Transformed by Travel: Globally Grown – Part 4.
Back in 2011, when I was a much younger, more naive version of myself, I embarked on an adventure that would forever shape who I am today: a solo backpacking trip across Europe, sleeping only in tents.
The world was a different place then. Smartphones weren’t ubiquitous, and “influencer” wasn’t even a word. Communicating with home meant struggling with a text-only phone, finding a cafe, or splurging on a payphone call. Snapping photos required a dedicated camera, limited memory cards, and a lot more intention than the endless scrolls we capture today.
Despite these hurdles, I set off with a backpack, slept in a tent, and a spirit of boundless curiosity. I went alone, flying out of Cape Town in South Africa, a daunting prospect that quickly turned into one of the best decisions I made. Early on in my journey (which started in Paris for me), I linked up with a tour group, they had all started in London I believe – a fantastic bunch of fellow adventurers from all corners of the globe who, to this day, remain some of the most amazing people, and yes we are still connected, thank you Facebook! We shared laughs, navigated language barriers, and endured countless “character-building” moments together.
One particular memory that stands out vividly is our time in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland. Even now, the name conjures images of an almost impossibly perfect landscape. Imagine towering, sheer rock faces, hundreds of meters high, draped in countless waterfalls cascading down like silvery ribbons. (and let’s not forget snow-capped!) The valley floor was a vibrant green, dotted with charming chalets and the distant clanging of cowbells and ringing church bells. It was breathtaking, a place that felt like it belonged in a fairytale.
But as idyllic as it was during the day, the nights in Lauterbrunnen were a harsh reminder of my chosen mode of accommodation. My tent, while a faithful companion, offered little solace against the biting Alpine chill. I remember the one night, shivering uncontrollably, pulling out every single item of clothing from my backpack – every t-shirt, every pair of socks, my lone jumper, even my underwear – and layering them all on, one over the other, just to generate enough warmth to fall asleep. It was ridiculous, uncomfortable, and utterly necessary.
The one silver lining to the frigid nights, however, was the incredible natural refrigeration system at our disposal. The creeks fed by the glacial meltwater were icy cold, perfect for chilling our meager supply of drinks. We’d place our drinks in the creek water, retrieving them later, gloriously cold and refreshing. A small luxury, but a much-appreciated one.
Financially, the trip was a constant tightrope walk. Coming from South Africa, the exchange rate for the Rand against the Euro meant every meal, every drink, every single purchase felt like a monumental decision. There were days I barely ate, opting for the cheapest bread and cheese, and drinks were an absolute luxury. It was a testament to youthful resilience and sheer willpower, making this solo dream a reality.
Looking back, that trip was more than just a vacation; it was a crucible of self-discovery. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to be resourceful, independent, and adaptable. I learned to navigate unfamiliar cultures, overcome communication barriers, and embrace the unexpected. More importantly, I forged unbreakable bonds with people who started as strangers and became family as we adventured through the unknown.
The Lauterbrunnen cold, the tight budget, the difficulty of staying connected – all those challenges faded into the background, leaving behind only the profound sense of accomplishment and the rich tapestry of memories. That solo backpacking adventure across Europe, fraught with its difficulties but brimming with discovery, laid the foundation for the person I am today. It taught me the true value of experience over possessions, the power of human connection, and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
