My second visit to Garowe was in November 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns in the United States. Life back home felt overwhelming. The strict lockdowns, the emotional weight of the George Floyd protests in Minneapolis, the harsh Minnesota winter, and the fatigue from working overnight shifts had all taken a toll on me. I desperately needed a change of scenery and a true break from everything.
I decided to book a one-way ticket to Garowe. My first visit had only lasted two months, but I had enjoyed every moment of it. This time, I wanted to stay longer. My plan was simple: spend a few quiet months in Garowe, unwind, and remain there until Eid. I imagined slow days, peaceful routines, and plenty of time to reflect. But as it turned out, things didn’t go according to plan.
Shortly after arriving, I found out that one of my aunts, who lives in Europe, was also in Garowe for a visit. I hadn’t seen her in years, so reconnecting was an unexpected gift. What made it even more exciting was her adventurous nature. She had no intention of staying in one place and was eager to explore more cities throughout Somalia. Of course, I couldn’t resist joining her. I quickly became her travel companion, following along as we set off to new places.
Instead of settling into a quiet routine in Garowe, I ended up traveling to several cities, including Eyl, Hargeisa, Bosaso, and Mogadishu. Each city had its own rhythm and character, offering a new perspective and fresh experiences. Garowe, while still our base, slowly became more of a resting place between our travels rather than the central focus of my stay.
What I thought would be a calm and uneventful break turned into a journey full of movement, connection, and discovery. It reminded me that sometimes the best parts of travel are the ones you never planned.
