Welcome to the X.

Leaving work behind marks the beginning of a journey where we release control and surrender to life's unfolding path. Today, we explore that profound moment when the yearning for a deeper purpose becomes undeniable. Bryan Yates' personal odyssey mirrors the struggles many face: alcoholism, workaholism,…

During the river cruise, I had the opportunity to speak with several retired men. The story seems to follow one of two tracks: those who are loving life and the many adventures and those who have not yet found their strides and are clinging to…

We’re in Vienna today, having spent the past few days in Budapest and Bratislava. During our time in Budapest, we embarked on an intense hike that involved climbing nearly 400 steps up Castle Hill on the Buda side. The entire hike covered a little over…

At just 35 years old, Colin Kingsmill had already ticked off every box on his life's checklist. He had it all: education, a great lifestyle, the perfect location, and a successful career. Yet, as he stood amidst his accomplishments, an unexpected feeling washed over him:…

I've traveled a bit, although some of my friends have seen much more of the world than I have. This is my first river cruise, and it's quite different from the cruises I've been on in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Mediterranean. Instead of the stomach-churning…

After spending a day by ourselves, we finally had the chance to meet some of the other members of the tour group. We are split between two hotels before we embark on the river cruise. This tour group will be together for the next eight…

This morning, we visited the Grand Synagogue in Budapest and its surrounding memorial gardens. It was a stunning experience to be immersed in history and to reflect on the appalling atrocities endured by others. The stories shared by the young (22 year-old) guide were mesmerizing,…

I’m currently sitting in the lounge in Brussels Airport. My body strongly believes it is 3am, but my watch insists it’s 9am. The flight from Newark was not filled with hours of sleep, as I expected. Now we have a long layover before our Budapest…