Whenever I tell my friends that I like to go on vacations alone, they always look at me funny. Granted it’s nice to have someone to enjoy new places with, but there is something to be set for exploring a new town/city/country by oneself. It provides a time for self reflection as well as self discovery. Plus, I’ve often found it to be a great way to meet and talk with others that I never would if I were traveling with someone else. Perhaps that’s why I enjoy reading travel books. I’m thinking of this today, as I just finished reading Without Reservations: The Travels of an Independent Woman by Alice Steinbach. It chronicles the author’s travels through Europe during a year long sabbatical from her job as a newspaper reporter. Through her travels she has lots of wonderful experiences by herself as well as with other travelers who become temporary friends. It all just makes me want to pack my own bag and head off for some adventure. And what would you know; I’m off to New Orleans with Racquetball Guy. While I’m not going solo, this should still be quite interesting as it’s been a long time since I’ve traveled with a boyfriend. So wish me luck! Traveling with a boyfriend brings about a different kind of self discovery.