I’m 77 years old and at a point in my life where decisions I make are very personal, but they’re also frequently evaluated through the prism of what my family expects of me. I’ve been dreaming of doing a solo journey for years, so I decided to do it. This decision has raised a lot of doubts and mixed feelings.

I’ve always thought that life should be experienced to the utmost, no matter how old one becomes. This notion was put to the test when I had to decide if I was being self-centered or only seeking a well-earned adventure after my son’s response to my travel plans.I’ve been fascinated by the idea of traveling alone for as long as I can remember. It stands for liberty, introspection, and the opportunity to see the world as I see fit.

I’ve always dreamed of traveling to new locations, getting to know new people, and experiencing various cultures. I felt, at seventy-seven, that this was my chance to grab it now or never. My destination was a little city in Europe with a thriving arts and culture scene, beautiful architecture, and a long history.