Lauren Burnison’s journey from a tumultuous past to a sober present is a remarkable tale of transformation. Raised in Belfast during the Troubles, she spiraled into a life of self-destructive behavior marked by addiction. Leaving her home behind, she ventured to Edinburgh and Buenos Aires, where her reckless lifestyle reached a climax on a chaotic New Year’s Eve in 2002.
Fast forward to today, and Lauren’s life is a stark contrast. In 2016, at 41, she made the life-altering decision to give up alcohol and embark on a transformative global expedition. This journey led her to the quaint Andalusian town of Ronda, where the idea for alcohol-free travel experiences took root.
Harnessing her newfound zest for life, Lauren founded We Love Lucid, a pioneering UK-based company that curates teetotal group trips. These excursions cater to sober solo travelers seeking meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences devoid of alcohol-centric activities.
Her personal evolution extends to family holidays, as exemplified by a recent two-month road trip in Spain and Portugal with her young daughter. Embracing outdoor living and cultural exploration, they relish unplanned adventures and unique experiences, such as visiting ancient Roman ruins in Extremadura, Spain, and anticipating the Big Wave surfing competition in Nazaré.
Lauren’s sobriety has not only enriched her life but also enabled her to pursue ambitious plans for We Love Lucid. The upcoming year holds exciting prospects, including a group ascent of Mount Toubkal in Morocco and a women’s journey along the Portuguese Camino de Santiago to support the She Recovers Foundation.
As she marks a decade of sobriety, Lauren’s story serves as a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the boundless possibilities that come with embracing a sober lifestyle. Follow her adventures on Substack and discover more about We Love Lucid on her website.