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As I sit here in Calgary, Canada, with only a few days before returning to New Zealand, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve been on over the past six weeks. It has been an experience full of treasured moments, personal connections, and the kind of unforgettable stories that fuel my passion for travel.
After my last letter, I ventured to the north of France, where I spent a week immersed in French holiday traditions with family. Each day was an adventure, taking road trips through charming villages, sampling the freshest local produce, and experiencing the slower pace of life that defines the French countryside. The warmth of the locals, the rustic beauty of the region, and the simple pleasure of long lunches in the sun made this week one to remember.
From there, I made my way to Paris—marking 25 years to the day since I first set foot in the city as a wide-eyed 18-year-old on my OE. That youthful journey planted the seeds for my lifelong love of travel, and returning to Paris now, as a seasoned traveller, felt both nostalgic and profound. While there, I embarked on a personal quest: to find my former employer, Manu, who had taken me under his wing all those years ago. His generosity and guidance helped shape me into the traveller—and person—I am today. It was a deeply moving reminder of the powerful connections we make along the way, and how they continue to influence our paths long after the journey ends.
Leaving Paris behind, I ventured north to Oslo, and explored the breathtaking fjords of Norway. There’s something magical about this part of the world—its wild, untouched beauty, the sense of peace and grandeur that the fjords evoke. Every turn in the landscape felt like stepping into a painting. Afterward, I flew to Iceland, a place that truly lives up to its reputation as a land of fire and ice. I embarked on a cruise from Reykjavik, and one of the ports of call was the northern town of Akureyri, where my great, great grandmother was born.
The cruise ended in Southampton, England, and it was nearly time to say goodbye to this part of the world. Firstly though, I had one last extraordinary experience aboard the British Pullman luxury train. It was, without a doubt, the single most incredible travel experience I have ever had. The elegance of the train, the impeccable service, and the sense of stepping back in time to a golden age of travel made it a journey I will never forget. It was a reminder of why we travel—not just to see new places, but to create memories that stay with us forever.
Now, as I prepare to return home, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and insights this journey has offered me. Each stop along the way has not only deepened my love for travel but also reaffirmed the importance of the stories we collect—stories that shape who we are and connect us to the world in meaningful ways.
I look forward to returning to New Zealand and sharing more of these stories with you, whether in person or through the bespoke travel experiences we create at Spirit of Travel. I hope they inspire your own adventures, wherever they may take you.
Until next time,
Warmest regards,
Ron Montgomery
Spirit of Travel
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