A Pause in My New Tradition
This new year is going to be a little different for me—and a little more special (and cheaper!). For a couple of years, I’ve celebrated Christmas, New Year and my birthday by taking an annual trip to Europe to explore, soak up the history and culture, see Christmas markets, attend some concerts, meet people, and get the vibe of different cities. But this year, I’ve decided to press pause on that tradition—and for a very exciting reason. Like you’ve previously read, if all goes as planned, 2025 won’t just be another year of travel; it might be the year I start living in Europe.
Leap of Faith
I say “might” because, like any big dream, there are a lot of unknowns and a bit of nervousness that comes with it. Moving abroad is a huge leap of faith. And while I don’t have all the answers yet, I’m determined to take things one step at a time. For now, I’m choosing to focus on preparation, optimism, trying to budget, and staying open to wherever this journey takes me.
A Change in Destination
I really do believe I’ll be able to share many European cities with you all at some point; however, this New Year and birthday, my journey is bringing me to Montreal, Canada 🇨🇦 - home of Celine Dion. Well, it’s close. She was born 30 minutes away in Charlemagne. Enjoy her song “Pour Que Tu M’aimes Encore” above by pressing the button ▶️.
Practicing French in a French-Influenced City
Montreal is a city that’s steeped in French culture, which makes it the perfect place to practice the French I’ve been learning. Having recently taken the French travel class with Véronique Savoye (France with Vero), I have been itching to put what I’ve learned into real-life conversations. I’m excited (and a little nervous) to see how I do!
More Than Just Language: Exploring Montreal in Winter
Of course, this trip is more than just language practice. It’s also a chance to explore a new city and to embrace the beauty of Montreal in winter—a season I love! Anyone who knows me, knows that I love to go out in snowstorms, or grab a coffee and go for a walk in the crisp air, or go driving in the snow. Fingers crossed that the weather cooperates, as the East Coast and Canada have been hit with some heavy snowstorms lately. But a little snow won’t stop me…as long as the plane gets me there! I’m looking forward to visiting Montreal, trying some new foods, and soaking in the holiday atmosphere. I hope you all are able to enjoy whatever makes you happy during the holiday season!
Preparing for the Future, One Step at a Time
This trip is also a stepping stone for my larger journey. Moving to Europe is no small feat, and while I don’t know for sure if 2025 will be the year it happens, each experience like this helps me feel a little more ready as I prepare for this next chapter—even if I don’t end up in France! :)
Gratitude and Support: Moving Forward with Confidence
I’m so grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received as I work toward this big life change. Thank you to my advocates - to those who want to hear about the future and of my plans! It hasn’t been an easy path, but every small step forward feels like a victory. For now, I’m excited to share this New Year’s adventure with you and will keep you updated. I may even make it to Quebec City - we’ll see!
Travel Tips and Language Advice: Join the Conversation
If you’ve ever visited Montreal or practiced a new language while traveling, I’d love to hear about your experiences. And if you have any tips for navigating a French-speaking city, I’m all ears! It has been decades since I’ve been to France.
Happy Holidays! Here’s to Dreaming Big
In the meantime, I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, New Year and start to 2025! Here’s to a season of growth, exploration, and dreaming big. Merci, and see you soon, Montreal! (I have the next 4 posts already scheduled for automatic release - so Enjoy! I’ll blog when I’m back from Montreal!)
(Photo by: Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash)
