Hi all,
Let’s talk about SOLO travel! It seems fitting given I am abroad and going to be doing quite a bit of traveling in the upcoming months. As someone who had only left the US for the first time this past summer, the idea of traveling abroad to study and also explore on my own was quite daunting to put it mildly. I now totally understand why people hire travel agents! Being immersed in a new environment if only for a few days is amazing, but it can feel overwhelming to hit all of the touristy stops recommended by so many. In this blog, I figured I would share some tips I have learned in the past month that have helped me to make the most of my time!
For starters, I used to think of solo traveling as depressing and boring. While it can be boring (I won’t lie), it is also extremely rewarding. Walking around and using public transportation alone doesn’t feel lonely because there are so many beautiful aspects of another culture in the people around. For example, I was waiting at a bus stop in Birmingham, England last weekend in the pouring rain. It was me and five middle school students in their school uniforms and all without an umbrella. I also didn’t have an umbrella and had been SO irritated at myself for not remembering something so obvious. In that moment, watching these kids be so happy while standing in the pouring rain made me realize this moment of discomfort was not going to be the end of the world. For them, this could be their every day and they would still be happy about it. I felt much less lonesome and like a part of their group just because of this shared experience.
However, there have been other times that have felt lonesome—mainly meals and in restaurants, but I have composed a list of ways I make “taking myself on a date!” more exciting.
- The dinner table is a NO PHONE ZONE! Yes, it sounds oh so cliché but by removing the distraction of your phone you are able to become fully immersed in your surroundings to enjoy the moment. Take this time to admire your new environment!
- Bring a book! A few times now, I have felt like I packed a bag for a child, with my tote bag filled with games and books (no coloring books though), in order to keep myself occupied.
- Reflect on your day and practice gratitude—there is so much to be thankful for even when a moment may feel overwhelming and a bit lonesome.
While I am so far from a travel guru, these three small habits have really helped me to stay grounded in the moment. I thought I would include some photos of my favorite meals that I have enjoyed along the way. Next week we’ll talk even more about food with the hope to reach out to my fellow gluten-free friends! 😙
Until next week,
Anna Tutek
Gluten-free bruschetta at Millstone Restaurant in Dublin
Macaron and eggs at KC Peaches in Dublin
Omelette and toast at Grand Central Kitchen in Birmingham, England
Salmon at Millstone Restaurant in Dublin