Interview Kimberly Fordham

1. Okay, Miss Kim, what was the specific incident that got you to this interview?

 I saw and responded to a post in one of the female travel groups on Facebook. I can’t remember specifically which group it was in. 

2. What has earned you the right to be an authority on this topic?

I have traveled solo to over 10 countries, moved abroad 3 times by myself, and am currently living abroad in Xiamen, China.  

3. What is your brand, your topic exactly about?

My brand is Live Life Untamed and it is is about helping women confidently and successfully create the life they desire abroad. I am an Expat Transition Coach and I assist aspiring expats with preparing for their move abroad and with settling into their new country of residence.

4. Why is it important?

The work I do is important because making such a major life change is stressful and can be extremely overwhelming. That alone can cause some people to not ever go through with the change, even if it would greatly benefit or improve their life. I personally understand how hard it is to make a move abroad, especially alone and without support, and I wish I would have had someone there to help me along that journey. 

5. Now that I know what it is, now that I know why it’s important and relevant, how are you implementing this on your travels? I mean like, is there a process, that you follow when traveling?

When I travel now, I’m more aware of feelings that come up and how I handle them because others may encounter similar feelings throughout their travels. By being aware of mine, I may be able to help them through sharing my experience. I also pay attention to more seeming 

6. What if people took advantage of your tips and steps you are providing? What will happen, how will their travels change? 

7. Now we would like to get just some general information about you and your travels: 

(if not answered before) – When did you start traveling?

I started traveling in 2010. I went on a cruise with my family. My first international solo trip was in 2013 when I moved to Japan to study for a year. 

– Do you remember how you felt when you traveled alone for the first time?

I was extremely scared and nervous about being in a foreign place alone and so far away from my friends and family. 

– How did you, or do you deal with fears?

Instead of being fearful of being alone, I now view my solo trips as an opportunity to meet new friends. 

– Is there a place where you have been and you would definitely not recommend it for women on their own and why?

No, most of the places I’ve visited thus far have been pretty safe for women. But as always, we should be cautious no matter where we are.

– Do you still have this excitement, when you go for a trip?

Yes. I still get nervous and excited when going on a solo trip, especially to a new destination, but the more I travel, the calmer I am around going somewhere unknown by myself. 

– what are your top 5 destinations and why?

This was so hard…

My top 5 destinations:

1) Kyoto, Japan — a beautiful city with lots of historical sites and friendly people. 

2) Seoul, Korea — Great food and lit party scene 

3) Singapore — I love Gardens by the Bay and Changi is probably my top favorite airport.

4) Hong Kong — one of my favorite cityscapes in the world and there’s a ton of things to do

5) Medellin, Colombia — friendly people, great weather and l loved the view of the city from the cable cars

– The funniest story that happened to you when traveling?

8. Call to action – what do you want people to do? 

 Feel free to reach out to me on:

Facebook @livelifeuntamed00 or Instagram @live_life_untamed