Ever wondered what it’s like to go on an adventure? A proper adventure? With no technology. No maps. Nothing. Just 13 little blue envelopes and the necessities.
“Rule #1: You may bring only what fits in your backpack. Don’t try to fake it with a purse or a carry-on.
Rule #2: You may not bring guidebooks, phrase books, or any kind of foreign language aid. And no journals.
Rule #3: You cannot bring extra money or credit/debit cards, travelers’ checks, etc. I’ll take care of all that.
Rule #4: No electronic crutches. This means no laptop, no cell phone, no music, and no camera. You can’t call home or communicate with people in the U.S. by Internet or telephone. Postcards and letters are acceptable and encouraged.
That’s all you need to know for now. ”
Because that’s exactly what happens to Virgina (Ginny) Blackstone. Only follow the little envelopes. Her Aunt has sent Ginny on an around Europe adventure and for Ginny this 110% out of her comfort zone. Never had a boyfriend and always kept herself to herself, Ginny finds out more about herself (and her aunt) than she ever expected.
“Sometimes, life leaves you without directions, without guideposts or signs. When this happens, you just have to pick a direction and run like hell.”
This story is so in tune with the generations of individuals, couples and families who have an urge to travel, to see the world and explore. It also brings forward other less talked about problems of the youth of today…the problems of self esteem. Throughout this book we meet a low in confidence Ginny, we see her grow in confidence and in self-esteem and learn to embrace herself.
“I am a mass of contradictions.”
I’m not sure I’d be as brave as Ginny to go alone, would you? Comment below if you have been travelling and where and if you went alone! I’d love to hear all about your travels!
comment, follow and subscribe!
D x