Much discussion and thought has gone into my experience whilst interning Kuala Lumpur and travelling solo throughout Singapore, and I felt the need to empty my thoughts and experience onto the keyboard.
My reason being, my trip was unexpected, challenging, spontaneous and character-defining. It wasn't the usual holiday or exploration into another country. Firstly because I was completing a four week internship.
THE INTERNSHIP
Minimal expectations were on my mind upon arriving in Kuala Lumpur to complete my internship, due to the fact that I was unsure if my interest in Public relations was strong enough to pursue a career in the industry, and secondly because I had no idea what this internship would entail!
Luckily for my minimal expectations as the internship required me to fulfil tedious tasks, required nine hour working days glaring into a computer screen, and a heap load of copying, pasting, scanning and filing.
My reaction, however, surprised me as I adopted a positive mindset about the situation. I observed the larger picture and recognised that the amount of positives outweighed the negatives here. I got along perfectly with the two girls living and working with me, university had paid for my attendance in Kuala Lumpur, I was completely out of my comfort zone & continuously learning about an intriguing culture and country surrounding me. Therefore I embraced these aspects of my trip and discovered more about myself each week.
Sure the weeks did drag a little, although the final week concluded in perfect timing and I was off on another adventure to explore Vietnam - my first solo travelling adventure!
CHANGE OF PLANS
Well, scratch that, because I didn't exactly make it to Vietnam.
Upon booking my accomomdation and flights online (opposed to through a travel agent), I wasn't notified that VIETNAM REQUIRES A VISA!
So as I happily pranced around Kuala Lumpur airport, suitcase, neck pillow and an overload of books in hand, I was denied boarding due to my absent visa. Unfortunately it was a Saturday - therefore applying for a visa over the weekend would take at least several days before I was granted one. My heart dropped to my stomach as I found a corner to drop my belongings and sit with my thoughts for a moment. I arrived upon the realisation that I was about to miss my flight, and I was most probably not going to arrive in Vietnam.
After calling my mum, guzzling two coffees (I had four hours sleep) and contemplating my plan B at starbucks, I decided to trust the universe and believe Vietnam was not meant to be. Singapore was only a fifty minute flight away, the country doesn't require visa's and I had never been there before. I made a quick decision and before I knew it, I a flight and accommodation booked in the heart of Singapore.
SINGAPORE
This country was a glorious destination to experience my first solo travelling adventure. Although I would have preferred to experience a more diverse culture, Singapore was extremely safe for a young woman to explore at any hour of the clock.
Travelling alone is daunting and ever so fulfilling. Besides doing WHATEVER YOU WANT, you feel a sense of independence, confidence and peace within yourself. There is a great deal of quiet time, allowing you to be alone to observe your thoughts and study your feelings. I read for atleast two hours each day, explored vegetarian restaurants and walked until I needed to ask for directions back to my hotel.
It was one of the most fulfilling adventures and a huge personal learning experience, and I wish to further explore the world on my next solo adventure throughout south east asia in 2016!
