I was so close to not finishing this but as I was randomly going through all my travel clips, I thought I’d still want a summary of those 7 wonderful days. This is a little gift to myself so I have something to look back on every time I want to remember this meaningful birthday.

Here are a few things I learned from going on this trip:

1. Don’t plan too much. There is beauty in spontaneity.
2. Learn to trust yourself.
3. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Sometimes you just can’t figure things out on your own.
4. Laugh at your mishaps and minor inconveniences.
5. There’s no such thing as a “perfect trip”. Some things may not go according to plan.
6. Stay present. All your emotions and realizations from being in a completely different place are so much more valuable than content.
7. Stay open. Grab whatever opportunity comes your way.
8. Don’t push yourself too hard. Rest when you need to.
9. Welcome each day with gratitude. Traveling is already such a privilege in itself.
10. Enjoy your own company. It’s so much fun to discover things on your own and not care about what other people think or say.

To anyone who has a desire to travel solo, I say just do it! There’s so much you can learn about yourself that you’ll be carrying with you for the rest of your life. Of course I know it’s such a privilege to be able to even do this, but it’s definitely an experience worth your money and hard work.

I am already saving up for my next!