A trip to Greece that reignited my passion, confidence, and self-trust.
I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel to several beautiful places, including 29 countries. Each trip has been filled with fun, culture, and incredible memories that I’ll always carry with me. But the one trip I still think about? My solo trip to Santorini.
The funny thing is, I wasn’t even supposed to go to Greece! Originally, I had planned to go to Portugal. Yet, it seemed that was not in the cards for me. First came the several flight cancellation notices. Then, an email stating that the hotel I had booked would be undergoing construction that week. So, I took it as a sign that I was not meant to go there. So, I pivoted and began planning a trip to Greece instead.
Even though I knew that Santorini was a popular honeymoon location, and I was extremely single at that time, I didn’t let it bother me. And even though I spent the entire week and a half ahead of my trip having anxiety attacks and getting myself so nervous and worked up, convincing myself that I shouldn’t go, I got on the plane anyway. And I am so glad that I did.
It wasn’t just the fantastic views, culture, and people that made this trip so memorable. Though, the vibrant blue sea, colorful sunsets, and mouthwatering feta didn’t hurt. It also wasn’t that I imagined myself having my own “Mamma Mia!” moments every day. During my trip, I felt so empowered. I shamelessly took videos of myself that I later screenshotted for photos to share on social media. Also, I spoke to people, and while I was safe, I didn’t mind being alone. Funny enough, I actually developed a little vacation friendship with a couple from Florida on their honeymoon. When I did a sunset cruise on my last day, everyone was so kind and welcoming. I toured beautiful vineyards, drank delicious wine, ate incredible food, and relaxed by the beach. Most importantly, I trusted myself and was confident enough to do exactly what I wanted, when I wanted it.
I learned so much about myself on that trip, and I fully believe that taking that solo vacation is what helped to lead me to my husband. It created a sense of self that I hadn’t had before. Even today, when I am feeling lost or not myself, I think back to that trip. I try to channel the “me” I was in Santorini. She deserves to stay.
And while I hope to have many other trips in the future, with my husband, our future children, family, and friends, I know that the one trip I’ll still think about was my solo trip to Santorini.
What is one trip that you’ll never forget? Share your travel stories with me!