A Conversation on Timing, Priorities, and the Pursuit of a Meaningful Life

I have many friends approaching midlife, and a good number of those who are not yet married and raising kids are grappling with the question of whether it’s too late to find the right partner, have children, and build a life that balances love, ambition, and stability.

It’s a conversation that many successful, independent, and driven individuals—especially women—find themselves having as they near 40. There’s a cultural narrative that suggests we must have it all figured out by a certain age: love, career, family, financial security. But real life is not always so neatly packaged.

Let’s break down the key concerns and explore them from different angles. I will be focusing more on women as the simple truth is that men have less of a biological clock ticking in the background. While I do strongly believe that it is best for men to have their kids between the ages of 25 and 40 so as to be able to maximise their time with kids and the physical ability to do things with them, they have more flexibility in delaying the big decisions.

So let’s go ahead and consider some typical questions that women approaching their 40s might be dwelling upon.

1. Have I Missed My Chance to Have Children?

The biological clock is real, but it’s not a doomsday device. While fertility naturally declines with age, medical advancements like egg freezing, IVF, and other fertility treatments have made having children later in life more possible than ever. Many women today are having healthy pregnancies in their 40s.

More important than biology, though, is the question: Do you truly want children, or do you feel like you “should” have them?

Having kids is an enormous, life-altering decision—one that requires emotional and practical readiness. It’s worth deeply reflecting on whether your desire is based on personal fulfillment or societal expectations.

If the answer is yes—you truly want children—then the next step is taking proactive measures. Whether that means assessing your fertility now, freezing eggs, or considering alternative paths like surrogacy or adoption, there are options.

2. Did I Spend Too Much Time Chasing the Wrong Things?

I do believe that modern feminism has gone too far and glorified the working woman over the stay-at-home mum who devotes all her time to raising kids. For most families, a traditional setup of working husband and stay-at-home mum is the ideal to aim for. I know it’s a controversial opinion, but I’m standing by it.

Having said that, if as a woman, you’re approaching your 40s and feeling a tinge of regret at spending the past twenty years focusing on your career and other things that society pushes women to aim for, all is not lost. The most important thing is to realize the lie of feminism. Your past—whether it was prioritizing career, travel, or unconventional relationships—isn’t a mistake. It was simply the path you took to get here. Regret is a tricky thing; it tricks us into believing that we should have known then what we only learned now.

The key takeaway isn’t that you “wasted time.” It’s that you’ve now gained the clarity to prioritize what truly matters to you going forward.

Instead of lamenting the past, focus on the present: What do you want now, and how do you align your actions to make it happen?

3. Will My Relationship History Scare Off Potential Partners?

There’s no sugarcoating it—dating in your late 30s and early 40s comes with different dynamics than in your 20s. But it’s not a death sentence for finding love.

Your relationship history isn’t a liability—it’s part of your story. It’s true that some men might prefer a “clean slate,” especially when talking about previous marriages or having kids, but the right man will see your experiences as growth rather than baggage. When we date someone we don’t only look at the statistics of that person; we get to know their story.

The question isn’t whether your past relationships will scare someone off. It’s whether you’re looking for someone who values the person you’ve become because of those experiences.

4. Is It Too Late to Find Someone to Build a Life With?

The idea that love and meaningful relationships are reserved for people under 30 is simply false. People are finding love—and starting families—later in life more than ever.

What’s more important than age is alignment: finding a partner who shares your vision, values, and long-term goals.

The thing here is that most women who have delayed kids and possibly relationships have done so due to prioritizing things like career and travel. So we have to consider whether finding someone who fits into that life is possible. Unless the woman is ready to make a drastic change to her lifestyle, she will be seeking to form a “power couple” dynamic. This entails building a life, a business, and a family together.

It’s absolutely possible, but it requires a level of intentionality in dating that many people don’t practice.

Instead of approaching dating from a place of fear (“Am I too late?”), reframe it:

• What kind of partner would thrive in the life I envision?
• Where would I realistically meet someone like this?
• How can I communicate my vision and desires clearly from the start?

Dating with purpose means being upfront about what you want, filtering out mismatches early, and focusing only on those who share your goals.

5. Can You Have Kids and Still Build a Business?

Raising kids while running a business is challenging—but doable. Many of the most successful entrepreneurs have found ways to integrate family life with their professional ambitions.

However, there are trade-offs. The idea of a high-intensity startup while raising young kids is unrealistic. But a sustainable, well-structured business? Absolutely.

It helps to be clear about expectations:

• Would you be okay stepping back from full-time entrepreneurship while raising young children?
• Would your ideal partner be able (and willing) to take on more of the financial load during this period?
• Could you build a business that operates more passively rather than requiring constant hands-on work?

With the right strategy, you can have both—a fulfilling career and a family. But the key is designing your business model around the life you want, not the other way around.

6. How Do I Transition from a Nomadic Lifestyle to Stability?

If you’ve spent years traveling and embracing an adventurous lifestyle, transitioning to a more stable, family-oriented life can feel overwhelming. But it’s entirely possible. The key is to be intentional about where you settle, who you surround yourself with, and how you adjust your routines.

Some steps to consider:

• Choose a base that aligns with your long-term goals. For example, if the Mediterranean is your preference, focus on a city or town that offers both stability and community. You’re unlikely to find your long-term power couple partner in a rural village in Italy. However, places like Barcelona offer a wide range of possibilities and can accelerate your transition.
• Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Join groups, attend local meetups, and immerse yourself in a community that values both entrepreneurship and family.
• Adjust your mindset from constant movement to deep-rooted fulfillment. Being settled doesn’t mean losing excitement—it means shifting toward meaningful engagement in a chosen place.

Making this transition isn’t about “giving up” travel; it’s about integrating it into a more balanced lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

You haven’t “missed your chance.” You’re just at a crossroads where intentional decisions matter more than ever. I would say that most people start asking questions around this point in their life, whatever their life situation is. I certainly went through and am still going through this period of asking many questions and realigning my life to make sure I transition gracefully into the second half of my life. Be cognizant that you’re in the same boat as everyone else, and forget about what people might say or think. I went out and bought a sports car when I turned 40, and it was the best decision I ever made. I love that car and it’s giving me awesome experiences. People want to call it a midlife crisis car? No problem; the important thing is how I feel and how my family feels about things.

Instead of seeing midlife as an endpoint, consider it a turning point—a time to realign your life with what truly matters to you.

Some people get everything lined up early, but many don’t find their stride until their 40s or later. So take stock realistically of your situation, strengths and weaknesses, and be very specific of what you want for the future, then take the appropriate steps to get there.

What matters is not where you are today, but what you do next.

Yes, I believe that plastic recycling is one of the many scams governments and the corporations that are in cahoots with them have fed us. Read on to understand why.

The Origins of the Plastic Recycling Myth

The myth of plastic recycling wasn’t born out of environmental concern. Back in the 1970s and 1980s, oil and petrochemical giants—think Exxon and Shell—found themselves under fire for the environmental havoc their products were wreaking. They didn’t double down on fixing the problem. Instead, they pivoted to deflection, launching massive PR campaigns that pointed the finger at us, the consumers.

These campaigns introduced the now-ubiquitous recycling triangle symbol, subtly convincing us that if we just sorted and cleaned our plastics correctly, everything would be fine. What they didn’t tell us was that the majority of plastics can’t actually be recycled. But the strategy worked. The public embraced recycling while corporations continued to churn out billions of tons of disposable plastics, guilt-free.

Why Plastic Recycling is Broken

Unlike materials like glass or aluminum, most plastics degrade with each recycling cycle. At best, they’re “downcycled” into low-grade items like park benches or synthetic fibers, which can’t be recycled again. And the statistics are damning: less than 10% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, according to a 2022 OECD report. The rest? It’s clogging landfills, choking marine life, or being burned, releasing toxic chemicals into the atmosphere.

Why? Because most types of plastic are either too contaminated or too expensive to recycle. The process is complicated, inefficient, and simply not designed to handle the flood of plastic waste we produce every single day. It’s not just inefficient; it’s economically impractical. Virgin plastic—made from fossil fuels—is far cheaper to produce, thanks to massive subsidies for oil and gas. Recycling, on the other hand, requires complex sorting, cleaning, and remanufacturing processes that cost far more than simply making new plastic. And because of these costs, only a narrow range of plastics—typically PET and HDPE—are deemed worth recycling. The rest, from your yogurt cups to cling film, is destined for the dump no matter how diligently you separate it.

Understanding the Different Types of Plastic

To truly grasp the scale of the recycling problem, it’s important to understand the different types of plastic and their recyclability. Plastics are categorized by Resin Identification Codes (RICs), the numbers inside the familiar recycling triangle. Here’s what those numbers actually mean:

• PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): Commonly used for water bottles and food containers. PET is one of the few plastics that can be recycled efficiently, but even then, only a fraction actually gets processed.
• HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Found in milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and cleaning product containers. Like PET, HDPE is easier to recycle and often accepted by most recycling programs.
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Used for pipes, window frames, and some packaging. PVC is rarely recycled due to the release of harmful chemicals during the process.
• LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene): Common in plastic bags, cling film, and some packaging. LDPE recycling is limited and not widely available.
• PP (Polypropylene): Found in yogurt containers, bottle caps, and straws. While technically recyclable, it’s often not accepted because it’s less economically viable.
• PS (Polystyrene): Used for foam cups, takeout containers, and packing peanuts. Polystyrene is almost never recycled due to its fragility and the difficulty of processing it.
• Other (Miscellaneous): Includes mixed plastics like polycarbonate and bioplastics. This category is essentially non-recyclable and typically ends up in landfills.

Even with the best intentions, the reality is that only plastics #1 and #2 are recycled at any meaningful scale. The rest are simply discarded, perpetuating the illusion that we can recycle our way out of the plastic crisis.

Are Plastic Bag Bans and Biodegradable Plastics the Answer?

In recent years, many governments have rolled out bans on plastic bags in supermarkets, positioning them as a key step in tackling plastic waste. But critics argue that these bans sometimes serve as more of a PR move than a genuine environmental solution. For one, shoppers often replace banned plastic bags with alternatives like paper or thicker reusable plastic bags, which can have an even higher environmental footprint if not reused extensively. The net effect? We may simply be swapping one waste problem for another.

And what about biodegradable plastics? At first glance, they seem like an ideal compromise—plastics that can break down naturally in the environment. But the reality is more complicated. Most biodegradable plastics require specific industrial composting conditions to decompose, conditions that are often unavailable. In many cases, these materials act just like regular plastics in landfills and oceans, persisting for decades. Worse yet, the “biodegradable” label can encourage more single-use consumption by giving people the false impression that these products are harmless.

The Link Between Plastics and Unhealthy Consumption

Plastic pollution isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s deeply tied to our modern consumption habits. A significant portion of the plastic waste we generate comes from items like soft drinks, takeout containers, and heavily packaged supermarket foods. These are often convenience items—products of a fast-paced lifestyle that prioritizes ease over sustainability or health. Ironically, many of these items, from sugary drinks to processed snacks, are things we shouldn’t be consuming in the first place due to their negative impact on health.

Encouraging a shift toward healthier eating habits—favoring fresh, unpackaged foods—could significantly reduce our reliance on single-use plastics. By addressing our addiction to convenience, we not only improve personal well-being but also tackle the systemic overproduction of plastic. It’s a win-win that underscores how deeply interconnected these issues are.

Is Home Recycling Useless?

If you’ve ever wondered whether the waste separation you diligently do at home is pointless, the answer isn’t black and white. For plastics, the sobering reality is that much of what you separate will not be recycled. As mentioned earlier, only plastics labeled #1 and #2 have a real shot at being processed, while the rest often ends up in landfills or incinerators, regardless of your efforts. This can make recycling feel like a futile exercise, especially when the system itself is so broken.

However, separating your waste isn’t entirely useless. Materials like aluminum, glass, and paper are recycled far more efficiently and consistently than plastic. By ensuring these materials are correctly sorted, you are contributing to a circular economy for those resources. Additionally, household recycling serves as a visible reminder of the waste we generate, which can motivate individuals to adopt more sustainable consumption habits.

What really matters, though, is going beyond the blue bin. Focus on reducing your reliance on single-use items entirely. Choose reusable alternatives, support businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, and advocate for systemic changes that hold corporations accountable for the waste they produce. Individual action, while not the sole solution, is still a meaningful part of the larger push for change.

In my case, for example, I’ve chosen to use re-usable containers for my daily healthy food deliveries rather than one-time use plastic packaging.

The Human and Environmental Cost

If the system wasn’t bad enough already, the true cost of this sham is often paid by developing countries. Wealthier nations export their “recyclable” plastic waste to poorer regions, where it’s frequently dumped or burned, poisoning local communities. Meanwhile, microplastics—tiny fragments of degraded plastic—have infiltrated the food chain, the air we breathe, and even human bloodstreams. The fallout is staggering: entire ecosystems ravaged, wildlife populations decimated, and human health increasingly at risk.

What’s worse, corporations continue to offload the blame onto us. By focusing on individual behavior, they obscure the real issue: systemic overproduction. We’re told it’s our responsibility to recycle better when, in reality, the sheer volume of plastic being produced far outpaces the system’s ability to process it.

Breaking the Cycle: What Needs to Change

1. Reduce Plastic Production: Single-use plastics must be phased out, starting with unnecessary items like packaging and cutlery. Policies like the EU’s ban on single-use plastics are a start, but the scale of the problem demands more aggressive action.
2. Hold Corporations Accountable: Companies that profit from plastic must be forced to clean up their act. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws, which mandate that manufacturers manage the waste their products generate, could shift the burden from taxpayers to the corporations that created the problem.
3. Push for Systemic Change: Recycling won’t fix this. Governments need to incentivize reusable alternatives and invest in innovation. Meanwhile, consumers must push back against corporate narratives that place the onus on individual behavior.

Final Thoughts

The promise of plastic recycling is one of the most successful lies ever sold. It’s given us a false sense of security while the plastic industry continues to wreak havoc on the environment. The real solution is uncomfortable and inconvenient: producing less plastic, holding corporations accountable, and fundamentally rethinking our consumption habits. But it’s the only way forward.

If we truly want to tackle the plastic crisis, we have to let go of the comforting lie. Recycling isn’t the answer—it’s a distraction from the real problem. The fight against plastic pollution demands bold, systemic change, and the first step is seeing the scam for what it really is.

In today’s hyper-connected world, the idea of joining yet another community can feel overwhelming. Many of us already find ourselves juggling multiple chats, notifications, and groups, which can often feel like just another source of distraction. As the founder of the Good Life Collective, and a member of several communities myself, I frequently hear these concerns.

The hesitation is valid: Will this just add to the noise? Is it worth the financial investment? Will it truly add value to my life?

Let’s explore why joining multiple communities, when done intentionally, can be incredibly rewarding—and why it’s about much more than just adding another group to your phone.

It’s Not Just About the Chat—It’s About People

One of the biggest misconceptions is that every community is just another chat group with endless notifications. However, communities like the Good Life Collective are designed with purpose, offering diverse touchpoints that go beyond online conversations. Yes, there’s the Telegram chat, but that’s just one facet. We also have in-person dinners in Barcelona and other cities, insightful webinars, yearly retreats, smaller gatherings in idyllic places like monasteries, and soon, a monthly newsletter highlighting key takeaways from our community interactions.

These aren’t just events—they are opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside like-minded people. Being part of a community isn’t about filling up your schedule with more commitments; it’s about being intentional with your time and investing in the right spaces that align with your values and goals.

The Human Need for Connection: Why We Need People

As someone involved in multiple communities, I understand the hesitations. The thought of joining another group, especially one that comes with a financial commitment, can feel daunting. But it’s worth keeping in mind that this isn’t just about more chats or content; it’s about people.

Kurt Vonnegut once captured this sentiment perfectly, stating that many of our personal struggles stem from not having enough people in our lives. He explained that many of the conflicts in relationships, such as between spouses, are often a result of loneliness and unmet needs for broader connection. As he put it, “What they’re really saying is, ‘you’re not enough people.’”

Vonnegut suggested that to recreate the “like-minded, extended families of fifty people or more” that many of us are missing, we should “join all sorts of organizations, no matter how ridiculous, simply to get more people in his or her life.” The value isn’t just in the immediate connections you make but in the exposure to different perspectives, experiences, and support networks that enrich your life in ways you might not even expect.

Balancing Community Involvement and Avoiding Overwhelm

Being part of multiple communities doesn’t mean you need to engage deeply with all of them all the time. It’s okay to have a primary community where you invest more of your time and others where you’re more of a peripheral participant. Not every interaction will change your life, but sometimes, it takes just one valuable connection, one insightful piece of advice, or one event to make your involvement worthwhile.

I’m in 6-7 communities every year because I recognize the importance of mixing with different people. Of course, my family remains my core, and a smaller subset of community members will become true friends, but the broader exposure to different individuals keeps my perspective fresh and my network rich.

The Financial Side: Is It Worth the Investment?

One of the most common concerns is the financial aspect—whether spending $350 or more on a community membership is justified. My take? For a price point up to around $500, it’s usually worth giving a community a shot without overthinking. Sometimes, a single tip, a meaningful introduction, or one powerful event can make the entire investment worthwhile. When considering more expensive memberships, assessing if you have the time to benefit from and contribute to the community is essential.

Conclusion: Give It a Try—You Might Be Surprised

If you’ve been hesitant to join a new community, I encourage you to think about what you might gain rather than just what it might cost—whether in time, money, or attention. Joining the right communities, even just for a year, can open doors to experiences and relationships that make a lasting impact.

If the values and opportunities I’ve described resonate, I invite you to explore the Good Life Collective further. Visit our website to learn more about our mission, events, and how we’re building a community that goes beyond just another online group. And if you feel aligned, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d love to connect with you and see how we can support each other on this journey.

Modern life, especially in cities, can be chaotic and very noisy. It’s hard to stop and reflect and think deeply in such environments. My search for peace and tranquility led me quite early in my life to the sacred thresholds of monasteries, where I enjoyed various retreats with groups and friends, as well silent retreats that had a significant impact in the biggest choices in my life.

Nestled in serene environments, these sanctuaries offer more than just spiritual solace; they invite travelers to experience a unique stay, rich in history and contemplation. The tradition of monastic hospitality stretches back centuries, rooted in the Benedictine principle of welcoming guests as if they were Christ himself. Today, this tradition continues, evolving to accommodate the curiosity and spiritual aspirations of modern-day visitors.

From the iconic Montserrat in Spain to the secluded abbeys of France, monasteries across Europe open their doors to those seeking a retreat from the ordinary. These stays offer a rare glimpse into a world where time slows down, and life’s priorities are realigned. Whether it’s the chanting of monks at dawn, the simplicity of monastic meals, or the undisturbed natural beauty surrounding these holy places, a stay in a monastery is an immersion into a way of life that is both ancient and profoundly relevant.

In this article, I’ll share with you some of the best monasteries I know of. While not many people seek stays at such monasteries or even know that it’s possible, it is actually quite straightforward these days to book a stay in an amazing monastery. Typically, all you need to do is phone or email the monastery explaining why you’d like to visit (don’t worry if you’re not religious, it is not a requirement) and the dates that would work for you. Most monasteries will get back to you quickly with a reply.

Keep in mind that many monasteries need the income they get from such stays from pilgrims, so your stay is helping them maintain the monastery. Many monasteries in Europe unfortunately have had to close down, as it became too costly to maintain and the patronage devoted to religious institutions declined over time.

Moreover, as I mentioned, for some orders like the Benedictines, the welcoming of pilgrims is an important part of their tradition. For these, it is rooted in the Rule of Saint Benedict, which is the guiding document for Benedictine communities. Therefore, in Benedictine monasteries, the act of welcoming pilgrims and guests is not just a casual practice but a deeply ingrained spiritual duty, reflecting their commitment to living out the teachings of Christ and Saint Benedict.

For other orders, like the Jesuits, welcoming pilgrims is not as core as the Benedictines. However, their founder, St. Ignatius of Loyola is known for having developed the Spiritual Exercises. These exercises are designed to be carried out over a retreat that lasts about 30 days, though there are also adaptations for shorter periods. The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola are indeed a core aspect of Jesuit spirituality and have a significant impact on how they interact with both their own members and with laypeople. This means that most Jesuit retreat centers are also great places to spend some days in retreat.

Other orders have a similar disposition to welcoming pilgrims within their communities, and remember, you don’t need to be a Catholic or Christian to go to these places. You can very well be an agnostic, atheist or practice another religion. What’s expected of you is that you behave in a manner that maintains the sanctity and peace of the site and follow any practical guidelines that they have in place.

Spain

Spain, a land steeped in religious history and architectural marvels, offers a unique blend of spiritual and cultural experiences. Its monasteries, set against the backdrop of diverse landscapes, from the rugged mountains to serene plains, provide an ideal setting for reflection and connection with the past. These spaces are not only centers of religious significance but also custodians of art, history, and tradition. In this section, we will explore some of the most remarkable monastic retreats in Spain, each offering a distinct flavor of Spanish spirituality and heritage.

The Spiritual Charm of Montserrat

Perched high among the multi-peaked rocky range, Montserrat Monastery in Spain is more than just a religious retreat; it’s a cultural and historical emblem. The monastery, with its stunning basilica and the famed statue of the Black Madonna, draws pilgrims and tourists alike. But to truly experience Montserrat, one must stay within its walls.

As the night falls and the day-trippers depart, a profound silence envelops the monastery. The pilgrims’ quarters, simple yet comfortable, encourage reflection and introspection. Visitors are invited to join the monks in their daily prayers, a mesmerizing chant that echoes through the ancient halls.

A stay at Montserrat is not just about spiritual pursuits. The monastery offers access to a wealth of hiking trails, an art museum, and unparalleled views of the Catalan landscape. It’s a place where nature and spirituality intertwine, offering a refreshing perspective on life’s rhythm.

It’s become a kind of second home for me; a place where I know I can retreat to whenever I need to spend a few days in deep thought, especially before embarking on a new project, or when I’m passing through a particularly challenging period. I visit at least twice a year, and I’ve also been organizing trips there for the Good Life Collective community that I’ve been nurturing over the past years.

Monasterio Santa María del Parral, Segovia

Tucked away in the historic city of Segovia, the Monasterio Santa María del Parral stands as a testament to the enduring charm of monastic life. This still-active monastery, nestled in a quiet corner of the city, offers a unique experience for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The architecture, reflecting Gothic and Renaissance influences, creates a solemn yet welcoming atmosphere.

Guests can immerse themselves in the daily rhythm of the monastery, which includes time for personal reflection, walks in the gardens, and the chance to witness the monastic community’s daily activities. The simplicity of the accommodations complements the tranquil environment, making it a perfect setting for contemplation and rejuvenation.

Monasterio de Poblet

Located in the scenic region of Catalonia, the Monasterio de Poblet is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Cistercian monasteries in Spain. This functioning monastery, with its impressive architectural complex, offers a glimpse into monastic life while providing a serene backdrop for visitors.

Staying at Poblet is an opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and engage in a lifestyle centered around peace and simplicity. The monastery is surrounded by vineyards and natural parks, offering beautiful landscapes for quiet walks and meditation. Its historic walls and cloisters are a constant reminder of the centuries-old traditions that still thrive within its premises.

Monasterio de El Paular, Madrid

The Monasterio de El Paular, situated in the picturesque Lozoya Valley near Madrid, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This monastery, with its rich artistic heritage and beautiful natural surroundings, offers an ideal setting for reflection and creative inspiration.

Guests at El Paular can enjoy the tranquil gardens, explore the monastery’s art collection, and participate in the community’s daily routines at their own pace. The surrounding Sierra de Guadarrama National Park presents endless opportunities for nature walks and quiet contemplation amidst the beauty of the Spanish countryside.

France

France, with its rich tapestry of history and tradition, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and serene monasteries. From the lavender-laden fields of Provence to the tranquil shores of Cannes, these sacred sites offer a peaceful refuge and a glimpse into a life of contemplation and simplicity.

The fantastic site Ritrit.fr can be used to find retreat centers in France and also to book stays in them.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, Provence

Nestled in the heart of Provence, the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque is a functioning Cistercian monastery, famous for its stunning lavender fields. The tranquil surroundings and the simplicity of the monastic life here offer a perfect environment for introspection and peace. Visitors can join the monks in prayer, experience the rhythm of monastic life, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Provence region.

Abbaye de Lerins, Cannes

Located on the serene island of Saint-Honorat off the coast of Cannes, the Abbaye de Lerins is a haven of peace away from the glamour and bustle of the French Riviera. This active monastery, with a history dating back to the 5th century, invites guests to partake in the spiritual life of the monks. The island’s natural beauty, combined with the contemplative atmosphere of the abbey, makes it an ideal spot for a spiritual retreat.

La Grande Chartreuse, French Alps

As the motherhouse of the Carthusian Order, La Grande Chartreuse in the French Alps is a symbol of solitude and contemplation. While the monastery itself is not open to overnight guests, its surrounding area offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking quiet and solitude. Visitors can stay in nearby accommodations and take the opportunity to explore the breathtaking alpine scenery and reflect in the tranquil environment.

Malta

Mount St. Joseph Retreat House, Malta

Mount St. Joseph Retreat House, situated in Mosta, Malta, is a Jesuit-run center that offers a serene and contemplative environment for those seeking a spiritual retreat. This facility is dedicated to providing a space for quiet reflection and personal growth, welcoming individuals of all faiths and backgrounds.

The retreat house is nestled in a peaceful location, perfect for those looking to escape the distractions of everyday life. It offers comfortable accommodations, including private rooms, communal spaces for relaxation, and extensive gardens. Guests can engage in self-guided retreats or participate in organized programs that might include meditation sessions, spiritual talks, and opportunities for individual reflection and prayer.

Mount St. Joseph stands out as a destination for those who value introspection and spiritual exploration, regardless of their religious affiliation.

Manresa House, Gozo

Manresa House in Gozo is another retreat center that offers an opportunity for spiritual renewal and personal retreat. Managed by the Jesuits, this center provides a tranquil environment conducive to meditation and reflection.

Located in the serene and picturesque island of Gozo, Manresa House is surrounded by natural beauty, creating an ideal setting for those seeking peace and quiet. The retreat center features simple yet comfortable accommodations, prayer rooms, and communal areas where guests can relax and contemplate.

Rest of Europe

St. Benedict’s Monastery, Austria

In the heart of Austria, St. Benedict’s Monastery is a place where the timeless beauty of the Austrian landscape meets the enduring legacy of Benedictine spirituality. This active monastery offers a chance to experience monastic life amidst the picturesque Austrian countryside. Guests can participate in the daily prayers, enjoy the quietude of the monastery’s gardens, and explore the surrounding nature trails.

Iona Abbey, Scotland

Located on the Isle of Iona, off the west coast of Scotland, Iona Abbey is one of the oldest and most important religious centers in Western Europe. Today, it is a place of pilgrimage and spiritual retreat. The abbey’s community is committed to ecumenical worship and spiritual renewal. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the island, partake in community activities, and find solace in the abbey’s peaceful atmosphere.

Monastery of St. John the Theologian, Greece

Perched on the island of Patmos, the Monastery of St. John the Theologian is not only a place of immense historical and religious significance but also a serene retreat. Known for its stunning views of the Aegean Sea, the monastery offers a unique blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty. While the monastery itself has limited accommodations for visitors, the surrounding town provides ample opportunities for a peaceful stay, with chances to visit the monastery and its remarkable library.

Valamo Monastery, Finland

Valamo Monastery, located in the serene Finnish lakeland, offers an experience of Eastern Orthodox monasticism. This active monastery is known for its tranquil setting and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can participate in the liturgical services, explore the monastery’s museum, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Finnish landscape.

Each of these monastic retreats offers a unique experience of peace, solitude, and introspection. Whether nestled in the mountains, perched on an island, or hidden in the countryside, these monasteries invite visitors from all walks of life to pause, reflect, and connect with themselves in a deeper, more meaningful way. As we journey through Europe’s monastic heritage, we find not only historical and cultural treasures but also timeless sanctuaries where the soul can find rest and rejuvenation.

In Conclusion: The Timeless Allure of Monastic Retreats

Europe’s serene monasteries, each with their unique history and setting, provide a sanctuary for the soul. They remind us that in our fast-paced world, there are still places where time moves slowly, and life’s deeper questions can be contemplated in silence and serenity. Whether you’re seeking solitude, spiritual reflection, or just a break from the daily grind, these spots offer a quiet escape.

While social media tries to indoctrinate us that happiness lies in the things we buy or fancy places we visit, the truth, in my experience, is that the best adventures are the ones that bring us inward or connect us deeply with other human beings and the true nature of life. Monasteries are the ideal place to go on that journey.

Transportation has long been a cornerstone of societal progress, opening doors to the far reaches of our globe. The 19th-century skepticism towards expanding mobility, epitomized by figures such as the Duke of Wellington, has been left in the dust by the adoption of railroads and automobiles. These innovations first took root in the world’s more affluent regions before extending their reach to emerging economies.

One form of transit, however, has been notably gradual in achieving global ubiquity: air travel. Nonetheless, a shift is occurring. With rising global incomes, air travel is becoming accessible to a broader population. Concurrently, costs have been on a downward trajectory when adjusted for inflation. This democratization of the skies has been facilitated by the construction of new airports, particularly in areas previously devoid of such infrastructure.

Looking ahead, air travel is poised for further growth, particularly in regions that historically have had limited access. Yet, this expansion faces potential turbulence from climate initiatives that prioritize emission reductions over the cost of flying.

Growth of Air Travel in the Global Arena

Statistical evidence underscores the ascent of air travel. It’s an industry that has seen a dramatic increase in passenger numbers and distance flown over the last few decades, despite the recent pandemic-induced downturn. In 2004, the global threshold of two billion annual air travelers was crossed, and by 2019 this figure had soared to 4.6 billion, marking an unmatched growth trajectory in transportation history.

Developing nations are at the forefront of this trend. Regions such as Latin America and countries like Congo and Bangladesh have seen passenger numbers multiply. Yet, there remains substantial potential for further growth.

Forecasts by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) predict a 4.3 percent annual growth in air transport over the next twenty years, with the most significant increases expected in the developing world. This contrasts with the past, where frequent flyers from developed nations dominated growth statistics. The future will see millions of new passengers, many of whom are the first in their families ever to fly.

Climate Initiatives in the Air Transport Sector

Despite accounting for only a small fraction of anthropogenic climate change, air travel emissions are under scrutiny. With advancements in fuel efficiency driven by market forces, the industry is looking to further reduce its carbon footprint. Beyond efficiency improvements, sustainable aviation fuels offer another avenue for reducing emissions, though their cost and environmental benefits are subjects of debate.

The ICAO has set ambitious climate goals, including net-zero emissions by 2050, and introduced the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to curb emissions from international flights. Similarly, the European Union has integrated air travel emissions into its Emissions Trading System, aligning with the Paris Agreement targets.

A recent survey conducted by the Consumer Science and Analytics Institute (CSA) has revealed a startling inclination among the French populace towards imposing severe restrictions on air travel. The study indicates that 41% of French individuals are in favor of a policy that would cap the number of flights one can take in a lifetime at four, a proposition brought forward by engineer Jean-Marc Jancovici, encompassing both business and leisure travel.

The survey, which gathered insights from 1,010 French adults, shows a pronounced generational divide: 59% of young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 are advocates for this stringent limit. Despite the majority being against a lifetime cap of four flights, a significant 64% of respondents are open to reducing their air travel in the short to medium term to mitigate the impact of climate change.

The Price of Progress

The financial implications of these climate policies for air travelers are not yet clear. Estimates suggest achieving net-zero emissions from aviation by 2050 could cost $175 billion annually. However, environmental advocates argue that current measures are insufficient and are pushing for more stringent controls, which could further escalate costs.

The United States has seen legal actions aimed at tightening emissions regulations, reflecting a broader international push for more rigorous standards. Yet, critics argue that even the most severe restrictions may have a negligible impact on global temperatures.

Impact on Air Travel in Developing Countries

The debate around aviation and climate change often overlooks the impact of stringent climate measures on the affordability of air travel, particularly for citizens of developing nations. There is a risk that aggressive climate policies could price these new segments of air travelers out of the market.

As usual, the privileged few put their virtue-signaling and short-term way of thinking above all else.

The implementation of stringent air travel restrictions would have disproportionate consequences on developing countries. Aviation is a critical driver of economic growth, facilitating trade, tourism, and investment. For many developing nations, the connectivity afforded by air travel is a lifeline that links them to global markets and opportunities. A cap on air travel could severely dampen their economic prospects by limiting the influx of tourists and business investments that are often necessary for these countries to thrive and progress.

Furthermore, such restrictions could exacerbate global inequalities. While developed nations have already benefited from decades of unfettered air travel, accruing economic and social advancements, developing countries may find themselves handcuffed in their pursuit of similar progress, having to adhere to restrictions that were not in place during the formative years of more developed economies.

Beyond economics, the social fabric of communities in developing nations could also be at risk. Many individuals from these countries travel abroad for education and employment, sending remittances back home that are vital to their families’ livelihoods. Limiting air travel could disrupt these essential flows of income, potentially leading to increased poverty levels.

Moreover, the emotional toll on families can be significant. The ability to visit family members who have migrated for work or to escape conflict could be curtailed, leading to prolonged separations and the erosion of family bonds over time. In the context of developing countries, where community and family structures are paramount, the repercussions of such separation could be deeply destabilizing.

My Final Thoughts

The concept of imposing strict limits on air travel raises profound questions about the trade-offs between climate action and personal freedom. The potential policy could mean an end to various forms of long-distance human connection and experience — whether it’s business-related travel, personal vacations, or crucial family moments like bidding farewell to a loved one or welcoming a new family member. Once an individual’s flight quota is reached, their ability to connect with far-off places and people would be drastically limited.

This presents a dystopian scenario where personal mobility is significantly constrained, possibly leading to a future where individuals might find themselves confined to their localities, with limited access to the broader experiences the world offers. The debate thus centers not only on environmental sustainability but also on the fundamental values that underpin our society — freedom, connection, and the pursuit of happiness.