One of the main points of traveling is to explore, to
discover and find things that we never knew existed, opening ourselves up to
the vast world in front of us. The past few trips I have done, Dublin and
Amsterdam, have allowed me time to just go out into the city and see what it
has to offer. I may not have a plan or a set destination, but that is okay. I
let the winds take me wherever they want.
While in Dublin, I had a series of places I wanted to see-
old historical sites, college campuses, shopping districts –yet I had an entire
day to get there, an entire day to explore and witness the life and energy of
the city. I would leave my hostel early in the morning, head in a certain direction,
and see what happens. I first went along the pattern of following a crowd,
walking down alleys of small boutiques and quaint cafes. Once the group
separated, I would simply follow the largest existing group, yet again
venturing into unknown, exciting areas of the city.
The same occurred in Amsterdam as I walked along the canals
and cobblestone roads, passing by bicyclist after bicyclist. I ran into many
different markets selling international foods, unique gifts, and flowers
galore. The entire city was purely picturesque, admirable from any vantage
point. And so, once my legs were tired from a day of walking, I found a small
park hidden in the distance and sat there, relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere
of the city itself. Soon after, I got up and sat along the canal, admiring the
great fortune I must have for being able to experience this while studying
abroad.
Sometimes it is really nice to not have a plan, to go
somewhere and simply explore. My advice, dearest readers, is to merely discover
the meaning of true exploration, to not have a goal and a schedule for every
day of our lives. Find a city, find a park, find something where, for one day,
you can go and walk around, opening yourself up to the wonders you may find.
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