Jill Higson is a guest who traveled to Vietnam and Cambodia with Journeys Within over the holidays (you can see her itinerary here) and has blogged about her experiences to share with family, friends and future visitors. Here she gives her final reflections…
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The time spent in Kep for the last two days of my trip provided the opportunity to rest, relax and reflect upon my time in Vietnam and Cambodia over the past two weeks. It also meant I could sleep in and not have to wake up at 4:00AM to see the sunrise at 6:00AM (although I loved seeing it from the temple in Angkor Wat and boat in Ha Long Bay!)
I was able to hike in the Kep National Park, and see amazing ocean views from the beauty of the mountains. With my free day I decided to take a boat to Rabbit Island to swim, lie in a hammock and get a massage. This turned out to be so fun and relaxing,I returned to the island the next day for more pampering (hard to resist an $8 an hour coconut massage!). It was great to get a chance to enjoy seafood from the grill at the local Crab Market – at about $1-$2 per skewer I could eat my fill. At the lodge where I was staying and market I visited, I had the pleasure of meeting wonderful couples from who shared their unique perspectives. It was interesting meeting them at different times given that they had all been together for over 20 years. Common themes to each couple’s happiness included not having kids or pets while enjoying plenty lots of humor and one another’s company. It renewed my hope in finding and keeping love in my life with a significant other!
Final Thoughts As A Solo Traveler
I enjoyed my time as a solo traveller. It provided me with the opportunity to enjoy, reflect and challenge myself with each day’s adventures. It encouraged me get to know and bond with the Journeys Within team in each city. Also meet and get to know some incredible individuals, couples and families from around the world, who graciously welcomed me as their new friend for a drink, meal or boat ride.
I did miss having a special person or two to share memorable moments with, to consult on shopping purchases and to take fun photos with (selfies and individual photo sessions got a little old!)
So would I travel alone again? Absolutely! With this said, I welcome anyone to join me in my further exploration and enjoyment of the beauty, wonder and history of Southeast Asia’s sites, food and people. Thailand and Laos here I come for this coming holiday season!