Embarking on a quest for the ideal European city to settle in, Fleurine Tideman chronicled her journey across various destinations after years of restlessness. Growing up in four different countries by the age of 18, including England, Kuwait, China, and the United Arab Emirates, Tideman felt a deep yearning for stability. This longing led her to the Netherlands, her parents' homeland, where she spent nearly a decade. However, as time passed, the constraints of complacency and a lack of fulfillment drove her to seek a new beginning.

At the close of 2023, Tideman made a bold decision: she relinquished her apartment, stored her belongings in her mother’s basement, and set off to explore the world in search of a new home. Her adventure commenced in Xàbia, Spain, a picturesque coastal town where she spent five weeks caring for a red Labrador in a stunning home with breathtaking ocean views. The allure of weekend beach excursions and scenic hikes was captivating; however, despite the sunshine and idyllic atmosphere, Tideman ultimately felt it lacked the essence of 'home.'

Next, she ventured to Belfast, Northern Ireland, where she found herself enchanted by the city’s vibrant culture. The lively comedy clubs, inviting pubs, and rich historical tapestry captivated her senses. Yet, after savoring the local atmosphere, she felt a gap in culinary diversity that left her wanting more, prompting her to continue her search.

Her journey then took her to Kythira, a Greek island renowned for its natural beauty. Having vacationed on various Greek islands with friends over the years, Tideman was eager to discover whether Kythira could be her permanent sanctuary. The image of basking in the sun on sandy beaches was appealing, yet conversations with locals revealed that the island felt deserted outside the bustling summer months. This realization struck her, leading to the conclusion that she would always be chasing that fleeting summer bliss.

Following these encounters, Tideman returned to her birthplace, England, seeking solace in a quaint village in Bedfordshire. For three weeks, she embraced the pastoral charm, indulging in leisurely walks through the countryside, enjoying traditional Sunday roasts, and unwinding with books in the garden. However, the tranquil lifestyle felt premature for her current phase in life, especially given her isolation and single status, which made community building challenging in such a small village.

Curiosity beckoned Tideman to explore Cambridge, a city known for its prestigious university and vibrant student life. She found joy in working from eclectic cafes, visiting museums during her weekends, and mingling with peers. However, the predominantly student-focused environment left her feeling out of place, prompting her to seek yet another city.

Finally, her adventure brought her to London, where she spent a month dog-sitting her sister’s pomsky. Initially, Tideman held a preconceived notion that London was overwhelmingly busy and gray. However, her extended stay allowed her to experience a different side of the city. She discovered sprawling parks that provided an escape from urban chaos, an exhilarating theater scene, and cozy cafes perfect for focused work. Meeting fellow journalists and rekindling connections with high school friends planted the seeds of community she had been longing for.

Months into her life in London, Tideman expresses contentment as she gradually finds her footing in this vast metropolis. She frequents a local café, indulging in dirty chai while working on her laptop, and makes a conscious effort to explore the large parks each weekend, avoiding the more crowded areas of the city. Her experiences oscillate between moments of feeling like a glamorous city-dweller and times of grappling with the cold, busy reality of urban life. Despite her initial reservations about living in such a fast-paced environment, Tideman is dedicated to carving out her own space in London, finding joy in her evolving journey.