Me, Myself & an Aeroplane

I have done a fair amount of solo journeys, especially since moving abroad; within Germany, around Europe and also heading out to Asia. This much travelling means that I pack my suitcase on autopilot and that I have perfected the ‘must haves’ list for my journeys:
– Downloaded series on Netflix?
“Check.”
– Head phones?
“Check.”
– Travel pillow?
“Check.”

The best part about the journey to meet friends abroad (from both Germany and England) is the Vorfreude – the excitement that builds up as I get closer and closer to the destination. Now that I don’t see my friends from home very often, the time spent together becomes ever more valuable and exciting. However earlier this year I didn’t only have a solo journey, but decided to have my first solo holiday.

I headed to Athens and can sum up the weekend in just one word: therapeutic

Spending time alone is great but spending time alone on holiday is even better, and it’s important to remember and also learn, that there’s a big difference between being alone and being lonely. I spent a lot of time with my thoughts and noticing the little things around me, and still did everything that I would usually do with friends. I also ensured not to jump at the chance of using wifi as this pretty much defies the whole point.  The only annoying thing was not being able to leave my bag at the restaurant table if I needed to go to the toilet –ha ha!

I ate a lot of Greek salad, took a walking tour and watched the sunset from Filoppos Hill. I had so much time to write; page after page of thinking, planning and reflecting. I love writing so I was in my element, and can’t recommend keeping a diary enough!

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Sunset from Filoppos Hill

Athens was lovely and I am so glad to have finally ticked ‘solo holiday’ off of my list. Doing exactly what I want in my own time and at my own pace whilst learning a bit about Ancient Greek history and enjoying the good weather was delightful. I am already looking forward to the next one.. perhaps Copenhagen?