September 2023 – Ireland, Step by Step

In September 2023, the time had come: our first hiking holiday together was on. For me, it was exciting in several ways at once – my first flight, my first time in Ireland, and the prospect of spending a whole week hiking. To process and record the impressions, I started a holiday diary, which I shared daily on Instagram.

The flight alone was an experience – I was as thrilled as a child and practically glued to the window. I had barely composed myself when the descent into Dublin began, offering a view of Ireland's green beauty from the air. From there, we continued straight on by bus to the rugged west coast, to the town of Clifden in picturesque Connemara.

That's where we began our hike – often with a direct view of rocks and sea. On a personal level, it worked too: our little quirks complemented each other better than expected. We were on the move for many days, sometimes not meeting a single soul for hours. This time in nature helped me sort my thoughts and make important decisions.

I had started a new job at the beginning of the year – but while hiking, it became clear to me: I'm not happy with it. So I made the decision to reorient myself professionally. With a clear head and pride in our achievement, we finally headed back to Clifden – a place I can only recommend to anyone travelling to Ireland (if only for the wonderful café!). Afterwards, we spent three more days in Dublin – where the freshly sorted thoughts got whirled around again in the bustle of the Temple Bar district.

As a memento of this first big tour, I had the Irish harp tattooed on me. For me, it is a symbol of new beginnings – and of the courage to allow change, even when it is exhausting.