To kick start my life as an International Woman of Mystery (IWOM), I took a Christmas
cruise that had port stops around Western Australia. I had friends to farewell and
thought it would be a nice way to travel. The fact that most people don’t use an ocean
liner as transportation confirmed to everyone that I was serious about this new IWOM
career.
You see, when I decided to travel I knew people would ask what I do and as I wasn’t
planning to return to my old lifestyle anytime soon, or ever if possible, I realised I
needed to create a role for myself that I’d be happy to fill.
Yes, I stole the idea from James Bond 007 - International Man of Mystery but hey, I’m
better than Bond, I’m 001 – the original IWOM! What better way to describe a woman
who is of no fixed address and has no fixed idea of where to go next.
This isn’t a role for anyone who needs a plan but I enjoy the mystery involved in seizing
opportunities as they arise. Originally, I had a loose plan that would probably distress
anyone who likes to know where they’re going and when, but for me it was enough.
Because I wanted to live another culture not just visit, I did the Austswim course and
applied for a swimming teacher’s role with Summer Camp USA (SC-USA). While waiting
for placement I visited Tasmania and New Zealand and can confirm they’re both sources
of great cheese and great wine.
Hooray – I got a placement with SC-USA so I bought a round world ticket and planned
to;
• see as much of the USA I could
• visit a friend in Mexico
• visit a friend in Sweden
• meet my son in the UK for Xmas
• catch up with friends in France
• see as much of Europe as possible
• laze on the beach in Thailand before returning to Australia and the unavoidable
task of earning more money so I could escape again
If that seems like a lot to fit in, it was but I also managed to squeeze in an unscheduled
trip to India to stay at an Ashram for three weeks.
I tried not to plan too far ahead so I could follow the opportunities that came along and
there were plenty. I now have great friends all over the world that showed me
hospitality and good times and I can’t wait to see them all again, soon.
Carol,
I remember you so well when you came to Tombstone, Az. You intrigued me and fascinated me. Now I admire you deeply! Take care of yourself!
Celeste Cain
you are an inspiration Carolyn - and your writing is just so good - you just keep us haning on for more you IWOM!!
Just found this blog. Looking to be able to position in life + work to travel part of the year. Just seems to be the right way to stay inspired longer term with the work I do. Your Restless Work blog appeals. Looking forward to following your journey to the UK in the next few months. I’m keen to find out how you do it so when I’m ready I can take the easy road!
Hey ladies - so glad you’re following. I hope you enjoy the journey & find some helpful info along the way. If you have any questions let me know & I’ll do my best to help out.
Enjoy!
Carol G