by Sherrie Neff
Scotland, a place that resonated with me on a deeply personal level.
We often think we meticulously plan our trips, but sometimes, the destinations choose us. The places we gravitate towards reveal hidden desires, inviting us to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Is it the challenge of pushing our limits in the majestic Highlands, where the rugged peaks seem to touch the sky, that you crave? Or perhaps the tranquility of a remote lochside cabin, nestled amidst the lush greenery, that whispers to your soul?
Reflecting on my most profound experiences in Scotland, I am mindful of these internal nudges. Listen to your inner voice. What whispers of adventure or serenity does Scotland sing to you?
The local pub in Edinburgh, a vibrant hub of traditional Scottish songs and poems that filled the air until the early hours of the morning. The atmosphere was electric, and I instinctively tapped my foot to the rhythm of the music,
feeling a deep connection to the rich tapestry of Scottish culture.
I felt a direct connection to the ground at the historical sites of wars and battles for sovereignty and freedom, like the Culloden Battlefield and the Stirling Castle. Picturing those ancestors with swords fighting for the right to govern themselves, rule their lands, and pray their own way, I couldn't help but feel a profound respect for their courage and resilience. It was a humbling experience, standing on the same ground where history was made.
It touches my heart and soul.
Yet, I also enjoyed the beautiful gardens at some castles I visited. The ornate decor and design of the buildings were entertaining. Some had gargoyles that were quite gruelish, while others were very royal and proper. Walking to the top of the Wallace Monument after three days and three castles felt like the physical challenge I needed. The steep stairs and the height were daunting, but the view from the top was absolutely worth it.
We did not have enough time to rent the cabin on the lochside, but I will definitely return to enjoy the tranquil parts of the highlands. The fishing there is some of the best in the world.
Along with all of the sights, sounds, and history, I also loved the food! Fish and chips in the coastal towns. From the salty, savory haggis crispy on my burger to the deep flavor of my Guinness, the food is an essential part of traveling for me, too. What is it that pulls you?
Wherever you may go!
This applies far beyond Scotland. When we contemplate where to spend our precious time and resources, we are drawn to one place or another.
Sometimes, it's the physical challenge to our own abilities beckoning us to mountain peaks or rushing rivers. Sometimes, it's the opposite: a yearning for peace and rest, a place to slow down and truly recharge. Beautiful sites or delicious meals, each of us has a connection to our dream vacation. Knowing what it is can prevent disappointment and an empty feeling when you are done.
Don't get me wrong—there are often bumps in the road as we travel, from storms to traffic accidents, but even those bumps are easier to handle when the trip is right—when everything else is as we need it most!
Awareness of this pull is the key to the most profound travel satisfaction. If you are genuinely needing to be challenged, embrace it! Hike that mountain, kayak those rapids. If you need only rest, get the type of rest that will, in fact, renew your soul. Whether it's the rugged landscapes of Scotland or the serene beaches of Bali, listen to that inner voice and design your trip to fulfill its desires.
Who you go with is very important. Although I see an increase in the popularity of traveling alone, this, too, is one of the pulls to pay attention to. For me, I enjoy having a friend with me. My trip to Scotland was a dream come true, but it would have been half the vacation had I not had my best girlfriend with me. Jen is a large part of my travel experiences, and her presence added a layer of joy and shared memories to our trip.
By embracing the concept of awareness in our travel experiences, we can turn them into transformative journeys of self-discovery and exploration. This not only enriches our personal experiences but also makes our travel more engaging and thought-provoking. Let your next trip be a testament to the profound impact of mindful travel, a journey we can all relate to and learn from!
Call Destination Oracle to start planning that journey! (406) 564-8070.
Well written and thought inspiring! The adventurer in me is already listening more!