Out of the many personas that I could be, this isn't something I ever dreamt of. Yes, I do love being alone at times, especially when I want to de-stress I retreat to a quiet cafe, read a book, or blog (which I am currently doing now). I find it therapeutic. However, going on a trip for more than a day wasn't on my bucket list.
My first taste of travelling solo, is a surf weekend in Baler, could just be an accident when a friend didn't show up. Although on the same year, for it to happen again on a long planned international trip, my faith tells me that nothing happens by accident. I believe that surf weekend was a preparation for the big one later last year. When everything is booked and paid, with God's confirmation, I knew I had to ride that plane alone - with big hopes of coming back whole and alone. And, that happened again this year.
Because of my busyness turned idleness, I failed to blog about my first solo trip. Until now, I'm not convinced to be a travel blogger or writer - maybe not yet. For this blog to make such sense, I'll give a few details of my two international solo trips.
Saigon, Vietnam - Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Siem Reap, Cambodia (October 2016)
A 7-day trip of multi-cultural exposure while crossing cities and two countries. My travelling mantra was not to be itinerary-bound, so I depended on the locals' tips and recommendations. Since this was my first, I grew a desire of talking to strangers, thus a photo album on my Facebook. My favorites were: Cu Chi Tunnel (SGN) for its well-preserved historical value and hideaways (plus the tour guide was funny); Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (PNH) left a painful scar in me for the unbearable stories of torture and survival; Angkor Temples (REP) is undoubtedly a world's best. This trip had many idle moments on a bus or sitting still while basking on a scenic view, so I was also able to have a lot of reading and quiet time. A highly recommended itinerary for first timers.
Taipei, Taiwan + Taroko Gorge
A last minute quick trip to replace my real goal as recommended by a friend. There's been a few great things written about Taiwan. A few city monuments or landmarks are the highlights as told by most. Thanks to my research I targeted for hidden gems that are worth all the walk. (oh this one got me walking endlessly!) Favorites are Elephant Mountain for a breathtaking view of Taipei & whole of Taipei 101; Yehliu Geopark had this rock formations that are beauty from a catastrophe; Bopiliao a quiant block of how old Taipei looks and turned to be a hub of everything hipster; and Taroko National Park, located in the province of Hualian, is way too beautiful to describe, thus must be included in the world's best list. Plus, Taiwanese are the kindest people ever (yes, more than Filipinos), I have never felt so safe in a foreign place until I came here. Short but truly sweet, a great country with many surprises.
So, what now? The real goal of this post is to share why I am embracing this new persona. There are a lot of things written on why one should try travelling alone - all of which I agree, but I want to write in my own words.
1. Deepen dependence on God. Technically, you are not alone because your travel buddy is right within you - a compass, map, protector, comforter, wisdom, and friend. With no one to talk to most of the time, it's a blessing to be able to consult Him with every decision and praise Him for keeping you safely right on track. He never failed me and will never fail anyone.
2. Horizons widen from meeting new people. Travelling alone is a huge step outside one's comfort zone, and it's a risk worth taking because of the vast discoveries specifically the people you are able to meet or be acquainted with. More than the places, it's the people in your journey that holds the best stories you will forever keep, and eventually influence your growth.
3. Appreciate the joys of your decisions. You grant yourself more credit on your spontaneity. Since you make all the decisions, you are doing what you actually love or would love to do. There is a thin probability of regret. You discover your capabilities and desire to stretch it out more. It's not self-centered, rather contentment from being self-equipped.
4. Love for creation and humanity. Solo travelers surely seek adventure than those themed-park kind of places. And eventually, you reap the best of God's masterpiece. A non-stop wandering until you reach where your heart skips a beat. While on the journey, you appreciate all the help and kind gestures of people you meet along the way. And there are a lot of them. They are God's masterpiece as well.
After indulging in two solo travels, I am surely hungry for more. My heart and mind yearns for so many places to visit alone. Lastly, I just have to say this, solo travelers are not soul searchers or finding themselves, I believe they are the most well-rounded people. They are complete on their own, with a bag full of stories and treasures all to themselves.
Where to next? 2017, tell me!
All from and for Him.
