Traveling is a siren call for me. Exploring places outside my element is appealing and enlightening. It shows me that my sliver of the world is microscopic in the grand scheme.
Privilege and limitations become obvious when I step outside my comfort zone. The appreciation I feel walking out in the great wide world runs deep. Yet not knowing the local language, verbal or written, reminds me to be patient and persistent. And willing to be awkward.
My husband and I visited Vienna and Budapest – without a detailed plan. Our agenda was spontaneous within a basic outline. We knew where we were staying, when and how we’d get there. But our excursions were in the moment. We asked for help along the way. And found it from our hotel concierge, locals, other tourists – and serendipity. It was an adventure and a challenge. A moment in time to remember.
And true to form, coming home is sweet satisfaction.
“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” – Gustave Flaubert
