For one

Traveling with friends, family or significant other often returns some of our best memories ever. But traveling doesn't always require a partner ; sometimes that best partner is yourself. Before traveling to Amsterdam for work, I found myself in Prague. Just myself. 

The first time I traveled alone, it was around my 18th birthday before going to university. It was an adventurous 10 days in England. In contrast, 48 hours in Prague was short yet different in so many ways. On one end it's the technology, selfies with dual camera phones (and much more acceptable by social standards), Google Maps (What are folded paper maps?), Uber (Shamelessly did not take any public transportation in Prague to save time) and just Google/TripAdvisor (who needs to ask for suggestions or recommendations anymore?). On the other end, it's my perception of the world and how I choose to experience a city. I am so much more intrigued by history, good food and long walks to feel the city.

What did not, and likely will never, change about traveling alone is the freedom. Flying red-eye can be a challenging start to a short trip, yet I was able to rest and explore whenever I like. I walked around the city at my own pace. If I had not been by myself, I might not be able to sporadically decide to wake up early and have the Old Town Square to myself at 8am. 

It was a stark contrast to the liveliness of the square in mid afternoon the day before. Even the Charles Bridge is still clear of street vendors. With only few pedestrians, the walk on the Charles Bridge felt rewind in time before it became an attraction. Perhaps the whole city is still slowly waking up from Saturday night parties, I was not going to complaining about the precious moments having Prague to myself that morning. 

Right then at the square, suddenly I realized that freedom has translated into serenity. The luxury to reflect on my own thoughts and quiet down everything else around me. Whether it was to focus on every detail the chef put into creating the dish for me or to gaze down to the river and entire city of Prague from the castle on the hill.

These were rare moments when I got to know myself better, when my thoughts were as clear as the sky. The purpose of me ; what I desire to have and who I aspire to be.