It has been many weeks since my travels in Europe and I've had some time to reflect. One thing is for sure, my 2012 summer adventures have lit the fuse on my desire to continue traveling. I've enjoyed looking back on the pictures I took and thinking back to the many interesting people I met along the way.
Currently in the United States, the press is focusing on the upcoming presidential election. There have been many outspoken young people discussing the status of the U.S. in comparison to the rest of the world. All of the things being discussed are things I experienced while overseas. I am privileged to live in the U.S., but we are a fairly pretentious nation. I was humbled by the viewpoints of the people I met, and their opinion of my home country. I now can look at my own country through the eyes of people from other countries. I still love the U.S, but now I see more clearly our downfalls.
Besides this newfound viewpoint, I also attained plenty of chocolate, jewelry, and beer. I'm still enjoying my riches from afar, and my family was also very appreciative of my spoils! I still miss the quality of the food and drinks. I would kill for some good apfelschorle or some steamy, fresh pasta right now.
The last few days overseas, I made the decision to travel alone. Although it was very stressful, I feel a sense of pride that I would not have achieved otherwise. This trip was my first time out of the country, and to be able make my own way through a foreign country was a big step in developing my confidence and skills in travel. I met more people this way and these adventures impacted me more than any others.
I'm so glad I made the decision to travel this summer, no matter the cost. It was an eye opening experience and it's something that can't be recreated or fabricated in any way. I came back a more open person, a person more willing to try new and exciting things.
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