Stories from Americans Abroad: Journeys of Discovery and Connection
There’s something transformative about stepping beyond your own borders. For many Americans, travel is more than a vacation—it’s a chance to explore new perspectives, forge unexpected friendships, and return home with stories that shape a lifetime. At An American Abroad, we’ve gathered a few of the most memorable stories from our fellow travelers—tales that speak to the heart of what it means to journey far from home.
A Family Thanksgiving in Tuscany
Location: Tuscany, Italy
When Susan and her family decided to skip the traditional Thanksgiving at home and instead rent a villa in Tuscany, they weren’t sure what to expect. “We thought we’d miss the turkey,” she said. “But instead we found ourselves learning how to make fresh pasta from a local nonna, sipping Chianti by the fireplace, and sharing a feast with our Italian neighbors.” It became a Thanksgiving to remember—not because it followed tradition, but because it created a new one.
Backpacking with Purpose in Vietnam
Location: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
After graduating from college, Josh took a leap and backpacked solo across Vietnam. “What began as a sightseeing trip turned into something much more profound,” he recalls. He volunteered at a local English school in Da Nang for a month, building bonds with students and learning about Vietnamese culture from the inside out. “It reminded me that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about giving back and connecting.”
A Lesson in Hospitality in Morocco
Location: Fez, Morocco
When Amanda missed her train in Fez and found herself stranded late at night, a local family invited her into their home. “I was hesitant at first, but they were kind and generous,” she said. She ended up spending the weekend learning to make couscous and being treated like a daughter. “They didn’t speak much English, and I spoke very little Arabic or French. But somehow, we understood each other.”
Discovering Roots in Ghana
Location: Accra and Cape Coast, Ghana
For Derrick, a trip to Ghana was more than tourism—it was a pilgrimage. Tracing his African ancestry led him to Cape Coast Castle, where he walked through the “Door of No Return.” He described the experience as “deeply emotional and grounding.” “I felt connected to something larger than myself,” he said. “It was painful, but powerful.”
What These Stories Teach Us
Each of these stories highlights what travel can truly offer: not just sights and souvenirs, but human moments that change us. For American travelers abroad, these connections remind us of the shared humanity that binds us all—across continents, cultures, and languages.