Call me humble, but today’s focus on gratitude is challenging for me. I cannot think of one accomplishment I am proud of having achieved. So, I am winging it tonight. One accomplishment and I am not even sure I can call it that, but I will is traveling alone. I only traveled alone because I wanted to see a part of the world and both times I couldn’t convince any of my friends to come with me. I haven’t allowed the lack of support in traveling across seas prevent me from seeing parts of the world I wanted to see.
Twice I have visited Germany by myself, not knowing a soul who lives there, nor understanding the language for that matter. I went to Munich & Frankfurt in 2010 and Berlin & Cologne in 2012.
German history has always fascinated me since I was a little a girl and I wanted to see the land in person where so many pivotal historical events have taken place.
I had wanted to experience Oktoberfest before I became too old & uptight. However, in Germany, every age from young teens to ninety something year olds come out to Munich for the bier gartens during Oktoberfest. Everyone dresses up in Lederhosen or Dirndls. Hence, the gentleman above in the photo, who knew it is a very common ensemble during Oktoberfest?! I didn’t…
In 2012, my friend told me about a great sale on tickets to Germany with return for $795 through IcelandAir. I had vacation time to burn and I was wanting to go back to Germany but I wanted to explore Berlin & Köln. So, being single and irresponsible I booked my return ticket on my VISA card even though I didn’t have the cash. I mean come on now! $795 to travel to Europe with return?!? It would have been wrong of me not to be irresponsible!
I had the best time traveling by myself. I met many people along the way and the beauty of traveling alone is you do you. You don’t have to worry about anyone else’s personal agenda but your own. I loved it.
I still don’t look at my zest for traveling solo as an accomplishment, but I have had many friends and family say they cannot imagine traveling to a strange country alone. Comments like “you’re so brave!”.
I don’t know, if I hadn’t gone alone when I did, I may have never seen Germany, who knows? I am grateful for the two times I went to Germany alone, but I look forward to future travels with my husband and girlfriends (separately!) when it is safe to travel again.
What accomplishment are you proud of and grateful for? Gosh, I really didn’t enjoy this blog. I now feel the need to truly accomplish something more brag worthy.
Peace & Love – Rachel
You Know Jacques! 