January and February 2019: A Winter Adventure Across Poland, Ukraine, and Canada

The winter of 2019 brought me on an incredible journey across Poland, Ukraine, and Canada, filled with the warmth of family and friends, despite the freezing temperatures. After an intense period of responding to emergencies in Indonesia and the Philippines, I began the year with some much-needed time at home in Nowy Sącz and Kraków. It was comforting to recharge in familiar surroundings with family and enjoy the places that always feel like home.

A Ukrainian Adventure with Mum

Feeling re-energised, Mum and I decided to embark on a small adventure to Ukraine. We flew from Kraków to Kyiv, where we spent an amazing time exploring the grand capital. Kyiv captivated us with its blend of grand architecture, vibrant culture, and a unique vibe that can only be found in an Eastern European metropolis. Its wide boulevards, golden-domed churches, and lively streets left a lasting impression.

From today’s perspective, knowing the suffering and resilience of the Ukrainian people during the ongoing war with Russia, our time in Kyiv feels even more special. It was a chance to experience the beauty and spirit of the country that is now fighting for its survival.

While in Ukraine, we also ventured outside Kyiv on a day trip to Park Kyyivsʹka Rusʹ. The park offered a glimpse into rural Ukraine, with its reconstructed medieval wooden fortresses and traditional lifestyle exhibits. It was a stark contrast to the grandeur of the capital, but it gave us a deeper appreciation of Ukraine’s history and heritage.

Visiting Tahir in Canada with Zosia

After returning to Poland, I barely had time to repack before embarking on the next leg of my journey. My young niece Zosia and I flew from Kraków to Warsaw and then onwards to Toronto to visit Tahir. This trip was particularly exciting because it was Zosia’s first time outside Europe, and I was thrilled for her to meet her adopted cousin, Tahir.

It was an incredible experience to witness Tahir settling into his new life in Canada. It was still his first winter in the country, and he was navigating the excitement, challenges, and struggles of being a migrant in a land so vastly different from Pakistan or Thailand, where he had spent much of his life.

Tahir was a wonderful host, showing us his favourite spots in Toronto. Together, we also braved the icy weather to visit Niagara Falls, which was magical and spectacular in the winter. The falls, frozen in places and surrounded by a stark winter landscape, felt entirely different from the postcard-perfect scenes of summer. Despite the biting cold, it was an unforgettable sight.

Exploring Montreal

From Toronto, we set off on a road trip to Montreal, giving us a chance to visit the province of Quebec. It was Tahir’s first trip to Quebec, and it was fascinating to observe how he and Zosia perceived the unique character of the region, which contrasted sharply with Ontario. The French-speaking province, with its charming streets and rich culture, offered new experiences for everyone.

Reflections

This winter adventure was filled with special moments. From reconnecting with Mum on our Ukrainian escapade to helping Tahir feel more confident in his new home and introducing Zosia to a world beyond Europe, the trip was as meaningful as it was joyful. It was a chance to reflect on how far Tahir had come and to celebrate the bonds of family and friendship across continents and cultures.

Looking back, I cherish the memories of this trip—the laughter, the warmth of companionship, and the resilience of the human spirit, whether in Ukraine, Poland, or Canada. It was a winter that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

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2019: A Year of Farewells and New Beginnings

The year 2019 marked a significant transition in my life—my final year in Thailand before embarking on a new chapter in Panama. The first six months were filled with nostalgia and reflection, as I sought to make the most of my remaining time in the place that had become home for several years.

I took every opportunity to revisit my favourite spots in Bangkok and Hua Hin, soaking in the unique charm of these places that had provided so many cherished memories. Whether it was strolling through the bustling streets of Bangkok, exploring the canals, or enjoying the serene beaches of Hua Hin, every moment felt more precious as the countdown to my departure loomed closer.

One of the greatest joys of my time in Thailand was the friendships I built, and 2019 provided the perfect opportunity to reconnect and savour those relationships. My Spanish language teacher, Charly (Carlos), from Mexico, was no longer just a tutor but a lifelong friend. Our bond grew beyond the classroom, and our friendship became a constant source of joy and support. Charly’s warmth, humour, and generosity made my Spanish-learning journey unforgettable, and I will always be grateful for our time together.

I also spent meaningful moments with my dear friends Claire and her husband, with whom I shared many conversations, meals, and laughter. Their kindness and hospitality made my time in Thailand even more special, and our gatherings were always a highlight of my social life.

Equally important were my colleagues at the Bangkok office. Working with them had been an incredible experience—one filled with professionalism, camaraderie, and mutual support. We shared not just professional goals but a genuine sense of friendship that made the workplace a welcoming and inspiring environment. As my departure approached, every shared meal, meeting, and casual chat became a reminder of how lucky I was to have been part of such an amazing team.

As I prepared to leave Thailand, I found myself reflecting on the impact the country had on my life. Thailand had offered me incredible professional experiences, unforgettable friendships, and countless opportunities to learn and grow. While I was excited about my upcoming move to Panama, I knew I would always carry a piece of Thailand with me—its vibrant culture, warm-hearted people, and the invaluable experiences that had shaped me over the years.

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