Taking Trips Alone
When people study abroad, they usually have a list of cities and countries they want to visit. But sometimes your interests don’t align with your friends, and you’re faced with a decision: spend a lot of money on a place you are unsure about, or stay behind and figure something out on your own. Instead of staying at home, I chose to take a few trips by myself and experience something new.
Tivoli
My first solo weekend was early in the semester, and I wasn’t quite sure how I wanted to spend it. On Saturday, I visited a museum and wandered through Rome, seeing the Colosseum for the first time and really taking in the city’s beauty at my own pace.
The next day, I took a day trip to Tivoli. Less than an hour by train, I stepped into a charming town where I hiked along waterfalls and wandered through quiet streets. It was a refreshing change of pace from the energy of city life.
Deciding to leave Rome on my own, figuring out the train station, and navigating unfamiliar places showed me what I’m capable of. It gave me a sense of independence that stayed with me for the rest of my time abroad and helped me stop fearing being alone.
Santa Marinella
This past weekend, I once again parted ways with my friends and spent the weekend in Santa Marinella, a small beach town just north of Rome. Within 5 minutes of getting off the train, I was at the beach.
Walking through the town gave me a sense of nostalgia- it reminded me of Florida. The weather was amazing, with sunshine and 70-degree days almost every day. Lying on the beach, people watching, listening to my audiobook, and swimming made for the perfect relaxing weekend.
Sunday was spent back in Rome. After church service, I sat in a park and journaled for hours, appreciating the quiet surroundings after busy travel days.
Perspective
Looking back, some people might see these weekends as lonely, but I saw them as peaceful and as opportunities to grow. It really comes down to your mindset.
I learned how to navigate the busy Rome train station on my own. I figured out how to read departure boards in different cities. I practiced Italian with locals and experienced new places at my own pace, whether that meant slowing down or packing a lot in.
I also found more time for reflection and prayer in the quiet moments, taking in everything around me and feeling grateful for it all.
Was it uncomfortable at times? Of course. Did I miss a constant conversation? Yes. But it was in that discomfort that I saw myself grow.
And honestly, that’s the point.
Some of the most meaningful parts of studying abroad don’t happen in big groups or perfectly planned trips. They happen when you choose to go or stay, even if it means being alone.
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