this was a really exhilerating experience. i went to europe: london, france, italy. spent two weeks traveling around and two weeks on a volunteer restoration project in provence.

i have traveled in the past with both friends and family, but it didn’t compare. this time i was constantly meeting new people from all over the world. a big backpack with a flag on it is an automatic invitation to chat, even more so if you’re on your own. hostels, cafes, and line-ups also make for perfect meeting grounds.

plus, so so so much freedom. its important to take advantage of this, be a tad selfish. i was able to visit and savour every art museum and gallery without feeling like i was dragging someone along. i could get up to watch the sunrise or sleep in a little after a late night. and i was able to skip some of the more touristy sites… without feeling even the smallest slice of guilt.

having said this, traveling solo is not always ideal. gotta watch out for yourself. sometimes a collective effort is nice in trying to figure out languages and train schedules… i didn’t eat at many restaurants… also, there were a few times when i longed for people who knew me, people with whom i could skip the small talk and really share the experience. but oh what a great challenge.

Everyone EVERYONE should travel solo at least once in their life. i feel like i can anything now. woo.