Some context. I recently traveled to Spain to visit my best friend whom I’ve never met. We met over the Internet like many people do today. (Foreign language exchange website). We have been friends for over two years at this point. My best friend means the world to me. I had to go. Spain. I wanted to visit Spain this year because I just started a new full-time job. I didn’t know when I’ll ever have the chance to go. I negotiated a two-week vacation within my first three months at my job. (I also got one-week paid vacation, I work hard). Then I bought my ticket, counting down the days till my flight.

One mistake could change your whole life forever. I was traveling to Malaga from Granada, Spain via Bus. I arrived in Malaga around 7-7:30pm. Exhausted from the long bus ride, ecstatic to stretch my legs. But unknowingly got off on the wrong station. Before I knew my bus was already gone. The battery on my phone was almost used up. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t want to worry my friend. Luckily, I had money and time on my side. My flight was set for the next morning. But it was getting dark and my Spanish isn’t great. So, I started walking.

In Hindsight the 4.6 miles walk, felt like a marathon. I didn’t really spend a lot of time in Malaga during my trip to Spain. The moment I arrived in Spain. I got on a bus headed straight to Granada. (my favorite city in the world). Basically, I was Lost. No map. My phone was almost dead. I couldn’t tell you how many times I wanted to pay some Uber to take me to the airport. (This cheap American made it work). I just looked for street signs pointing in the direction of the Airport. I stumble upon a Subway station which takes within a few miles of the Airport. With the newly found confidence, I set out to the Airport once again. Finally arriving at the Airport covered in sweat I find a vending machine. Water bottles cost 4 Euros. I happily paid the 4 Euros. If there is anything to take away from this story it’s that.

What I personally learned from this experience was that it is okay to ask for help. (ask people whom you feel safe to talk. Be cautious of people who come to you for help). Generally, for much of my life, I have been a shy, quiet outspoken young man. I was afraid to ask people for help because my Spanish isn’t great and the fear of them making fun of me was too great. But so many of life’s greatest memories are made is when fear is thrown to the wind. I’d say for my first solo trip I did okay! Please be safe during your travels! Always tell someone where you are! I hope that this episode has inspired you to do something you’re afraid of. Let’s make fewer mistakes next time!

By Ken Phakkhonkham.

1. Buy an external phone charger. Anker Powercore
2. Buy a map. Lonely Planet Map Resource
3. Pay attention to where you are. (obviously, I didn’t).
4. Tell someone you trust.