202 Letter from Jane Widtfeldt Meged
Prologue
In 2016 at the tender age of 56 years, I become Associate Professor in tourism at Roskilde University, which ties my professional life into a beautiful bow. My story is intricately linked to my working-class background, to the optimistic upturn in the 1960s, the feminist movement in the 1970s and the globalization that made the world accessible for my generation. All this presented opportunity of emancipation, but also obstacles as I paved my way crossing several borders physically, emotionally, socially, and economically.
It was not written in the cards that I should pursue a university career, when I grew up at Nørrebro a working-class area in Copenhagen, together with my mother then a part-time cleaning lady, my father a black smith and my 2 years younger brother. I could write at length about the long and winding road, instead I will give some selected flash backs.
1972 Mallorca – 12 years old
WAUV first time abroad in my life. A charter tour, to the two star Hotel Bencost in Palma de Mallorca. What an adventure. The warm smell of the vegetation in the streets, the dry wheat buns in the breakfast restaurant, the flirtatious waiters on the leather and liquor excursion, the small pool, the laughing and staying up late as the grown-ups were partying.
This week I can account for in details compared to the other weeks that year. The first glimpse of the excitement of meeting another culture, how it elicits new and unknown sensations and creates detailed memories that stay with you for the rest of your life.
1980 Backpacking in Asia & Australia – 20 years old
Finally, I finish high school – I am the second in the extended family to put on the cap. I have no clear idea of where education eventually will take me, and I only long for travelling and break free. I opt for Asia – a complete explosion of colors, tastes, and cultural diversity – it puts my whole life in context, and I feel empowered. Later onwards to Australia – by plane, by bus, hitch hiking, meeting loads of new people, climbing every sight, conquering new territories. The world is my oyster – but back home then what?
1982 Studying in Perugia, Italy – 22 years old
I still have an urge to travel, but this time vertically. My soul feels at home in Italy. I simply must learn this beautiful language and immerse myself in their unique culture. I save up money and inscribe myself at the University for Foreigner in Perugia, Umbria. I still have no clear idea of what I want to do “for real”, but I feel good where I am. Back home in Denmark a good friend suggests I become certified guide in Italian and English. At the age of 24 I start working with tourists, just as a temporary thing until I make up my mind of what to become “when I really grow up”. Meanwhile this is fun, challenging and allows me travel while earning money – what is not to like?
1990 Back into university – 30 years old
UPS what happened? One job led to the next and now I have worked