Transformative Travel for Midlife Women: Confidence, Connection, and Mindfulness in Africa

Photos are from the personal archive of Janice Rombeck

In July, 13 midlife women embarked on a transformative adventure through Africa. This adventure pushed us beyond our comfort zones and deeply impacted our confidence and spirit. 

Witnessing majestic wildlife like elephants and penguins and reflecting on South Africa’s rich history opened everyone’s eyes to new perspectives. The awe-inspiring landscapes and meaningful connections with fellow travelers helped us discover a more profound sense of self-acceptance. This trip changed how many of us view the world and strengthened our commitment to engage more actively in shaping our future.

Travel during midlife, emphasizing transformation, connection, and mindfulness, profoundly shapes our perspectives. For each of us, the experiences become a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, offering a break from routine and a chance to step outside our comfort zones. Immersing ourselves in new cultures, experiences, and environments pushes us to confront our fears, grow, and embrace change, helping us to build confidence and resilience.

During our 16 days, we made meaningful connections with fellow travelers and locals. The conversations made us reflect on our own lives and broaden our understanding of this part of the world. These interactions foster empathy, open-mindedness, and a sense of shared humanity, helping us each reevaluate our roles and relationships.

Mindfulness—being present during each experience—enriches the travel experience by immersing ourselves fully in each moment. Whether it's the awe of natural wonders or navigating through challenges, being present helps us appreciate life’s fleeting beauty. This mindfulness carries over into our daily lives, encouraging us to savor each moment more fully and prioritize what truly matters. Staying present is an integral part of flourishing through midlife. 

Ultimately, traveling with other midlife women catalyzed our personal growth and offered new perspectives on how we see ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. It empowered many of us to approach the future with renewed purpose, clarity, and strength. 

If you’ve ever found yourself seeking more meaning in your adventures or curious about the transformative power of travel, this post will speak directly to you. Get ready for two insightful and heartfelt stories from two of our fellow travelers.

We’re excited to have Janice Rombeck share her experience in our group.  As a reporter, editor, freelance writer, and communication manager, Janice brings a unique perspective on travel and offers insights that we think you'll find inspiring and actionable.

Here are thoughts from Janice: Travel brings with it many gifts -- adventure, exploration, companionship and the awakening of  our senses.  The memories from travel stay with you for a lifetime. And the lessons you learn during the journey shape who you are and who you are becoming.

But perhaps travel’s greatest gift is offering us the opportunity to stay in the moment, live in the here and now, be fully aware of what we are experiencing without being distracted by thoughts or feelings of the past or future.

During the Africa trip, we were transported to a new time and place, even a new season, where we could leave behind the troubles, pressures and worries of our daily lives and focus – really focus – on the moment.

Staying in the moment was sometimes a result of awe as in the first time we saw a family of rhinos from our safari jeep. Or staying in the moment was a necessity of survival as in navigating over rocks and through streams during the rugged hike to the waterfalls in Moremi Gorge.

Of course, we thought about and talked about our lives, our work, our families and our environments at home.  It was an important tool to learning about each other and, for some, a connection to loved ones left behind.  But during the activities of our jam-packed, adventure-filled days, we were there.  In the present.

We observed, photographed, expressed joy or fright, laughed at penguins and perhaps shed tears touring the Robben Island prisons. We supported each other, toasted our guides and helpers, danced when the music moved us, sang with the soundtrack on the bus. 

Looking at my photos and videos of the trip, and those posted on the Internet by others, can take me back to Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa, at least for a while.  I can feel the wonderment of watching a young elephant cross the road in front of us, or a giraffe sustaining its huge and complex body by nibbling at leaves above its head, a hippo crawling its way out of a mudhole as we float along the water in a riverboat, a monkey skillfully stealing a muffin from our table, the magic of seeing the sun and the moon at the same time on the Mkadigadi Pan, the sound and fury of Victoria Falls spilling over massive cliffs, or the simple clinking of wine glasses as we celebrated the end of another awesome day on a continent 10,000 miles away from our homes.   

Those memories bring the realization of what a special experience Africa 2024 was and a reflection of the gifts we received during the journey. As I returned to my real life, I sometimes longed to be back where I can hear hippos at night in the nearby river, taste springbok meat fresh from a braai grill, take in a gorgeous sunset with brilliant colors painted against the sky, observe from a safe distance mammals and birds not found in North America and once again enjoy the enormous break from the world I left.

Not that every moment of our trip was pleasant.  We experienced hard hikes, daily fatigue, lifting heavy suitcases and backpacks, hours on bus rides in temperatures that seemed way too hot to be winter, unexpected illness, disappointments and frustrations.  But even in these moments we were living, experiencing and feeling what was before us, around us and within us and were grateful for the awareness and the lessons these moments gave us.

Undeniably, we have moments of sharp focus and intense attention in our daily lives. Some of us are skilled at daily meditation, mindfulness exercises and periods of quiet reflection.  But more often, we are likely to be planning, scheduling, organizing, always trying to be a step ahead of what may happen next. 

Africa 2024 provided a sustained period of staying in the present, not just for us individually, but for us as a group.  Living in the here and now with each other and experiencing the awe and wonder of Africa in those moments enriched the benefits of travel for all of us. Those gifts from travel will stay with us and I’m grateful beyond measure to have made the journey with this group of adventurers.

We’re also thrilled to introduce you to Jolene, who has an incredible story from our trip! Jolene offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on embracing a transformational and life-changing travel experience. She shares how these experiences have shaped her new outlook on life.

Here are thoughts from Jolene: Our July 2024 Africa adventure was incredible! Not only did I demonstrate to myself that I can survive with zeal outside of my comfort zone, the trip impacted my self-confidence and spiritually. My self-confidence and self-worth have always been easily shaken. Whether it was rolling with our 50 degree swing in daily temperatures, listening and sharing stories with our group and guides or being in such a different place than I’ve ever visited I discovered a lot of self-acceptance in 16 days. It has carried into my life after returning home.

The impact spiritually and in my soul is all encompassed with the experience. Seeing elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions and especially the penguins being free to live in their own habitat and humans of all races fitting into their lives shows that we really are one world. Walking and flying over magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, provided such a visual of Earth’s creation. All the animals crossing or walking along side of the highways as we drove was so cool! Watching the penguins outside of Cape Town absolutely was the best highlight because they made everyone happy and laugh and were in general fascinating.

 The people experience, everything from conversations with our group and locals, the history of the South African vineyards and learning about Nelson Mandela and apartheid kept confirming that each person in this world has a different lens that shapes their everyday decisions and life. The trip provided me with a new lens to view and accept others as well as being more aware of how others might view me. History really does repeat itself. And, in the United States we are so fortunate to live in a democratic nation. Whether it was the wisdom that I gained in Africa or the events that happened while we were in Africa I have come home with the purpose of educating and encouraging people to vote and hope that one day in the near future our nation will be less divided.

Travel in Midlife is Transformational

Whether you're looking to step out of your comfort zone, seeking more mindful travel experiences, or simply want to travel with other midlife women, we hope Jolene and Janice's wisdom and personal experiences resonate with you. And we hope you’ll join us for a Rumblings travel adventure in the future! Stay tuned for more travel adventures in 2025 (hint: it may include Greece!). Don't forget to share your thoughts and where you’d like to travel in the comments below—let’s start a conversation!

Jetsetter's Guide: Master the Art of Savvy Packing for International Adventures

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International travel can be a transformative and enriching experience. Stepping beyond familiar borders opens doors to new perspectives, cultures, and self-discovery. Amid life's responsibilities and routines, travel offers a unique opportunity to break free from the ordinary, fostering personal growth and resilience. Exploring diverse landscapes and interacting with people from different backgrounds broadens one's worldview and enhances empathy and understanding. 

Whether savoring local cuisines, navigating unfamiliar streets, or immersing yourself in the beauty of historical sites, international travel ignites a sense of adventure and rejuvenation. It becomes a powerful catalyst for redefining priorities, reigniting passions, and embracing the beauty of the midlife journey. Beyond the tangible experiences, the memories forged during these travels become a tapestry of resilience and empowerment, contributing to a sense of fulfillment that transcends the boundaries of age.

We believe this, and we’ve been transformed through many international adventures, like our recent Rumblings trip to Vietnam. As we plan for our 2024 trip to South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe and our 2025 trip returning to Vietnam, we’ve been asked by many women for our packing recommendations to ensure successful international travel. 

Here, we outline how we think about packing and our recommendations for what products to bring. 

Luggage 

Packing light for an international trip is a game-changer. First, it promotes convenience and mobility, allowing you to navigate airports, public transportation, and accommodations easily. We’re true believers in only packing what you can carry onboard. Therefore, it’s essential to consider where you are going, how often you’ll be moving from destination to destination, and what transportation you’ll be using. 

We prefer our roll-aboard luggage when we travel to cities, use public transportation, and move frequently. This suitcase has traveled to Italy, France, Australia, Vietnam, Canada, Hawaii, and Mexico without incident. It’s soft-sided, which offers more flexibility for packing and squeezing into overhead airplane bins, and is durable and affordable. We recommend roll-aboard luggage with 360-degree degree wheels. Also, if you are flying within and between countries internationally, check their carry-on size requirements. The bin space is often much smaller, so a smaller suitcase will be required if you don’t want to check your bag. 

If your trip entails traveling to more rural areas and van travel, we usually bring a backpacker or hiking backpack for convenience. Backpacks can be easier to carry up and down stairs, over rough terrain, and toss into trunks and trailers. Sizes of backpacks are stated in liters, so confirm the overhead bin restrictions on the airplane(s) you are traveling on. For most airlines, 50L or less is recommended. Comfort is key, so try your choice before your trip to ensure a good fit. Here are some of our personal favorites: Peak Design Travel Line, Osprey Renn 50 L, Gregory Mountain Products Women's Maven 55, and Gregory Mountain Products Women's Deva 60

Embracing a minimalist approach to packing encourages thoughtful choices, forcing you to prioritize essentials and detach from unnecessary belongings, fostering a sense of simplicity and liberation throughout the adventure. We’ve found packing cubes are a perfect way to help you stay organized and maximize the amount you bring. Many travelers love compression cubes, and others prefer standard packing cubes.

We also suggest a luggage lock for extra security with any luggage you choose.  

Day Bags

When selecting a day bag for international travel, several key factors should be considered to ensure functionality and convenience. First and foremost, the bag should strike a balance between size and capacity—large enough to carry essentials like a water bottle, phone, snacks, sunglasses, and perhaps a light jacket, yet compact and lightweight for easy portability. Opting for a bag with multiple compartments or pockets helps with organization, ensuring that essential items like passports, travel documents, and electronics are readily accessible. 

Durability is paramount, as the day bag will likely endure various environments and conditions. Look for materials that are both sturdy and water-resistant to protect your belongings. Comfort features such as padded straps and a breathable back panel can significantly enhance overall comfort, especially during extended periods of wear. 

Additionally, a bag with security features like lockable zippers or RFID-blocking pockets can provide extra peace of mind in crowded or unfamiliar settings. Ultimately, choose the type of bag you prefer (backpack, belt bag, or sling bag), and it will become an indispensable companion, seamlessly integrating into the rhythm of international exploration.

Wallet

A dedicated travel wallet or passport wallet is an indispensable companion for any globetrotter, offering a practical and organized solution to the myriad documents essential for a seamless journey. This not only keeps your passport easily accessible but also provides designated slots for boarding passes, credit cards, currency, and other travel essentials. RFID-blocking technology adds an extra layer of security, safeguarding your personal information from potential electronic theft. 

A well-organized travel wallet streamlines the airport experience and offers peace of mind throughout the trip, ensuring that crucial documents are always at your fingertips. Invest in this small but mighty travel companion to embark on your adventures with confidence and efficiency.

Weather Considerations

Packing lightly for varying weather conditions demands a strategic and versatile approach to ensure you are well-prepared for any climate surprises during your travels. Begin by selecting a core wardrobe of neutral, mix-and-match pieces that can be layered to accommodate temperature fluctuations. Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics (like Smartwool) that are breathable, packable, and easy to clean in the sink. Consider pieces like a baselayer long sleeve, simple tank, or odor-wicking tank. And don’t forget your feet. Consider socks like these light cushion low ankle, no show, or everyday crew.

A key element is the inclusion of convertible or multipurpose clothing items, such as a jacket that can transform into a vest or pants that can be converted into shorts. 

Check the local weather forecast before departure to fine-tune your packing list. Pack a small umbrella or a disposable rain poncho (handy in Vietnam) to ensure you’re prepared. 

The goal is to balance versatility and practicality, ensuring you have the essentials for warmth and protection without succumbing to overpacking.

Quick Dry Towel and Wash Cloth

Bringing Turkish or quick-dry towels on an international trip is invaluable as it offers a compact and efficient solution for unexpected situations. Another popular option is disposable towettes.

Toiletries

Toiletries can be a real challenge when packing lightly. The good news is that there are some very efficient options for consolidating your daily routine into just the amounts you need for your trip. Put the exact amount of all your creams and lotions you’ll need for your trip into containers like these. Some women like to streamline their routine when traveling and only take what will fit into one clear cosmetic bag to make security a breeze. 

Electronics

Careful consideration of your electronics is essential for a seamless and stress-free experience. First and foremost, verify the compatibility of your devices with the destination's power outlets and voltage, and invest in a universal adapter if needed. 

Backup chargers and power banks can be lifesavers, especially in areas with sporadic access to electricity. Ensure your devices are set to airplane mode during flights to conserve battery life and avoid unnecessary roaming charges. Safeguard your data by enabling security features such as passcodes and biometric authentication. Additionally, research the availability of Wi-Fi and cellular networks at your destination to plan for connectivity options. Finally, list essential electronics, prioritizing versatile devices that serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of gadgets you need. This thoughtful approach to managing electronics ensures that your devices enhance rather than hinder your international travel experience.

Bid farewell to overpacking woes and embrace a streamlined packing approach that maximizes efficiency. Whether a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time explorer, our guide is your passport to hassle- and stress-free international adventures. Dive into the world of smart packing and elevate your travel game with confidence and ease.

Join us and other adventure-seeking women on an upcoming trip.

Exploring Vietnam: Discoveries, Courage, and Heartfelt Conversations

Tam Coc, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

There are many thoughts to explore in a recap of our recent women’s trip to Vietnam. There are many things to choose from, including the fantastic food, the hospitality of the people, the culture of Vietnam, the benefits of traveling with women, and the differences in women's lives in a more restrictive society.

 It’s tough to choose just one aspect to focus on when recounting our two-week trip. From facing our deepest fears head-on to forming heartfelt connections that transcended language barriers, we discovered the true power of travel. 

 Here are the valuable insights we gained about ourselves and the world around us as we traveled across this fascinating nation in our first Rumblings Midlife Women’s trip to Vietnam. 

Embracing Courage: Conquering Fears Together

 Embarking on our women’s trip to Vietnam, 10 of us set forth with diverse expectations and our own self-defined personal boundaries.  We can look back and laugh at this now, but some of us were hesitant about trying unfamiliar foods, while others had reservations about hopping on motorbikes or holding snakes (yep, you read that right!) But you know what? By the end of the trip, we had each shattered some, if not all, of our self-imposed limits one by one, surprising even ourselves. 

We became masters of embracing change, diving headfirst into new experiences, and cheering each other on like a group of fearless daredevils. The phrase “I’ll try if you try it first” became our motto, and let us be clear, it was uttered more times than we can count! 

We felt a rush when we conquered our fears together. It ignited a spark, making us braver and more eager to explore the unknown. We realized that the things we feared were often not scary. Crossing a street without traffic signs and amidst hundreds of motorbikes? Piece of cake!

Imagine a group of midlife women, each with her unique background and perspective, coming together to face their fears head-on. It was an incredible display of collective courage and support. We found strength in unity, and it made all the difference. 

We discovered that embracing change and conquering our fears wasn’t just a personal triumph — it was an empowering journey that brought us closer as friends and transformed us in ways we never expected. Stepping outside our comfort zones became addictive, and we couldn’t wait to tackle the next unfamiliar challenge. 

 In a country as vibrant and captivating as Vietnam, we realize that genuine growth comes when we dare to step beyond what's familiar. Our journey was about more than just visiting popular tourist spots; it was about embracing the rich culture and immersing ourselves in the beauty of the unknown.

We formed an unbreakable bond, supporting and encouraging each other every step of the way. We learned to trust ourselves and each other, and that trust became the foundation for our incredible adventures.

Heartfelt Connections: Beyond Language Barriers

Here's the thing about Vietnam: it's not just the breathtaking landscapes and delicious food that will leave you in awe—it's the people. During our trip, we were lucky enough to witness the genuine hospitality and open-heartedness of the Vietnamese people, and let me tell you - it touched our souls in ways we never expected.

Now, how did we connect with locals when there was a language barrier? Well, that's the beauty of heartfelt connections—they transcend words. The shared smiles, the warmth in their eyes, and the gestures of kindness spoke volumes.

We met incredible individuals along our journey, like Ms. Dinh, a gracious woman who opened her home to us, sharing a meal, her life experiences, and stories. We bonded with motorbike drivers who proudly shared their family histories and tales of village life. Even young children and teenagers welcomed us with open arms, excited to connect with us, capture moments, and share them on their social media platforms. Kids really are the same everywhere, aren't they?

Ms. Dinh, outside of her home in Hanoi, Vietnam

But one of the most unexpected connections came from a simple encounter with a seamstress. As she took our measurements for custom silk pajamas, we discovered a shared experience. Our mothers were seamstresses, and despite the continents separating us, we realized how similar our lives and memories were. It was a profound moment of connection that transcended language and cultural barriers.

Forgiveness and Kindness: Unveiling the Boundless Humanity in Vietnam

What struck us the most was the concept of Ubuntu—the belief that humanity is bound together through hospitality, generosity, and compassion. 

Despite coming from different backgrounds, the Vietnamese people exemplified these qualities in their interactions with us and each other. Whether we needed an interpreter or relied on gestures and smiles, the locals opened their hearts to us. They welcomed us into their world, allowing us to see Vietnam through their eyes. From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh (or Saigon, as it's lovingly called), we witnessed the beauty of a culture that values human connection above all else.

It's worth mentioning that Vietnamese drivers honk their horns not out of anger but to create awareness. It's a small detail that speaks volumes about their helpful nature and willingness to assist one another. We even witnessed a traffic accident, and the way everyone came together to help the motorbike rider was truly inspiring. It's these moments of kindness and solidarity that remind us of the power of humanity.

Exploring Vietnam’s Hidden Gems: Unforgettable Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures

Now, let's talk about the best-kept secrets of our trip—the experiences that took us off the beaten path and allowed us to discover the true essence of Vietnam. 

These hidden gems were the highlights of our adventure, giving us a taste of local life and immersing us in the heart and soul of the country.

Picture yourself sitting in a local coffee shop, sipping traditional coffee with condensed milk over ice, a concoction known as Cà Phê Sữa Đá. The locals would happily show you the ropes, ensuring you experience this caffeinated delight to the fullest.

Or imagine strolling through a countryside road and stumbling upon a wayside rest, complete with hammocks, cold beer, and locally grown nuts and fruits. 

We couldn't resist picking fresh herbs and indulging in juicy mangoes and passion fruit.

We also had the privilege of exploring a food market with a local chef, indulging in delicious tofu that melted in our mouths—a far cry from what we usually find back home.

But one of our most cherished memories was sharing a heartfelt meal in a village, prepared with love and enjoyed by a local family. It was a true embodiment of the Vietnamese spirit of togetherness and community.

Nurturing Bonds and Culinary Delights: Building Community Through Food in Vietnam

The food in Vietnam was a culinary adventure like no other. We started with some hesitation, unsure of what to expect, but as the trip progressed, we became increasingly brave in our gastronomic explorations. We tried dishes we had never even dreamed of before, and it was a journey of flavors and tastes that delighted our senses.

Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers. The variety of fruits, vegetables, spices, and local delicacies is mind-boggling. Everything is incredibly fresh, sourced locally, and prepared with love. We savored each bite and marveled at the creativity and inventiveness of Vietnamese cuisine.

As we returned to our standard Western fare after the trip, we felt a culture shock and a longing for the vibrant flavors we had grown accustomed to. We yearned for another bowl of Pho or a refreshing Saigon beer from a local market or food stand.

Sharing family-style meals became a highlight of our trip because of the incredible food and the memories and connections we forged over those communal dining experiences. We learned to eat like locals, embracing the chopsticks and savoring each dish with delight. And each meal was accompanied by sharing our daily highlights (our 'roses'), what we were looking forward to (our 'buds'), and even our least favorite moments of the day (our 'thorns'). And let's not forget the lively toasts we raised to neighboring tables, with an enthusiastic "Một – Hai – Ba – dzô!" which means one, two, three, drink! We quickly became proficient in this Vietnamese tradition.

Empowering Women: Unveiling Shared Challenges Across Borders

Throughout our journey, we couldn't help but notice the strength and resilience of women in Vietnam. It became an ongoing joke that we predominantly saw women working, running shops, cooking, and managing stands in local markets. It was a partial joke but highlighted women's evolving roles and responsibilities in Vietnamese society.

Despite traditional norms, we met women breaking boundaries and going against the grain. We encountered inspiring stories like that of Ms. Minh, who held a job outside her husband's family home and became a successful businesswoman, defying societal expectations. We witnessed the increasing presence of women in careers and the shifting dynamics within households, where couples shared household duties and lived together before marriage.

In Vietnam, we discovered that women face many of the same challenges regardless of their cultural background. It reminded us that we are all connected, navigating similar paths and striving for empowerment uniquely.

A local seamstress in Ninh Binh

Embark on Your Vietnam Adventure: Now is the Perfect Time 

Our trip to Vietnam was nothing short of life-altering. Some of us had waited for decades to embark on this adventure of a lifetime. 

Vietnam became more than just a destination—it felt like home to many of us, with an unspoken thread connecting us to the country and its people.

There was a sense of shared memories, whether through our own experiences or the stories passed down from family members. For Americans, it was intertwined with the memories of foster siblings, refugee friends, and their descendants who still have ties to Vietnam, and an uncle and a father.  Our humanity became intricately entwined with theirs, reminding us of our interconnectedness as human beings.

If there's one piece of advice we can give you, it's this: embrace the opportunity to travel to Vietnam, immerse yourself in the local culture, and forge connections that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

The transformative power of travel is real, and Vietnam has a way of leaving an indelible mark on your heart and soul. So pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare for an adventure that will expand your horizons and leave you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of human connection.

If you’re interested in traveling with us to South Africa in 2024 or on an upcoming trip to Vietnam in 2025, sign-up here to get information as it becomes available.