Bum, Hound, Trek
If you're one of those students who have the strong urge to go on a solocation, then you're not alone. In fact, this is the best way to go places on a shoestring budget. There might be some readers who have no idea what solocation is all about. It's not the latest web app. It's not another site, not a misspelled word for "allocation" either. You mean allowance? Absolutely.
Solocation is what students without language options would do. They're green with envy at their housemates who will spend a year abroad, but they are grinning when no one is looking around. (They may enjoy the sights and sound of the Mediterranean, but they have more assignments to deal with. Lucky you.) Others want to volunteer, but their folks are hesitant. (You promise to be a good tourist, without getting stoned.) Solo traveling requires courage, as you're in the company of strangers. But you'll find out that they have trepidations too. It won't take long before you have a short conversation with them, which you'll remember many years later.
Traveling on a foreign land can put you out of your comfort zone, but this is what you do during the term. (As if you're too good in procrastination.) There are moments when you find out you're the youngest in the (traveling) group. It's OK. They have been to many places, and their tips may give you ideas on your next holiday.
What are the best places for solocation? Here are the top three:
The beach bum in Australia. Down Under has everything, but you want a sun-kissed moment. You'll find it in the Pacific. Sydney is not to be missed, with Bondi Beach unleashing your playful nature. (Surf to your heart's delight, without swallowing sea water.) If you prefer the shade, then bring a book. Go further north, and you'll find a cluster of islets and atolls. The Great Barrier Reef is a marine paradise, where snorkeling is a must. No if or but.
The culture hound in Indochina. Civilizations once flourished in this part of Asia. If you haven't known it, then don't have second thoughts. Spend half a day at Angkor Wat. You'll admire its structure and carvings, but it will be the mystic faces of Bayon Temple that will blow you away. Don't be terrified at the howling of feral dogs. (And don't forget to climb up the small pyramid besides it. The Khmer people stored their books in it, prompting you to wonder if people from a Mesoamerican civilization crossed what was once the land mass.) Don't pass up the lesser-known temples, as they are no less interesting than Angkor Wat. The long list includes the lovely temples in Luang Prabang, where you won't have a Laos-y time.
The good trekker in Florence. You'll discover the good life in the fertile valley of Tuscany. And you can't get enough of wine. (Perhaps a bit too much of it can be a good excuse.) Imagine the Renaissance at the height of its glory, while looking at the majestic churches and impressive paintings. (Jostein Gaarder's "Sophie's World" can be a good companion.) This is one journey you won't mind doing again. If you like to see the sea, then you must travel to the coastline. But don't miss what Florence has to offer.
