by Jean Murray, 4-time traveler from Belleair Bluffs, Florida
When I was newly widowed, I challenged myself to go on a trip. As the time approached, I almost talked myself out of it at the last minute, even though I’d have lost the money.
But I went and it was a wonderful self-discovery. I learned that I enjoyed making trips on my own. I already knew I liked to travel. My husband and I traveled extensively over the years. In 1969, we took the kids, who were still small, to Europe for four months. We took many trips when married, but my husband would never have taken a group tour. I think he was afraid he’d have to make small talk with people he didn’t know. I’m not great at small talk either, but I like people, and I’ve enjoyed every trip with Grand Circle.
Though I’d been to Italy, I wanted to go back because I love the people, the architecture, and especially the art. I have a Master’s Degree in painting, and taught drawing and painting for many years before I retired. And I’m involved in the local art world in Portland, Oregon. So Italy is naturally of interest to me.
On my Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast trip, there were five single travelers and we bonded immediately. In our free time, we explored together. We went into a lot of churches and the art was wonderful. Having a little group of five meant our outings felt manageable and fun. We even kept in touch after the trip.
I met one woman on the trip who loved Florence like I did. Knowing how I loved the art, our Program Director steered us toward a hotel close to the Uffizi, and at night we could walk right along the river to the gallery. She spent her days taking photographs, while I followed my interest to churches and a synagogue with beautiful interiors.
I’m 81 and surgery a few months ago has slowed me down, so I can’t plan as much travel as I’d like. But I’m not done traveling solo! I’m certainly going to see more of the world, because I have learned that I truly enjoy it for myself.”