I spent two week alone in my favorite city; Paris. I decided to go on a complete whim, well actually the guy I was talking to for a couple months decided he was not quite over his ex…I was upset so I bought a ticket to Paris that same day we “ended” if we were even a thing. Thinking well at least I can be sad in my favorite city. Well that was in spring and I went in late summer. Safe to say I had totally forgotten him; even his name by the time I went. However, I think this is really when you decide to make these rash decisions like buying a plane ticket randomly with no plan. Most of my decisions in life have been fast and rash but I have yet to be disappointed.
This was the longest trip I have taken solo, even though living in NYC seemed like a never ending solo holiday. I think when people take solo trips they except to find themselves or feel liberated. I am not sure if I am just so used to being alone that it doesn’t matter where I am in the world I feel the same but Paris had no change in myself though whatsoever. I am very content with my life and happiness and who I have become; so maybe I am just not searching to find myself. I was there to enjoy every pastry I could get my hands on and that is exactly what I did; successful trip.
Like I said I went with no plans, no itinerary. I woke up each day thinking okay what is on the agenda for today. That is my favorite type of traveling when I have already been to that location several times. This does not mean I did not do tourist things, I just was not on a strict agenda or time table. I did take a visit to Versailles and the Louvre. I also did new things I had never done before like go to the Jewish Art and Culture Museum that I enjoyed immensely.
I was working remote West Coast hours (5pm-1am) I thought that was going to be difficult but honestly it was amazing! I had all day to do whatever I wanted and then work at night. This was nice because I typically wouldn’t go out every night past 10pm anyways; especially alone. I am someone who never feels unsafe; I would go anywhere and think no one would ever hurt me. I think that is why I am able to do so much on my own; the lack of fear. However, I am realistic and I know I should play it safe and not risk something I would not enjoy anyways. So, I did not feel like I was missing out on anything by working nights.
But the question I am asking myself is did I learn anything? I learned that I can travel alone for an extended period of time; hints me going back to Europe in a few short weeks for four months. I might learn something or find my new self during that trip. I highly doubt it though; again my focus will be on trying all the strudel and burek and just seeing these new cities. I suppose I will let you all know. It would be cool to have some type of movie moment or fall helplessly in love with a stranger on holiday. Maybe I will try and make that happen…
The Life of Sarah 