Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain: A Search for an Unconventional Life Abroad

by Helene Sula

In this inspiring memoir—the antidote to the “just quit your job and ditch all your belongings to backpack the world” mentality—a young woman explores how she took calculated risks to follow her traveling and living abroad without sacrificing stability and comfort.

Helene Sula (@heleneinbetween) always knew she wanted to pursue something a little different from a “normal life”—not an outright rejection of the conventional path many of her peers embraced but one that empowered her to experience other cultures and corners of the globe. To lead a stable life and travel the world. To seek adventure and still be happily married. Helene’s story proves that a life of travel doesn’t have to be the antithesis of stability; rather it can be an integral part of a vibrant, satisfying existence.

In her debut memoir, Helene shares the measured steps she took to pursue her dreams of becoming an international travel blogger. Through her honest and straightforward writing style, Helene conveys her story of self-discovery and encourages readers to take risks and pursue their own passions. This book will resonate with anyone who has ever felt stuck in a mundane career or routine and wants a fresh start without completely starting over. Even—or perhaps especially—for someone who fears change, the secret lies in taking the plunge.

Genres: Travel, Memoir, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, Autobiography, Audiobook

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 10, 2024

Reviews

[Helene Sula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can you lead a life of adventure while still being grounded? That's what my story seeks to ask. Adventure can take many forms: travel, moving, having kids, stating a business. It's taking a risk. And it can feel scary.

Fear has always plagued me. Fear that I'm not doing enough. Or that I won't accomplish enough, see or do enough with my time. I even feared writing this review. In fact, I had to Google "can authors rate their own books on Goodreads?" the answer was yes. Thankfully.

This book is not just my story, but a culmination of my lifelong dream on the page. For many years I've felt that we have to choose a certain life: a life of adventure or a life of stability.

A series of unfortunate (and fortunate) events led me down a path I never though possible: starting my own business, moving abroad, and traveling the world.

On average, we get about 4,000 weeks on this earth. And so often we forget to stop and look around and ask: is this was I want to be doing with my life?

Journeying from the surprisingly invigorating icy waters of the Baltic (who knew hypothermia could feel so alive?) to the mystic allure of the Black Forest (spoiler: not just a cake), and down the quaint, possibly haunted streets of Heidelberg, my story weaves through the rich tapestry of life. It's about finding the humor in the frustration of visa applications, discovering the unexpected warmth of friendships in lands where you can't even pronounce the street names, and the bold leap into the unknown, which, let's be honest, sometimes involves mistakenly being naked in the wrong place.

"Two O'Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain" isn't just a travel memoir; it's a call to live with gusto, a guidebook for those hungering for a life filled with purpose and passion. It's about embarking on an expedition not only across the globe but also into the inner recesses of your soul. So, if you've ever dreamed of venturing beyond your backyard or simply wonder if there's more to life than streaming another series, this book whispers (and occasionally shouts), "Come on in, the water's fine—figuratively and literally." Let's explore not just the exotic locales on our bucket lists but also the uncharted territories of our aspirations. After all, isn't life too short for anything less?

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't think this book did what it wanted to do. I didn't find there was enough of an emotional hook to it. At the same time, I didn't find there were enough travel details for the part of me that read it just for the travel stories. I'm a bit confused about the claim that she balanced stability with travel - all she did was rent out her house....
Maybe it's because it's in the blogging style or because the author is so focused on doing all the travel things that she forgets to write any meaning into her experiences. I read it because I was sitting in a hospital all day, otherwise I don't think I would have finished it.
On the good end, I follow her on Instagram now and enjoy her Instagram content.

[Margot Robinson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Holy algorithm Amazon! Why did you push this vapid superficial, and poorly written vanity publishing my way? I rarely give poor reviews but wow. Entitled American goes to ‘Europe’ and makes it her entire personality. This is yet another ‘ influencer’ who thinks that their very normal existence is interesting and aspirational when it’s anything but. It’s actually quite normal to move abroad for many Americans. Some of us even do it legally. (!!) Reader, if you have never been out of your small town in a square state somewhere in the upper Midwest, you might enjoy this grammatically incorrect, solipsistic millennial stream of consciousness. Otherwise there are far better travel memoirs on the market.

[Amanda Kingston · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted to like this so much but just did not feel a hook in it and found myself skimming most of it. It’s a nice story of traveling abroad, but I think there are other travelogues that do more critical and nuanced work that are much more engaging. I also just do not connect to blogging writing styles and don’t know that they transfer well to full books.

[Christine Jolley · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

New to following Helene online. I think both her and her husband would be on my dinner party guest list as they seem authentically good people, happy and enjoying life and have interesting stories.

Thoughts on the book:

-cute drawings and photos at the end
-Could relate to a lot she said especially about being
An expat, expectations of women and finding your purpose
-some sections of the book brilliantly written although it’s inconsistent and not all sections polished as others.
-She’s ballsy to move without a visa first and lucky they didn’t get deported
-it’s a bit of distraction-lit and naive/head in the clouds at times as living abroad isn’t possible for most nor is making money being an influencer an option for many either. Most of the book is similar to her blog hopping round countries
-Did make me think about getting out of my comfort zone though and ultimately was glad I read it.

Some good effort for her first book and I hope it
Does well.

[Corey Gallet de St Aurin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t write many reviews because I use Goodreads for my own personal tracking. But I could not not write one for this book because it left me so incensed. This book is an easy read. As a migrant to Germany myself, it is easy to relate to the challenges Helene and Micheal they confronted while navigating German culture and bureaucracy. But this book is also the epitome of US American self centered privilege. I mean moving to another country without first securing visas and being shocked that you might get deported just shows how passport privilege works. It also shows how US Americans think that the world should be happy to have them. While I’m glad that Helene and Micheal got out of the USA to broaden their horizons, this book would be much better if they took a critical lens on how easy it was for them to do that while other people are denied the freedom of movement even when it’s physically unsafe to be there.

[Katie Clark · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn’t finish the book…

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've had the privilege of getting an advance copy of Two O'clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain, and it's a great read! If any of you were ever interested in being a digital nomad, this is the book for you. Helene will hilariously guide you on your way! I’ve been following Helene Sula on Instagram (Helene in Between) for a few years and had to read her book.
"Life will never look like this again. It's a fear. A fear that I'm missing out or not making the most of my time."
"...why it's important to just start, even if your goals or dreams remain unfinished after you're gone. Because at least you tried, and better yet, maybe one day it will be your life's greatest achievement."
This book will give you the boost to help you in anything you want to do. It's helped me.

Preorder yours today!!

[Zoë · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m really over Instagram influencers getting book deals out of a few thousand followers. Honestly the editors should be ashamed of themselves for not doing a better job editing this. I was really hoping it would be so much. It was none of these things. Instagram posts do not equate to books. Also the title is a dupe. She spends one chapter at the Trevi fountain- she’s in Heidelberg for the most part- a city you can snore through.

[Ashley Squires · Rating 5 out of 5]

In short: this book is about taking the risk to build the life of your dreams.

It’s inspiring me to find a way to travel more, even if my plans aren’t fully “baked” in advance. Whether you are a world traveler or someone who is happy staying local, there is something to learn from this book.

Similar to how she writes in social media or on her blog, this book is written in a way that it feels like your friend is telling you the stories. This makes it engaging and an easy read. I flew through it faster than anticipated.

My favorite quote is: “Traveling and witnessing the beauty of the world in all its imperfect, transitory glory opened my eyes to the fact that you just need to start. You’ll figure it out along the way. And some things are worthy even unfinished.“

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been a longtime Instagram follower of Helene and I both enjoy and value her content (and advice!). Her writing is true to who she is on socials/her blog. I bought this book to support her work, but I didn’t anticipate loving the book so much OR getting teary towards the end as she encourages the reader to seek out the life that is best for them. Definitely recommend this, especially if you’re trying to discern where or what your next steps might be.

[Elisabeth Ensor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been following and learning from Helene for years through Instagram and her blog. She is so genuine, I’ve messaged her directly for advice and she took the time to respond to my questions! When I saw she was writing a book I knew I wanted to read it and support her, it’s inspiring to understand her background and the fear she fought for the life she lives. It’s well written and easy to pick up and put down. I know not everyone has a love of travel- but I feel the same way Helene does- traveling the world changes you forever. Starting at 15 years old I went to Hong Kong and I was never the same and I’ve been dreaming of trips to take since then! I am planning my kids first international trip to Belize next month and this was just the book to read to get excited for it!!! This will change their life forever and I plan on taking them to more countries in the future. Less stuff, more travel! And check out Helene’s website for awesome travel tips!

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I randomly started following this lady on IG a year ago, but not sure how I found her. I didn't even know she had a blog really until this book. I purchased the book to see how she ended up in England, a Texas girl at that (will ignore the Dallas part). I'm so glad I did. I think it's the perfect, short, quick read of getting to that live abroad status I so desparately want. It's perfect for Summer right now. Or when you are hit with more storms and the power is out all over again. Basically had fun with this book. I saw some similarities with me and how I view my life and traveling and living. But be forewarned that you will read this book and instantly be inspired to leave your current home to start a new journey. It won't be easy as this book points out, but you could get there. I'm looking myself. I will also say it's not a step-by-step guide on how to get there either. It's a memoir of how and why she did what she did. And I loved the reading the journey.

[Jennifer Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Social media can be an absolute dumpster fire, it can be unrealistic, toxic and depressing. AND it can also introduce you to really cool people and you can make amazing connections with people all over the world that you wouldn't have any other reason to interact with. Helene Sula is one of those really cool people. Since my current life situation doesn't allow for much (ANY, let's tell the truth here!) travel, I love seeing the world through other's eyes. Helene is funny, real and living a dang cool life, but isn't afraid to tell the realities of living abroad as well.
If you like to read or travel or just want to "meet" a cool person, read her book!!
This is a quick read, but still so good.

[Melanie Demi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got an advance copy of this book and couldn’t put it down! It really makes you question your current life choices and whether or not you’re truly doing what you want to be in life. Which is just what I need it! Also a great read for adventure lovers and content creators!

[Lianne Granata · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid read for anyone interested in moving abroad or making another type of big life change. Especially if you don’t know where to start. The writing is good and it has good perspective + advice. A bit predictable though. And I feel like there could have been more meat.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun and inspirational read, which I also found relatable to my own love of travel and adventure. “I used to fear getting lost. But sometimes, miraculously, you end up right where you’re supposed to be.” Thank you for sharing your story, Helene!

[Emily Hatchouel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book is beautifully written. It paints a picture and brings you into every moment. Helene inspired following your dreams as you watch her follow her dream.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

A light, quick read. I think in 10-20 years Helene will have an even better story to tell — one where she really digs deeper into this experience and why she was drawn to travel and living abroad. Maybe once she processes some things from her past/upbringing a little deeper. Once the allure of “likes” and sponsored content has worn off and she really dives into the meat of what it means to be living between two worlds, two cultures. But it was cute.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, beautiful. I cried more than once. A great mix of harsh reality, dreaming and doing! Travel, family, and food. Anyone who has ever moved away from where they grew up will relate to the homesickness, logistics and growth <3

[Reader Views · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain” is a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of life, written by Helene Sula, a travel writer who has dared to follow her heart. Set against the backdrop of a middle-class life in America and chronicling the journey of a woman who knew in her heart she didn’t want to settle for what she saw as an ‘ordinary’ life; this book relates the author’s transformation from a place of constant setbacks to one of happiness and fulfillment.

Ms. Sula’s writing style feels like a cozy chat over coffee, as she invites readers into her world with open arms, telling us the story of her life, to date. Through candid accounts and relatable experiences, she shares the details and emotions of her personal journey, making it feel like you’re right there beside her, navigating the twists and turns of life.

From the outset, I couldn’t wait to start the book, due to its imaginative and enchanting title. Who wouldn’t want to be, one Tuesday very soon…at the Trevi Fountain, at two o’clock?

What sets this book apart, additionally, from other travel books, is its message of hope and resilience. Despite facing numerous challenges—including a shattered ankle, and the ill health and deaths of her and her husband’s parents—the author’s spirit shines through, reminding us that nothing is impossible if you’re willing to keep going for your dream. Her decision to leave behind familiarity and embark on new adventures by living abroad is the main theme of the book, in tandem with following your dreams, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.

As the book unfolds, readers are treated to glimpses of the author’s encounters with new cultures, people, and experiences. From a pivotal festival known as ‘Tomorrowland’ to the bustling streets of European cities, many of the short, anecdotal chapters are filled with vivid descriptions that transport you to unique experiences, making you wish you were really there with Ms. Sula, in person.

I also found the descriptions of the various cultures enlightening and fun, as shown by this passage recounting what life was like in the first place Helene and her husband settled abroad.

“For instance, Verboten is German for “forbidden,” and it’s one word we learned—and heard—often.
Vacuuming on Sundays? Verboten!
Idling your car? Verboten!
Washing your car at home? Verboten!”

And her theme is further punctuated toward the end of the narrative, when she states what she’s really learned, so far:

But I understand now that I can dream bigger. I didn’t have to stick with the same lifestyle that everyone around me seemed content to slip into when it didn’t feel right for me, even when self-doubt crept in and I wasn’t always sure of myself or my chosen path. I realized that I could have the best of both worlds—I could live an unconventional life while still enjoying conventional comforts. I still had my mortgage and my picket fence. But I didn’t feel held back by them.

We all grow up based on the influences around us. Sometimes we can’t help who we are or the circumstances we’re in. But small choices can spark the beginning of change. Through all the mishaps and all the luck, all the bureaucracies and adventures, I’ve learned so far that a life well lived comes down to figuring out exactly what you want.

Then doing absolutely everything you can to get it.

Beyond the exotic locales, “Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain” is ultimately a story about remaining true to oneself amid the chaos of life. Through moments of challenge, the author learns valuable lessons about resilience, gratitude, and the importance of embracing change.

In the end, “Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain” leaves readers with a sense of inspiration and hope. It’s a reminder that while the road to happiness may be long and winding, it’s always worth the journey. So, grab a copy, curl up with a cup of tea, and let this captivating tale help you start painting your personal masterpiece.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was more of a 2.75 star read, but I'll round up to 3 because it was really quick and easy to get through.

A pretty straightforward account of one woman's experience moving from Texas to Germany with her husband. Lots of lovely descriptions and stories about the cities they visit, food they eat and festivals they attend ... not much about the logistics of actually moving from North America to Europe. She does share a surface level glimpse into the resident visa application process but there's nothing about culture shock, finding employment (she is a blogger/influencer and therefore self employed), paying taxes, language barriers, the actual financial cost of moving abroad etc. Even things like homesickness and making new friends are pretty glossed over and lack deep retrospection. While this book may inspire you to take a leap of faith and move to another country (or, at the very least, add Germany to your travel bucket list), it unfortunately doesn't provide any useful insight on how to actually do that.

I also found the author somewhat insufferable. From the very beginning of the book where she takes a jab at Rick Steeves, dismissing him as a "nerd with a backpack" and implying that she is a cooler, more relatable alternative (seriously?) ... to the whole whole spiel about how she's related to French royalty and the frequent references to her parents' journalistic careers and all the prestigious awards they've won ... she just came across as slightly full of herself. I also found her insistence that international travel and parenthood are incompatible and that it's either/or rather disappointing. She makes several comments throughout the book about how her friends are still in the USA raising children but ooohhh look at her, she's here in Europe doing all this amazing travel and being a trailblazer. I lost count of how many times she insisted that if she had chosen to have children she wouldn't be doing whatever fun thing she happens to be doing in that particular chapter. Clearly she's never heard of the The Bucket List Family on Instagram (or the hundreds of other travel bloggers documenting family travel on social media) and her need to constantly justify her decision not to have children was exasperating.

To her credit though - I desperately want to visit Germany again after reading this, and you can be sure Heidelberg will be on my list.

[Annalise Grueter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is exactly what it promises to be. Highly recommend to wanderlusters and to folks who dream of a life outside of a cubicle 9-5, no matter what your income looks like.

Over the course of anecdotes from different trips during Helene and Michael's mid-20s to early 30s, Helene shares poignant inspiration and an implied roadmap for ways to define new dreams and make life outside of a conventional office and your home country a reality.

It is heavier on the light-travel-writing and inspirational messages than on deeper emotions or philosophization, but that makes perfect sense for the type of book it is.

The closing chapter or two felt rushed for me, but I attribute that mostly to my enjoyment of the postcard pictures the other chapters give to specific places Helene has traveled, while the final chapters briefly mention a bunch of places and focus on reiterating the inspirational message and "be true to yourself" vibes. Which is to say I'd happily read another book which dives into those mentioned trips and their adventures since.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like I'm slightly biased in writing this as I absolutely adore Helene and knew I'd enjoy this book even before it arrived.
Travel writing is very favourite, so it comes as no surprise that I love following Helene and her husband (and dogs - miss you Hugo!) Instagram feed. They are down to earth people and you don't get that overly sponsored content that some other travel bloggers/influencers seem to produce. I know that any recommendations given by them are ones that I can count on.
Helene's book details how she got started on this journey of being her own boss, moving to Germany and becoming a content creator. In between, she shares how she doubted she could do this and the ups and downs there were. I think this dose of reality is crucial so that no one thinks she's just out there taking fabulous photos in France and always eating croissants! It shows her growth as a person and is frankly very inspiring.
The bottom line of this book to me was; live your life on your terms. Don't wait for the perfect time to do something because you don't know how much time on this earth you get. Which is something I think we should all aspire to.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like Helene on IG, her origin story, taking off and making a living as a travel blogger ---fun. But I would have liked more descriptions of getting things done, especially in a country where you don't speak the language. There are a few too many descriptions of yummy food and drink and lots of justifying her decision not to have kids. I wanted to like this more than I did. But it's impressive that she wrote a book, has traveled all over, and has tons of followers. I think as she continues to write, she'll get better and better.

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helene is a great storyteller and brings to life many of her chapters by describing the experiences in vivid detail. Her success story is fun to follow along with and I truly enjoyed learning more about her about her journey and challenges. This was an inspiring read about taking calculated risks and seeing them pay off. Can’t wait to see what is next.

[Krista Landis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational read that will have you aching to get out and explore more of the world. Helene is a wonderful writer whose stories captivate and inspire the reader to pursue a similar journey. Lots of stories that will motivate even the hesitant traveler to take the leap and get out of their comfort zone.

[Chelsea Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly bought this book on pre order bc I love Helene’s IG content and wanted to support her business. I didn’t know when I would read this book honestly. But as soon as I got it in the mail and as soon as I felt in my hands I knew I had to read it. I’m a slow reader bc I’m very busy and struggle sitting still, but from the moment I open the book I was captivated 🤩 This book is Helene’s story but it inspired me to figure out how to move abroad. (This book is by no means a a step by step instruction manual for that, but instead a inspiration from a real person brave enough to share her life and experience) The book itself is so well written and has a wonderful flow. I also loved all the superlatives (true American here I guess) and great details shared on the places she traveled to that she references in the book (I’ve gained several bucket list places/experiences from this book). If you love to travel, want to travel, want to move abroad, or want encouragement to chase any sort of unconventional life this is the book for you! I sincerely hope Helene will write another book!!

[Anne Harding · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had hoped this book would provide some tips about “how to” live abroad. Those details are VERY scant. Instead, it’s about taking a leap of faith and then figuring out an entrepreneurial approach to making it work. The author is a very good self-promoter who has learned to profit from her blog and social media presence—not a path that is easy to follow. This is a very quick read.

[Chandni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I read it pretty quickly, once I started I couldn’t put it down. I’ve been following Helene’s content for many years now and I’m so proud of her and this amazing achievement. It was a beautiful read and very inspiring, I was tearing up towards the end. I love it!