I don’t know if it was due to hormones or mainly the film that made me cry the week I was binge-watching When Life Gives You Tangerines. Nonetheless, the film gave me a better look at the perspective of a father, mother, and child of different ages and generations about life and its inevitable struggles, especially if you are not from a wealthy family.
I didn’t get why couples (Ae-sun and Gwan-sik) who grew up poor and had a difficult life would be so reckless to rush into a relationship and give birth to children (Geum Myeong, Eun Myeon, Dong-Myeong) while they are still struggling themselves. For me, it is selfish, but the silver lining is that kind of love is rare. A love that is patient, conquers all, and endures hardships. The love between Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, and their love for their kids – is the kind of love not everybody can and will experience.
As their children, I hope you soon forgive them, as that’s what they knew right then, and they tried their best to raise us with their best knowledge. Be gentle to your parents and love them every day, despite their imperfections.
Solo travel may seem like a challenge, but who knows, it could be an adventure of a lifetime? I wasn’t planning to go solo, but my friends’ stars didn’t align with mine. Then, I had the chance, so I took it. I swear I was freaking scared since I will be alone and it will be my first time, but I couldn’t say pass with Grand Canyon!
Why Travel Solo?
Postcard-like scenery: When I went there, my first stop was just breathtakingly unbelievable – it was like being inside a postcard. The colors are just stunning, which makes you think how amazing the world is.
Doable for quick or long trip: I was only there for a day, very quick, but worth it. You can enjoy these views for half a day, but I recommend a longer stay to fully experience the canyon.
Self-discovery: This place made me realize that I can conquer places I thought were impossible to get my feet on. I realized that I am capable of things that my mind can conceive. I just need to work hard and have a little pixie dust of luck.
Must-See Spots in the Grand Canyon for Solo Travelers:
South Rim – The most popular viewpoint for the Grand Canyon. You can’t miss the iconic Mather Point or Yavapai Point for unforgettable photo ops!
Hiking the Bright Angel Trail – A classic Grand Canyon hike! It’s one of the most accessible, taking you deep into the Canyon for jaw-dropping views.
Grand Canyon Skywalk – For thrill-seekers, walking on this glass bridge with a view straight down to the Canyon floor is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Desert View Watchtower – Experience a less crowded spot with incredible views and an incredible historical landmark.
Havasu Falls – If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, hiking to Havasu Falls is a unique experience filled with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.
Tips for Solo Travelers:
Safety First: Always let someone know your itinerary and check-in regularly. Cell service is limited in many parts of the park.
Pack Smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen—staying hydrated and protected from the sun is crucial.
Plan Your Stay: From camping to luxury accommodations, there’s a place for everyone! Consider staying at Grand Canyon Village for easy access to all major sights.
Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, leave no trace, and take only memories.
Solo but Not Alone: The Grand Canyon is a popular destination, so you’ll never truly be alone. Take advantage of ranger-led programs to meet other like-minded travelers!
What to Pack for Your Solo Grand Canyon Trip:
If you have a car, then you can overpack. But you do not need to. Backpacking is very possible. Please note that you will need to bring the following and be prepared for extensive hiking.
Sturdy hiking boots
Water and/or sports drink
Sunscreen
Camera (no need for fancy ones, your phone’s enough)
Power bank (because there’s a lot of images to capture)
First-aid kit and any personal medications
Light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings
Snacks like energy bars
Final Thoughts:
The Grand Canyon is one of the most majestic places on Earth, and there’s no better way to experience it than on your own terms. Solo travel here isn’t just about seeing a natural wonder; it’s about embarking on a journey of personal growth, adventure, and connection with the wild.
Ready to take the leap? The Grand Canyon is waiting!
As in all we want to do in life, it always comes with uncertainties. I have been hearing this tiny voice in my heart – to do something way different from my path now.
I am not disclosing it yet because I want to see if I will get that point. Just imagine this hypothetical scenario: you finished your medical degree after 12 years of focusing on this path since you thought you wanted to do this for the rest of your life, and you realized one day, when you were 32, that you wanted to be an airplane pilot.
Would you change your career? You are uncertain whether you will become a pilot, and if you do not succeed, how can you bounce back? I know 32 is not old, but it is also not young. I am scared. But I do not want to regret not trying what that tiny voice in my heart is asking. It looks so daunting, but then I am more than capable of restarting again (except financially, though I always believe that if there’s a will, there’s a way).
Let me reflect on this post and see if I will make it 10 years from now. I hope I make it to something my body, mind, and soul crave for and will enjoy doing.
My January 2025 was filled with happy memories from our 22-day Europe tour and here is our itinerary that you can copy on your upcoming trip.
Day 1 – Athens, Greece (arrived at 7am in the airport); visited Roman Agora and, Acropolis.
Day 2 – Flew from Athens, Greece to Rome, Italy; walked around the city since we arrived late.
Day 3 – Vatican City; attended the Sunday’s mass and walked around then went back to Rome.
Day 4 – Rome, Italy; went Italian food crawling, visited the Colosseum.
Day 5 – Pisa, Italy; went to the leaning tower of Pisa then traveled to Venice, Italy at night.
Day 6 – Venice, Italy; walked around Venice, rode the Gondola ($90 for two people).
Day 7 – Milan, Italy; went to Duomo di Milano and Sforzeco Castle museum.
Day 8 – Train to Switzerland; went and walked around Luzern and Zurich in Switzerland.
Day 9 – Traveled from Switzerland to Munich, Germany; Walked around the town.
Day 10 – Munich, Germany; walked around the town and did German food crawl.
Day 11 – An hour away from our hotel in Munich, Germany, was a frozen lake we went to.
Day 12 – Traveled from Munich, Germany to Frankfurt, Germany; walked around Frankfurt.
Day 13 – Met a friend in Frankfurt, Germany; more food crawling.
Day 14 – Walked around the town Frankfurt, Germany. Stayed here longer because of a friend and I got my Schengen visa in this country as well.
Day 15 – Amsterdam, Netherlands; visited Anne Frank’s Secret Annex and Red Light District.
Day 16 – Brussels, Belgium; Belgian food crawling and chocolate tasting, went to Grand Palace.
Day 17 – Ghent, Belgium; had Belgian waffles, went to Gravensteen Castle.
Day 18 – Calais, France; had crepes, walked around the shore.
Day 19 – Paris, France; went to the Eiffel tower and Louvre museum.
Day 20 – Nazare, Portugal; went to Praia de Salir do Porto, Portuguese food crawl.
Day 21 – Obisos and Lisbon, Portugal; went to a town surrounded with walls, did seafood crawl.
Day 22 – Barcelona, Spain; went to Sagrada de Familia, traveled to the airport to go back home.
The key is to find a hotel near the train station or the places you want to visit. Also, if you arrive earlier than the check-in, do not be shy to ask the hotel person if you can leave your things with them. Most of them let us leave our things, and we walked around without our bags.
Disclaimer: THIS IS NOT SPONSORED. I just found the one!
It is the one. The best luggage for me at this point. The brand? MONOS!!! The best investment for your money.
See that? I overpacked it for 22 days, as evidenced by the bulge, and rolled for kilometers. My boyfriend dragged it because I’m a travel princess. LOL. And I kid you not, he pulled it carelessly and dragged it down the stairs each time we moved from one place to another.
This luggage was not only in the carry-on, but we also used it for check-in. And we all know that check-in luggage is treated badly. It didn’t have a great time in taxis and trains, but it held up so well.
Although this is not cheap compared to other luggage brands, it is not as expensive as Rimowa and it is worth every penny. Just choose a color that does not easily get dirty.
The first month of 2025 has been good to me. I traveled to places. Met a lot of people. Ate lots of different food – pasta, cheese, and pastries to name some. Traveling is a fun way of learning. January made me appreciate life again.
MIA – missing in action. I have been MIA in the past few months. To the self that promised herself to be more consistent on her blog writing, I apologize as this present self has to be present in her priorities the moment is asking for. I need to cram writing my thesis and it is not easy. I will be MIA for the next weeks again and I hope to get back after this battle I am fighting. LOL. Ciao!
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by emotions. However, it’s essential to recognize that our thoughts often precede our feelings. Understanding this connection can empower us to take charge of our emotional landscape.
When we experience a strong emotion, it’s typically rooted in our thoughts—our interpretations, beliefs, and narratives about a situation. For example, if you think, “I’ll never succeed,” that thought can evoke feelings of despair and inadequacy. Conversely, if you shift that narrative to, “I am capable and learning from my experiences,” you’ll likely feel more hopeful and motivated.
This shift isn’t always easy, but it is possible. Start by becoming aware of your thoughts. Journaling can be a powerful tool—write down your thoughts and examine how they influence your emotions. Are they constructive or destructive? Challenge any negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations that inspire confidence and resilience.
Remember, thoughts are not facts. They are simply perceptions that can be reshaped. By consciously choosing empowering thoughts, you can foster positive emotions that lead to action and growth.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to pause. Ask yourself: What am I thinking right now? Reframe those thoughts, and watch as your feelings transform.
You hold the power to create the mindset that fuels your dreams. Choose wisely, and let your thoughts pave the way to a more fulfilling emotional journey.
Life is a series of ups and downs, victories and setbacks. In a society that often celebrates success, it’s easy to feel ashamed when you find yourself labeled as a “loser.” But what if I told you that it’s not only okay to feel this way at times, but it’s also a vital part of growth? Here’s why embracing those moments can be transformative.
1. Redefining Success
The first step in accepting your “loser” moments is to redefine what success means to you. Society often equates success with wealth, status, and constant achievement. However, success is subjective. It can mean personal growth, learning from failure, or simply having the courage to try something new. Acknowledging that it’s okay to struggle can free you from the relentless pressure to perform.
2. Learning Through Failure
Every setback is a lesson in disguise. When you fail, you’re presented with an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses. Thomas Edison famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Each “failure” can guide you toward eventual success by highlighting areas for improvement and prompting reflection.
3. Building Resilience
Experiencing loss or failure teaches resilience. Life isn’t always about winning; it’s about how you respond to challenges. Embracing your moments of defeat helps you build mental fortitude, preparing you for future obstacles. Resilience is like a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it becomes.
4. Creating Authentic Connections
When you’re open about your struggles, you allow others to do the same. Sharing your “loser” moments can foster deep, authentic connections with those around you. Vulnerability breeds empathy, and you may find that many people have faced similar challenges. This sense of community can provide support and remind you that you’re not alone.
5. Redirection and Reinvention
Sometimes, being a “loser” can lead you to paths you never considered. When you face setbacks, it can be an opportunity to reassess your goals and passions. Perhaps what you initially aimed for wasn’t truly aligned with who you are. These moments can serve as a catalyst for reinvention, leading you to discover new passions and directions in life.
6. Challenging Societal Norms
Finally, it’s essential to challenge the stigma around failure and the label of being a “loser.” By embracing your experiences and sharing them with others, you contribute to a culture that values authenticity over perfection. Every successful person has faced setbacks; the difference is often in how they respond to them.
In a world that often values success over struggle, it’s crucial to remember that it’s perfectly okay to be a “loser” at some point in your life. These moments are not the end of the road; they’re stepping stones toward growth, learning, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of yourself. Embrace your journey, imperfections and all, and remember: every setback is just a setup for a comeback.
larswrites 