Chonburi to Pattaya (Thailand): Ms. Nava's First Solo Travel and Beyond

Back from my very first trip abroad (Milan), can you believe it? Within just two months (Rome), I found myself on my first solo adventure. It wouldn't have happened without my girlfriend, who was at Amata Golf & Country Club in Chonburi, Thailand, organizing a golf tournament. She was amazing. Without her, I wouldn't have even considered traveling alone, especially for the first time. I owe her so much. But it's heartbreaking to think she's no longer here. She passed away a few years ago from breast cancer, in her early 50s. I miss her till this day. I was there for her through everything, from her chemotherapy to her funeral. It still brings tears to my eyes.

But let's put that aside for a moment. I booked my flight to Bangkok, and my hub saw me off at the check-in. I was shaking with nerves as I went through the procedures. Basically following others, and made it in one piece on board.

"Como, Lugano, and Milan: Lakeside Escapes and Urban Adventures

The final stretch of my 9-day Italian adventure (Verona) marked another chapter of exploration, beginning with a visit to the stunning Lake Como, nestled cozily in the embrace of Lombardy. The moment I laid eyes on its tranquil waters, I was utterly captivated. We took our time, strolling leisurely along the shoreline, capturing each moment with our cameras and basking in the peaceful atmosphere. The morning breeze was crisp, sending shivers down my spine, but thankfully, my trusty scarf came to the rescue. While I was wrapped up like a mummy, the others seemed unaffected, lost in the beauty of the lake. 

Verona, Italy: A Journey Through Romance and History

As the days dwindled down to just two left in Italy (Venice), a feeling of reluctance settled in (Florence). How I wished our tour could stretch on indefinitely, allowing us to bask in the beauty of this enchanting country a little while longer (Rome). But alas, reality beckoned, and we had to prepare for our return to the daily grind.

Our next destination: Verona. By 9:00 am, we found ourselves standing before the majestic Adige River, its clean waters flowing serenely beneath our gaze. The sight was a balm to our senses, soothing our souls as we took in the natural wonder of the surrounding hills and bridges that dotted the landscape.

Venice, Italy: A Day of Dreams

Amidst the hustle and bustle, we patiently waited for our turn to disembark from the boat and explore Venice on foot. Despite the initial chaos, I knew that the magic of Venice awaited just beyond the crowds, ready to be discovered and cherished (Florence & Rome).

As it was a bustling Sunday, navigating through the crowds that swarmed the streets of Venice during the peak summer season proved to be quite the challenge. Human traffic was carefully managed to ensure a smooth flow of movement, with only a certain number of people allowed to walk together at a time to prevent chaos and congestion.

Pisa, Italy: The Legendary Leaning Tower

As the sun set on our day in Rome and also, next in Florence, my anticipation for the next morning's journey to Pisa soared. After all, what could be more captivating than the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa? With excitement coursing through my veins, we embarked on the scenic route to Pisa, a journey that unfurled over four hours of picturesque landscapes and intriguing encounters.

As we approached Pisa, the sight of street vendors lining the roads, their vibrant displays beckoning to passersby, caught me off guard. What surprised me even more was the diverse array of faces behind the stalls - foreigners adding their own flair to the city's charm.

Florence, Italy: Where Art and History Flourish

Time seemed to evaporate, slipping away unnoticed. In the blink of an eye, mere moments had whisked me away to a realm of tranquility, a fleeting Zen-like experience. My soul hungered for a deeper immersion in the wonders of Rome, knowing full well that there were myriad treasures yet to uncover. Alas, such aspirations felt like mere fantasies, particularly amidst the constraints of a guided tour. But as one chapter closed, another beckoned with the promise of new adventures, and so we set our sights on Florence.

Rome, Italy: Discovering the Heart of Italy

Thinking back on my travels, there's something truly soul-stirring about those journeys. Traveling has a way of deeply touching your Zen soul, leaving an imprint on every part of your being, including your breath to your body, and mind. Even years later, those moments remain etched in memory.

My first overseas trip took me to Italy, a destination cherished by people from all corners of the globe. The excitement of the journey kept me awake on the night flight. Arriving at Rome airport, a sense of anticipation filled me. After a quick refresh in the washroom, our guide led us to the coach to begin our sightseeing adventure, starting with Vatican City.

New Delhi - Nava's Travel

Back in New Delhi (New Delhi to Shimla). Not my first time, because Delhi was also the same in and out route during my previous North India trip (New Delhi - North India). Let alone, I was again back in Hotel Sohi Residency, Karol Bagh, which seemingly is the ideal location for those who, do or die, must shop in Delhi. Specifically, in "Karol Bagh Shopping Market". Ah, this shopping thing in India. Amongst the Malaysian Indians? The shop till your drop concept. For a matter of fact, even in other parts of India, including Chennai? Seemingly a major hype. Unbelievably it is. Sorry loves, I know I shouldn't judge others, but, I still can't comprehend. I'm lost for words actually, because for someone like me, you mean you only can buy India's goods in India? They are not available in Malaysia? Or have people not digested the reality to, you can shop for India's products online, which can be cheaper? I shut my big fat mouth now. I surrender.