"My biggest fear will be the rescue of me, strange how it turns out that way. Could you show me dear, something I've not seen, something infinitely interesting..."

This weekend I met with my Uncle to discuss China and beyond. To say this coming summer will be a change is a drastic understatement. After Beijing, my Uncle is getting married in Greece and I will be going from working the OLYMPICS to GREECE. I just can’t imagine it. As it gets talked about more and small details start to be decided, the reality of the situation, that I’ll actually be doing these things we keep talking about, is escaping me. I’ve only ever been to Vancouver, Florida and New York. Definitely not international traveling by any means.

My Uncle asked me if I’d like to stay with them in Beijing until they fly to Greece for their wedding or since I’ll have the time, go over early without them and travel some of the islands. Crazy. Obviously I want to see and experience as much as possible, but to do so much traveling on my own is scary and somewhat daunting. I wouldn’t consider myself very direction savvy in any country, nevermind one where I don’t speak the first language. I’m definitely being thrust out of my element here.

Part of me is scared, and wondering if I’ll be able to do it without causing myself the world’s largest anxiety attack. But the other part wonders in a way, if this was what I’ve been supposed to do all along. Be put in a situation where I have to face change (I mean, after all, how long have I been complaining that I’m ready for change) and experience things that will no doubt change myself as well. I do wish I had at least one other person taking this ride literally around the world, with me, but maybe it’s for the better that no one is. Maybe I will grow more confident, stop apologizing for myself, be who I am more than I’ve ever been before, and not be so concerned with others opinions. But then again, maybe I’m romanticizing the situation and will come back basically the same, who can say.

Another thing that my Uncle suggested, (time allotting) is to consider traveling to areas the Easy Jet (some excellent form of cheap European travel apparently) to places like Italy, London, etc. Suddenly I’ve been granted a lot of travel options, and I have no idea where to go or what to do. I’ve always wanted to go to Ireland, is this the time to be going? I know a vacation will be welcomed after working intensely for a month of long/hot days during the Olympic games….but where should I go? I welcome any suggestions for locations and/or traveling tips, especially to those who have traveled alone. I’m having a really hard time believing this is my life...wow.