Paris to Amalfi: A 24-Day European Adventure

A 24-Day Expedition Covering 3000 km: A Detailed Adventure Through Europe’s Rich Culture, Scenic Landscapes, and Vibrant Cities

Have you ever felt the need to get away and try something new on your own? As a young adult on the brink of more responsibilities, I realized there were experiences I hadn’t yet embraced, like solo travel. Since starting my full-time job after university, I've yearned to explore on my own. I knew that as I got older, solo travel opportunities might dwindle, making now the perfect time.

The idea of a European getaway came together when a close friend announced their wedding in Amalfi, Italy. Europe, with its diverse cultures and countless destinations, had been calling me since my last visit in 2014. It was just a matter of planning the journey.

I decided to spend three weeks exploring on my own, with the final days reserved for meeting friends and family. This balance allowed me to enjoy solitude and companionship, creating a perfect blend of adventure.

Here’s how I spent 24 days traveling across Europe by myself—what I did, where I went, my recommendations, and whether I’d do it all over again.

How I planned my trip

Planning a solo European adventure was both exhilarating and daunting. I began by listing all the countries I wanted to visit and then researching the cities within those countries. My rough plan was to start in the north, move through France, continue into Switzerland and Austria, and end my trip in Italy.

With only 24 days available, 18 of which I would be traveling alone, I knew I had to be realistic about how many countries and cities I could visit. I started by using Google Maps to create a road map of potential destinations. My goal was to include cities I genuinely wanted to explore, not just popular tourist spots. My initial list included about 20 cities across eight countries. Here’s what my initial list looked like:

Next, I estimated the time needed in each city by researching travel times, sightseeing opportunities, tours, dining options, and rest periods. This thorough research led me to decide that instead of train hopping, I would rent a car and drive through Europe, giving me the flexibility to explore at my own pace.

Using Google Maps, I narrowed my list down to 13 cities, some of which I could visit in a single day. This list also became the exact order of my travel itinerary:

• Paris
• Dijon
• Thun
• Bern
• Lausanne
• Lauterbrunnen
• Geneva
• Annecy
• Marseille
• Nice
• Florence
• Rome
• Amalfi
• Rome

I decided to begin my journey in Paris, make my way through France and Switzerland, dip back into France, and then finish my trip in Italy. Along the way, I met amazing people, created countless memories, and embraced new cultures like never before.

Let’s Begin.

My adventure began with an evening flight from Toronto, Canada, to Charles De Gaulle Airport in Paris, France. With the time change, I arrived in the morning, ready to start my journey. Overnight flights are my favourite because they make it easier to adjust to a new time zone. Even though I only managed to sleep for about five of the eight hours, I felt surprisingly well-rested upon landing in Paris.

Paris, France

Paris is a beautiful city, with its stunning old architecture and welcoming culture. Being fluent in French, I love France even more. Contrary to the stereotype that French people are rude, I found them to be kind and even more welcoming when I spoke their language. Throughout my vacation, I made sure to use French as much as possible.

‍‍Upon arriving in Paris, the airport was just as chaotic as I had expected, but I was well-prepared and managed to navigate through it quickly. Picking up my rental car took about an hour, and then I was on my way.

Driving in the city

Driving in Paris for the first time was a bit overwhelming. I didn’t know that motorcycles can drive between lanes, which was quite nerve-wracking as they sped by less than half a meter away on both sides. Some road signs are different too—like a blinking yellow light meaning "proceed with caution" and one-way street mazes that can make you go in circles. You really need to stay alert in the city.‍

Do your research about parking garages

I had read that parking garages in Europe are few and far between and can be quite expensive. So, before picking up my rental car, I made sure to reserve necessary parking spots or ensure my accommodation had free parking.

My hotel was in a great spot just a few kilometers away from the Eiffel Tower. As jet lag started to hit me, the first thing I did when I got into my hotel room was take a nap. After waking up, it was time to start exploring Paris on my own. I set out to find some food and have a couple of drinks.

I ended up at a local bar where I met some amazing people: Phoune, Enya, and Jean.

The night turned out to be amazing. We danced, drank, and were merry until the early morning, and then my new friends walked me back to my hotel, where I retired for the night.

After such an incredible first night, I was so excited for the rest of my trip.

With so many landmarks and only two days in the city, I had to make the most of my time. I decided to visit the Eiffel Tower, La Champs-Élysées, and the Pont Alexandre III.

Paris is one of those cities I will always be willing to go back to. There’s something about the smell of fresh baguettes in the morning and drinking an espresso at an outdoor café that consistently draws me in. The culture is so diverse and has yet to let me down.

Dijon, France

Dijon, a charming town in North Eastern France, is known for its excellent mustard. I used Dijon as a stopover for the night, and given its compact size, a single day was perfect to appreciate its distinct character.

During my visit, I enjoyed some exceptional meals, including a delicious scallop risotto, and explored a few delightful boutiques. Despite its small size, Dijon has a unique ambiance and a welcoming atmosphere for a brief stay.

‍As a stopover destination, Dijon is perfect for a one-night stay. You’ll get a taste of its charm without needing more than a day to make the most of your visit.

Thun, Switzerland

Thun was the main reason I decided to visit Switzerland. While researching, I discovered this picturesque city nestled at the edge of Lake Thun, framed by the majestic Swiss Alps. I drove 7 hours from Paris to Thun just to witness its stunning scenery. And was it worth it? Absolutely.

‍Thun offers a charming blend of old and new. The historic old town features well-preserved medieval buildings, such as the Thun Castle, which provides panoramic views of the city and lake. Wandering through the quaint streets, you’ll find colorful facades, lively markets, and the serene Aare River, which flows through the heart of the town.

‍One thing I wasn't prepared for was the language barrier. Although I was ready to speak French, most locals spoke German, which led me to rely on Google Translate to navigate the town. This added an interesting challenge to my visit, but also an opportunity to experience the local culture more deeply.

If I had another chance, I would definitely return to Thun and explore the lake up close. From my drone, the views were spectacular, but I can only imagine how breathtaking they would be from the water. Taking a boat tour or relaxing lakeside would offer a different perspective of this beautiful area.

‍Thun is conveniently located less than an hour's drive from the capital city of Bern, where I spent two nights. It’s a great spot for a day trip if you’re exploring the region.

Bern, Switzerland

Out of all the cities I visited, Bern stood out as the one that felt somewhat subdued. While it boasts some impressive architecture and lovely city sights, it lacked the vibrancy and character I was hoping for in a capital city.

‍The city centre features a mix of attractions, including a bustling market, pop-up shops, and various restaurants. I enjoyed a satisfying meal of pasta paired with a local red wine, which was delicious.

During my visit, Switzerland had stricter COVID-19 protocols compared to many other European countries. This might have contributed to the city’s quieter atmosphere. Additionally, I learned from fellow travelers at my hostel that Bern is home to one of Europe’s top universities, which attracts a diverse student population.

While Bern has its own unique charm and is worth a visit, it didn’t capture my enthusiasm as much as other cities did. It’s a pleasant stop, but I wouldn’t necessarily prioritize it on a future trip.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

If you're seeking a town that seems straight out of a fairy tale, Lauterbrunnen is your destination. It’s the most stunning place I’ve ever visited, and it will remain so until I encounter something even more breathtaking.

Click on the photo above to see the video taken from my drone.

‍While in Bern, as I was planning for my next day in Lausanne, I noticed the forecast predicted a full day of rain. Instead of spending my day indoors in Lausanne, I decided to take a detour and explore the enchanting town of Lauterbrunnen.

This spontaneous adventure turned out to be one of the best decisions of my trip. Lauterbrunnen is a haven of cascading waterfalls, lush green hills, and clouds that feel almost within reach. I enjoyed a delicious schnitzel with crispy frites while soaking in the scenery—truly the perfect comfort meal.

‍I was fortunate with the weather; it barely rained and was pleasantly warm, allowing me to enjoy the day in a t-shirt. The town was pleasantly quiet, and the two-hour drive from Bern was absolutely worth it. Lauterbrunnen should be on everyone’s must-visit list when traveling to Switzerland.

After soaking in the beauty of Lauterbrunnen, I made my way back to western Switzerland for my final night in the country.

Click on the photo above to see the video taken from my drone.

Lausanne, Switzerland

I arrived at my hostel in Lausanne in the late afternoon, feeling ready to unwind after a full day of hiking around Lauterbrunnen.

Lausanne gave me a strong university town vibe, reminiscent of Guelph University in Ontario. The hostel was bustling with students on exchange programs, and I had the chance to connect with some of them, making a few new friends along the way.

Among the people I met was an Englishman from the UK. He mentioned it was his last night in Lausanne, and since it was mine too (and my only night), he persuaded me to explore the town’s nightlife with him.

We ventured to Esplanade du Flon, and I felt a bit out of place amidst the throngs of students queuing for clubs. We enjoyed a few drinks at a pub before heading to a club. Given that I was traveling during COVID-19, this was my first club experience since early 2020.

Despite feeling somewhat out of my element, the night was exhilarating and liberating. Being at a club with a random acquaintance in Switzerland, especially after a year and a half of lockdown, was a unique and refreshing experience.

In some European countries, including Switzerland, having a Euro Pass—obtained through a PCR test—allowed entry to clubs, bars, and restaurants without masks, provided it was within 72 hours of issuance. Switzerland was stricter with COVID rules, while France and Italy accepted my Ontario vaccination papers.

I believe Lausanne has more to offer than I was able to experience. If I had more time, I would have explored the town further, admired its architecture, and enjoyed the shores of Lake Geneva. While I wouldn’t prioritize Lausanne on a future trip, I’d be open to revisiting to explore more of what the city has to offer.

Geneva, Switzerland

After a late night out in Lausanne, I woke up to a leisurely morning and set off for Geneva, just a short drive away. This quick stop was a chance to wrap up my Western Switzerland road trip and get a taste of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

I strolled along the waterfront and stumbled upon a food festival right by Lake Geneva. I enjoyed some fantastic tacos while taking in the picturesque views of the lake.

One memorable moment was receiving a FaceTime call from my best friend, Rocco, who was set to marry in Amalfi, Italy, just a week later. We chatted for about 30 minutes, sharing stories about my travels and eagerly anticipating our reunion in Italy.

Though my time in Geneva was brief, I’d love to return for a more immersive experience. I feel that spending a full two days there would allow me to explore the city more thoroughly and appreciate all it has to offer.

Annecy, France

After a day in Geneva, I drove back into France, arriving in the charming town of Annecy, nestled in the French Alps. Known for its picturesque Old Town, Annecy offers a stunning blend of historic charm and natural beauty.

‍Annecy’s streets and walkways are a visual delight, with their vibrant colours and captivating architecture. The town is built around an iconic river, and walking along its banks, you’re greeted by a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.

‍During my solo day in Annecy, I took advantage of the beautiful weather to photograph the town and relax by the lake. I found a perfect spot on the pier to sunbathe, enjoying the serene ambiance and the fresh scent of Alpine water.

The food in Annecy was equally delightful. I indulged in lamb pasta with fresh-cut French fries on my first night and enjoyed a spicy pepperoni pizza the next evening.

If I had an extra day, I would have rented a boat to explore the calm waters of the lake, perfect for a leisurely Sunday lunch.

‍Annecy is definitely worth a visit. While I might not prioritize a return trip, I would certainly stop by if I’m passing through France again.

Marseille, France

Just ten days into my vacation, I embarked on one of the longer drives of my trip to meet up with a friend, Salma, who was also traveling around Europe. I set out from Annecy at 5 am in the pouring rain, heading to the south of France.

The drive was breathtaking. I traveled mostly on the highway but made a few stops in smaller towns to capture the stunning rolling green landscape with my camera.‍

As I approached Marseille, I noticed the landscape shift from lush greenery to the drier, more Mediterranean scenery. Marseille had long been on my radar, known for its vibrant port, excellent seafood, and rugged charm.

‍I booked an apartment right in the heart of the port, just a few steps from the water. On my first night, I dined at a seafood restaurant close to my apartment, enjoying a beautifully prepared salmon and rice while watching the sun set over the bustling port. The experience was nothing short of stunning.

After dinner, despite my exhaustion, I decided to explore the port and see if I could find a place for a few drinks. I wandered into O’Malley’s, an Irish pub. While there, I struck up a conversation with a couple in their mid-30s—one was a local from Marseille and the other from Brazil. They shared some great local recommendations with me before heading out.

Then, a man in his 50s, Mustapha, joined me at the bar. We quickly bonded, and he invited me to join him and his wife, Malika, for drinks. I spent the next hour enjoying their company. As the evening went on, a group of friends around my age sat at the table next to us. Among them was Romane, who was about to embark on her own solo travel adventure. We all connected and had a fantastic time together.

The highlight of the night came when Mustapha and Malika invited Romane and me to spend the following day with them at a small beach 30 minutes west of the port. I was thrilled by the invitation and couldn’t wait for the day ahead.

The next morning, Romane and I met up outside a McDonald’s and then joined Mustapha and Malika. We made a few stops along the way, including an Algerian sandwich shop where we sampled traditional sandwiches and other delicacies. We also picked up some champagne and beer before heading to the beach.

‍Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea was an experience beyond words. The crystal-clear water and the company of new friends made for a perfect day. We took many photos, enjoyed delicious food, and created lasting memories. I’ve stayed in touch with everyone from that day, and it remains one of the highlights of my trip.

After returning from the beach, I picked up Salma from the airport. We met up with Jeanne, a friend of Salma’s from Italy, for a delightful dinner by the water and a night of drinks and dancing.

‍That day in Marseille was truly one of the best of my life. Though I was only there for two nights, I left with a deep appreciation for the city and a desire to return. I highly recommend visiting Marseille for at least two or three days to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant Southern French culture.

Nice, France

The morning after saying goodbye to Romane, Salma and I set off for Nice, ready to explore the French Riviera. The three-hour drive from Marseille was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean making the journey as memorable as the destination.

‍Nice quickly became my favourite city of the trip. The crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, vibrant Place Massena, and the iconic Promenade des Anglais created an enchanting atmosphere. After checking into our apartment, we headed to La Plage de la Réserve, a free rocky beach. While the rugged rocks were a bit uncomfortable, the beach’s beauty was more than worth it. Next time, I’ll definitely bring a blanket.

We saved our appetites for a dinner reservation at Jan, a Michelin-starred restaurant. The meal was a culinary delight, showcasing French-South African inspired dishes. Highlights included a selection of European cheeses paired with nuts and jams, and a memorable lobster bisque garnished with a delicate cheese carnation, were among the best I’ve ever had.

‍The following day, Salma and I went our separate ways for some solo shopping. I picked up shot glasses for friends back home and a beautiful white long sleeve made in France. After reconvening, we explored Place Massena and planned our dinner at an outdoor restaurant known for its fresh oysters and paella. The meal did not disappoint. The contrast between the vibrant flavours of European cuisine and what we’re used to in North America was a real treat.

‍‍As the sun set, we took a scenic route back to our apartment, savouring our last evening in Nice. On our final morning, we enjoyed espresso and croissants before heading to Castle Plage, a private beach with food and drink service. The smaller, smoother rocks and quieter atmosphere made for a much more comfortable beach experience.

After our beach day, we returned to the apartment, said our final goodbyes, and I prepared for a five-hour drive to Florence, Italy.

Nice stole my heart with its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and relaxed vibe. If you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to include the French Riviera on your itinerary, especially in August or September for the best weather. Don’t hesitate to splurge a bit—it’s worth every penny for the unforgettable experience.

Florence, Italy

As I drove from Nice to Florence, a wave of homesickness washed over me. After spending two weeks away from friends and family, and having just enjoyed a brief reunion with Salma, I found myself missing home more intensely than anticipated. This feeling prompted a change in my travel plans—I decided to return my rental car a week early so I could join my friends and family for the wedding.

The drive, intended to take five hours, stretched to six due to traffic. During the journey, I called one of my best friends, Rocco, who helped arrange a driver from Naples to Amalfi, easing some of my travel concerns.

The route from Nice to Florence was breathtaking, hugging the Mediterranean coast and offering stunning views. I relished the drive, listening to music and podcasts, and made several stops to capture the picturesque scenery.

‍A Ticket Surprise

Arriving in Florence, I was met with an unexpected twist—driving tickets for being in the wrong lane. I didn’t realize the tickets had been issued until after returning home. Despite this minor setback, I checked into my hotel and set out to explore the city. My camera was my companion as I wandered through Florence, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and charm of my first Italian city.

‍The tantalizing aroma of fresh pizza led me to a cozy restaurant, where I enjoyed a glass of red wine and a delectable burrata pizza, sinking into a blissful food coma.

That night, I discussed walking tours with Salma, who had enjoyed great experiences with them. Inspired, I signed up for one to further explore Florence.

The following day, I visited Piazza Michelangelo, capturing panoramic views of the city and purchasing art from a local artist. The vantage point provided a unique perspective on how compact Florence is. I treated myself to some truffle ravioli before heading to my walking tour.

‍During the tour, I met a group of German students studying in Florence for the semester. We spent the day together, enjoying dinner and drinks. Their company was a delightful distraction and helped ease my homesickness.

Although my time in Florence was brief, I wished for an extra day to fully immerse myself in the city’s offerings. More time would have allowed for additional shopping and dining experiences. Ideally, three full days would be perfect to explore Florence. While it’s a city worth visiting, it’s not currently a top priority for a return trip, though I’m certain I’ll return someday.

Rome, Italy

The next day, I woke up early to head to Rome, marking a new phase in my trip. I had decided to drop off the rental car and stay at the Yellow Door Hostel in central Rome, a place Salma had highly recommended. This meant I was officially relying on public transit for the rest of my trip.

The drive through the Italian countryside was once again picturesque, filled with music and podcasts. After returning the car, I navigated the train system with ease and arrived at the hostel.‍‍‍

At the hostel, I met a lively group of Europeans who had just wrapped up running a summer camp for young adults. They had come together for a trip and invited me to join them later that evening. We had a great time getting to know one another over drinks and exploring a bar in the city centre. Salma's recommendation proved invaluable—without it, I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet such wonderful new friends.

The next day, feeling the effects of the previous night’s festivities, I decided to skip a wine tour I had planned. Instead, I spent time with Romane and her friend Amandine, who had just arrived in Rome.

Over the next two days, we explored some of Rome’s iconic sites, including the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and Vatican City. Lunch near the Colosseum was a surreal experience, offering a unique perspective on the city's rich history.

‍One of the highlights was visiting the Sistine Chapel. The grandeur and intricate details of the architecture were breathtaking and far beyond what any picture could convey.

After our brief but memorable time together, it was time to bid farewell to Romane and Amandine. I’m grateful for the friendship we’ve built and look forward to reconnecting with them when I visit France next time. It was a bittersweet goodbye, but I’m thankful for the moments we shared.

That evening, some friends who were in Italy for the wedding arrived in Rome, and we went out for gelato. We stumbled upon a film crew shooting test shots for the next James Bond movie, which was a thrilling surprise! Watching an old Aston Martin drift around a fountain was a memorable highlight.

I would love to return to Rome. The city is filled with architectural marvels and an indescribable atmosphere, especially when experiencing the Colosseum and the Vatican in person. Although I spent four days in Rome, I think a few more would be ideal to fully explore and soak in the city’s wonders. Rome is a must-visit destination in Italy, and I’d recommend spending at least three to four days there to appreciate its full charm.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

As my solo trip drew to a close, it was time to reunite with friends and family for Rocco and Briana’s wedding. I started the day early, catching a train from Rome to Naples, where I met my driver for the journey to Amalfi.

The drive was breathtaking. We wound through what felt like a 2-kilometre-high mountain pass and encountered a herd of goats that momentarily blocked our path. My driver was kind enough to make a few stops so I could capture some stunning views along the way.

Upon arriving in Amalfi, I dropped off my luggage, met up with everyone, and headed straight to the beach. Like Nice, Amalfi was surrounded by beautiful rock beaches with crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

‍This charming town truly lives up to its social media hype and everything you’ve heard about. The experience of being there was everything I had hoped for and more.

We made the most of our time in Amalfi while celebrating the wedding. Between lounging on the pebble beaches, shopping for clothes, and indulging in enough gelato for a family of ten, the days were filled with enjoyment. One thing I love about Italian cafés is that espresso is always enjoyed in the café, never taken to go. It’s incredibly fresh, and the aroma is irresistible.

‍During our stay, we visited two beaches: Spiaggia di Atrani, a paid pebble beach with food and drink service, and Spiaggia Grande, a free beach with fewer amenities but a more swimmable area. Both beaches had their unique charm, and I would happily return to either.

The wedding was a dream. Being part of the wedding party, I was immersed in the festivities from start to finish. We began the day at the stunning Duomo in Amalfi and continued to a beautiful reception, concluding the evening at Rocco and Briana’s family villa.

On my last full day, the wedding party embarked on a boat tour to Positano. We anchored in the most incredibly blue waters I’ve ever seen and spent the day swimming, enjoying sandwiches, and taking photos. The surroundings were so breathtaking that capturing them with my drone was the only way to do them justice.

Click on the photo above to see the video taken from my drone.

‍Amalfi embodies the essence of Italy. It's a must-visit destination where you can truly experience authentic Italian charm, far removed from the more tourist-heavy spots in cities like Rome. If you have the chance, don’t miss out on some lemon gelato and a taste of Limoncello.

Click on the photo above to see the video taken from my drone.

Rome, Italy

After a successful wedding weekend and spending time in Amalfi, it was finally time to go home. I took a shuttle bus back to Rome with a few others from the wedding. Together, we visited some more iconic sights in Rome like the Trevi Fountain and then went out for dinner later that evening.

Considering it was our last night together, we decided to walk around Rome and check out the nightlife. We enjoyed more espresso and gelato before heading back to our respective hotels and hostels.

I spent my last full day in Rome by myself, doing some shopping before leaving my hostel to stay the night closer to the airport, which is a little ways outside the city centre. I had an early flight home the next day and wanted it to be as stress-free as possible. During my shopping, I spent quite some time in a store called Dan John, where I met two Canadians from the Toronto area. It was amusing that it took the entire trip to meet fellow Canadians.

I returned to the hostel, gathered my things, and set off for my hotel near the airport. It was a family-run bed and breakfast.

That evening, I walked to get dinner, enjoying homemade pizza and Italian beer for a signature final meal.

My final day in Italy started early as I left the bed and breakfast for the airport. I arrived three hours ahead of my flight, but due to a gate change and poor signage, I only reached my gate as boarding began. The long walk across the airport was stressful, but I made it in time. After a long flight from Rome to Montreal and then to Toronto, I was finally home.

Conclusion

Reflecting on this European adventure, each city—from the vibrant streets of Nice to the historic charm of Rome and the breathtaking beauty of Amalfi—added a unique touch to my journey. These destinations, with their distinct atmospheres, have left a lasting impression on me.

Traveling solo had its challenges but brought unexpected rewards. I embraced spontaneity, made new friends, and discovered the joy of exploring the unfamiliar. Each experience, from savouring Michelin-starred meals to swimming in the Mediterranean, was a milestone in my personal growth.

This trip was more than just sightseeing; it was a journey of self-discovery. I learned to be adaptable, step out of my comfort zone, and cherish new connections. As you plan your own travels, remember that the essence of exploration lies in embracing the unexpected and savouring every moment.

Here’s to future adventures that continue to enrich our lives. Safe travels and happy exploring!

Crossing items off my bucket list

I had specific expectations for my trip, eager to embrace the different flavours of life in their purest forms. With an open schedule and a spirit of adventure, there were certain experiences I had set my heart on even before leaving Toronto.

The first was dining at a Michelin star restaurant. Renowned French and Italian chefs are famed for creating the world’s most exquisite dishes, and I wanted to discover this for myself. Months of research led me to Jan in Nice. The anticipation built as I imagined the culinary delights that awaited me.

The second was swimming in the Mediterranean Sea. Whether in France or Italy, it didn't matter. The highlight was sharing this experience with Mustafa, Malika, and Romane. Meeting them and swimming together felt like a scene from a fairytale, the kind of magic that could inspire a Disney movie.

The last was forging new friendships across borders. This was crucial for me. I consider myself outgoing, but I wanted to challenge myself to meet new people frequently. Throughout the trip, I stepped out of my comfort zone, met many incredible individuals, and built amazing relationships.

This journey was a true test of my resilience and adaptability. Facing challenges with minimal help revealed my strengths and pushed me to grow. Each experience, from dining at Jan to swimming in the Mediterranean and making lifelong friends, contributed to a journey of self-discovery and unforgettable memories.

Key takeaways

Adaptability is essential. Plans can change unexpectedly, so flexibility is crucial. For instance, I switched from Lausanne to Lauterbrunnen due to rainy weather, which led to a more enjoyable experience. In Italy, adjusting my travel plans to focus on reconnecting with friends when feeling homesick improved my mood and made the trip more fulfilling.

Be prepared for solo travel. Carry extra cash for unforeseen expenses and download offline maps to navigate without service. I rely on Alosim for dependable cellular data, which keeps you connected and secure during solo adventures. You can get $3 off your first purchase with my referral code: 5K8A5V7.

Embrace new experiences. Trying local specialties and meeting new people can make your trip extraordinary. Sampling Dijon mustard in Dijon, savouring truffle ravioli in Florence, and engaging in local customs like the bisou bisou (kiss kiss) tradition deepened my connection to the places I visited. Making new friends along the way added unique dimensions to my journey.

Acknowledge and manage your emotions. Traveling alone can be an emotional rollercoaster. Embrace the fear and homesickness as part of the adventure. Finding comfort in small ways and pushing through challenges can lead to significant personal growth and unforgettable moments.