1st time visiting Brazil

Vacation: Between Longing, Reunions, and Memories

After everything I experienced during my trip to Europe, coming back to Brazil after a year and a half abroad felt like taking a deep breath after being underwater for too long. Arriving in Rio, feeling the warmth in the air, hearing the familiar accent, and seeing my family well — and truly happy to welcome me “home” — was deeply comforting.

The anxiety I felt before the trip quickly turned into pure joy. With a whole month ahead, I knew many special moments were still to come.

Longing Before the Reunion

Despite the happiness, there was a heaviness in my chest: I had lost my grandmother just 20 days before the trip. The pain of that loss walked side by side with the need to be close to those who remained — the ones who connect me to my roots and my story.

I traveled to Leopoldina, my hometown, with a racing heart. The emotion of seeing my siblings and the rest of the family again was overwhelming. One memorable detail from that trip is that it was the last time I saw Victor — on my later visits, he was already living in the United States. Even so, we’ve kept in touch through our shared project, @timeforexploring, which helps ease the distance between our reunions.

Hugs That Heal, Reunions That Warm the Soul

Being with my paternal grandparents was especially emotional. Hugging them, talking, reliving old memories… in those moments, longing turns into gratitude. There’s nothing like being surrounded by the people who helped shape who you are.

Some feelings are simply indescribable: waking up to a breakfast with pão de queijo, savoring my mom’s and grandma’s cooking… These small rituals are what we miss most when we live far from home. I no longer feel like I belong to just one place — I carry pieces of every city I’ve ever called home. Still, Minas Gerais holds a special place in my heart, especially Leopoldina and Juiz de Fora.

Celebrating With Those Who Matter

That month, I had the joy of attending my dear friend Lucas’s graduation in Viçosa. Marcelo and I went there to celebrate his achievement — a moment full of friendship, pride, and happiness. As if that wasn’t enough, my mom also organized a beautiful party to celebrate her 25th wedding anniversary with my dad. It was a deeply meaningful celebration — not just of their love, but of life itself and the family ties that bind us together.

In that moment, I couldn’t help but feel the absence of my grandmother. Still, in some way, her presence was there — alive in every detail, every gesture, every memory shared.

Weekend in Rio

Before returning to Portugal, I spent one last weekend in Rio, soaking in everything the city has to offer. Despite its challenges, Rio never fails to captivate me — with its natural beauty, its vibrant energy, and its unique soul. It’s definitely one of those places I carry with me, wherever I go.

Returning to Feel, Reconnect, and Move Forward

This return to Brazil was more than just a trip — it was a reunion with myself. With my roots, my essence, and everything that makes me who I am. Every hug, every conversation, every memory reminded me that no matter where I am in the world, my origins remain strong.

And it’s from them that I draw the strength to keep exploring, living, and, above all, belonging.