The fallout from a fatal rope jumping tragedy is getting bigger, as more suspects were arrested in the case of Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas’s passing.

The 21-year-old Rio de Janeiro woman trusted a set of rope jumping instructors with her life. But seconds later, she was gone.

A criminal case was launched after the jump went catastrophically wrong.

The fallout from Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas’ fatal rope jumping tragedy is getting bigger

Image credits: BlogdeDaltro

Three more people were arrested in the case of Maria Eduarda Rodrigues de Freitas, who lost her life after being tossed off the “Skeleton Bridge” at Ponte do Esqueleto in Brazil’s São Paulo state on June 13.

A 29-year-old Rio de Janeiro woman named Evelyne dos Santos Gonçalves, a 25-year-old man from Limeira, and a 27-year-old man from Indaiatuba were the latest additions to the growing list of suspects.

The location of their arrest was unclear.

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On the day of Maria’s fatal fall, the three additional suspects were allegedly at the base of the rope jumping site, waiting for her so they could remove the safety gear.

But when the jump went catastrophically wrong, they fled to a nearby wooded area and allegedly tried to conceal evidence.

“They didn’t have a typical or active role in the jump. They only participated at the moment the jump ended,” lawyer Vitor Aurélio, representing one of the suspects, told G1.

“One would pull the rope back up, and the other would just take the rope off the jumper.”

Three new people, who were allegedly at the base of the site, were arrested over the weekend 

Image credits: g1globo

The latest arrests took the suspect count to six so far.

Luis Felipe Feliciano Egoroff, 32, Vitor de Freitas Goncalves, 27, and Maicon Fernandes Cintra, 42, were arrested the day after Maria’s passing and were charged with homicide with eventual intent.

The three had attempted to flee after Maria plummeted to her tragic end, but a military helicopter tracked them down.

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The homes of all six suspects are expected to be searched as part of the investigation.

It is believed Maria’s final moments were recorded on a GoPro she was wearing when three instructors tossed her off the bridge without ensuring she was attached to safety ropes.

Investigators believe someone took the camera off her after she plunged 130 feet.

One video that circulated online captured Maria with three instructors on top of the bridge, moments before the fall.

Image credits: BlogdeDaltro

A viral video on social media reportedly captured the final moments before the tragedy, where three employees were seen carrying Maria toward the jumping structure.

The instructors hoisted her above their shoulders as she spread her arms out in a “Superman” pose. Unfortunately, nobody allegedly remembered to attach her to the safety ropes.

Moments later, they launched her from the platform without realizing the mistake.

“The rope!” one was heard shouting.

Another panic-stricken voice said, “Guys, the rope!”

The three instructors who tossed Maria off the bridge claimed they “blacked out” and couldn’t remember who was responsible for attaching her to safety ropes 

Brazil instructors questioned after woman thrown from bridge without safety rope. pic.twitter.com/1DmOcd7Rd7

— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) June 17, 2026

Image credits: XRvibe

Cops accused the three additional suspects, who were arrested over the weekend, of deleting digital content of what happened during Maria’s doomed rope jumping experience.

“During the investigation, elements were gathered that indicate possible suppression of evidence relevant to the investigation, especially related to the disappearance of the image capture equipment used by the victim during the jump,” Civil Police Delegate Andréa Levy was quoted telling news outlets.

A witness named Rafael Goulart also claimed to have seen someone take the camera.

“I saw the girl on the ground, [I saw] one of the employees removing the GoPro camera from the neck strap of the body that was already on the ground, either worried about the equipment or wanting to hide evidence,” the witness reportedly said.

Maria had a special request for her instructors and asked them to launch her from the bridge in airplane style

I guess he was the one in the hat pic.twitter.com/rqMdF7U4Pt

— WORLDCUP UPDATES (@Bayology) June 17, 2026

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On the morning of her planned jump, Maria wrote a message on social media that will forever haunt her jumping instructors for the rest of their lives.

“Who was the crazy person who let me jump off a bridge?” she wrote.

She was laid to rest on June 14.

The three instructors on top of the bridge claimed after their arrest that they couldn’t remember who was supposed to attach the ropes.

“They do not remember whether they forgot to attach (the ropes), or who was supposed to do it, or who failed to check. But the fact is the ropes were not attached to her,” Police investigator Andrea Dantas Levy told AP News.

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Suspects Luis, Vitor, and Maicon claimed they “blacked out” and couldn’t remember who was responsible for ensuring Maria was securely attached to the safety ropes.

“Either it’s me or [Maicon] who does it. So I went ahead first, and after that it’s all erased from my mind,” Luis told EPTV. “…I don’t remember.”

The two instructors responsible for the death of the young woman fled the scene.

The Águia helicopter is still searching for the fugitives. pic.twitter.com/SnzI6dbZJ5

— Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) June 13, 2026

Luis and a few other instructors reportedly made a disturbing video four years ago, where they tossed a black bag made to look like a corpse off the “Skeleton Bridge.”

“Hiding the body,” read the title of the September 2022 video.

The bridge had been abandoned for years, but tourists in the municipality of Limeira would often visit the site for extreme sports.

Following Maria’s passing, authorities said the bridge will be demolished to prevent similar tragedies from taking place.

“All of a sudden no one remembers anything or how they forgot to put it on,” one commented online

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Dogs have spent decades earning a reputation as humanity's best friend. Cats, meanwhile, have been stuck defending themselves against accusations of being cold, antisocial, untrainable, and impossible to understand. Yet many of the beliefs people hold about cats turn out to be little more than myths that have survived through repetition rather than evidence.

Part of the confusion comes from the fact that cats play by a different set of social rules. Their body language is more subtle, their motivations aren't always obvious, and behaviors that humans often interpret as rude, spiteful, or aloof usually have a far more logical explanation. As researchers have learned more about feline behavior in recent decades, many long-standing assumptions have been overturned, revealing animals that are far more social, adaptable, and emotionally complex than their reputation would suggest.

Curious which cat "facts" are actually fiction, Bored Panda asked animal behavior expert Zazie Todd to weigh in. From purring and scratching to training, companionship, and life indoors, she breaks down some of the most persistent myths people still believe, and explains what the science really says about our feline companions.

More info: companionanimalpsychology.com | Facebook | Instagram

#1 Purring Always Means A Cat Is Happy

We don’t fully understand why cats purr. Although purring is most commonly associated with contentment, research suggests it serves several functions and is not exclusively a sign of happiness. Cats often purr while being petted or resting comfortably, but they may also purr when they are frightened, stressed, injured, giving birth, or recovering from illness. Scientists believe purring can act as a self-soothing mechanism, helping cats regulate their emotions in challenging situations. Some researchers have also proposed that the low-frequency vibrations produced during purring may promote healing of bones and soft tissues, although this theory is still being studied. In other words, a purring cat is often a happy cat, but not always.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#2 Cats Don't Need Mental Stimulation

Cats need things to do. In the wild, cats would spend a significant portion of their day hunting, often catching multiple small prey items rather than eating one large meal. This means that pet cats also benefit from opportunities to engage in activities that satisfy their natural instincts. Interactive play with a wand toy is one of the best ways to provide physical exercise and mental stimulation, but cats should also have toys they can enjoy on their own, as well as scent enrichment such as catnip or silvervine. Positive reinforcement training can be another excellent form of enrichment. Not only can cats learn useful behaviors and tricks, but training sessions also provide valuable mental exercise. Food puzzle toys are particularly beneficial because they encourage cats to work for their food in a way that mimics natural foraging and hunting behaviors. When introducing a new food puzzle, start with an easy version and fill it with especially tasty treats to help your cat understand how it works. As they gain confidence, you can gradually increase the difficulty level to keep them challenged and engaged.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#3 Showing Their Belly Means They Want A Belly Rub

Many people are surprised when a cat rolls over and shows its belly, assuming it’s an invitation for a tummy rub. In reality, that’s often not the case. Cats typically expose their belly only when they feel safe and relaxed, as it is one of the most vulnerable parts of their body. For many cats, showing their belly is a sign of trust rather than a request to be touched. In fact, most cats dislike having their belly rubbed and may react by grabbing, kicking, or swatting if someone reaches in to pet it. It's usually best to appreciate the gesture and let the cat decide how it wants to interact.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#4 Cats Can't Be Trained

Cats are actually very trainable. If more people realized this, life would be better for both cats and their guardians. The best way to train a cat is through positive reinforcement, using small pieces of their favourite food as rewards. Some cats may prefer being petted, brushed, or playing with a toy instead. It all depends on the individual cat, so the key is finding what motivates yours. One of the most useful things you can teach a cat is to come when called. It’s also a great idea to help them develop positive associations with their carrier (I include a step-by-step plan for this in my book Purr). Even cats that are frightened by the sight of a carrier can learn to feel comfortable with it, but the process needs to be gradual and move at the cat’s pace. A carrier with a removable lid works best. You can start by encouraging your cat to explore just the base of the carrier, rewarding them with especially tasty treats. Once they are comfortable, add the lid and slowly increase the amount of time they spend inside. Leaving the carrier out in a room all the time can also help, as it allows your cat to use it as a familiar place to rest and relax rather than associating it only with trips to the veterinarian. Cats can also learn a variety of tricks, which can be both enriching for them and a lot of fun for their people. Training provides mental stimulation, builds confidence, and strengthens the bond between cats and their guardians.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#5 Cats Don't Experience Loneliness

Cats are generally okay being left home alone for longer periods than dogs, but they still enjoy spending time with their people. However, while some cats like having a feline companion, others prefer to be the only cat in the household. Because of this, if you plan to have more than one cat, it's usually best to adopt a pair of kittens together or a bonded pair of adult cats.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#6 Cats Hate People

Not at all. In fact, many of the behaviors that people interpret as a cat being unfriendly are actually signs that the cat is feeling frightened, stressed, or uncomfortable. Unfortunately, feline body language is often misunderstood, and it can be difficult for people to see a situation from their cat’s perspective. Cats place a high value on feeling safe. Although they are skilled predators, they are also prey animals, which means they are naturally alert to potential threats. They prefer having choices and a sense of control over their environment, but people don’t always recognize or respect those needs. As a result, misunderstandings can arise between cats and their humans. When a cat’s behavior seems unfriendly, it’s worth considering what the situation might look like from the cat’s point of view. Often, their actions make much more sense when viewed through that lens. The more we learn about feline behavior and communication, the easier it becomes to build a positive, trusting relationship with our cats.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#7 Indoor Cats Are Bored And Need Outdoor Access

Cats do not need outdoor access to live happy and healthy lives. In fact, keeping cats indoors is generally safer, as it protects them from risks such as traffic, predators, disease, and other hazards. However, an indoor-only lifestyle requires more than simply keeping a cat inside. Guardians need to provide an environment that meets their cat’s physical and behavioral needs, including opportunities to play, explore, climb, scratch, hide, and engage in natural hunting behaviors. Without enough enrichment, cats can become bored, frustrated, or stressed. One helpful framework is the "Five Pillars of a Healthy Feline Environment," a set of evidence-based guidelines designed to help create a home that supports a cat’s wellbeing and allows them to thrive indoors.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#8 Cats Scratch Furniture To Be Destructive

Cats need to scratch to help maintain their claws and keep them in good condition. Scratching also serves important communication functions. It leaves behind both visual marks and scent signals from glands located in the paw pads, allowing cats to mark areas that are important to them. Because scratching is a natural and essential behavior, cats need appropriate places to do it. Ideally, they should have access to a tall, sturdy scratching post that allows them to stretch their body fully while scratching. Unfortunately, many scratching posts sold for cats are too short or unstable. It's also important to remember that cats have individual preferences, some prefer vertical scratching surfaces, while others prefer horizontal or angled ones. Understanding your cat's preferences and providing suitable options is key to ensuring they can express this natural behavior in a healthy way.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#9 Cats Are Completely Independent And Don't Need Attention

Some cats can manage on their own, while others cannot. Some community cats live quite happily without assistance from people, catching mice for their meals, finding their own shelter, and so on. Other community cats have people who feed them and take them to the veterinarian from time to time. However, most pet cats need plenty of attention from their guardians. This is especially true for indoor-only cats, as they can easily become bored. They rely on us to provide enrichment, such as food puzzle toys, games with a wand toy, interesting views from a window, and scent enrichment like catnip or silvervine. Some pedigree cats, particularly long-haired breeds, need to be brushed every day because they are unable to maintain their coats on their own. Others, such as Persian cats, may also need their faces wiped daily to keep them clean. Senior cats, especially those that live indoors, may need help with claw trimming as they become less active. Regular veterinary checkups are also important for maintaining your cat’s health: annually when they are young, every six months between the ages of 10 and 15, and every four months after the age of 15 (or more frequently if your veterinarian recommends it).

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#10 Cats Are Solitary Animals That Prefer Being Alone

It very much depends on the individual cat. Pet cats are socialized with people, so they often form strong bonds with their humans and enjoy spending time with them. Some cats also like having another cat as a companion, while others would rather not share their home with another feline. This depends on their personality as well as their early experiences as kittens. Community cats, on the other hand, often live in colonies, which can range from small groups to quite large populations. Cats within these colonies spend time together, and female cats may even help one another care for their kittens. So while cats are sometimes described as solitary animals, the reality is much more nuanced—it really depends on the cat and the circumstances.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#11 Cats Don't Recognize Their Names

Most cats (though not all) recognize their own name, and many can also distinguish the names of other cats they live with. Research has even shown that some cats recognize the names of the people in their household. Of course, individual cats vary, and not every cat pays attention in the same way. Still, these findings suggest that cats may be listening more closely than we often give them credit for. So it’s worth talking to your cat, they might understand more than you think.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#12 Cats Are Aloof And Don't Form Strong Bonds With People

Cats can form strong bonds with people, and you can often see this in the way they choose to spend time with us. Some cats follow their guardians from room to room, choose to sit on or near them on the sofa, or sleep on the bed for at least part of the night. Every cat is an individual, and some prefer being close rather than actually touching you, but that’s still a choice to be with you. Once a bond has formed, your presence can even help your cat feel less stressed in situations such as a visit to the veterinarian. All of this speaks to the importance of the feline-human bond. Of course, not all cats feel the same way about people. Kittens go through what’s known as a sensitive socialization period between about 2 and 7–8 weeks of age. If they meet a variety of people during this time, they are more likely to grow up friendly and comfortable around humans. Ideally, they should have positive interactions with at least five different people. The key is that these experiences are positive. Kittens that are not socialized with people during this period may grow up fearful or wary of humans.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#13 Cats Are Nocturnal

Cats are naturally crepuscular, meaning they tend to be most active at dawn and dusk. This likely reflects the activity patterns of many of their natural prey species, making these times ideal for hunting. However, domestic cats are also remarkably adaptable. Research suggests that pet cats can adjust their daily routines to fit those of their human companions. In fact, one small study found that pet cats are often most active when their people are at home and interacting with them, showing that social factors can influence a cat's activity patterns just as much as their natural instincts.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#14 Cats Are Spiteful When They Misbehave

This is a myth. Cats do not act out of spite or revenge. When we understand more about feline behavior, it becomes easier to see that there is usually an underlying reason for what appears to be "bad" behavior. For example, if your cat starts urinating outside the litter box, the first step should be a visit to the veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. Similarly, if your cat bites or swats when you try to pet them, it may be a sign that they are uncomfortable, overstimulated, or simply do not want to be touched at that moment. Giving cats a choice about whether to interact and keeping petting sessions short can help prevent these situations. Rather than assuming a cat is being difficult on purpose, it is more helpful to ask what they might be trying to communicate. In most cases, what looks like misbehavior is actually a response to stress, fear, discomfort, illness, or an unmet need.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#15 Cats Always Land On Their Feet

Not always. Whether a cat lands on its feet depends in part on the height of the fall. Cats have an innate righting reflex that allows them to twist their bodies in midair and orient themselves feet-first as they fall. However, they need enough time and distance to complete this maneuver, and even when they do land on their feet, they can still be injured.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#16 A Wagging Tail Means A Happy Cat

When a cat’s tail is swishing, it is often a sign of arousal or heightened emotion. The exact meaning depends on the situation, but if you are petting a cat and their tail begins to swish or flick, it is usually a good indication that they are becoming overstimulated and would like the interaction to stop. Paying attention to these early body language signals can help prevent your cat from becoming uncomfortable and may reduce the likelihood of a bite or swat.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

#17 Cats And Dogs Are Natural Enemies

It really depends on the individual cat and dog. Some dogs have a strong prey drive and may chase, injure, or even kill cats, while others are calm and friendly around them. Early experiences also play an important role. Kittens that have positive interactions with dogs during their socialization period are more likely to grow up comfortable around them. When introducing a cat and a dog, patience is essential. The process should be gradual, carefully managed, and always supervised. Giving both animals time to adjust at their own pace tends to lead to much better outcomes than simply putting them together and hoping they will work it out themselves. It's also important to make sure the cat has safe spaces they can retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. If you're planning to have both a cat and a dog, it is often easier if the cat is established in the home first. This allows the cat to feel secure in its territory before the dog is introduced, which can help reduce stress and make the transition smoother for both animals.

© Photo: Zazie Todd

It’s often said that people and their pets start to resemble each other over time, and artist Connie Kang became fascinated by this idea. Inspired by a memory game called “Do You Look Like Your Dog?” and “Do You Look Like Your Cat?” by photographer Gerrard Gethings, she began exploring this concept in her own unique way. 

In this selection of illustrations, you’ll find some of Connie’s most recent animal-inspired illustrations, where she transforms animals into human characters, reflecting their personalities, quirks, and energy through expressive artwork. This time, the series also expands beyond animals, including creative portraits inspired by real-world places and locations captured in photographs, reimagined in her unique artistic style.

More info: Instagram | Etsy

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Summer is already happening, and Prime Day just made it significantly more affordable to do it properly. Whether the plan involves a backyard that finally lives up to its potential, a camping trip that has been on the calendar since January, or simply surviving the heat with more grace than last year, this list has the outdoor essentials worth grabbing while the deals are live.

July 23rd through 26th is the window, and the savings across outdoor, garden, and backyard categories this year are genuinely worth showing up for. From sunup to sundown, and everything that happens around a fire pit after that, consider this the summer upgrade list that Prime Day just made a whole lot easier to justify.

#1 Comfort Finally Got A Glow Up And Crocs Women's Low Wedges Are The Proof That Nobody Has To Choose Between Looking Good And Actually Enjoying The Walk Anymore

Review: "Wow! I love heels but have lately been having foot pain due to a Morton’s Neuroma. I’ve been living in crocs and I got these hoping they would be just as comfortable as regular crocs and they are!!!!! Now I have something cute to wear on Sundays when my foot is acting up… well I will wear them all the time anyway! They are just as squishy as regular crocs! Now I’m going to save up and get an all black pair. I’m normally a 6.5 and a 7 in crocs and I got these in a size 7 and they fit perfect. I have very small ankles and they adjust and fit perfectly." - LadyFitzgerald

Buy Now: amazon.com

#2 Nobody Misses The Part Where Everyone Spends The Whole Evening Smelling Like A Campfire, And A 20 Inch Smokeless Patio Fire Pit Makes Sure That Part Of Outdoor Entertaining Is Officially Retired

Review: "I ordered the smokeless 20” pit and the heat shield. We had our first burn in it and once the fire is going it really is smokeless. Needless to say it was a hit. The heat deflector is a must have and pushes the heat out very well. It’s very therapeutic to watch the smoke burn off. It’s also cost a fraction as the name brand pits but does the same thing. Only con is the wood you put in it will need to be cut into smaller chunk size piece. For full length wood(18”) id look into a bigger unit. But I had some pine I cut down into 12” chunks and it burned very clean. Also very light weight, portable and easy to remove the ashes." - Justin

Buy Now: amazon.com

#3 Cold Drinks That Actually Stay Cold Stop Being A Problem The Moment A Smart Countertop Ice Maker Joins The Outdoor Setup And Starts Producing Ice Faster Than Anyone Can Use It

Review: "Arrived with no issues. Connected to wifi with no issues. It's just another great product from Govee for my smart home. I made a couple of batches of ice and tossed them to clean it out. It shuts off fine when ice tray is full or out of water." - Blue River Lore

Buy Now: amazon.com

#4 Carrying Cold Drinks, Snacks, And Enough Lunch To Last An Entire Day Out Without A Single Compromised Temperature Reading Is What The Stanley All Day Backpack Soft Cooler Was Built To Do And It Does It Without Breaking A Sweat

Review: "Great price point for this Stanley bag. Get the Midi. It’s slightly bigger. Holds ice well and isn’t too bulky. Matches the seafoam color perfectly." - Stephanie

Buy Now: amazon.com

Summer entertaining has a way of exposing every gap in the outdoor setup all at once. The cooler that doesn't hold temperature, the chairs that were never quite right, the lighting situation that sends everyone inside before the night is over.

Prime Day is the one moment in the year where fixing all of it at the same time actually makes financial sense, and the deals on this list are broad enough to cover whatever the backyard has been missing since last season.

#5 Reapplying Sunscreen Without Interrupting Whatever Good Thing Is Currently Happening Is Exactly The Kind Of Effortless Coverage A Neutrogena SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray Makes Possible Without Asking Anyone To Stand Still

Review: "It Smells very good. I buy it every summer. I highly recommend it." - Edwin

Buy Now: amazon.com

#6 Backyard Vibes After Dark Get A Serious Upgrade When A Row Of Solar Tiki Torches Handles All The Ambiance Without A Single Extension Cord Or Lighter In Sight

Review: "I just love sitting outside with my Tiki style torches on. The flicker feels so real and they bring such a wonderful and fun ambiance to my yard. The light temperature is just right." - Wendy Williams

Buy Now: amazon.com

#7 Turning The Back Of The Car Into A Fully Covered Campsite Without Setting Up A Single Pole Separately Is Exactly What A Tailgate Suv Tent Brings To Any Overnight Adventure That Starts And Ends With The Trunk

Review: "I purchased this tent 5 years ago and can’t believe how well it’s held up!!! It’s been caught in storms, tossed around vehicles and stored in my garage. It only takes a couple minutes to set up or breakdown. Probably the best thing I have purchased on Amazon." - Jun J

Buy Now: amazon.com

#8 Drifting Downstream With Cold Drinks Within Arm's Reach And Zero Effort Required Is The Entire Promise Of An Inflatable River Tube Float With Built-In Cooler And It Delivers On Every Single Word

Review: "Was tough enough to handle the vegetation on the banks of the river. Sturdy and comfortable. Really liked the cooler, although I used it more as a storage space. Very pleased with it!" - Katy Richards

Buy Now: amazon.com

Beyond the backyard, the best outdoor summers are the ones where the gear actually keeps up with the plans. A spontaneous beach day, a last-minute camping trip, an afternoon at the park that turns into an evening nobody wanted to end, none of that happens quite as well without the right equipment backing it up.

Everything still to come on this list was chosen because it travels well, performs better than expected, and makes whatever you had planned feel as if you prepared for it weeks in advance, even if you ordered it yesterday.

#9 Striped, Fringed, And Giving Full Bohemian Beach Club Energy Without The Membership Fee, A Beach Cabana Is The Setup That Makes Everyone Else On The Sand Immediately Wish They Had Planned Better

Review: "Best cabana at the beach! This is a must super cute and high quality! Easy to assembly and put up. Perfect protection from the sun for my daughter’s play area at the beach!" - Emily

Buy Now: amazon.com

#10 Stringing Up 50ft LED Outdoor String Lights Is The Single Fastest Way To Turn A Plain Backyard Into Somewhere People Actually Want To Stay After The Sun Goes Down

Review: "Great product works super great especially attaching it to a cable and or another fixed object for longevity." - Jason

Buy Now: amazon.com

#11 Showing Up To The Beach With A Lightweight Coleman Beach Chair That Sets Up In Seconds And Weighs Almost Nothing Means More Time Sitting And Significantly Less Time Wrestling With Equipment In The Sand

Review: "Lightweight and very comfortable. Easy to carry, quick to set up, and surprisingly stable on sand. Comfortable to sit for a long time — perfect beach chair. I use it often in Oahu, Hawaii." - Anna

Buy Now: amazon.com

#12 Flat When You Don't Need It And Fully Functional When You Do, The Coleman Snap N Go Collapsible Cooler Is The One That Finally Makes Sense For People Who Never Had The Storage Space For A Regular One

Review: "Wow, wow, wow! What an amazing product. As RVers, we find this collapsible cooler incredibly useful. The overall quality is very good, and the lid provides an excellent seal. The cooler collapses into a compact package that stores easily in an RV or vehicle, as shown in our SUV photo. We have used this cooler on multiple grocery runs and have experienced no issues keeping food and beverages cold with reusable ice packs. For RVers, campers, or anyone short on storage space, this cooler is an easy recommendation." - MKWilli

Buy Now: amazon.com

#13 No Backyard Gathering Has Ever Been Made Worse By The Arrival Of A Cornhole Set That Gives Everyone Something To Compete Over While Pretending They're Just There To Relax

Review: "This is exactly what I was expecting and hoping for. The bags are a proper weight for throwing, and I really enjoyed the waterproof carrying case that came with it." - Laura Pollock

Buy Now: amazon.com

#14 Everything That Has Been Cluttering The Patio, Porch, Or Garage Floor Finally Has A Home Inside A 30 Gallon Resin Outdoor Storage Box That Locks, Stacks, And Handles Whatever Weather Shows Up Without Complaining

Review: "I read the reviews that this was easy to put together, and it really is. I honestly cannot put anything together, ever, but decided to give this a try. It just snaps together and the directions are straightforward, completely straightforward. This took me maybe 5 minutes. I wanted something to hide my leaf blower, extension cord and watering can. It all fits with room to spare. It’s a little darker than I anticipated, which actually matched better. It’s not the sturdiest, but it’s pretty well made and should hold up well enough. I like it; it was a good purchase." - Michelle S

Buy Now: amazon.com

#15 Beating The Heat At A Festival, A Game, Or Anywhere Outside That Forgot To Install Air Conditioning Is A Lot More Manageable With A Mini Portable Fan That Fits In A Bag And Works Harder Than It Has Any Right To At That Size

Review: "Small but powerful. This portable fan has three levels and it's very convenient whether for office, car, or events. Highly recommend!" - Winnie

Buy Now: amazon.com

#16 A Garden Hose That Actually Survives The Summer Without Kinking, Cracking, Or Giving Up Halfway Through Watering Is Exactly What A 25ft Abrasion Resistant Water Hose Brings To A Yard That Deserves Better Than What's Been Out There

Review: "I’m surprised of the quality of the garden hose!! It’s very maneuverable and lightweight the connection with the head spray very good material it don’t slip out of my hand ( bring extra O’ring) it does not leak and have so much different types of pressure." - Jasmine

Buy Now: amazon.com

#17 All You Need Is A Patch Of Grass And A Portable Volleyball Net To Turn Any Outdoor Space Into The Most Competitive Spot At The Campsite, The Beach, Or The Backyard Barbecue

Review: "Was looking for a sturdy volleyball net for the beach. We purchased one before and it did not hold up so wasn’t expecting this to be good, but it held up so well. Easy to set up. Would recommend if you’re looking for a beach volleyball net." - Joan

Buy Now: amazon.com

#18 Ground That Used To Mean A Sore Back And A Bad Night's Sleep Becomes A Completely Different Experience When An Aksoul Camping Sleeping Pad With Pillow Is Between You And Whatever The Earth Has Going On Down There

Review: "Simple, fast and comfortable sleeping mat for camping. It rolls up really well and fits into a small bag, so takes up no space at all. Built in foot pump is awesome and deflating is quick. Roll and go!" - Cory

Buy Now: amazon.com

#19 Turning A Bare Patio Lounger Into Somewhere Worth Spending An Entire Afternoon Starts With An Outdoor Chaise Lounge Cushion That Makes The Whole Setup Feel Significantly More Intentional Than It Did Five Minutes Ago

Review: "Fits this old deck chair well! It has a pocket on the top the fits over the head of the chair. There are two tie strings that line up perfectly to the cross bars on the frame. As long as the material weathers well, I’m going to be very happy." - MDJ

Buy Now: amazon.com

#20 Staying Fresh Through Heat, Humidity, And Whatever The Afternoon Decides To Throw At You Is Exactly Where Saltair Serum Deodorant Earns Its Place In Every Beach Bag And Outdoor Kit Worth Packing

Review: "Love Love Love. Great scent throw, effective, lasting great all day odor protection, dries fast; it is a serum and it is liquid so it needs a few to dry but its a lovely texture and smells wonderful. The acids help exfoliate the skin and keeps it soft. No residue on clothing. Easy to use and keep clean. Safe for all skin types. I wanna try all the flavors!" - jaimilee

Buy Now: amazon.com

#21 Fresh Juice That Actually Tastes Like The Fruit It Came From Is What Separates A Cold Press Juicer From Every Other Appliance On The Counter That's Been Promising The Same Thing With Significantly Worse Results

Review: "I have only had for few weeks and used 3 times, but it's worth the money. Juice fully extracted and few pulps" - ok

Buy Now: amazon.com

Choosing whether or not to have kids is a deeply personal decision. And yet, people who choose to stay childfree often find themselves repeatedly explaining that choice to others. Friends, family, and even acquaintances sometimes feel the need to question it or try to convince them they’ll eventually change their mind.

One woman shared how her friend kept pushing the topic for years, even though she had always been clear about not wanting children. The final straw came at a wedding, when the friend loudly told her across the table, “Well, I hope you get pregnant.” What happened next left everyone at the table stunned—keep reading to see how she responded.

It is a personal decision whether to have kids or not, and nobody should pressure you into one or the other

Image credits: AI25.Studio/Pexels (not the actual photo)

A woman vented online about how a ‘frenemy’ of hers kept shamelessly testing her childfree boundaries

Image credits: Ayşenur Tekinel/Pexels (not the actual photo)

Image credits: suzy9mm

Many Gen Z adults say they are choosing not to have children because of the financial strain and rising cost of living

Image credits: Nuwan Bandara/Pexels (not the actual photo)

Parenting is no easy task, and most of us have heard the stories (whether from friends, cousins, or coworkers) about sleepless nights, endless laundry, and the chaos of raising little humans. In fact, the internet is packed with memes joking about the daily struggles of being a parent. Yet despite all the challenges, many moms and dads say the journey is deeply rewarding. For them, the joy of watching a child grow often outweighs the exhaustion. Parenting can bring meaningful moments, strong family bonds, and a sense of purpose that many people cherish. At the same time, it’s also a life choice that requires time, energy, and long-term commitment. And that’s exactly why some people take their time thinking carefully about it.

Beyond the day-to-day challenges of raising a child, there are many factors people consider when deciding whether parenthood is right for them. In recent years, more Millennials and Gen Z adults have openly talked about choosing to delay or skip having children altogether. Research from the Pew Research Center shows that the U.S. fertility rate reached a historic low in 2023. At the same time, a growing share of women ages 25 to 44 report that they have never given birth. These trends reflect changing lifestyles, priorities, and economic realities. People today are thinking differently about relationships, careers, and personal goals. And for some, that reflection leads to a different vision of adulthood than previous generations had.

One of the biggest factors influencing this decision is finances. Raising a child can be incredibly expensive, and many young adults are becoming more aware of those costs before making long-term commitments. According to a survey by MassMutual, nearly a quarter of Millennials and Gen Z adults without children say they don’t plan to become parents. Their main reason? Financial concerns. From childcare to healthcare and education, the price of raising kids can feel overwhelming. Many people worry about whether they’ll be able to provide the lifestyle and opportunities they would want for their children. As a result, finances have become a major part of the conversation around family planning.

That same survey revealed something interesting about how people think about money and parenthood. About 23 percent of adults between the ages of 18 and 43 said their decision to remain childfree is tied to two key financial concerns. First, many value the financial flexibility that comes with not having children. Without the costs of childcare, schooling, and other expenses, people often feel they have more control over their budgets. The second concern is uncertainty about whether they could comfortably afford the long-term costs of raising a child. For some, the question isn’t about whether they want children; it’s whether they could realistically support them without constant financial stress.

When you look at the bigger picture, those concerns start to make sense. Living costs have been steadily rising in many parts of the world. Rent, groceries, healthcare, and everyday expenses can already stretch budgets pretty thin. Buying a home, something many people once considered a major step before starting a family, has also become far more difficult for younger generations. With student loans and economic uncertainty in the mix, financial stability can feel harder to achieve. For many couples or individuals, the idea of adding the cost of raising a child on top of everything else can feel overwhelming. So naturally, people are thinking twice before making that decision.

And then there’s the sheer cost of raising a child itself. In a piece discussing the topic Fox News mentions, experts estimate that raising a child to the age of 18 now costs over $300,000 in the United States. And that number doesn’t even include college expenses. Once higher education is factored in, the total can easily climb into six figures more. When you break it down, the expenses add up quickly—food, clothing, healthcare, school supplies, childcare, and extracurricular activities. Over the years, these costs can quietly stack up into a massive financial commitment.

It’s important for people to respect others’ decisions about having children and avoid pressuring them to change their minds

Image credits: Rene Terp/Pexels (not the actual photo)

For some individuals, the decision not to have children is also influenced by health or genetic concerns. Certain people live with medical conditions or inherited disorders that they worry could affect future children. Others may carry personal experiences with illness in their families that make them cautious about passing those challenges along. These decisions are often deeply personal and emotional. People who make them usually spend a lot of time reflecting on what feels right for their circumstances.

There are also lifestyle reasons why some people choose to remain childfree. Many say the choice allows them to dedicate more time to hobbies, interests, and passions that matter to them. Without the responsibilities of parenting, they might travel more, explore creative pursuits, or invest more energy into personal growth. Others focus on building their careers, saving for the future, or maintaining an active social life. For these individuals, the freedom to shape their lives in different ways feels fulfilling. It’s not necessarily about rejecting family life; it’s simply about prioritizing different goals. And for them, that path feels right.

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to have children is a deeply personal choice that looks different for everyone. Some people dream of becoming parents and building a family, while others feel happier pursuing different life paths. Neither decision is inherently right or wrong. What matters most is that individuals feel supported in making the choice that aligns with their values, circumstances, and well-being. Conversations about parenthood are becoming more open and nuanced as society evolves. And perhaps the most important takeaway is that everyone deserves respect for the life they choose to build.

In this particular case, it seemed like the author’s friend simply refused to respect her decision to remain childfree and kept pestering her about it for years. Eventually, the author decided to stand her ground and respond firmly when the comment crossed the line. What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you think she handled it the right way?

Here’s how readers reacted to the viral story while the author interacted with them in the comments

Some internet users shared similar stories

Not everyone was on the same page. Some readers disagreed with the author

“Turn and face the strange, ch-ch-changes

Pretty soon now you're gonna get older

Time may change me, but I can't trace time…”

David Bowie’s iconic song may have been about reinventing himself as an artist and the inevitability of aging, but it’s something that we can all relate to. We’re constantly evolving, and so is the world around us.

Below, you’ll find a list that Bored Panda has compiled of then-versus-now photos of famous places in the United States. As you’ll clearly see, these cities and landmarks have undergone massive changes, and it’s fascinating to examine how they’ve occurred. Enjoy scrolling through these images, and be sure to upvote the ones that inspire you to take a trip down memory lane too.

#1 Once Upon A Time In America Iconic Scene Then And Now (1984-2019)

© Photo: PhilGrishayev

#2 Hoover Dam Water Level July 1983 vs. December 2022

© Photo: HD_Adventure

#3 University Of Montana ~150 Years Apart

© Photo: sweetz55

Compared to the rest of the world, the United States is a pretty young country. It’s only been around for 250 years, while some have been standing for over a thousand years. Because the nation is so young, it has transformed an incredible amount over the past two centuries. And the places that have changed the most drastically are the cities.

There are plenty of small towns in the U.S. where you can still find dirt roads today, but the nation’s largest cities are sprawling metropolises with seemingly endless highways and millions of homes. The most important and influential cities in the nation haven’t always been the same, though.

#4 What An Abandoned Mansion Looks Like As It Deteriorates When It's Not Cared For Between 1965 And 2012

© Photo: reddit.com

#5 Tunnel Rock At Sequoia National Park, 1952 And 2020

© Photo: Eddielowfilthslayer

#6 The Pines, Fallsburg, NY. (1950's-Semi Recent) Not Mine, I Thought It Belonged Here. I Borrowed This From Deadmotelsusa On Instagram

© Photo: PugetSoundOgre

Back when the country was formed, New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, Charleston, and Baltimore were powerhouses. And while they’re all still important today, some have become overshadowed by younger cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Houston.

And according to The Atlantic, the prominence of certain cities has changed drastically between 1978 and 2010 as well. Detroit, St. Louis, Cleveland, New Orleans, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Buffalo have all dropped significantly in GDP rankings. Meanwhile, Washington, DC, Dallas, Phoenix, San Diego, Denver, Tampa, Portland, Orlando, and Sacramento made huge strides in improving their rankings.  

#7 Fresh Prince Basketball Court 1990 vs. Now

© Photo: karmacannibal

#8 Charlotte, NC: Unsure Of The Year, But I Found What Appeared To Be A Dirt Track Near My Workplace On Google Maps. I Did Some Research And Went To Check It Out

© Photo: dominicmannphoto

#9 We Lost Amy Winehouse 10 Years Ago Today. Here She Is Back In 2007 In NYC

© Photo: mablox

These changes are still happening today, though. Good Migrations notes that a handful of cities have rapidly changed even in the last five years. These include Boise City (ID), Provo (UT), Lakeland (FL), Austin (TX), and Huntsville (AL). 

The transformations that these cities have experienced can be attributed to an increase in job opportunities, an increase in population, an increase in GDP, and more. Along with all of these changes often come more tourism, more cultural and arts events, and perhaps even happier populations.

#10 Manhattan In 1851 And Today

© Photo: ParaMike46

#11 Waiting Area In Michigan Central Railroad Depot, Detroit (1965 And 2014)

© Photo: hankmeisterr

#12 Theodore Roosevelt Would Be Proud

© Photo: sethsta

One thing that makes the United States unique (for better or worse) is the highway system that the country has. And that has definitely changed an incredible amount over the past century. According to Vox, 48,000 miles of highways were added to the nation between the 1950s and 1970s. These gave rural residents access to cities and allowed people who worked in cities to move to suburbs, while still having easy access to their jobs and communities. But there were certainly downsides to these highways as well.    

#13 Unfinished Manhattan Bridge In 1908 And Now

© Photo: reddit.com

#14 Woodstock Festival Site- 1969 / 2020

© Photo: spkelly37

#15 Chicago In The 1930s vs. Today

© Photo: DrDMango

Peter Norton, a historian at the University of Virginia, told Vox that there was almost always discrimination involved when determining where these highways would go and whose communities would be impacted by them.

“The explanation, in almost every case, is that the relatively well-off, influential people in those cities were able to stop the urban highways that would have gone through their neighborhoods," Norton says. He cites the example of Wisconsin Avenue in DC, which was supposed to become a highway but never did because wealthy residents protested. "The destruction mostly happened in the most disenfranchised neighborhoods. It's astounding how selective it was."

#16 2117 Vyse Ave, Bronx 1989 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

#17 Grand Central Terminal, NYC. 1912 Top, 2021 Bottom

© Photo: strikejay

#18 Before And After, Seattle Wa

© Photo: SimplySeager

Despite how much American cities have changed already, it’s likely that the transformations won’t stop any time soon. There is a movement for walkable cities that is gaining traction in the U.S., and hopefully, many more communities will have options available for transportation other than just cars. 

In fact, a recent survey found that six out of 10 builders are now moving away from large homes and focusing their attention on creating walkable neighborhoods. 56% of Americans even say they would be willing to move and have a smaller yard if it meant they lived in a more walkable neighborhood. Times are changing! 

#19 1878 - 2022. Tetons. Not Much Has Really Changed In This Photo. But I Still Think It's Neat

© Photo: andeo1996

#20 1939/2021

© Photo: mrl33602

#21 1091 E. 165th St, Bronx 1987 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

Are you enjoying these photos that tell stories about how much the United States has changed over time, pandas? Keep upvoting the ones that you find most fascinating, and let us know in the comments below how you’d like to see your own city transform. Then, you can find another article from Bored Panda featuring interesting American cities right here!

#22 A New York City Street - 1984 And Present Day

© Photo: Objects_Food_Rooms

#23 Old vs. Now

© Photo: Actual_Macaroon_3024

#24 Sneffels Revenue Mine Colorado 1896 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#25 St. Elmo Colorado 1890 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#26 Stunner Colorado 1913 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#27 Silver Cliff Colorado Fire House And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#28 Sneffels Colorado 1897 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#29 Then And Now — Salem, Virginia

© Photo: VaDOT

#30 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#31 The Flatiron Building, New York (1917 And 2012)

© Photo: chriscambridge

#32 My Family Farm C.1900/2000. It Was In Our Family For 125 Years. My Childhood Bedroom Window Is In The Top Center. It Was Also My Father’s And My Grandfather’s Bedroom

© Photo: pappard57

#33 Amazing Looking Home Restored In Detroit. 1993 And Now

© Photo: reddit.com

#34 1820 Industrial St, Los Angeles

© Photo: Just_Another_AI

#35 Statue Of Liberty: Left Photo By My Great-Grandfather In 1937, Right Photo By Me In 2019

© Photo: Weasley9

#36 The Corner Of 49th St & 3rd Ave, Manhattan 1940 vs. 2021

© Photo: Weasley9

#37 The Fallen Monarch, Yosemite - 1899 And Nowadays. 'F' Troop Of The 6th Us Cavalry Pictured In The Older Photo

© Photo: Le_Rat_Mort

#38 Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, USA

© Photo: TogderNodger

#39 10 Years In Detroit. 2009 And 2019. House Proud Lawn Mowing To Abandoned Debris

© Photo: Christopherfromtheuk

#40 Early Los Angeles Compared To 2001

© Photo: chazwazzle

#41 The North Bank Of The Chicago River Between State Street And Dearborn Street - 1960 The North Bank Of The Chicago River Between State Street And Dearborn Street - 1960 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#42 Madison Street Bridge - 1911 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#43 Randolph Street Of The “L” Train Passing Over The Lake Street Bridge - 1910 Randolph Street Of The “L” Train Passing Over The Lake Street Bridge - 1910 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#44 Amsterdam Ave And 126th St, Harlem 1989 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

#45 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#46 Before (1916) And Current (2019) Photo Of Our Street

© Photo: wobbly_pop_tendy

#47 Swift River Valley (Massachusetts, Us) 1880s vs. 2010s

© Photo: dctroll_

#48 My Mom And I Sitting On The Stoop Of The Bronx House That's Been In Our Family For 100 Years, Recreating A Photo Of My Great Aunt And Great-Great Grandmother Taken In The '40s

© Photo: Delighted_Strawberry

#49 The Tribune Tower, Located At 435 North Michigan Avenue, Seen From Across The Chicago River - 1931 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#50 Linwood St., Camden NJ 1988 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

#51 My Town's Downtown Area (1960s vs. 2022)

© Photo: vilify97

#52 Silver Plume, Colorado Jail 1895 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#53 Detroit, Michigan. Then & Now

© Photo: MrMacBro

#54 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#55 Hollywood High School In Los Angeles In 1941 And Now

© Photo: reddit.com

#56 Main & Delaware St, Kansas City, Mo (1906 vs. 2015)

© Photo: pancakeking1012

#57 San Francisco, 1920 And 2020

© Photo: 5_Frog_Margin

#58 Old House In Omaha Nebraska

© Photo: sethsta

#59 Abraham Lincoln's Home, Springfield, Illinois. Seen Here In 1861 And Today

© Photo: Le_Rat_Mort

#60 Michigan Avenue Bridge - 1929 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#61 Jackson Street Bridge From The South Bank Of The South Branch - 1916 Jackson Street Bridge From The South Bank Of The South Branch - 1916 And Today

© Photo: Lepke2011

#62 1980’s To Now In Urban USA

© Photo: stumpjungle

#63 Mozart Ave At W. Roosevelt, Chicago 1988 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

#64 Mlk Blvd At Court St., Newark NJ 1981 And Today

© Photo: stumpjungle

#65 My Hometown, Approx 100 Years Ago vs. My Pic From Last Week.... Not So Much Has Changed

© Photo: Hobbz11

#66 Silver Plume School Colorado 1894 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#67 Silver Cliff Colorado 1890 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#68 R/Oldphotosinreallife - Smuggler Mine Colorado 1902 And Now Smuggler Mine Colorado 1902 And Now

© Photo: stumpjungle

#69 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#70 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#71 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#72 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#73 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#74 Detroit, Michigan Before And After

© Photo: ForwardGlove

#75 Old Photos In Real Life: 1978 vs. Now

© Photo: okgusto

#76 Detroit Before And After The Construction Of Freeways And “Urban Renewal”

© Photo: TheSandPeople

#77 Dallas, Texas (2001 vs. 2021)

© Photo: RyeTiliDie

#78 We Lost Joey Ramone 20 Years Ago Today. Here Is Ramones Pictured Outside Cbgb July 15 1975

© Photo: iconoclastickangaroo

#79 Manhattan 1931 vs. Now

© Photo: DTheDev

#80 Mount Rushmore

© Photo: sethsta

#81 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

#82 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

#83 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

#84 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

#85 Old Photos In Real Life 1934 Edition

© Photo: jesseberdinka

#86 Louisburg Square On Beacon Hill In Boston, In 1930 And 2021

© Photo: alanboston

#87 The Royal York Hotel Towered Over The Toronto Skyline For Close To 40 Years. Nowadays It's Buried Behind Glass And Steel Office Buildings And Condos

© Photo: IWasGregInTokyo

#88 America- Past And Present

© Photo: Lordcrappington

#89 I Tried Taking A Modern Version Of This Photo Of The Empire State Building From 1941

© Photo: corso923

#90 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

#91 Then & Now

© Photo: No Longer Here

There’s this misconception that all, or most, twins are thick as thieves. They once shared a womb together, and know each other better than anyone else. But it turns out that sometimes, the good twin/evil twin narrative we see in movies isn’t too far from the truth.

A cousin has spilled the beans on some wedding drama that rocked the boat of a wealthy family. According to her, this family splurges on an boat cruise every few years. One such vacation hit an iceberg when the dad decided he’d postpone it so that he could pay for his daughter’s extravagant wedding instead. The bride’s twin sister lost it, accusing her of being selfish and ruining everyone’s year by getting married.

Their family cruise was put on ice so that the bride’s father could pay for his daughter’s lavish wedding

Image credits: http://www.kaboompics.com / Pexels (not the actual photo)

Her twin sister is furious, and has demanded that the bride postpones the wedding because she’s ruining everyone’s year

Image credits: Blake Cheek / Unsplash (not the actual photo)

Image credits: khezez | خزاز / Pexels (not the actual photo)

Image credits: robo-dragon

The cousin later revealed that while the “good twin” was torn up about her decision, she stuck to it

Image credits: http://www.kaboompics.com / Pexels (not the actual photo)

Twin estrangement is more common than you might think, here’s why…

Many people think of twins as having the perfect relationship but this is simply often not the case. In fact, some experts say that twins fight worse than other siblings and hold onto resentments for much longer.

“There’s such an ingrained belief that twins have an ideal relationship, that twins are icons of idealized intimacy, and sometimes that’s true, but often it’s not,” says Barbara Klein, an expert on the development of twins. Klein adds that because twins are supposed to get along, estrangement between them can cause deep shame.

Dr. Joan Friedman, another expert on twins, notes that while twins fight just like different-aged siblings, “their tensions have much more to do with establishing separateness and uniqueness, traits afforded naturally to siblings born at different times.”

“Twin estrangement that grows out of unresolved anger, disappointment, and resentment is emotionally complicated and confusing,” Klein writes. The expert herself has first-hand experience of this, revealing she was “estranged and then connected and then disconnected” from her own twin sister for over 45 years.

Klein describes twins as “born married” because they have a unique bond. But that doesn’t always mean they’re close.

“What is unique about twinship is the level of conflict between twins, which can come after harmony, almost instantly,” she explains. “Conflicts over differences of opinion—what belongs to whom, or who is more favored or entitled—are ongoing discussions that create intense unhappiness and confusion.”

According to Klein, harmonious happiness can easily be totally wiped out by a superficial fight over a dress, toy, or sweet treat.

“Profound fights about the best college to go to or the right man or woman to marry can become ruthless and hateful, and often cause nonstop fighting and alliances in the nuclear and extended family,” adds the twin expert.

Friedman says that rivalry in adult twins has “everything to do with wanting to be on one’s own and discovering one’s singular sense of self without worrying how this will disrupt and upset one’s twin.”

Klein reveals that even when they’re estranged, twins yearn for each other.

“All twins long for the closeness they shared from conception into childhood. The bond twins share is primary; like the mother-child bond, it cannot be replaced,” she says. “Misunderstood and mistreated by each other, twin communication can be destroyed because of fighting and unrealistic expectations.”

Image credits: cottonbro studio / Pexels (not the actual photo)

Some felt the drama was worthy of becoming a movie

Sometimes a job, a career, the rat race all gets to be too much, even if the work is manageable. The truth is that we’re all well aware that there is a big world out there to explore and one typically doesn’t get to see much of it if you’re stuck in a nine-to-five.

So we’ve gathered posts from people who decided that they don’t want to be stuck, tied down to a job and got up and left to travel the world. Get comfortable as you read through their experiences, upvote your favorites and be sure to share your own tales in the comments section down below.

#1

Yes. Several times. No regrets. The biggest was when I quit a bad factory job and saved up about 7k. Then I walked coast to coast across the USA which took about 8 months. Most of my budget was food and gear, slept in a tent most nights. My work history is full of large gaps, but also full of life experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything.

© Photo: TheTrailArtist

#2

My partner passed away in an accident in July 2024. Quit my job, packed up and left. I couldn’t stand staying in the city we had moved to together and planned to have our life in. Initially, I started a new job in another country but I was not mentally ready for it and I couldn’t hack it. Ended up leaving and now I’m traveling. Somewhat with a plan, somewhat randomly. Visiting friends in different places, and seeing places I’ve always wanted to visit but never had the chance. It’s bittersweet because I wish my partner was with me but I’m hoping it’ll help me figure out what to do with myself when the traveling ends.

I say go for it. Why wait? There are always going to be reasons to put it off. If it’s something you want to do, don’t spend your time dreaming about it and never doing it. You never know who you will meet or what will happen along the way. Go wherever you’ve always wanted to go. Don’t overthink it.

© Photo: roar075

#3

Traveling alone gets hard around the 7 month mark. You start slowing down and spending a month or two in each place and taking classes or participating in sports or something.

Humans really want connection, comfort, stability.

If you travel with a partner though, it’s easy to go full blast for the full year at pretty high speed.

© Photo: Mammoth_Support_2634

#4

I did a whole year. Quit my job and travelled Europe, India, SEA, Japan. Ended up in Australia on a WHV, met my future wife in Thailand, she's Aussie, got married last year and bought a house now have a baby on the way. I don't regret a single thing!

© Photo: CastNoShadow1

#5

Not a year. I'm on year 8. And now it's coming to an end. I regret very little, although I wish I'd known the entire time that financially I was always going to be okay.

In hindsight, I'm always fine, but after 8 years of not always knowing where the next paycheck is coming from, and always having an eye on 6 months in advanced for the next major contract, it's grown tiresome

Now I worry about getting back into work that will 1 keep me stimulated and two, not suck because of nearly a decade out of regular work

If I knew what I know now when I started, I'd have taken less big risks, and just enjoyed the ride, although the 8 years of pushing myself will definitely pay off when I put down roots

The thing with money is there's always a way to find it. You just have to hone skills.

Learning things like video editing, marketing, copywriting. Are actually great starts, it's cliche, but the way you approach it is key.

The most successful way of finding money on the road that I've ever seen was video editing. Not my cup of tea but he would approach businesses, offer to do them a video for free, if they like it, they can buy it off him. Worked really well.

© Photo: StopTheTrickle

#6

Have you considered discussing the potential of an unpaid sabatical with your office? I am in the middle of a 5 month unpaid sabatical which I think has made the trip more relaxing, knowing that I have a job to go back to. It also has made budgeting easier as there is no unknown of job searching.

Alternatively, maybe see if you can find a new job and tell them you can only start on 3 months? I have a 3 months notice period at my job so it's not uncommon that people can't start straight away.

© Photo: _fountainhead

#7

Yes, twice.
Though I wish it weren’t the case, I feel that age plays a significant role in how these experiences unfold for me.

The first time, I was young, living in my parents’ house, and my job wasn’t very serious. Traveling for a year was an incredible adventure—I learned a lot, had amazing experiences, met fascinating people, and felt I’d had serious personal growth. Coming back home after a year of traveling wasn’t overly easy, but it wasn’t very difficult either. The hardest part was dealing with the overwhelming boredom of not traveling or doing something different and exciting every day. Still, it was relatively easy to get back into my life—I moved out of my parents' house, rented an apartment with friends, and landed a higher-paying job fairly quickly, so things worked out.

The second time, I quit my job, sold everything I owned, and set off for another adventure. It was great, but when I returned after a year, it was much harder. This time, it felt like everyone around me had moved forward with their lives. People had advanced in their careers, gotten married, had kids, and I felt stuck in place. I struggled to find a job for over a year, eventually looking at entry-level positions, which was a huge blow considering I was once on a completely different career path. At some point, COVID hit, and things got even worse. It became incredibly difficult to find an apartment to rent, so I had to sublet and move to a different apartment every month or two. My friends were busy with their spouses or babies, and I felt like I was completely alone.

Now, almost six years later, I still feel like I haven’t caught up with those around me.

Do I regret traveling? Not really. I had incredible experiences that I wouldn’t trade for anything, but it’s important to acknowledge that while you’re living your dream, life keeps moving forward for everyone else. People progress in their careers, relationships, and personal lives, and when you return, you might find that you’ve missed out on opportunities.

© Photo: Initial_Cranberry251

#8

It’s not the same but I took a 13 month unpaid sabbatical to travel the world. Here’s the bulletin list to your questions:

Yes, I recommend it. You’re only at your age once. It becomes different the older and more established you are. I was 41 back then.

No. I have no regrets. The memories, friendships and experiences I made live on long after I came home.

Short answer I work for the government in BC, Canada. I just came back to my old job.

I saved and spent $24,764 CAD. About $62 a day.

I spent three months in South America, two months in Eastern Europe, six weeks in the Middle East, five weeks in Africa and five months and a week in Southeast Asia.

Regarding the regret question it’s been ten years and I’m on a second sabbatical. This time it’s seven months paid at 40% of my salary. I’m traveling Africa for the whole time. Currently in Kenya.

© Photo: Cheat-Meal

#9

A long time ago, my then girlfriend asked me to give up my job, rent out my house and travel the world with her. I immediately said 'No'. It just made no sense to me. Weeks later she passed suddenly at the age of 27. Suffice to say, I was devastated. We'd not been together for a long time (18 months) but...

12 months later, after saving every penny I could, I gave up my job, rented out my house and headed to the other side of the world. What followed was five years of on/off travel. I'd work to save money and travelled as much as I could.

My regrets are obvious but I also wish I'd done it much earlier in my life. I was once sat in a hostel cafe in Paris and a16yo back packer came in. I was so jealous of the freedom he had and the great travel experiences he had ahead of him. I didn't start til I was 29.

Travelling changed me in so many ways and I encourage everyone to go out and see the world. You'll learn more about yourself than anything else.

© Photo: stippleeffect

#10

I'm in the middle of doing it. 1 month in. Feeling a bit homesick but don't regret it. But I was tired af of that job. I saved up plenty of money that I don't have to stress too much. Doing Europe and a bit of Asia. Might extend the trip when I get back if I feel like it.

© Photo: Jammintoad

#11

I left a job in an engineering/manufacturing business to tour Asia for six weeks. Relatively short, but it was a long journey for me. I just needed the break as an opportunity to explore and experience discovery. When I came back I had the opportunity to work fewer days at the same place and a few years later left completely to go back to school.
No regrets at all.

© Photo: AlarmingMonk1619

#12

Yep, did it in 2023 for 6 months after leaving a stable corporate job in marketing. I interviewed about 4 weeks before I came home and walked into a job immediately. I had some decent experience though and was not a junior anymore. No regrets at all but it was definitely mentally challenging at times and I learned a lot about myself.

© Photo: iridessence

#13

Not the same, but I was laid off in September 2023 and remained unemployed through March 2024.

I don't have any children, so I took part of my savings and my severance to travel to 4 different countries (Portugal, Curaçao, Türkiye and Chile). Having credit card points available also helped.

It was definitely risky, but worth it. I want to do it again, but between January and June 2027 because my passport expires in January 2028 (usually you need to have at least 6 months of validity on your passport).

Who knows if I will do it again or not.

It all depends on your personal situation and the job market (which is not the best right now).

© Photo: ed8907

#14

I only regretted not updating my resume before I left, and not preparing for interviews a little more while traveling. I don't regret quitting or traveling at all.

© Photo: mile-high-guy

#15

Yes, twice quit and sold all my possessions. I was gone for 9 months the first time, second time 5 years :)

Absolutely no regrets. 10/10 would do it again.

© Photo: Internal-Food-5753

#16

You can work to live or live to work, it’s your choice.

© Photo: anon

#17

I did it! I was basically going to quit my job one way or another, but I ended up deciding to take another job in the industry four months later. Given your industry, I think the key is to make sure that your professional network is kept up. But, I never had anyone view the fact that I took a few months off work negatively.

I went to Europe and, being a planner, I had a lot of my trip planned out in advance. I used a Google spreadsheet to keep the hostel reservations and flight/train/bus tickets organized in one place.

© Photo: Alpaca_Investor

#18

I’m quitting my soul sucking IT job next week and taking off for a 4 month trip across Latin America and Europe. I’ve saved $10,000 and will be teaching English online very part time for an additional 200€ a month. I’ve secured a job teaching English in Vietnam starting in August so that was easy. I’ve already booked the first month worth of accommodations and I’m just going with the flow for activities !

© Photo: Lonely_Company_8673

#19

Yes I did it at the beginning of 2022 and came back home 13 months later. I travelled around Asia and it was probably the best year of my life. Absolutely no regrets. I did this at 39 years old, had plenty of savings and also rented out my flat for income so I was in a good position to do it.

Coming back home was hard initially adapting back to reality again. The job market wasn't great and it took me about 3 months before I got a permanent job. I spent about £18,000 on the trip in total and I've since made all that money back again.

Would I do it again? No, it was a one off thing for me and kind of a midlife crisis. I'm now happy in my job and ready to settle down with the right person. And as I'm getting older I now prefer comfort over the backpacking life.

© Photo: Stu2307

#20

I've taken a year off to travel and this is really a much bigger topic than can be covered in a comment on reddit. Great experience, no serious regrets, just minor tweaks. (And I've since learned how to plan trips like this in a more streamlined way than I did originally.) I went from juggling multiple part time jobs to travel to pivoting into a more stable career path in marketing. Saved $12k before leaving and made the rest of my budget freelancing while traveling. Finding work on return varies between industries, positions, and individuals. You might chat with a recruiter in your industry to learn how long job searches are taking. Happy to share more via chat another time.

© Photo: anon

#21

Yes.

My first trip to Europe I quit 2 jobs AND took a semester off from university actually to spend 3 months backpacking through Europe.

I regret not staying longer. I regret going back to school and work. I regret not expanding my travels more to see more of Europe and traveling further afield.

I would 100% do it again, even today with my family. We own home and cars and have savings. We are healthy and I have a skillset that I can come back home and immediately either find a new job or work on the side to start re-earning a livable income.

But not everyone is as ready to leave it all behind for an extended trip as I am :)

When I went on that first trip, it was supposed to be 4 high school friends spending 2 weeks seeing our favorite soccer clubs and the tourist highlights along the way.

Budget was $3,500 - all in: flights, hotels, rental car, food, etc. I didn't have that kind of money, my parents didn't have that kind of money. But all of my friends' parents did.

I took a semester off of university, doubled my part-time job's hours, picked up a second full time job. I worked 6-7 days per week for several months.

Then I found 'Europe Through the Back DOor' by Rick Steves, consumed its 300+ pages in a single weekend, and realized I could spend the entire summer on that same $3500 budget.

I told my friends thinking they'd stay the summer with me. They laughed and made fun of me.

I bought a backpack, a Eurail pass, a Hostel Card, and a moneybelt, and a open-jaw, round trip 'from anywhere on the East coast of US to Western Europe and back' airfare 'voucher.

I flew out a week before my friends, and learned all about solo backpacking, hostels, Europes trains, sleeping on trains for free, eating affordably. \Then met my friends in Rome and we traveled together for 2 weeks.

THey left and a cousin from home flew out to meet me. We traveled together for another 2 weeks.

Then I traveled solo for the rest of the summer. I didn't see as much as I could have in retrospect, but i saw and experienced a LOT.

Next to my wife and kids, it was the single most pivotal moment in my life.

Now I share my stories and experiences and advice from 25 years of European travel on Youtube and Twitter and am building a web app to help others travel to Europe on their own affordably and with confidence.

The only thing I regret is not traveling more before having a family & not dragging my family around more as my kids have grown up.

© Photo: Eurotripr

#22

Currently doing this 🤣 so ill tell ya in a year 😆
So far at 4 months and no regrets, feels weird to not have a routine.

© Photo: Hikingmatt1982

#23

Not quit, but had a 9 month sabbatical planned after my dad passed away. 2 weeks into the trip I end up temporarily paralyzed in a hospital in Santiago, Chile and had to cut the trip short and come home.

© Photo: valeyard89

#24

Yes. I planned to travel from 6 months to 1 year, and ended traveling for 3yrs and half, with 2 stops at middle.
At total, I stayed 10 years in Asia, and expected was 6 months.
You can do it at any age, regardless of people tell you, but you have to be flexible with jobs, want to learn new skills, accept losses, loneliness, uncertainty about the future.
When you end, for me at least, there is always a sensation of feeling lost, but after a period of recovery, I'm ready to look for a job.
Many hiring companies see work gaps as a red flag but you can overcome it proving that you are a resourceful person.

© Photo: abentofreire

#25

I am a teacher and I quit my job in 2022 to travel Latin America for 6 months. Like everyone has already said, my only regret is not saving more money or spending more time away—it is an incredible experience you should have if you can!

I spent roughly $10,000 not including some withstanding expenses in the US (storage unit, credit card, etc). My one piece of advice is to keep things open and flexible! I was always anxious about not having plane tickets or solidified reservations/plans, but traveling is so convenient nowadays and most things works out when you go with the flow. Give yourself enough wiggle room so when you fall in love with a new spot, you can hang for a bit!

Being a teacher, I had no problem securing a job when I returned but each profession is different. I hope you have a blast :).

© Photo: Round_Repair_5911

#26

Several times and absolutely 0 regrets. About to do it again soon too!

© Photo: BlackberryEqual9960

#27

Ive been laid off a lot and that is usually the best time to travel. live a little and dont worry about work and time pressures.

© Photo: Sniffy4

#28

I do it every few years. Frick it dude, you will be replaced at a job within a week.

Travel is the only thing you can waste money on and it’ll still make you ‘richer’. Richer with life and stories and knowledge.

Get out there man.. one day the grim reaper will come knocking. Live a life you wanted.

© Photo: _DizzyChicken

#29

If you got the opportunity, do it. You're not gonna look back on your life and think "hell yeah working instead of traveling the world was awesome" lol. Do it.

© Photo: Silverfishlegs

#30

12 years ago I quit a 100k job and purchased a one way ticket to SE Asia. I was 32 and started my trip solo (ended it with a partner I made along the way). I ended up travelling for 18 months. Honestly, I wish I had gone longer.

Hell yeah I was nervous. I was leaving a really good job, my friends and my family. And it was hard the first month. I was on a small island learning to scuba dive and it would get lonely. I was used to being busy all day. But then like anything, you adapt and get more comfortable. You begin to appreciate the peacefulness of not having obligations. And you see the joy in smaller things. You will be fine.

The trip itself was amazing. I went places and did things I would never dream of. Spent 6 months making my own way across Africa, which just blows my mind when I look back on it. Hell, because of my trip I ended up moving to Europe from the U.S. I’ve been here 10 years now. My trip changed my life completely, and I’m much happier for it.

Go. Enjoy every moment you can.

© Photo: TeddyTurbo

#31

Crazy my roommate is literally leaving tomorrow to travel for the next few months. Quit his finance job, totally got burned out. I can hear him packing as I type.

© Photo: RichieRicch

#32

I didn’t do this but I’ve traveled solo a lot and what I say about it is the highs are higher and the lows are lower. The loneliness and boredom sometimes is awful but then you have these incredible unplanned experiences and it makes it all worth it. I’d say establish some daily routines you can take anywhere so you ground yourself.

© Photo: Astarrrrr

#33

I quit a job that some people considered a career entry point. It was a union job providing tech support for the local phone company. It paid decently for the time ($17/hr in 2006), but I always intended for it to be temporary.

Best thing I ever did. Spent the next 6 months on an overland route from Cairo to Budapest. Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania and Hungary. Plus some brief stops in London, Paris and Malta. (Those brief stops totalled about 3 weeks, which is now my typical vacation length)

Traveling long term isn't like a vacation. You develop routines, meet new friends, and just experience what carefree living is all about. Probably you'll spend whole days reading books. Maybe you'll randomly decide to spend a whole week somewhere just because the pension you're staying at serves good food (okay, they also had a pool). But the travel adds variety to those routines. You'll never be bored because there's always something new to see. And if you are bored, you can just pack up and move on.

Everyone gets nervous in the face of a big change, but if this is something you want to do, and have the ability to, you'll have far more regret and second thoughts if you back out.

#34

I did it and traveled for a year. It was totally worth it. I wasn’t at all doubtful about it because I was really unhappy with that job by the end of it and was sick of where I was living and was planning on looking for a new job and moving anyway. Looking back it was amazing but while doing it I kind of got used to it and there were just different kinds of highs and lows. Sometimes I had to stop and just take a moment to appreciate all the incredible things I was seeing.

I very rarely had nothing to do though. You can pack your itineraries as full as you want. Apart from the occasional beach break I was pretty much doing stuff every day during the hours most people would be working.

#35

I did it back in 2023. Well I didn’t quit, I was laid off and just took the opportunity to go travel for 3 months.

A few things happened, one I haven’t been able to land a job since lol. I worked in the tech industry and the market has just been absolutely ruined. I worked as a photographer as a hobby and occasional side-gig but have been forced to do it full time. So while I’ve been broke as hell, I’ve actually been a lot happier as I have more free time.

#36

I did this for a four month trip. I was leaving a job that was for a set term and so had to find a new job anyways. When the new job gave me the offer I asked if I could delay my start date for four months and they agreed. It was great, honestly - I had the security of knowing the job would be there when I got back but I didn’t know anything about it to have it weighing on me during the trip.

#37

I left my job in September 2022 and traveled for 14 months.

I returned in December 2023, and it was a rough first few months back. I didn't expect to struggle so much with the transition back to being home. I battled depression. It didn't help that I live in a northern city that gets very dark and grey in the winter, and I was returning just in time for that.

I also didn't expect my friends and family to be so uninterested in hearing about my experience. I spent a few weeks seeing family after my return and they could not have cared less and acted like I was irresponsible for not working for so long. So what I'm saying is don't expect friends and loved ones to understand or care about your journey if you choose to do this.

During my travels, I also struggled existentially with the purpose and meaning of what I was doing. You get tired and burnt out. Some days I sat inside and did nothing. Sightseeing gets old real quick, so you need to have a purpose for traveling, or some sort of interest you're pursuing. I also got tired of moving around, so the further into my trip I got, the longer I'd find myself staying in some spots - especially if I liked them.

Once I returned, I briefly saw a therapist to try and talk through some of the issues I was having mentally and slowly came out of my funk. I found a job about four months after getting back. Granted, I wasn't even looking the first two months. I did put my traveling experience on my resume as a self-improvement sabbatical, and employers seemed to respond to that in a positive way.

As far as anything I would do differently? Not sure, maybe using more of my down time while traveling to invest in skills that might translate into employment opportunities. But it's hard to do that when your mind is focused on traveling and not thinking about your next career move. The time was mostly a break after leaving a very stressful and toxic job, and I wouldn't give it up for the world. I think about it every day, and I can honestly say that it is one of the best decisions I've ever made.

#38

This comes up on career subs pretty often. If you want to travel for 6 months or less and are in a professional role, I would highly suggest asking for a leave of absence. By the time they post your role, find someone and train them, it can easily be 4-6 months, and they would be better to have you back. If you hate your job or your company, then the situation may be different, but even so, a leave of absence will play better than a resume gap. If you want more advice along this line, I am happy to provide it.

#39

I have seen this type of thread come up on Reddit over the years. Hardly anyone who quit their job to travel a bit regretted it.

As for me, I decided between quitting my job to travel and buying a house. I chose the latter and I regret it. Now I have a mortgage tying me down and I have to stay employed or I’m screwed.

If you’re itching to travel then do it now.

#40

Came back 4 months ago, travelled 1 year.

I didn’t expect to cry a bit when I got home and drove out to the mountains. Realized once again how lucky I am to live in such a gorgeous place.

Started the job hunt 2 weeks into being back, started in a stellar job 2 weeks later.

I wouldn’t change a single thing about the trip.

#41

Also a software engineer.  I left in 2023 and worked for a charity up in a remote part of the my country for a season, then travelled NZ for 7 months in 2024, working odd jobs and volunteering for accommodation.

Not going to lie it was rough when I came back and applied for SE jobs again. I got quite depressed feeling like I was unwanted and like I’d made this huge mistake that would cost me my future in this kind of job. I kept telling myself just to keep trying and something would work out - in the end that happened through reaching out to a previous manager and going in for a chat. I rejoined that company and feel settled back in now. 

Looking back it was absolutely the right decision to leave and travel / experience a different job for a while. I think about NZ daily and I had a great experience travelling. It has also given me a different perspective around work - I used to fantasise about quitting and travelling just to escape my weeks in the office. Now I understand that work is (for most people) an inevitable sacrifice that has to be made, and I feel a lot better equipped now to make the best of my days rather than sulk and daydream.

Savings wise, it sucked to go basically back to 0, but we’re both in a fortunate position of working in a well-paid job, and with hindsight I would not question the decision to trade savings for the experience of travelling. If you’re thinking about it and the timing feels right for you, sometimes you’ve just got to make the scary decision and trust that ‘future you’ will figure out the situation when you return. Hope you can make it work for yourself, I’m rooting for you!

#42

I did this for a little over a year! Got back a couple of months ago and thankfully was able to find work (tech) pretty quickly after.

I have zero regrets and am so so happy I pulled the trigger! Obviously, i might feel a bit different if I hadn’t been able to find a new job so quickly.

Traveling has put my savings and retirement behind but it was worth it.

#43

I did this for a year after 2023 tech layoffs like others mentioned. I was on a visa and had to leave the states quickly because I couldn’t find another senior design job in 60 days!

I travelled around Mexico and Colombia and practiced Spanish. By around 8 months I kinda had travel fatigue and got sick of packing up and moving every month or so but I really enjoyed the little friend groups I made at each place.

Early 30s is a great time to travel. Think of the opportunity cost. You can put off tech burnout and you might not have a hard time going back to work if you are in engineering.

#44

I quit my job in 2022 after I turned 30. During Covid I had worked a lot without having major expenses so I saved a lot of money which allowed me to think about travelling.
Initially my plan was to travel for 3 months and rejoin ( I worked as a psychologist in a school) but I ended up traveling for 1.5 years as I was having the best time of my life.
Not going to lie, once I got back, it was a bit bleak. I didn't want to continue the job (due to low salary) and it took me some time to figure out my options. I had lots of people tell me to try out in the tourism industry but I didn't want to change my career at the age of 32, which is exactly what I did and right now I am working with a tour company and honestly it's a dream job. So I lucked out.

My advice here would be, only do it if you have enough money for this with some extra savings for some months after you get back from your travel and know when you are going to get back, you are probably going to be a different person because the entire travel experience changed me. For good.
I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do once I got back. I wish I got into tourism immediately rather than waiting for a year. That's something I wish I did differently.



But I'd say, if you have money, do it. Southeast Asia is especially cheap. And this is a fantastic age to travel.

#45

I am currently four months into this myself - been in Japan since April (with a 2-week trip to visit an old buddy in Mongolia) and I’m about to head to Thailand for August then South Korea in September, potentially coming back to Japan in October thru December.

I’m traveling solo and have found really good deals on long-term stays by contacting expat groups on FB and getting a way cheaper rate than thru Airbnb. I hate checking into and out of hotels constantly, so being in the same apartment for the last two months has helped me avoid feeling like I’m living out of a suitcase. Being able to cook and store food is amazing and don’t ignore that.

#46

The first time, no. Six months off after a brutal year of 80+ hr weeks to explore all of South America was worth it. I spent ~$4k/mo.

The second time... I turned down phenomenal job offers that would've catapulted my career and life forward to backpack Europe, Africa, Asia instead. Not the worst trade, but I gained less and gave up more the second time.

Get what you can out of travel, but don't let it distract you from building a life to come back to.

#47

Quit my job at 37 - had about $175k in cash and owned 4 rental properties that replaced my salary. Wish I could have quit in my 20s, but would never have been able to build that financial parachute. Travel only gets harder as you get older, that much I can say. Even in my late 30s, I'm not willing to put up with certain discomforts that didn't bother me in my 20s, like 16 person hostel dorms lol. I have been going all over the world, but I slow travel now.

The big thing I want to say though: traveling will not fix you or make you happy if you are depressed or struggling. It actually may be a terrible idea, as it is frequently uncomfortable and challenges you, especially if you are going to countries where you don't speak the language. The good thing about traveling in yours 30s: I'm much more emotionally resilient than I was in my 20s - I've lost a parent, been through some stuff, built a business. A bad trip or experience rolls off me, where I used to take it more to heart in my 20s. It's all part of traveling. Good luck!

#48

My wife and I quit our jobs in our early 30s to take a 2 month European honeymoon. It was the trip of a lifetime and my favorite time of my life. No regrets whatsoever.

#49

Travel is great. But you’ll take yourself with you. You can change your daily grind to make it more enjoyable while also spending time travelling.

#50

No. I did this from 2022-23 and travelled for a little over a year.

In retrospect, it was just the right time for it. COVID was still lingering somewhat, so over-tourism and inflation hadn't hit like they are now. I saw places like Venice and Angkor Wat with very few tourists.

There are certainly things I would do differently knowing what I know now, and it did wipe out my savings that I had built during the pandemic. But it allowed me to quit a job that I hated and I don't regret it for a minute. I think about those travel experiences every day and cherish them more than any material possessions.

#51

I only regret running out of money and not being in a great position to make a lot more quickly before my bucket list was complete.

#52

At the age of 21 I quit a job in telecomms to travel. I was away for 5 years and when I returned home, all my knowledge was outdated, the industry was downsizing. I went back to travel after 18 months of odd jobs and came back with a spouse and kids 3 years after that. That was decades ago and I never really caught up financially with my peers who stayed at home and retired after 30 years or so in their line of work.

Most retired before the age of 60 whereas I'll be 70 soon and although it's not an absolute necessity, my wife figures she's more comfortable if I put in a few more years, since I don't have a company pension unlike most fo the folks we know. I don't regret my travels but if I had to do it again I figure I might have been better off if I had had a trade that doesn't involve too much technology (nothing changes like tech.) instead of a diploma, and also I wouldn't have stayed away from my home country for so long. When you come back in your field or any new job at the age of 33, there are lots young folks who already have years in with the firm and know their way around and don't mind trying to boss the old person around...

#53

I can’t speak to your career field necessarily but I’m all for living your life in a way that actually feels fulfilling rather than just being a part of a machine and waking up when you’re 45 wondering what it’s like to feel alive. Not that travel is the only way to live a fulfilling life, but I have a feeling you’d figure it out.

#54

I am doing it right now in my 40s. Left everything behind in storage to travel for 7 months.

#55

I quit my job for a year and spent the time traveling, taking classes, starting personal projects, and just doing what I’ve always wanted to do. However, I only felt comfortable doing this because I was solid in my career (8 years). It’s a relatively high-paying career in a specified field that I felt confident I would be able to rejoin after that time off. I could also afford to come in at a role 1-2 levels below and still be fine financially. I also had tens of thousands in savings and a couple hundred thousand in investments, so I also felt confident that I could go even longer without a job in the worst case scenario.

After ~10 months not working, I started applying. Got several interviews and got a job offer within 1.5 months at a great company. So personally, I would get more work experience under your belt because < 2 years of experience + 6-12 months of voluntary travel essentially relegates you to the same category as inexperienced new grads. And from what I hear, they’re having a terrible time in this current job market.

#56

The upside of having a bad job is you've got little to lose by leaving it to go travel.

#57

I was laid off and did it. It was great. I just recommend ending your apartment lease if you have one. Looking back I wish I travelled longer if anything and let go of more financial obligations.

#58

I quit my job and sold everything to go on a working holiday to NZ and Australia. Plan was 3 years. It's been 6, and I am having a hard time imagining a life outside of Australia at this point.

#59

I usually take temporary contracts (6 - 18 months), and travel in between. A few times I've been offered to come back to the job after I've got back from travelling because it's easier for them to give me unpaid leave rather than hire someone new. It's also generally easier to get a temp contract because not as many people apply for those roles.

#60

I took a six months leave of absence and went around the world. I told my boss about it a year in advance. As the date got closer they offered me incentives not to go, but no way! They did want me to continue working there, so were supportive.

This was 1998, so no doubt prices have gone up, but it cost about $22k total! We didn’t stay in fancy places but they mostly were not dumps, either. I miss those days.

#61

I left my job and went travelling for 4 months. Zero regrets! I was refused a sabbatical so off I went. It made me rethink what I wanted to do and if it wasn’t for my personal circumstances I’d do it again!

#62

My advice, if it's your first time planning a big trip alone, is to be somewhat modest. This isn't about going to the most difficult to get to, most exotic location. You can absolutely have an amazing, life changing experience even if you just road trip within your own country. 


Be mostly practical in your approach, with a touch of wild dreamer. Ie, if you've never traveled internationally, maybe don't make your first adventure a maze of international travel to ten different countries with all sorts of visa requirements. You're gonna be stressed AF and one little mistake could ruin the trip. Do one country for all three months. Or do a guided multi country thing with a travel agency.


Be honest with yourself about your comfort level, and remember that this isn't the only time you'll ever have a chance to do this!! Your goal here is to have a good experience, relax, break free of the productivity mindset; if that means staying within your home country to start, that is a great idea. 


I discovered things I didn't even know existed in my own country, found a new passion, overcame fears, and grew so much as a person without ever crossing a border. If I had tried to plan a gigantic trip overseas to all of the places I've dreamed of visiting, I think I would have had to deal with a lot more anxiety and ultimately not enjoyed it as much. 


Now that I have built my confidence in my planning skills and the fact that I won't be destitute upon my return, I am working on an international trip. .

#63

Yes I did it. Quit my job in a call centre after saving up for a year. I was 24. Left UK in January 1997, returned the following February. Travelled round the world, had a 1 year working visa for Australia (repo man for Radio Rentals; mail clerk in David Jones). Best thing I ever did, and would recommend it. If you hate it, or it’s wrong for you, promise yourself you’ll just come home. But you won’t 🙂.

#64

Recommend. A lot will become clear as you do this, and you will return to your career with better priorities.

#65

It’s been great. Took 18 months off to travel Asia, spent half of our house down payment fund. Returned to the US last April, landed a job within 4 weeks that I absolutely love. Traveled to El Salvador, Chile, and Ecuador for “normal people” 1-2 week vacations. Closing on a house next month. Life is good.

#66

Slightly longer than your requested timeframe. 


Quit my corporate job in 2018. Lived out of a backpack traveling the world with my wife for 2 years. Came back to USA and lived in a van for a year. Got a job 4 years ago (software developer).


We got tired of traveling. It's hard to constantly change your home base and always be doing something new in remote places in countries where your not a native. I started to get de sensitized to the amazing things we got to see and do. Today's erupting volcano wasn't as good as the alpine waterfall we saw last week or the rainforest we saw the week before, ect. We needed to slow down and find a better way to have a comfortable home base. Van life solved this for me, would have happily continued to do it if not for COVID. 


Both my wife and I had jobs within 4 weeks of applying to new positions. Admittedly the market was better in 2021. 


I don't think I would do much if anything different. If you're willing to take the plunge, there is a wonderful full world out there with endless adventures. It's uncomfortable and challenging at times to navigate it, but when you figure it out, I can't explain how amazing your experiences can be. The good and bad change you and help you grow. I'd rather take the time when I'm younger to go experience the world and new perspectives.

#67

I was 31, spent $26k staying out of the US for 8 months. Australia, NZ, SE Asia. Would absolutely do it again in a f*****g heartbeat. Believe people when they say life is short.

#68

Quit a bad job in my early 30s, moved to Brazil to live with my girlfriend for almost a year. Was the most incredible year.

Now married to said woman and working a better job with better people. Eventually going to retire in Brazil (hopefully in under 10 years) and do something fun with my life there.

I did miss out on a lot of earnings and a little bit of career mobility, but it’ll be a wash in the end. Don’t regret it for a moment.

#69

Certainly never great to do this as a new professional in an engineering discipline because there is a lot to learn in the early years to establish your career.

That said, if you do it extremely early in your career, you’re going to be an entry-level employee either way when you return 🤷‍♂️ Early is often easier than later.

Sometimes, we see people in toxic relationships and wonder why they stay despite all the trouble. The truth is that we can’t really judge anyone, as we don’t know the internal affairs. Despite that, watching the victims finally walk away can feel like our own victory.

Speaking of such couples, this woman didn’t even realize that she was stuck in an emotionally violent relationship. Her boyfriend of 7 months was so jealous that he made ridiculous rules to control her whole life, until she felt like she was going crazy. Here’s how she finally stood up for herself…

More info: Reddit

Sometimes, people don’t even realize that they are in a toxic relationship, even when everyone else can see it

Image credits: teksomolika / Magnific (not the actual photo)

The poster’s boyfriend of 7 months was extremely jealous and made ridiculous “rules” just so he could control everything about her

Image credits: cookie_studio / Magnific (not the actual photo)

He also tried to manipulate when, what, and for how long she could speak with her guy friends, and fought even if she smiled at a guy

Image credits: drobotdean / Magnific (not the actual photo)

In fact, he constantly broke into arguments when she chatted with her close guy friend, and got annoyed if she got his texts when she was with him

Image credits: gorynvd / Magnific (not the actual photo)

The poster’s boyfriend had gaslighted and manipulated her so much that she actually started to believe that she was being an awful girlfriend to him

Image credits: rulesrulesrules7

Image credits: vh-studio / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Netizens called the guy a massive red flag, as he had also displayed violent tendencies, and they opened her eyes to the fact that she was in a toxic relationship

Image credits: senivpetro / Magnific (not the actual photo)

She soon gave an update that the guy had totally flipped when she went out with her friends and had dinner with them instead of him

Image credits: lucigerma / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Moreover, he also threw a fit that she didn’t “act like a couple” in front of her childhood friend, who was visiting, and had a massive fight

Image credits: freepik / Magnific (not the actual photo)

They also had a tiff when she got a text from her guy friend, and the frustrated poster realized that she was done with his toxic behavior

Image credits: wirestock_creators / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Moreover, the poster was horrified when she went through his phone and found flirty texts with his ex, which was very hypocritical of him

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The poster wanted to end things with him for good, but he begged her to wait till his exams, so she controlled herself, but she had emotionally checked out

Image credits: rulesrulesrules7

Image credits: pvproductions / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Netizens urged the poster to end things at the earliest, but they also showered her with love and strength as she was feeling ashamed of herself

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Much to their delight, she gave an update that she broke up with him, but even then, he kept accusing her of being “inappropriate” with her guy friends

Image credits: artursafronovvvv / Magnific (not the actual photo)

She graduated from college and planned to stay with her parents for some time, while also trying to heal from all the trauma that he had caused

Image credits: freepik / Magnific (not the actual photo)

The poster was still full of self-doubt, scared for the future, and missed being with him, but felt that letting go of him was the best thing that she had done

Image credits: rulesrulesrules7

Image credits: ivanglezgar / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Netizens were more than delighted that the poster finally took a stand for herself and got rid of the guy before anything untoward happened

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She also gave a happy update after 2 years, claiming that healing from the trauma had been very challenging, but therapy had helped her a lot

Image credits: gpointstudio / Magnific (not the actual photo)

The poster was finally able to settle down, get a new job, and a new apartment, so she was more than enjoying her newfound freedom

Image credits: senivpetro / Magnific (not the actual photo)

She also had a piece of advice for people stuck in such a toxic relationship, that letting go can be difficult, but in the end, anyone can do it to reclaim their life

Image credits: nensuria / Magnific (not the actual photo)

Not only was she still in touch with her guy bestie, whom her ex had fought over, but she also had new female friends that he wouldn’t have allowed her to have

Image credits: rulesrulesrules7

Lastly, she also spilled the tea about her new boyfriend, who was the exact opposite of toxic, and she was very happy to be in a healthy relationship

Today’s tale is quite traumatizing, but it has a joyful ending for the 25-year-old original poster (OP). She had been with her boyfriend, “Peter,” for 7 months and felt like she had found the perfect guy. However, there was a darker side to him, which was his extreme jealousy. That’s why he made a long list of ridiculous rules about what, when, and how much she could talk with her guy friends.

It also included things she could wear, what she said, how she lived, and you get the gist. Basically, he wanted to control every aspect of her life. As if this was not enough, things exploded because she often chatted with her close friend, “James.” In fact, Peter manipulated and gaslit her so much that the poor woman started to believe she was an awful girlfriend.

Not only did they have constant arguments and fights, but she also lost good friends because of his jealousy. Peter turned her whole life into a nightmare, as anything she did on her own would upset him. However, things got heated when she noticed that he was being a hypocrite. While he banned her from talking to her ex, he was exchanging flirtatious texts with his ex, and the OP was utterly upset.

After months of suffering, the author did eventually dump him, despite his protests that he would “change.” Even while breaking up, he accused her of being inappropriate with her guy friends. That’s when she knew she had made the right decision, but healing was still very difficult. Delightfully enough, she gave an update 2 years later, saying her life had turned for the better after ditching him.

Image credits: halayalex / Magninfic (not the actual photo)

Netizens were delighted by the poster’s joyful ending, but also expressed their sympathy that she had to go through the trauma in the first place. Sadly, a study revealed that 40% of women in their survey reported expressive aggression and 41% reported coercive control. It further stressed that the effects of emotional violence were just as detrimental as the effects of physical mistreatment. 

Moreover, researchers highlight that victims of psychological cruelty almost lose their identity and emotional security, which breeds anxiety and fear. They add that “it takes away the wonderful, positive characteristics of their nature and seeks to replace them with false truths and negative images. It attempts to hijack the personal power and sense of self for the benefit and control of the manipulator.”

We can’t even begin to imagine what the original poster went through in those few months. Experts emphasize that experiencing emotional cruelty is difficult, but recovering from it can also be pretty challenging. Some survivors may experience PTSD, constant fear, or even feel that they are always on edge, but therapy definitely helps them deal with this difficult process.

Well, I am glad that the author sought professional help and got better. I think that even netizens heaved a huge sigh of relief after knowing that she was doing so well in life after leaving him. It just goes to show that no matter how tough, humans can overcome anything they set their mind to, right? What are your thoughts about the story? Feel free to drop them in the comments section!

Netizens were overjoyed by the positive ending, and many applauded the poster for walking away and seeking professional help