I have the itch to go away, some place new.  Ever since my first independent traveling experience, a few months will pass by and then I start feeling restless, pining for some of that exciting energy that comes with being somewhere foreign, unexpected, and beautiful. Whether on my own or accompanied by friends, discovering new landscapes, architecture, food, people, or whatever, it is the new discoveries that, and as corny as it may sound, make me feel really alive.  I always feel this sense of rejuvenation when I return home from a trip, as little and short as it may have been.  It’s as if a reset button was pushed, and I can now carry on with responsibilities with a fresh and more focused head.  Perhaps I need to start making my regular, daily life a little more exciting, by making sure to go somewhere new (or not new) that will stimulate those excited feelings, but of course going on a big or little trip seems a little more adventurous.

I was fortunate enough to be able to take a trip for 3 weeks two summers ago to Europe, and I was hoping to be able to go somewhere again this summer but alas, summer school takes over.  That is not to say that little local trips and camping will not occur, but a grander experience is what I dream of.  But something may work out in the end if timing and financials go in my favour; a short trip to South Africa at the end of August.  My brother is soon leaving for South Africa to do an internship for 4 months, and has invited me to join him to travel at the end of the internship.  I, of course, cannot say no, although going to such a vast country with so much to offer for just a couple weeks and having to go on such a long flight is a bit of a deterrent, but a trip is a trip I suppose.  I dream of being able to experience some of Africa, visit some parks and go on a safari.  So I will have to wait and see when final exams will be scheduled, and what flight prices will be like, because I know that this is an opportunity not to be missed.