Lettie Goes Travelling

Life is a learning curve — there’s always something new to discover. Travelling is no different.

My travel “journey” really began after nearly 30 years of not travelling at all, so I had very little data to go on. Every trip became a lesson in what worked for me… and what didn’t. Some things went brilliantly. Some not so much 😊

If your travel style has changed — maybe from family trips to solo, or couple trips to solo — your old reference points don’t always apply anymore. What worked then might not fit now.

Here’s what I’ve learned about myself along the way.

I love the sea. Always have. Being near water energises me, so lakeside or beach is a must. ✔️

I love walking, especially in nature — but in recent years I’ve also discovered I love city walking. Old town? Even better. ✔️

But what I learned the hard way is this: those things alone aren’t enough.

A few years ago Sardinia was everywhere online — stunning beaches, beautiful towns, incredible food. I got swept up in it. Found an Instagram-perfect hotel 100 yards from the sea, great reviews, lovely restaurant, set in a coastal nature reserve. Booked.

Flights ✔️

Hotel ✔️

Transfer arranged ✔️

All looked tickety-boo.

What I hadn’t really checked… was what else was around.

Turns out — nothing.

Three beach restaurants with near-identical menus.

Nature trails only suitable if you had proper hiking boots.

No shops within walking distance — not even for water.

No public transport.

Taxis expensive because they had to come out to me.

Most guests were Italian, and because there were no nearby hotels or bars, there was no one new to meet, chat to, or even people-watch.

It was surprisingly isolating.

(Thank goodness for my Kindle.)

I still had a good time — but it wasn’t the holiday I’d imagined.

I’d checked the usual red flags: noise, cleanliness, reviews, location.

What I hadn’t fully figured out yet… was what my kind of trip actually looked like.

If you’re starting out travelling solo, this is something worth knowing:

Perfection rarely exists. And if you do hit it first time — fantastic.

But the real skill is learning what your version of perfect looks like… and being ready to adjust as you discover it.

If you’ve ever had a booking wobble, you’ll know exactly what I mean.