The Travel Bug Blog

Musings on travel & wellbeing

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

Inspiring Awe - Versailles Grand Moments and More Everyday Wonder

I believe travel has a special way of awakening our sense of wonder, helping us see the extraordinary in the world around us. But opportunities to feel awe aren’t limited to far-off destinations—they’re all around us. We miss them sometimes because our attention and intention are elsewhere: getting to work, stepping around the growing mountain of laundry, or walking to get our steps in. Due to familiarity and routine, we easily miss the reflection in the puddle, the fresh dusting of snow on the mountain, or the sparkle in the eyes of a neighbour's child. By practicing intentional noticing, we can discover those moments of magic no matter where we are.

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

10 Myths Busted! The Real Benefits of Solo Travel for Women

Benefits of Solo Travel? Wait, what!?!?

But I’m not some fearless college backpacker!

What would my family think?

What if I got lost?

Will I feel safe?

I’d feel so guilty!

I have a partner, why would I not want to go with him/her?

I’m too old.

Won’t I feel lonely?

I’d be too bloody scared to leave my hotel!

This is just a crazy idea!

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

Why Would You Choose to Walk Solo?

Discover the numerous reasons why people choose to walk solo in this blog post. From physical health benefits to mental well-being advantages such as reduced stress levels and enhanced creativity, there are countless compelling reasons to embark on a solo long-distance walk. Step outside and experience the wonders of walking alone.

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

How to Deal with Travel Anxiety: Travel Well-being Tips

You are in very, very good company if you feel pre-trip jitters and the frightening discomfort of travel anxiety before you embark on any kind of trip or vacation. It's normal to worry before you leave home. Travel is a change that distances us from our comfort zone.

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

Intrigued by solo travel? You'll love the book: Solo Travel in a Relationship

Shortly after completing my first solo journey, I discovered Jenny Mowbray's book, Solo Travel in a Relationship. I thought, THIS is the book any woman in a relationship who is even remotely intrigued by solo travel needs to read! It validated every feeling and every question I had before, during, and after my journey.

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Tracy Smyth Tracy Smyth

My Solo Walk on the Vancouver Island Trail

Vancouver Island is a nature and outdoor lover’s paradise! With many ways to actively explore its rugged beauty, spending time deep in the forest on a solo walk is my idea of a soul filling adventure.

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