Via Madre: The Way of Mother

At the Islander Shop in Edinburgh, Scotland designing our own Harris Tweed bags.

When I first began dreaming about this blog, the name Via Madre felt like the perfect fit. Literally translated, it means “the way of mother.” To me, that phrase captures so much of what travel represents — a path that is rooted in love, in nurturing, in legacy. Travel often teaches us lessons about who we are, and just as mothers guide and shape us, our journeys do too. It’s about connection across generations, carrying forward traditions, and discovering the world together.

This became especially true during our mother–daughter–granddaughter adventure in Europe. In the spring of 2024, while Ashley was studying abroad in Scotland, I knew it was the perfect chance to bring my mom along for the journey. She had recently lost her husband after an eight-year battle with cancer, and was beginning to navigate life without her lifelong travel partner. When I invited her to join me, she jumped at the opportunity — not just to see new places, but to step forward into a new chapter of life.

We began in Amsterdam, a city that had long been on my travel wish list for one reason: the tulips. April did not disappoint — the blooms were stunning, and the city itself charmed us with its canals, bicycles, and vibrant energy. Three nights felt just right to capture the highlights.

Travel tip: A must-see? The Anne Frank House. But take note: tickets sell out quickly and open exactly six weeks in advance, on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. local time. I set my alarm for 4 a.m. at home to ensure we got the day and time we wanted — and it was well worth it. Afterward, we boarded a canal cruise just steps away, sipping wine and sampling Dutch cheese as we glided past landmarks. It was the perfect first-day activity to fight off jet lag while soaking in the atmosphere.

From Amsterdam, we flew to Scotland, where Ashley welcomed us to St Andrews — her home for the past four months. We spent time exploring the charming coastal town, then headed to Edinburgh for a deeper dive into Scottish history and culture. From strolling the Royal Mile to exploring castles in the Highlands, from shopping and laughter to trying traditional dishes like Cullen Skink and haggis, every moment was rich with both discovery and joy.

But what made this trip truly special wasn’t the sightseeing. It was the chance for my mom to heal, to laugh again, to feel the spark of adventure after loss. Travel reminded her — and all of us — that there are always new paths forward. Companions may change, but the world remains open, waiting to be explored.

I believe this is just the beginning of many more multigenerational “girls’ trips.” With Ashley’s sisters also planning to study abroad, we look forward to carrying this tradition forward, building memories together across borders and generations.

Travel doesn’t always have to be with a partner or spouse. Whether you’ve lost someone you love, your partner isn’t a traveler, or you’re single and seeking adventure — there’s always someone out there who shares your curiosity and joy for discovery. Via Madre is about finding that way forward, together.

So here’s to the way of mother, to the paths we walk side by side, and to the journeys that help us heal, connect, and grow.

-Stacia

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