Traveling alone in your sixties can be a thrilling yet daunting experience. It requires a unique blend of determination, courage, and perhaps a touch of optimism. Every year, I embark on an extensive journey from Ottawa, Canada, to my tranquil home on Koh Lanta, Thailand. This expedition includes two lengthy international flights, a quick domestic hop, extended layovers, and a scenic ferry ride. At 72, I have come to embrace the solo journey as a distinctive adventure.
As I set off from home, I braced myself for the inevitable roadworks that plague Ottawa. Despite having checked in online, I received an enigmatic notification indicating that my boarding passes would only be available after a document review. Nothing like a little pre-flight mystery to spark excitement!
First leg of the journey: From Ottawa to Vancouver
The first leg of my trip was a six-hour flight to Vancouver, which turned out to be uneventful. Somewhere over the vast Prairies, I savored half of my Subway sandwich—a reminder that domestic flights have evolved into a bring your own meal scenario. While airborne, I indulged in a documentary featuring a vegan chef revitalizing a Nashville pub, inspiring me to contemplate a semi-vegan lifestyle this winter.
Reconnecting with family
Upon arriving at Vancouver Airport, I eagerly met my cousin Honey in our traditional rendezvous spot at International Departures. This annual ritual has deepened our connection over the past two years. She looked radiant and surprised me with homemade Greek filo pastries that I devoured before I even remembered to chew. We spent time exchanging news from Ottawa and plans for the future, relishing the grounding effect of our brief reunion before I continued my solo journey.
Long-haul flight to Bangkok
The flight to Bangkok was fully booked, accompanied by a relentless downpour outside. As we prepared for takeoff, the pilot’s announcement caught me off guard: “We’ll be starting one engine here and the other just before departure.” Should I be worried? Once we were in the air, turbulence rocked us for the initial hours, but I learned to treat it as mere background noise on a 17-hour flight. I attempted to watch The Studio, a critically acclaimed series from last year, but after four episodes of chaos, I switched to a cooking competition marathon featuring 24 chefs working non-stop.
During the flight, I napped, stretched, and engaged in a game of Sudoku—my go-to comfort activity while soaring through the skies. My choice of a seat near the kitchen and restrooms proved advantageous. The flight attendants encouraged passengers to stretch and move, resulting in a back-of-the-plane yoga session with people stretching their legs against the walls and even attempting mid-air tai chi.
Surviving the marathon flight
By the tenth hour, I stopped monitoring the flight duration. When I finally checked the time again, only two hours remained—a small, delightful victory! However, immigration at Bangkok was sluggish, and retrieving luggage took an eternity. Checking in again for my final flight to Krabi brought my total travel time to nearly 30 hours. To reward myself, I opted for a more luxurious lounge, complete with soft lighting, comfortable chairs, and a delightful buffet. It felt more like a boutique hotel lobby than an airport.
I considered changing out of my embroidered Happy Cat jeans but decided they had earned their right to accompany me until the end of this lengthy journey.
Final stretch to paradise
The short flight to Krabi was smooth, and my driver was prompt. I promptly fell asleep in the car, enjoying a rejuvenating hour of deep, dreamless slumber. This power nap revived me just in time to appreciate the breathtaking ferry ride, where the sky transformed into a mesmerizing palette of blue and red as the sun dipped below the horizon—a serene and beautiful welcome back.
Upon reaching Happy Cat Villa, my cat Phai greeted me with a mix of curiosity and relief, clinging to my side while scrutinizing me to ensure I was indeed her human. After a refreshing shower and unpacking a few essentials, I collapsed into bed, miraculously sleeping for ten straight hours. Perhaps this year, the 12-hour time difference wouldn’t be as daunting as I had anticipated—a glimmer of hope for a 72-year-old.
Lessons learned from years of travel
After a quarter-century of traversing the globe in what feels like a flying tin can, I have gathered a collection of insights that evolve with each journey. Here are ten timeless truths:
- The journey may seem endless, but it will eventually conclude. Embracing this reality alleviates travel stress.
- When in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Airline staff, airport personnel, and fellow travelers are often more than willing to assist.
- Patience is key. Most rudeness in crowded spaces isn’t personal.
- Bring your own supplies. Future-you will appreciate past-you’s foresight.
- Expect cold temperatures on flights. Layering clothing is wise.
- Keep your documents handy. This helps streamline the process.
- Complete all forms in advance. This reduces chaos upon landing.
- Understand that noise and movement are normal.
- Prepare entertainment. Bring books, puzzles, or simple crafts—don’t rely solely on Wi-Fi.
- Preparation fosters calm. Remember, your ultimate destination is worth every effort.
A 45-hour travel experience is undoubtedly challenging, but the rewards outweigh any discomfort. Traveling solo is not as intimidating as it seems. Once I reach my destination, I tend to forget the tough moments… until the next adventure beckons.
Next spring, I plan to be even better equipped with more snacks, layers, and perhaps fewer candies.
