Planning on (literally) flying solo this summer? Summertime is here, and if you haven't already gotten the travel bug, chances are you will soon. Whether it's a few days in a different town or you're about to take on another country for the next few months, here are the steps you're likely to encounter.
1. Getting your parents to approve a solo vacation when you were positive they'd say no.
Okay cool, they're letting this happen. Everything should be smooth sailing from here, right?
2. Realizing you have no idea where the heck you want to go.
Do you want the beach? A hiking trip in mountains? Maybe 10 days in Paris? Australia looks nice right now. Oh but what about Thailand?! Make sure that wherever you chose is ideal for your personality and activities you plan on doing.
3. Finally picking a location, then not knowing how you'll get around or what you'll do.
No you won't have your car, your mom, or know where the closest place to get drinks is. Wait, am I sure this is the best idea?
4. Finalizing your itinerary knowing you'll hit all the best spots.
You've got a day dedicated to that lake you see all the pretty pictures of on the travel blogs, a night blocked off to go to that one bar your cousin told you about, and plenty of free time to shop. Everything's perfect.
5. You leave in a week so you begin to attempt to pack.
Do you need 3 pairs of heels or 4? And even though it's summer will there be a nice enough breeze for you to bring your favorite scarf? Then your mom says she'll only pay for one checked bag and the nightmare just goes on and on.
6. Telling adults that you're traveling alone and having their first response be "Oh no, what if something happens to you?!"
Don't you think I'm already nervous enough? You're not making it any better!
7. The big day finally comes, and you're off on your own.
Heck yeah, trip of a lifetime, here you come. The world is your oyster - time to discover yourself.
8. Getting there and realizing you are actually alone.
Wait, your dad isn't paying for lunch? Your mom isn't trying to understand the taxi driver? What's going on?!
9. But then making new friends and doing fun things.
Now this is what you imagined when you booked this trip. Life is great.
10. Attempting to flirt with the locals.
These aren't your high school friends and foreign people are just so good looking, you can't resist.
11. Getting totally immersed in the culture of this new place.
And accepting the fact that you'll need to renew your gym membership the second you get home because you've gained so much weight.
12. Looking at the date on your phone and realizing your trip will be ending soon.
Wait you really have to leave? But you just got here!!!
13. Having one amazing last night out in the place you now consider your second home.
Going crazy and documenting every moment because, face it, who knows when you'll be back.
14. Getting home and missing it more than anything.
Nothing is the same here. Where are all your cute cafes and shops? Why are people speaking English?
15. But realizing that all good things must come to an end.
Even though you're back, you've got all your amazing pictures to reminisce. Plus, maybe you'll work at the student gym this fall and save money to vacation there over winter break. No worries, you'll be back soon (insert life-changing location)!
