My Story
My name is Polina Nikolova and I have always been curious about life, the world and everything that surrounds us.
Maya Bay in Thailand, 2023
I’ve had the opportunity to visit many places around the globe, taste different flavours and connect to some amazing people. I do believe that we all build our personality to a large extend based on the experiences we have, the people we talk to, and the lessons we learn along the way. Some of the most important and profound moments of my life have happened far from my home country. Along the way, people from different cultures, religions, and countries have played a significant role and left a lasting mark on my life, teaching me valuable lessons.
I created FlyLikeBirds as a personal digital space where I can freely share my thoughts and experiences with a larger audience, and let the souls dance together in this journey.
Here I share some of my longer travels that had huge impact on me over the years.
USA 2009
Amusement Park ‘Bush Gardens’, Virginia, USA, 2009
In my country we have this very popular student program where during the summer, you can travel and work in USA. As obtaining visa is not that easy for people in my country Bulgaria, it’s a great opportunity to go there and explore while you make some money.
I was placed in Virginia Beach, a popular resort on the East Coast not far from Washington. That was my first big trip at the age of 19. I met a lot of people and made a few friendships that still last!
Germany 2011
Frankfurt am Mein, Germany, 2011
During my university studies, I was very focused and dedicated all my time to progressing in my field through various side activities, courses, and student projects. I was extremely ambitious, pursuing two bachelor’s degrees simultaneously, interning at TV stations, and taking extra language and professional courses. My hard work paid off, and I was eventually featured in the university catalog as one of the best students. However, this left me with no free time at all.
In 2011, during my second year at university, I applied for internships abroad in my discipline through the student organisation AIESEC. This led to a 5-month internship in digital design in Darmstadt, Germany. It was a great professional experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. I had to live in another country alone, work a 9-5 job, and navigate life without knowing anyone there. I was young, somewhat insecure, a bit shy, but highly motivated. I met some great people, including many Bulgarians pursuing degrees, and formed connections that I still value and maintain today.
Mexico 2015
Museum ‘Frida Kahlo’, Mexico City
Towards the end of my studies, I had gained some professional experience and landed a job in software development at a startup. Evenings were still busy with activities like Spanish classes and dance sessions. By the time I got home around 10 PM, I was mentally and physically drained. Struggling to keep up with my demanding job and busy schedule, I faced additional challenges, including the end of a long-term relationship, which left me at a crossroads. That’s when I realized it was time to pursue some long-held dreams.
Around that time, I received a job offer in São Paulo, Brazil and started the visa process. Although I was excited at first, I remained somewhat uncertain about the opportunity. I couldn’t imagine living in an even bigger city, dealing with the stress of heavy traffic, busy work schedules, pollution, and high crime rates. So, I decided to take a different path and bought tickets to Cuba and later to Mexico. I spent three weeks in Cuba and then stayed in Mexico for four months, working as a freelancer. Towards the end of my time in Mexico, I met someone who would shape the direction of my future path.
Chile 2015-6
Pan de Azúcar, Chile, 2016
I was only 26 when I made the decision to move to Chile permanently. Unlike previous trips, this time I wasn’t just a tourist; I had intentions to settle there. However, I didn’t have anything arranged by an employer in terms of visas or actual employment. I had to face all the challenges as a foreigner coming from a distant country. I stayed in Chile for almost a year. It hasn’t been an easy journey, but it played a pivotal role in my life that led to significant personal growth and set the course for the next chapter of my life.
Thailand 2023
Sairee Beach in Koh Tao, Thailand, 2023
Thailand had been a dream for some period of time. I went there in a moment when I was just desperate for this experience – to be alone far away, taking a break from everything and everyone. It happened during a year when significant things were suddenly being taken away from my life, and the world was shaking under my feet. I needed that change of scenery to move forward. It was like breathing in much-needed oxygen to survive in the depths of space. Nevertheless, I had a very intimate experience there and it was the place where I truly connected with myself.
Portugal 2024
Miradouro da Graça in Lisbon, Portugal, 2023
At the time, I needed to be like Alice and step into another dimension, far removed from my reality. Portugal became my Wonderland. I needed a place to call home again, where I could regain a sense of belonging and find alignment with my values. A place with no history.
I stayed there for almost half a year, exploring a country filled with sublime, almost surreal landscapes. The hidden, narrow streets and the mysterious lifts in Lisbon, alongside the enchanting castles and ancient buildings scattered across the land, left me mesmerized. It was like stepping into another era without sacrificing modern comforts. Portugal’s authentic charm, combined with its vibrant Latin vibes, reminded me of the Caribbean and South America, creating a unique blend of old-world mystique and contemporary allure.
Next – TBD
How To Get In Touch
Wanna chat? My inbox is open! You can reach out to me directly through the contact form on my site. I respond to most of the messages I receive.
