Ten years ago, I embarked on a journey that would change my life forever. As an entrepreneur in Brazil with a decade of experience in marketing, communication, and technology, I had a dream: to learn English fluently and immerse myself in the cultures driving innovation in my field. I believed that living in an English-speaking country would be the key to accelerating this learning, bypassing traditional language courses in Brazil. This conviction, coupled with a curiosity to explore the world, led me to my first international trip—a milestone that would shape the next decade of my life.
I chose Los Angeles and Las Vegas as my initial destinations, accompanied by two friends who already spoke English—a significant advantage, as I wasn’t fluent. Arriving in the United States was overwhelming: the grand city structures, impeccable organization, and vibrant energy of a first-world country left a deep impression on me. Unable to speak English confidently, I had to push myself to communicate, but this challenge fueled my motivation. Being immersed in American culture, surrounded by friends, and exploring iconic places like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Las Vegas Strip showed me that learning and growth depended entirely on my own efforts.
Those thirteen days were a true life school. Walking down Rodeo Drive, soaking in the cinematic atmosphere of Los Angeles, and marveling at the casinos of Las Vegas were unforgettable moments, but the greatest impact came from the realization that I could go further. Exposure to native English revealed what I needed to improve to achieve fluency, while the cultural richness of these destinations fueled my curiosity for new experiences. I returned to Brazil with a fresh perspective, determined to explore the world further and seek knowledge wherever it could be found.
That initial trip was not just an adventure; it was the starting point for a profound professional and personal transformation. Upon returning, I made bold decisions: I left my business partnership in Brazil and redirected my career toward working in the United States, investing in mastering English and staying close to technology and innovation hubs. Over the past ten years, this choice has taken me to countless destinations, each contributing to my growth as a professional and a global citizen. The curiosity that drove me on that first trip remains my guide, always seeking new cultures, knowledge, and connections.
Today, reflecting on this decade of international travel, I see how it all began with a leap of courage. The experience in Los Angeles and Las Vegas opened doors I hadn’t even imagined, showing me that learning goes far beyond language—it lies in the people, places, and stories we encounter along the way. My journey is far from over, and I hope to inspire others to take their first step, trusting that the world has much to teach those willing to explore it.
What Have I Learned in These Ten Years?
Over these ten years of international travel, the greatest lesson has been understanding English not just as a language, but as a bridge to new cultures and opportunities. When I started, I couldn’t speak a single word, but immersion in English-speaking countries, combined with my daily work in international business, turned English into a powerful tool. Countless hours—perhaps thousands—were dedicated to listening, speaking, and writing, until I reached a level that allows me to negotiate with global companies and access incredible content, from books to videos, directly at the source. Though I’ll never feel the fluency of a native speaker, the confidence I’ve gained in communicating effectively has brought me personal fulfillment and the certainty that every second of effort was worth it.
Beyond the language, I’ve learned that travel is a project that demands planning and passion. Every trip begins with a dream: choosing a destination, booking flights, mapping out itineraries, selecting hotels, restaurants, and activities. Over time, this process has become an art, refined with each new experience. I’ve learned to balance budgets, discovering how to enjoy cities economically—sometimes opting for hostels—without losing the essence of tourism. This planning isn’t just logistics; it’s a way of anticipating the joy of exploration, making every stage of the trip as enriching as the destination itself.
Every journey, no matter how small, has transformed me into a bigger version of myself. Visiting new places, from parks to mountains, from sunsets to vibrant streets, is like living chapters of a movie etched into memory. Along the way, I’ve met people, faced unexpected challenges, celebrated successes, and learned from mistakes. Each experience, whether a chance encounter or an unforgettable view, has brought lessons that I carry with me, shaping my worldview and my ability to adapt.
Ultimately, travel has taught me that growth lies in the stories we collect. Every destination is an opportunity to learn, connect, and return richer—not in material wealth, but in experiences. These ten years have shown me that the world is vast, generous, and always ready to teach, as long as we’re willing to take the next step. With each chapter lived, I continue planning the next, knowing that the memories I create are the true treasures of a life in motion.
