Day 44 - So how was the first solo trip?

1) Planning
Yes, the planning stage sucks. Comparing prices, unable to book ferry tickets because of strange web system, checking out all types of time tables, some in foreign language etc. But it was worth it.

2) Maps
Yes, I'm a map freak. I must have map for every place I go. Even in Singapore, I would search Streetdirectory.com for the shortest route to the place I want to go. But it was in Field Studies, where we were thrown into small places without maps, did I realise that it is very much possible to survive without a map. And yes, it doesn't mean you would lose your way or waste a lot of time taking 冤枉路. Especially in chaotic Fira in Santorini - I didn't lose my way back to the bus terminal as I thought I would.

3) Confidence
I wouldn't be confident to take a solo trip if not because of Field Studies. Serious. But now, I have even more confidence in planning or taking trips

4) Talking
One thing about solo trips - it makes you talk to others more. I get to know more people, instead of mostly among your friends. I met a Swedish, Italian, Greeks, American-working-in-UK, etc. The most memorable one was this uncle at the Acropolis toilet, who despite his very limited command in English, tried to verify some mathematical expansion formulas and Socrates quotes with me. His desire to learn and his friendliness is something I will remember.

Although the attractions in Athens and Santorini is quite tourist-ified, the people are not. That is, what I think, one of the greatest charms of Greece that is most overlooked.