You Went, You Experienced and You Lived...

In the words of a dear friend of mine: you went, you experienced and you lived...

On the morning of November 23rd, J-Sak and I found ourselves Canada bound, flying back home, after 7 glorious weeks of tremendous travel! 

I feel like this blog post is like the credits at the end of a movie...*insert heartwarming music here*...

First of all, I have to say thank you to my great buddy, Jeni. Thanks for diving into all those experiences with me and forever knowing that we have great memories to share for years to come. It really was a trip of a life time. Also, thanks for putting up with me and all my antics for that length of time!

Would we have done anything differently? Not at all. Both Jeni and I have agreed that this trip was positive in so many ways. We have both said, though, that if we were to do something like this again, we would probably spend a longer period of time in less countries. With that said, I feel that this trip was a great, first time backpacking trek through Europe because we got to experience A LOT and see a large number of the major must-dos. 

I love to travel. I am fortunate and feel blessed, that, at the age of 26, I have travelled far more than I ever thought I would have by this time in my life. I hope this continues for me. There is nothing like stepping outside of your comfort zone to really put a lot of things into perspective. I know that last sentence might have been vague, but, it is more of a feeling than something I can give concrete examples of. I know I am a person of privilege, who has the ability to have a passport and cross many borders, where millions of people around the world will never know that luxury. Therefore, I think it is important, if you get the opportunity, to experience other ways of life on this planet. Thoughts, ideas, customs, practices, languages, creativity, hopes, aspirations, humor, sadness, and desperation come from a wide ocean of human experiences, and my experience is just one of billions.

Another thing that I have learned about travelling is that, often, it is made out to be an experience that is a consistent peak of highs. Constant, abounding happiness awaits the traveller! I have experienced extreme loneliness and anxiety when I have travelled. These emotions have given me the opportunity to do quite a bit of introspective thinking and taught me to trust myself. And so, travelling has given me a sense of self awareness.

Lastly, I want to thank everyone who has read, is still reading, and will continue to read my blog! I am aware that far more people are reading my words than I ever guessed would. In all honesty, I thought my parents, Jeni's family and some close friends may read it from time to time. I truly enjoyed sharing my experiences through blogging and my words have been completely natural and organic and from my heart. I have decided to continue on writing...

So, as I said before, time seemed to just melt away. Before we knew it, Jeni and I landed at Edmonton International and were warmly greeted by our anxious families.

"I sure hope those bed bugs didn't follow you guys home!" Exclaimed my mum.

One last photo from the trip...brushing our teeth in Lush at the Toronto airport