Everyone needs a place to go where they feel appreciated and nurtured. In today’s very busy world, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, especially when travelling. I have lived away from home since I was 14. Everyday since then, I have searched for moments of belonging. When I lived in Paris, I felt a strange mixture of emotions. I was grateful to be in such an amazing city, full of opportunities. At the same time, I felt more isolated than ever. My family and friends were in Australia, on the other side of the world.
The moment I arrived at my apartment, I opened Google Maps. I searched for my home comforts: good coffee, wifi, and friendly faces. For each individual, this list will vary. Let me tell you: in Paris, finding a good soy latte was a task. When I did find it, I was in seventh heaven. Before long, I began to integrate into French society and I began to search for the best baguette “traditionelle.” My new finds would pop up as llittle beacons on the map whenever I felt lost or alone.
In every city, there are secret gems for everybody: green patches in a concrete jungle, a flat white amongst a sea of long blacks, a quiet spot amongst chaos. To be given the opportunity to share these finds with others who are seeking the same comfort is wonderful. Google Maps is a vital tool for me and others whilst travelling and whilst settling into a new home.
Gustave Flaubert said: “Travel makes one modest. You see what tiny place you occupy in the world.” Well, Google maps makes me eager to see what tiny place I might occupy next.