What’s the best worst thing that has happened to you? What an odd question… but wait, let me explain with an example. The best worst thing that happened to me was getting stood up in Britain in 2008. Not once, but twice—once in England and once in Scotland.
Being “stood up” sounds harsh, but the truth is, it was no one’s fault and it worked out well in the end. One friend couldn’t make it for avoidable reasons and the other was called away on an emergency. Anyhow, I was left holding tickets to Hamlet (starring David Tennant) and B&B bookings at the quaint Stratford-on-Avon, England; and a meticulously planned holiday in Scotland, including visits to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Inverness, with hopes of running into Nessie, the Loch Ness monster.
Despite the best efforts of family (if you know Indian families, you will know of their tendency to panic first and think of the possibility of fun and adventure later—usually too late), I decided to venture forth alone in both cases.
The result: a mind-blowing holiday! I saw Hamlet performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company; had David Tennant standing two feet from me and talking to me; saw Rebus’s Edinburgh apart from the Fringe; spent two wonderful days at Inverness, including a trip to the Loch Ness; and got to stay in real English and Scottish bed and breakfasts.
And while all that was wonderful, I got something even better out of it—the knowledge that my favourite holiday companion is myself! Yes, it was scary at times, being alone in a foreign country (though fortunately one that spoke my first language!), but it was rather liberating too.
I have to admit, I would have never dared to venture out to holiday alone, but this “accident” proved that it was not only possible and fun, but in some cases preferable too! So, if you’ve ever wanted to go on a trip with only yourself for company, but think you’re too chicken to try, plan a trip with someone and then “bribe” them to ditch you. It could be the best worst thing that will happen to you!
~PD
You should so write for a woman’s magazine! This post so reminds me of an article I read about a woman encouraging others to travel on their own.
I would if they’ll let me!
nice post on the unexpected fun of being left on your own.