CINQUE TERRE TOWNS: SOLO EXPLORATIONS BY THE LIGURIAN SEA

Do you recall your first experience of traveling solo? Maybe you booked a trip for one to a new place. Or perhaps you signed up to join a group expedition with no familiar faces. Whatever your unique memory may be, I'm sure there was a transformative moment of empowerment in experiencing something on your own. My version of that moment happened six years ago, on a study abroad excursion to the towns of Cinque Terre.

A Photo Walk through the Towns of Cinque Terre, Italy

On a cool sunny day in April, I decided to go for a morning photo walk in one of the seaside villages. Before, I was always around others during previous explorations. But this time, I wanted to enjoy my own company as I watched the quiet town of Riomaggiore slowly wake up. And it turned out to be the most easygoing, peaceful morning that I could have hoped for.

The pastel-painted houses were especially brilliant under the Ligurian sun. The gentle breeze brought the fresh smell of the sea more inland. Also the wisteria, the lemon & orange trees, and other spring blooms were flourishing all around. Even though Cinque Terre is such a popular destination, there is something special to witness when you venture off by yourself and see moments of daily life in these picturesque towns. Here are a few images that I captured while exploring the villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso al Mare.

After this trip, I developed a deeper interest in the possibilities of traveling solo. But little did I know that I would embark on several adventures on my own in the years to come. Feeling self-reliant and courageous enough to travel by yoursself is something to be proud of. Your chance could be booking a flight for one abroad, or venturing off to an unfamiliar spot in your city. I hope you follow that desire to explore on your own. And to encourage you, here's a post about planning your first solo trip, helpful for both novices and seasoned travelers!