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18 June 2026

Rediscovering joy through a solo trip to Romania

A working mom of four embarks on a solo trip to Romania, rediscovering joy and reconnecting with her roots.

Rediscovering joy through a solo trip to Romania

A life filled with responsibilities can often leave little room for self-care. For one busy mother of four, the constant juggling act of work, family, and personal commitments reached a boiling point. With stress levels soaring, she made a decision that would change her perspective: a solo trip to Romania.

Life as a working mom is no easy feat. Balancing multiple jobs, managing a household, and caring for four children can be overwhelming. Add to that the unpredictability of daily life, and it’s easy to see how stress can build up. For this mother, the past few months had been particularly challenging, with a child’s medical issue and looming summer break adding to her plate.

The tipping point

The signs of stress were evident. From wearing clothes inside out to feeling like she was merely going through the motions, it was clear that she needed a break. Her husband noticed her struggle and suggested a few days away to reset. Despite initial doubts about fitting a trip into her hectic schedule, she knew it was necessary.

A trip of self-discovery

Unlike her usual family vacations, this trip was all about her. She chose Romania, a country rich in history and culture, and one that held a special connection to her family. Her grandmother had immigrated to the United States from Romania, making this journey a personal one.

Her itinerary was a mix of cultural exploration and relaxation. She visited traditional restaurants, explored historic sites, and indulged in the country’s largest thermal spa. Each experience was a step towards rediscovering her love for life and work.

Connecting with her roots

One of the highlights of her trip was connecting with her Romanian heritage. She enjoyed traditional Romanian dishes and watched folk dancers perform at a historic restaurant. These experiences brought her closer to her grandmother’s past and added a layer of depth to her journey.

Exploring Transylvania

As a fan of horror, she couldn’t miss the chance to explore Transylvania. She visited Bran’s Castle, said to be the home of Dracula, and Cantacuzino Castle, the setting for Netflix’s ‘Wednesday’. These visits added a touch of whimsy and excitement to her trip.

Relaxation at Therme

The final stop on her journey was Therme, Europe’s largest thermal spa. Here, she indulged in various wellness offerings, from saunas to mineral baths. The pink-salt sauna, in particular, provided a much-needed moment of peace and quiet, away from the distractions of daily life.

Returning home, she felt rejuvenated and ready to face the challenges of her busy life. The trip had given her a fresh perspective and a renewed commitment to self-care. She realized the importance of putting her own needs first, not just for her sake, but for her family’s as well.

Author

Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks writes about city breaks and culture. She has a knack for matching a destination to the mood of the week, from sun-soaked piazzas to rain-free museum days.