It’s funny how travel can sometimes bring people into your life at exactly the right moment. I never expected that a women-only classic car tour through Europe would lead me to one of the most meaningful friendships of my life. It all started when I signed up for an Awarides tour, a luxurious classic car road trip across some of Europe’s most beautiful regions.
During the first few days of the tour, I was introduced to Hana, a lively and adventurous woman from Japan. She was just as excited as I was to drive through the winding roads of Tuscany, with the sun shining and endless rows of vineyards and olive groves stretching out before us. Hana’s easygoing nature and infectious enthusiasm quickly made her someone I enjoyed spending time with, and before long, we found ourselves chatting about everything from our favorite travel destinations to our dreams and aspirations.
We bonded over our shared love for adventure and the idea of exploring the world in a unique way. Despite the fact that we came from different cultural backgrounds, our connection was immediate, and we spent a lot of time together throughout the tour. Whether we were stopping for coffee at a charming village cafe, taking photos by an ancient Tuscan villa, or simply laughing during long drives through the rolling hills, every moment felt special.
Our friendship blossomed naturally during the trip, and by the time the tour ended, it felt as though we had known each other for years. It wasn’t just the adventure that brought us close; it was the shared experience of being part of such a unique, women-only travel group. We encouraged each other, shared personal stories, and discovered that, even though we came from different corners of the world, we had so much in common.
To my delight, our friendship didn’t end when the tour finished. Hana and I kept in touch, exchanging messages and keeping up with each other’s lives. So, when she mentioned that she was planning a trip to the United States, I couldn’t have been more thrilled. She came to visit me earlier this year, and it felt surreal to finally meet her in person again after the unforgettable time we’d shared on that classic car road trip.
During her visit, we explored the cities of the U.S. together, reliving some of the memories from our European adventure while creating new ones. From exploring bustling streets to quiet moments spent reminiscing, Hana’s visit was a reminder of how travel can forge bonds that transcend distance. It felt like no time had passed since our tour together, and the connection we had formed in Italy was just as strong.
What started as a spontaneous connection on a group tour has turned into a lifelong friendship. Meeting Hana through Awarides was one of the best things to come out of my travels. Not only did I experience the thrill of driving through Italy in a classic car, but I also gained a friend who now holds a special place in my life. Whether it’s through travel or other shared experiences, it’s clear that the friendships we make along the way can become some of the most treasured parts of our journey.
If you’re thinking about joining an Awarides tour, know that it’s more than just a vacation. It’s an opportunity to meet incredible women from around the world, form lasting bonds, and maybe even forge friendships that will last a lifetime—just like mine with Hana.
