When people study abroad, they usually have a list of cities and countries they want to visit. But sometimes your interests don’t match up with your friends, and you’re faced with a decision: spend a lot of money somewhere you’re unsure about, or stay behind and figure something out on your own. Instead of staying at home, I opted to take some solo trips and experience something new.
tivoli
My first solo weekend was at the beginning of the semester, and I wasn’t quite sure how I wanted to spend it. On Saturday, I visited a museum and wandered around Rome, seeing the Colosseum for the first time and really enjoying the beauty of the city at my own pace.
The next day, I took a day trip to Tivoli. Less than an hour by train, I stepped into a charming town, where I hiked along waterfalls and wandered quiet streets. It was a refreshing change in the energetic pace of urban life.
Deciding to leave Rome on my own, explore the train station and wander into unfamiliar places showed me what I’m capable of. It gave me a sense of independence that lasted with me for the rest of my time abroad and helped me stop being afraid of being alone.
Santa Marinella
This past weekend, I once again separated from my friends and spent the weekend in Santa Marinella, a small seaside town north of Rome. Within 5 minutes of getting off the train I was at the beach.
Walking around the city made me feel nostalgic – it reminded me of Florida. The weather was amazing, sunny almost every day and 70 degree temperatures. Laying on the beach, people watching, listening to my audiobooks, and swimming is the perfect relaxing weekend.
Sunday was spent in Rome. After church service, I sat in a park and journaled for hours, appreciating the quiet atmosphere after busy travel days.
Perspective
Looking back, these weekends may have seemed lonely to some, but I saw them as peaceful and opportunities for growth. It really depends on your mindset.
I learned to navigate a busy Rome train station alone. I figured out how to read departure boards in different cities. I practiced Italian with locals and experienced new places at my own pace, even if that meant slowing down or packing a lot more luggage.
I also found more time for reflection and prayer in quiet moments, noticing everything around me and feeling grateful for it.
Was it uncomfortable at times? Absolutely. Did I miss the constant conversation? Yes. But it was in that restlessness that I saw myself growing.
And honestly, that’s the point.
Some of the most meaningful parts of studying abroad don’t happen in large groups or on perfectly planned trips. They happen when you choose to go or stay, even if it means being alone.
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