In the last post, I said, “Don’t wait for life to start. Live it now.” In case you’re wondering about the financial logistics, I want you to keep this in mind:
You Don’t Have to Be Rich—You Just Have to Be Ready
I know what you’re thinking: “But traveling’s expensive!” Add in all of these taxes/tariffs and tourists’ nightmares, and it starts to feel like traveling is a fever dream.
Sure, it can be expensive to see the world. But it can also be shockingly affordable when you plan well. Over the next few months, I will share some more tips to help you to maximize your ability to travel even while on a tight budget.
But for now, here are a few beginner-friendly tools:
- Google Flights: Flexible date search = magic.
- Skyscanner: Great for finding cheap flights and exploring “Everywhere” as a destination (then you can pick the one that is friendliest to your budget).
- Hopper: A site that tells you the best time to buy and also helps you keep track of price drops.
- Expedia.com: Various packages available and cancellation flexibility for travelers.
- Hostelworld: Budget-friendly and female-only dorm options available.
Now maybe you’re excited to try some of these out but also have some fear/anxiety related to traveling alone. In that case, I suggest you start off small. For example, start with a staycation in a nearby city or a domestic flight. But if you’re feeling bold, why not consider:
- Mexico (relatively affordable + close)
- Portugal (solo-travel friendly + safe)
- Thailand (cheap and stunning)
- Costa Rica (adventure, beaches, and coffee. Need I say more?)
(***Sidenote, given all of the changes surrounding immigration and extra security at the border, definitely do your research before booking any flights that are international. I’d hate for any of my sisters to get stuck outside the country!***)
God Will Meet You There
Now, maybe some of you worry that God’s primary home is the church. The thought of potentially missing a church service here or there, or leaving your hometown for a short vacay, fills you with dread. If that’s the case, I want you to remember this:
- God is everywhere.
- The Holy Spirit lives in You. Yes sis, in little, old you.
We sometimes think the only “holy ground” is inside four church walls. But that’s not entirely true. God is not only omniscient and omnipotent. He’s also omnipresent. There is nowhere you can go that God can’t see or find you. God is the master creator. and His Holy Spirit lives in you.
God created every sunrise in Santorini.
He painted the hills of Tuscany.
He still speaks in the stillness of unfamiliar places.
Psalms 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
When you travel, you don’t just learn about the world, different cultures, or various experiences — you also get to learn about yourself and build your self-confidence. In addition, on the plus side, you learn more about the God who made you and the world.
I want you to be able to travel and see the world. Whether it’s the jungles of South America, the mountains of Colorado, or the beaches of the Caribbean, I want you to get to see, taste, and experience it all. But first and foremost, I want you to be safe.
Better Safe than Sorry
How can you be safe as you start the traveling (and potentially solo traveling) journey? You need to be wise and discerning (praying and seeking wise counsel will help with that), you need to do research, and if you’re traveling alone you definitely need to share your itinerary with people you love and trust (preferably those who will come running if something goes left…or sideways).
And remember, being safe isn’t about feeling scared about any and everything. It’s about learning to be prepared and not acting without forethought. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Register your trip with STEP (U.S. citizens only).
- Buy travel insurance (try SafetyWing or World Nomads).
- Stay in well-rated places, talk to others who have traveled to where you’re considering going, and read reviews like your life depends on it (because it kinda does).
- Trust your gut!!! I can’t say this enough. If at any time something feels off, leave! Sometimes, your gut can pick up on things before your conscious mind can.
- Use AirTags in your luggage (techy trick that’s worth it).
- Always, always pray before you go. Tell God, “If you’re not going, don’t let me get on the plane, train, cruise ship, bus, car, etc.“).
Final Thoughts
You have the time, the calling, and the permission to see the world right now. Don’t wait for a husband to “go with” you.
Go with your first husband and unconditional lover: God.
This is your season to collect actual memories and experiences, not just Pinterest pins and boards filled with all of the things you hope to eventually do once God finally decides to send you a husband.
This is your season to get lost (in the world/your travels) and to find (yourself). This is your season to realize you were never really waiting—you were just getting ready. So pack the bag. Buy the ticket. And text me when you land or tag me in your pics #FSWOchronicles.
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