DAY 51 - HALFWAY DONE WITH MY TRAVELS!?

Wednesday, June 4 (Rome & Istanbul) - Somehow my '100 days of travel' posts got a little messed up over the weeks, so today is actually day 51 (even though my last numbered post was 48!).  That means I am more than halfway finished with my 100 Days of Travel!  It is a bit crazy to think that I have been on the go for so long, without staying in any one place more than a few nights.

I have definitely learned a lot - about myself, about traveling and about the world - and I thought I'd share some random thoughts, lessons and highlights from the last 50 days.

Highlights of the first 50 days of travel

Cross-country riding clinic in Ireland

Hiking the Cinque Terre with my mom

Feria de Abril in Sevilla

Celebrating the Europe League champions, Sevilla

Riding a camel and camping in the Sahara Desert

Thoughts, observations & lessons learned

• After a journey, you take two things with you:  the memory and the photographs.  Make sure you stay in the moment and don't experience the world only through a lens.

• There's more to local food than eating in a restaurant in another country.  Try actual dishes that are from the region, sip local beer, wine or cocktails, and explore side streets and non-touristy restaurants.  A crowd of locals generally means the place is good, so don't be as concerned with what the decor looks like.  

• People are generally proud of their hometown and want to make sure you see it in the best light possible.  So talk to strangers and don't be afraid to ask for advice or a local recommendation.

• With so many places in the world, there is a good chance you will never be in the same place again.  So make the most of it, turn down every street that looks interesting, and don't leave behind a gallery, shop, or ice cream store that intrigues you because you may never see it again.  Similarly, take risks and step out of your comfort zone whether that is trying a new food or going 800 meters high in a hot air balloon.