Looking for an idea for a great trip? Desperate for a friendly face or a home-cooked meal? Seek out family members – even distant ones – and pay them a visit. Looking up old relatives may seem awkward, but you never know how you’ll get along unless you try.
I visited my second cousin in Paris. We hadn’t spent any time together since we were kids, but after speaking at my great uncle’s funeral, we realized that we had grown into similar adults. Once I knew I was going to be in France, I immediately sent her an email asking if she’d like to get together while I was there. Being able to see Paris with a local, hang out with her friends and enjoy the city through the lives of peers made for an amazing trip.
Why not get on Facebook and find a long-lost relative? Or ask your mother for your third-cousin-once-removed’s phone number. You may end up discovering a new friend…and a family resemblance.
