Discovering Freedom: My First Solo Trip

Embarking on my first solo overseas adventure was long overdue, and the spontaneity of it all was a departure from my usual planning style. It all started with a call from my restless mother who, on a whim, booked a flight to London, adding on Paris for a dream visit to Giverny. Naturally, I seized the opportunity and booked a one-way ticket to Paris for just $220. As the departure date neared, I decided to fulfill a longstanding desire to explore Lisbon, Portugal.

With only a week or two to spare, I secured my return flight from Madrid, Spain for $270. The rest of the trip details? I left it all to chance, a decision that proved to be less than ideal. In fact, I found myself booking my flight to Lisbon, an Airbnb, and a train to Madrid the night before my departure. This whirlwind adventure was confined to just four days and five nights, but my determination to reach Lisbon was unwavering.

Touching down in Lisbon at sunset, I made a beeline for the metro, headed toward the vibrant Barrio Alto district in the heart of the city. My splurge of $43 per night for a private room was a decision I never regretted. With no set plans, my main mission was devouring an abundance of pastel de nata, a custard tart that defies description. Pro-tip: don't pay more than a euro for one.

The real magic came from aimlessly wandering the city streets, uncovering hidden gems at every turn. I'd always hesitated to travel alone, fearing boredom or loneliness, but this experience shattered those misconceptions. Instead, I found a profound sense of peace and contentment in the freedom to do exactly as I pleased. This trip became a mirror, reflecting a newfound understanding of myself and a realization that solo adventures can be remarkably fulfilling.