Blazer: River Island; T-shirt: Boohoo; Beret: ASOS; Shoes: Pairs in Paris (similar here and here)
In October 2017, I made a decision to relocate to Europe for a few months. Although initially the plan was for me to return to Toronto in December, I decided to go directly to Asia from London, and then come back to Europe for another month, making my trip almost 5 months long.
5 months. That’s a long time to be living out of a suitcase(s). I’m currently in Morocco, on the last leg of my trip, and decided to calculate the specifics of my time away from home. By the time I get back to Toronto, I’d have taken 20 flights, lived in 4 apartments and 29 hotels. I’ve been able to get to know both myself, and my friends in other countries so much better. And along the way, I’ve learned a lot of lessons, so today, I thought it would be fun to share some of them with you!
1. Flights don’t have to be expensive
Yes, flights can be expensive, but no, they don’t have to be. With budget airlines, the option to book flights ahead of time, and airline loyalty cards, it is entirely possible to travel without breaking the bank.
2. It’s possible to pack lightly
Take it from someone who has built a career out of what they wear, it’s possible. Never in a million years did I think I’d be able to travel without a full-sized suitcase, but here I am in Marrakech, with a carry-on. It makes life so much easier when you don’t have to lug around a full-sized suitcase. My three biggest tips for traveling with a carry-on are to plan your outfits in advance, always take 1 less pair of shoes than you think you’ll need, and roll everything.
3. Traveling alone is liberating
Traveling with your loved ones is amazing, but you know what else is amazing? Exploring a place on your own. If you’ve never done it, it may be scary, but once you do it, I promise that you’ll realize it’s something you built up in your head. Traveling alone has built my self-confidence in a way that nothing has, and allowed me to understand what independence truly means. And the best part? When you travel alone, you get to fully dictate what you do with your time.
4. And traveling with a loved one is the best way to get to know them
I have truly treasured the trips I’ve taken with my loved ones over the last few months. It’s allowed me to get to know my friends so much better and spend real quality time with my family. Spending 24/7 with someone allows you to bond in a way that nothing else does.
5. Value experiences over material things
This has quite possibly been the most significant lesson I’ve learned. The memories you make while travelling and the lessons you learn are so much more valuable than any designer item you can possibly buy.
6. There will be hurdles but you will overcome them
Over the past 5 months, I’ve dealt with a lot of shit. From having issues with my airbnb, to fracturing my ankle and having to run to the ER 2 days before leaving for Budapest. But, these scenarios, however nightmarish they may seem at the time, make you stronger and make you more resilient and resourceful. The funniest hurdle I faced was probably when my last Air Asia flight, after traveling around Vietnam for a whole week, told me I had to check in my luggage because it was overweight by 2kg. I was having none of it, so I decided to stuff my pockets with my makeup and wear 3 dresses over each other. See? Resourcefulness!
7. It becomes an addiction
…In the best way possible. I’ve already lined up most of my trips for the next few months! I don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon and you can expect tons of content from me!
What are some lessons you’ve learned while traveling?
Photography by Michaela Efford
I love these points. Traveling can be so fun because it’s so liberating to visit a new country, or place.
https://sugarcoatedbears.blogspot.com/
I woke up feeling like I just need to take the plunge and do a solo trip somewhere I have been dying to go, I know I am still a little scared but I think this year I will def. do it.
Thanks for all the good points love!
Maurenice
IG- Villabisono
Sif!! I admire you so much for traveling alone!
I wish I could do the same!
I have loved following your travels and the fact that i got to meet you as well was amazing!
Keep the inspo coming!
Xo
Britta
Author
So happy we got to hang out in Copenhagen, Britta! I’ll have to come back soon 🙂
Oh babe – travelling is so good for the soul and I am so happy to read that you had a wonderful time! These are all such valuable lessons!
x
Shloka
http://www.thesilksneaker.com
Traveling is always so enriching and it’s teaching us so many thing! I wish I could travel more in many countries, I would probably get as addictive as you!
http://violettedaily.com
Amazing that you had this experience to be traveling for five months. You definitely get to know the world and yourself better. I also loved your thoughts on travelling alone. Never tried it, but it sounds like a very good way to spend time with yourself.
xo Corina
http://unbouquetdamour.com/business-casual/
Love to travel and how lovely that you were able to do it for so long and see so much! Agree that you learn so much when you travel by yourself and you are the only one how can solve the problems. Have a lovely week! Xx
http://www.thefashionfolks.com
Wow your travels sound amazing babe!! 5 months is definitely a long time to be away from home. Glad that you had an amazing experience and were able to get through all the obstacles that came your way!
XO, Jessi
https://jmalay.com/jonathan-simkhai-x-carbon38/
Wow Siffat, it sounds like such an incredible experience! I agree, travelling alone is a whole new world, you def learn so much about yourself!! What are your plans for when you get back to Toronto?
x Rubi
Pose & Repeat
Author
I’m headed to Tulum in a few weeks, but for now, I’m just enjoying being home and getting back into a routine!
So many lessons, I’d expect no less! I have learned some of the same things over the years. Flights from here aren’t often cheap, which is the only reason we don’t get away more. Even to go see my family I have to fork out a lot or book six months early to get any deal. Travel sure is addictive!! And some how I end up wanting to go back to so many places, even though there is still more new spots to explore!
If you could live in one place again for longer, where would you choose?
xx Jenelle
http://www.inspiringwit.com
Author
Oooh great question! I’d say London – it moves at a similar pace to North America while still offering European charm. I think I’ll make a move there soon 🙂
So awesome! I’ve loved following along on your adventures! I’m jetting off to Costa Rica and Nicaragua on Sunday and I’m also bringing a carry on! It’s the easiest way to travel and cuts down the cost on checking a bag!
http://www.luellapearl.com
Caitlin
Such a great post and it sounds like you had an amazing time.
Travelling is so enriching and I wish I could travel more! I totally agree about packing lightly, although it’s taken me years to master it!
Julia x
http://www.thevelvetrunway.com/
What a lovely read, and truly insightful. I couldn’t agree more, especially on number 4. Which is why I love traveling with my family.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Thanks for sharing your lessons! I dream of a long visit to Europe!
Can you share some of your sites and resources for airline tickets? Specific sites you use, etc? Maybe a post on it? 😊
Xo, Serene