up and fresh, it was time to pack. Oh dear... What do you take with you for a six-month trip? Not too much and not too little. That sounds so easy. Well, after much thought, sorting, and repacking, the time had come. The backpack was closed and clearly too heavy at 14 kg. Well, that's how it is when you have to be prepared for all eventualities. The one situation that we are not prepared for will still happen 😊

With 4 pants, a dress, 2 tops, 3 t-shirts, 3 pairs of shoes, 4 underwear, 2 bras, a sleeping bag, a sleeping mat, a pillow, and a lot of medicine, we set off to the airport in Zurich at 8:30 am on January 14. After a 2 ½ hour drive, we arrived at the airport and checked in. Backpack gone, so there's no turning back. One last farewell from my family and my friend with numerous tears, and Tim and I are off, arm in arm, on our adventure. Sought and found. We were already at our gate and spent the time waiting and wiping away the last tears until it was time to board. So on the plane, fastened our seatbelts, and off we went. I'm currently sitting on the plane, waiting for something to drink, and looking ahead with a mix of happiness, sadness, excitement, and a little bit of fear. Tim has his eyes closed and is listening to music. We are flying 5h 40 min to Dubai and will then have a 6-hour layover before continuing to Hanoi. Attached are the last pictures.

PS: Naima, be good for mama! 😉