Life doesn’t always go as planned—and honestly, that’s where the good stuff happens.
I’m Rhena, the writer behind Perspectives from A Broad. This space is where I share reflections on travel, culture, and personal growth, all shaped by my own experiences living abroad and navigating life’s transitions.
In 2017, my family and I packed up our life in New Jersey and moved to Bangkok, Thailand. It wasn’t my career that took us there—it was my husband’s work opportunity. I became what’s often called a “trailing spouse,” though that label never felt quite right.
While he worked, I found myself navigating a new life: building friendships, adjusting to new cultural norms, raising kids in an unfamiliar city, and learning (sometimes the hard way) how to thrive outside my comfort zone.
Coming back to the U.S. after living abroad taught me just as much—about identity, belonging, and how experiences shape who we become.
Why This Blog?
Because travel changes you—and so does coming home.
Perspectives from A Broad isn’t just about where I’ve been. It’s about what I’ve learned along the way: how stepping beyond the familiar can shift your priorities, reshape your outlook, and help you grow in ways you never expected.
What You’ll Find Here:
Travel reflections—the moments that stick with you long after the trip is over
Stories from life abroad and re-entry—because home is sometimes the biggest adjustment
Lessons on culture, connection, and personal growth—for travelers, expats, and anyone open to seeing the world (and themselves) differently
Who This Is For
If you’ve ever dreamed about living overseas, wondered how travel changes you, or felt a little stuck between cultures and identities—you’re in the right place.
This blog is for travelers, expats, trailing spouses, re-entry folks, and anyone navigating life’s big shifts with curiosity and heart.
Let’s Stay Connected
Want to share your story or say hello? Contact me here.
Join the community on Facebook: Perspectives From A Broad.
Because sometimes the biggest journey is the one that changes your perspective.
Make Your Trip to Vietnam Memorable
My first trip to Vietnam was memorable but perhaps not for the right reasons. We were new to Southeast Asia and eager to explore the region. What we failed to take into account was the extreme influence that children have over what you can and can’t do on vacation. Don’t make the same mistakes we did.
Balancing Parenting and Self-Care
How often are weekends restful and restorative for you?
Navigating the Creative Journey
I’m continuing this exercise of getting my random thoughts out of my brain in the hope that writing becomes easier and the creative thoughts flow more freely.
