Jun-2013
While out of your comfort zone
In 2011 I was working as a guide in Barcelona with bicycle tours (CruisingBarcelona) through the city. That summer I met Annemay van den Heuvel, while she was visiting BCN with her friend. I guided her through town with the tour and we had nice conversations.
One year later I started my studies in the Netherlands and with our class we went to Barcelona for a study-trip – it had to be Barcelona?
Funny thing was, that Annemay also started the same study (in another city) and we met again during this trip.
At work as a guide in Barcelona, the group with Annemay – summer 2011
3 years later I’m invited for the Reiswerk Student Congress and she is as well. So there we met again!
Coincidence? Actually, I don’t believe in coincidence, but it’s very nice to meet a person in a foreign country and bump in to them again at other places.
I believe that many true friendships are made abroad while you are out of your comfort zone and maybe get to know each other in different or even extreme situations. Even while you don’t see or speak with each other everyday, those friends are always there for you.
Annemay and I at the Green Canyon, Turkish Riviera – May 2013
About Renate Rigters
Ever since I left my home country I felt at home at any other place I went to. I enjoy getting to know more cultures by talking to strangers and hearing their philosophy about life. Speaking with gestures when you can not find a shared language, finding places only the locals go to and learn about their customs and values. Hanging out with local people makes me happy. The experience of every new place is a step out of your comfort zone where I like to wander around until it feels like a second home.
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Lieverd!