Travel Blog Ep. 3
- What was the defining moment that you knew you were meant to explore the world?
When I was getting out of the Marine Corps, like many others, I was feeling very lost and confused about my next steps. Such a drastic change in lifestyle spurred a lot of anxiety within me. I didn’t know what to do with all that pent up energy, so I just got the idea of taking a couple months and backpacking around Europe sort of as a “one last hurrah” before starting college back up.
- Best travel story, go. (Not a question but whatever. We do what we want)
I was solo backpacking in the Austrian Alps during the summer of 2019. I was out there for a total of 5 days, hiking hut to hut, doing about 10 miles a day with a pretty heavy pack. It was day 3 and I started off the day by hiking down a really steep path down into a valley. The views were the most breathtaking thing you could ever imagine. After a few miles I knew something was off, as I wasn’t seeing any signs for my next hut. I was getting really concerned, because I was certain I was on the right path and hadn’t missed any turns. Eventually a middle-aged couple hiked by me, toward the direction I had just come from, and clearly saw I was a bit distressed. They asked me if everything was okay and I explained my situation (luckily my German is very good from a year I spent there in high school). They were so kind and offered for me to hike back up to the hut with them so we could get some better directions. They were very concerned about me being out there on my own. I hiked back up with them and we chatted the whole time. About three quarters of the way back up the trail I found my turn, completely hidden by overgrown bushes. Before we parted ways, they wished me the best and gave me several granola bars in case I needed it. In addition to adding an extra 5 or so miles to the hike and several hours wasted, I had the most difficult day of hiking yet. It was hands down one of the most physically taxing things I’ve ever put my body through. When I finally turned a corner and saw my hut I sat and cried for about 10 minutes. My feet were bloody, my knees hurt, my hips were bruised, and I was just so happy the day was over. When I checked into my hut, a woman working there told me a man had called several times asking if I made it there okay. It was the most heartwarming feeling ever, to meet someone so truly, genuinely kind and concerned for the safety of a complete stranger. The woman saw me a bit later and told me he had called again and that he seemed so happy and relieved to hear I was safe.
- What’s your all-time favorite place to visit, and why is it special to you?
I’d have to say Berlin, Germany. I had been there once when I was a teenager living in Germany, but wasn’t quite old enough to appreciate what it had to offer. In college I received a scholarship to study there for the summer so I got to learn the city quite intimately. It’s a very transient oriented city, so there are a lot of foreigners and people living there temporarily, so you kind of feel like you fit in right away. The history, the friendly people, the green spaces, the night life, the completely different vibes that different parts of the city gives off, it’s all so charming and exhilarating.
- What’s your least favorite city and why?
Okay granted, I was 16 when I went so maybe I was too young and snotty to appreciate it, but I remember being really unimpressed by Paris. I did all the touristy stuff (Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame) which were GREAT. But I also remember the people not being very friendly and the streets being dirty and chaotic. I’d like to visit again to see if I’d enjoy it more as an adult. 
- Was there ever a time you felt unsafe or have gotten into a bad situation? How did it play out?
I wouldn’t say I felt unsafe, but rather just TOO far out of my comfort zone. I had gone to Thailand to train Muay Thai for a month and initially decided on staying at a gym…sort of in the middle of nowhere. When I got there, I instantly realized the language barrier was just too strong to handle. I had a hard time asking them where I can get food or if I can get a towel. I was there for a total of maybe 4 hours before I realized I needed to get the hell out of there.
- What’s one item, (other than shoes or clothing), that you absolutely must have on all your travels?
My travel journal! I love finding a good spot to sit, like at a park or coffee shop, and people watch while writing about my journey. I know one day I’ll look back at them and be so glad I did.
- Do you prefer solo or group travel? Why?
Solo, hands down. No question about it. I think everyone should do a solo trip at least once in their lives. It’s eye opening and allows for deep self-reflection. You get to be truly yourself, or maybe someone completely different, if you want. There’s no one else’s needs to consider but your own. Want to walk 10 miles around the city non-stop? Go right ahead. In the mood for a burger even though you’re in Italy? Whatever, up to you. Feel like lying in bed all day and wasting your time in a gorgeous foreign city? Cool, you can do that. It also puts you in a position and mindset that makes it so much easier to meet new people. I’ve met some incredible people that I would have never spoken to if I had been in the comfort of my own friends. 
- What is the one place you would say everyone should absolutely see at least once in their lifetime?
- Have you ever had a life changing moment or epiphany while traveling?
Probably not a very good answer, and it wasn’t a single defining moment, but during my first solo backpacking trip I just realized how much I love being alone and that I could never achieve that kind of serenity with another person.
- What city/country would you love to see next?
- Where can people follow your adventures on social media?