Ho, ho mo leannan, Ho mo leannan bhoidheach

The lyrics of the well-known Scottish folk song, “Loch Lomond“, include the phrase “Ho, ho mo leannan, Ho mo leannan bhoidheach“, which translates to “my beautiful sweetheart.” As Scots, we sing this phrase to express our deep affection for our homeland, the Bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Growing up in this serene environment, I was fortunate to spend my childhood immersed in nature.

Loch Lomond’s mountains and forests were my first playgrounds, instilling an appreciation for Earth’s beauty that continues to inspire my travels. Every new landscape I encounter reminds me of those early days of exploring my homeland.

My yearning to explore the world’s diversity took root in my youth and guided me toward a degree in Social Sciences, with a specialisation in Sociology and Cultural Anthropology. My travel aspirations evolved from mere holidaying to immersing myself in different cultures when I turned 21, after two years of Covid restrictions (and unbearable cabin fever, might I add). This transition was fueled by my curiosity and eagerness to experience various cultures, prompting me to pursue my studies abroad.

My Erasmus year in Sweden further ignited my passion for travel. Immersing myself in a new culture was challenging and exhilarating. This experience fuelled my ongoing love for travel, and I recommend anyone with the opportunity to participate in an exchange programme to seize it with both hands.

Since my Erasmus year, my passport has collected over 20 different stamps, each testament to the countries and cultures I’ve experienced. It began in Scandinavia, where I embraced exploration and discovery. I then journeyed to the Fiji Islands, awed by their raw beauty and the island-life rhythm. Next, I was swept up in the dynamic cities of Singapore and Thailand, a striking contrast to Fiji’s laid-back vibes. From Asia, I journeyed to the Middle East, a region steeped in history and culture.

Then last Easter, I put on my backpack once again and embarked on a journey to Santiago de Compostela, traversing Spain’s diverse landscapes. The journey was more than a physical trek; it was a cultural immersion. I met people from near and far, each with their unique story and reason for undertaking the journey.

In my travel chronicles thus far, two locales have resonated with me on a deeper level – Turkey and Fiji. Inspired by the well-known saying we Scots pride ourselves in: “People make Glasgow,” my global adventures have expanded on this sentiment. From my perspective, it’s not just about the places we visit; it’s the people we meet that truly shape our connections to these geographical areas.

Türkiye, with its vibrant bazaars and rich history, and Fiji, with its unspoiled beauty and leisurely island rhythm, may appear distinctly different on the surface. Yet, it’s their shared characteristic — the warmth and hospitality of their people— that has left an indelible mark on me. It’s the shared experiences, the stories exchanged, and the friendships forged that have made these places feel like a home away from home.

So while Glasgow’s spirit is indeed shaped by its people, my travels have taught me that this is a universal truth, applicable anywhere in the world. It’s the people that infuse life into the places, making every city, island, or country unique and memorable. And it’s these connections with people, from all walks of life, that have enriched my travels and made every journey an adventure worth remembering.

My travel story continues as I make my way across Europe’s diverse landscapes. Arriving in Poland, a country brimming with history has been another enriching experience. The cities of Krakow and Warsaw, in particular, have captivated me.

Scotland and Poland share fascinating cultural and landscape similarities. Both countries have rich histories, evident in their well-preserved castles, historic towns, monuments, and landscapes, featuring rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque lakes, or lochs as we Scots say. Their resilience, forged from historical struggles, is another common characteristic.

Every trip I’ve made has contributed a unique chapter to my life story, enriching my understanding of our world. The people I’ve encountered, their narratives, their kindness, and their cultures have been pivotal in shaping my travel experiences.

My travels have broadened my worldview, introducing me to diverse perspectives beyond my Scottish origins. Nonetheless, the call of Loch Lomond continues to echo in my heart, no matter how far I wander. So as I continue to explore, I carry those echoes of my Scottish heritage along the way, no matter where in the world I find myself. I invite you, dear readers, to explore your roots in the same way.