Geraldine Joaquim: The Passionate Traveler with a love for Culture and Home
Geraldine Joaquim is a woman whose life is brimming with stories of adventure and cultural exploration. At 54 years old, she has carved out a remarkable reputation as a passionate traveler, having visited over 60 countries and embarking on around four foreign holidays every year. Her journeys have taken her to places as diverse as Yap in Micronesia, Brazil, Okinawa in Japan, Russia, South Africa, Australia, Mozambique, and many more. Last year alone, she went on five trips, including skiing in Andorra, a safari in South Africa, a villa holiday in Italy, diving in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, and visiting Christmas markets in Mons and Bruges, Belgium. For Geraldine, traveling is not just about exploring new destinations; it’s about immersing herself in different cultures and ways of life.
Embracing the Privilege of Tourism
Geraldine’s approach to travel is rooted in respect and curiosity. She believes that being a tourist in another country is a privilege, one that comes with the responsibility of seeing both the good and the not-so-good aspects of a place. She avoids expecting a sanitized version of the destinations she visits, instead opting for authentic experiences that allow her to connect with the local culture. “I love seeing new and different places, really feeling like I’m in a completely diverse place to my normal life and experiencing interesting cultures,” she says. This mindset not only broadens her horizons but also makes her appreciate the comforts and familiarity of home even more. Geraldine and her husband have instilled this love for exploration in their two daughters, encouraging them to experience the world beyond their doorstep.
A Balanced Approach to Travel
Despite her wanderlust, Geraldine doesn’t enjoy being away from home for long periods. She cherishes the comfort and familiarity of her own environment, where she can spend time with friends, family, and her pets—two Rhodesian Ridgebacks and a cat named Honey. This is why she prefers to travel “little and often,” striking a balance between her love for exploration and her appreciation for the comforts of home. Geraldine’s professional background as a hypnotherapist and wellness coach, coupled with her previous career in international marketing, has given her the opportunity to travel both for work and pleasure. However, these days, her travels are solely for fun, allowing her to explore a variety of activities, sights, and cultures without the pressures of a professional schedule.
The Joys of Diverse Travel Experiences
Geraldine’s travels are characterized by a desire to experience a wide range of activities and environments. She enjoys a mix of sightseeing, cultural immersion, beach relaxation, and adventure. For her, the key to a fulfilling trip is the ability to feel like she’s in a genuinely different place, rather than being confined to a generic hotel or beach that could be anywhere in the world. “I’ve been lucky to travel to some pretty far-flung places, as well as the more mainstream, and I try to keep an open mind and learn a little about local culture and customs,” she explains. This approach has allowed her to create meaningful memories and gain a deeper understanding of the world’s diversity.
A Memorable and Challenging Experience
Not all of Geraldine’s travels have been smooth sailing. One of her most memorable—and challenging—experiences was a trip to Caracas, the capital of Venezuela. What began as a routine work trip quickly turned into a nerve-wracking ordeal. After arriving late at night from Montevideo, Uruguay, Geraldine found herself alone at a small airport, waiting for a pre-booked transfer that never arrived. With no working phone and no one else around, she was forced to accept a ride from two strangers, a decision that left her on high alert. The next day, her stress continued when a young man at the airport ran off with her bags, leaving her to chase after him and reluctantly pay for an informal check-in. This harrowing experience left a lasting impression, and Caracas is the one place she would never revisit.
Travel as a Journey of Broadening Horizons
For Geraldine, travel is about more than just seeing new places; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth. Her experiences have taught her to appreciate the beauty of cultural diversity while also valuing the comfort and security of home. Through her travels, she has gained a deeper understanding of the world and its many perspectives, which has enriched her life in ways she never imagined. As she continues to explore new destinations, Geraldine remains committed to her philosophy of respectful and authentic travel, always keeping an open mind and a sense of adventure.
