13 Days, 3 countries, 8 flights.. multiple Buses, trains, and cabs…. ==>> Memories to cherish. #solo woman traveler
Ever since I can remember, visiting Spain for my first international solo adventure had been a dream. The kind of dream that makes your heart race just thinking about it. By the end of 2017, I was determined—this was going to happen. No more dreaming. 2018 had barely begun, and I was already hyped, mapping out my trip. Since I love doing something special around my birthday, I circled the first week of August as my target.
Excited and full of wanderlust, I started my research. And within days, reality hit me like a ton of bricks. August in Spain? Oh boy…
- It’s HOT. Like, melt-in-the-sun kind of hot.
- It’s peak tourist season. Hello, crowds!
At first, I was pretty bummed. Who wants to roast in the heat while fighting off swarms of tourists? But I wasn’t ready to give up. I read countless blogs, scoured travel websites, asked locals (thanks, Facebook travel groups!), and even talked to travel agents. After all that research, I had a breakthrough: stick to the coast and skip the blazing-hot south. That was my game plan!
A few months flew by, and my itinerary was still messy. I had hoped to book everything early and save money, but I was overwhelmed. So, I shook things up. Why not visit more countries while I’m at it? A little brainstorming later, I had it:
- Spain (Barcelona and Ibiza)
- Norway (Bergen and Flam)
- Netherlands (Amsterdam)
The trip would be 13 days of pure adventure.
The Dreaded Visa Process
If you’ve ever applied for a Schengen visa, you know it’s a mix of paperwork chaos and nail-biting worry. No one was sponsoring me, so I handled everything myself. It took a month and a half to gather all the documents. I was terrified my visa might get rejected. But then… joy! In early July, I got my passport back, stamped and approved by the Spanish embassy. I was going to Europe!
It’s Getting Real
With my visa in hand, I dove into full-on planning mode—flights, hotels, buses, trains—you name it. My to-do lists had to-do lists. I spent countless sleepless nights researching every detail. During my free time, I’d scroll through photos of Barcelona, Ibiza, and beyond, imagining myself there. The excitement was real—I could hardly sleep!
The Day Had Finally Arrived
July 31, 2018. The day I had been waiting for. I boarded my flight to Barcelona with my heart bursting from a mix of excitement and nerves. Fifteen hours later, I arrived—and I felt anything but tired.
Barcelona greeted me with its sunny skies and vibrant streets. I hopped on a bus and metro to reach my hotel, Catalonia Sagrada Familia. Every little thing felt magical: the people, the language, the newness of everything.
After checking in, I freshened up, threw on my best walking shoes, and stepped out into the city. My first stop? A charming little street café, where I enjoyed some fresh veggies and apple juice.
And just like that, my Spanish adventure had begun.
Stay tuned for more stories from the road—this was the beginning of a trip I’ll never forget!

A Rocky Start in Barcelona
So, here’s a plot twist I didn’t expect on Day 1—some of my money was stolen right out of my bag. Yep, just like that. To say I was disheartened would be an understatement. It shook me. Barcelona had barely said hola, and I was already dealing with pickpockets. But you know what? I wasn’t about to let that ruin my entire trip. I brushed it off, took a deep breath, and promised to stay cautious but enjoy every moment.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting Barcelona, keep a sharp eye on your belongings—pickpockets are everywhere!


Barcelona is a beautiful city, but if you’re not fluent in Spanish, get ready for a bit of a challenge! English isn’t widely spoken, so having conversations was tricky for me. But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right?
In the evenings, I got to explore some of the most famous spots in the city. First up was Las Ramblas, a lively street stretching through the heart of Barcelona that connects with Plaça de Catalunya. This area is a shopper’s paradise, packed with people strolling, window shopping, and soaking up the vibe. Just keep in mind—it’s a prime tourist zone, so prices are definitely on the higher side.
Plaça de Catalunya, or Catalonia Square, had a surprise I didn’t expect—pigeons, and lots of them! These little guys were super friendly, happily pecking away at seeds people tossed around. It felt like a scene from a movie with birds swirling everywhere.
Of course, I couldn’t miss La Boqueria Market. This famous fruit market right off Las Ramblas was bursting with color, fresh produce, and a mix of delicious smells. It’s a feast for the senses and an absolute must-visit if you’re ever in Barcelona!


Another beautiful day in Barcelona, and this time I visited the iconic Sagrada Família—an absolute masterpiece! No surprises here—I’m loving every bit of this city. It’s got charm, history, and a vibe that makes you want to wander for hours.
One thing I really appreciated? The local transport system. The buses, trains, and metro are super efficient, and the roads are well-maintained. It’s easy to get around, and people are generally helpful if you need directions. Just skip the cabs—they’re pricey! Stick to public transit, and you’ll save a lot.
As you explore, you’ll notice tons of bars and cafes lining the streets, offering snacks and drinks at really affordable prices. It’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite or just relaxing with a coffee while people-watching.
But there is one downside—no free drinking water. Yep, you’ll have to buy bottled water everywhere, so keep that in mind.
One cool thing I didn’t expect? Lots of Indian-owned general stores! Many Indians work there, and if you’re craving a taste of home, you can even find Indian food in the market near Las Ramblas. Barcelona does have something for everyone!
The fruit market is a must-visit in Barcelona. There are so many different fruit options, and each one is just wow. Juicy fruits are sold in small packs, and many vendors are selling them similarly in this market.
After spending 2 days in Barcelona, I headed to the party Island IBIZA…JJ

Ibiza is pure magic! I arrived close to midnight, but the island was still buzzing with life. People were out and about, and the streets were alive with energy—it felt like the night had just started. I crashed at my hotel, completely unaware of the incredible view waiting for me.
When I woke up and saw it? Wow. The sunrise over Ibiza is like something out of a dream. The orange and red hues of the morning sun reflecting on the ocean turned everything into a picture-perfect scene. It was one of those moments where you just stop and soak it all in.
I hit the beach early, and it was practically deserted—just a few people strolling along the shore. The calmness of it all was mesmerizing. I’ve never seen a beach quite like this before. The water was so crystal-clear, the sand soft and white—it felt like I had stepped into a postcard.
Honestly, it took my breath away. This kind of beauty sticks with you. Ibiza, you’ve already stolen my heart!


It was my birthday—yay! 🎉 I kicked off the day by snapping tons of pictures and selfies (because why not?). Every single moment felt special, and I soaked it all in. After a fabulous breakfast, the real fun began—I hopped on a boat cruise party!
Picture this: a boat full of people, loud music pumping, drinks flowing, and an insanely talented DJ keeping the vibes high. It was everything I could have hoped for and more. The energy was electric, the atmosphere was unreal, and I couldn’t stop smiling.
Honestly, it was just perfect. Ibiza, you’ve officially won me over. I’m coming back for more!
Ibiza is hands down the best party spot in the world! I spent two unforgettable days soaking in the island’s vibes. Both days were all about Playa d’en Bossa, the ultimate holiday resort with its endless beach, great music, and incredible energy. It’s the kind of place where the party never really stops.
On my second day, I took things a bit slower—just wandered around the city, explored some charming little markets, and soaked up the laid-back side of Ibiza. From beach parties to quiet city strolls, this island has it all.


Apart from the intense heat and blazing sun, everything about Ibiza was amazing!..Tapas is one of the famous food items you will get here. Tapas has a variety of appetizers, one of the famous Spanish cuisine.
From Ibiza to Bergen: Trading Sunshine for Fjords
After an amazing time soaking up the sun in Ibiza, it was time for my next adventure—Bergen, Norway! As soon as I stepped off the plane, I got hit with a blast of icy air. Let me tell you, it was freezing, and, to top it off, it was raining. Welcome to Norway, right? Fun fact: Bergen is actually Norway’s second-largest city.
Getting from the airport to my hotel was super easy. There’s this super convenient bus that takes you straight into the city center, and my hotel was just a 2-minute walk from the stop—perfect when you’re juggling bags in the rain!
I had four days to explore Norway, with plans to visit Bergen, Voss, and Flam. Bergen itself has such a cozy vibe. The city center is compact and easy to navigate, and the suburbs are clearly laid out, making it stress-free to get around. One of the first things I noticed? The people here are so friendly. Honestly, their warmth made the chilly weather way more bearable.
I stayed at the Thon Hotel Bristol, and I’m officially a fan. The staff were amazing, always ready to help, and their breakfast? Unreal. It was the perfect fuel to kick off my days.
Now, about Bergen—it’s tucked between jaw-dropping mountains and incredible fjords, including Sognefjord, which is Norway’s longest and deepest. The whole city feels super safe, which is such a win for solo travelers. You can wander around and take it all in without a care in the world.
Here are some snaps from my stroll around Bergen’s city center—it’s such a charming and cozy place. I couldn’t get enough of its beautiful, laid-back vibe!





You will find here Bergen light rail, Buses, and cars using the same road. I walked from Byparken towards the Bryggen. It was scenic. Bryggen in Bergen is famous for its medieval wharf and historic harbor district known for its colorful, wooden-clad boat houses.
Beautiful Bergen City


Later on, I headed to Fløyen (or Fløyfjellet), one of the iconic mountains of Bergen. Getting there was half the fun! I took a ride on the Fløibanen, Norway’s only funicular railway and one of the country’s top attractions. The ride itself is super quick—just 6 to 7 minutes—and it whisks you right up the hillside.
Once at the top, the views are absolutely breathtaking! You get a stunning aerial panorama of Bergen city, complete with its charming rooftops, fjords, and surrounding mountains. It’s a picture-perfect spot that every tourist must experience. Trust me, it’s worth it!
That evening, I hopped on a train to Voss, and let me tell you—the rail journey from Bergen to Voss and Flam is nothing short of spectacular. It’s famous for a reason! The entire ride feels like moving through a real-life postcard, with stunning mountain views that keep you glued to the window. Every turn reveals another scene more mesmerizing than the last.
Voss is a charming little village surrounded by rivers, mountains, fjords, and peaceful lakes. I stayed at the cozy Vossestølen Hotel, which had the perfect rustic vibe for such a serene spot. It’s a tiny village with only a handful of houses, but the tranquility makes it feel like a peaceful retreat. The view of Opheim Lake? Simply magical. It added an extra layer of calm to an already beautiful place.
Finding good vegetarian food was a bit of a challenge, but I made do with some bread slices and tea—it wasn’t fancy, but the views made everything worthwhile!




One thing that really surprised me about Spain (and even in Norway!) was how long the days are. I checked into my hotel at 9:00 PM, and it was still broad daylight! Even at 11:00 PM, it wasn’t fully dark yet—totally blew my mind. The picture below was taken at 9:00 PM, so take a look and see how bright it still was. Pretty wild, right?
The next morning, I hopped on a bus to Flam for a day tour and came back to Voss in the evening. Huge thanks to the navigator and local bus apps, which made planning so much easier. You can check bus schedules online and time your trips without a hassle.
The journey to Flam was absolutely stunning! Along the way, I saw picturesque little huts dotting the green land, nestled against steep mountains and deep valleys. The views were out of this world, with rivers cutting through dramatic ravines—it honestly felt like stepping into a fairytale.
When I finally reached Flam, I was welcomed by a massive cruise ship docked in the harbor, with people boarding the train on the other side. The Flam cruise ship dock and railway station are right next to each other, making it super easy to switch between the two.
Flam is seriously one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. It’s a small village in southwestern Norway, famous for its stunning fjords. Located at the end of Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the huge Sognefjord, Flam is truly a must-visit if you’re a nature lover!


The sight of charming little huts scattered across the green landscape in Norway is something you’ll never forget. Nestled against steep mountains and deep valleys, it’s the kind of beauty that steals your heart instantly.
Norway is the kind of place you just fall in love with. It’s so clean, stunning, and full of breathtaking scenery that it actually made me forget about the other places I’d visited just days before. Truly, it was an unforgettable experience.
Next up, my final stop on this epic trip—Amsterdam.
You can’t call a Euro trip complete without visiting one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, right? As soon as you step out of the airport, there it is—“I AMSTERDAM”—and you’ll see crowds of people taking pictures in front of that iconic sign. It’s like a rite of passage..!


Exploring Amsterdam and Beyond: A Memorable Journey
After some exploring, I made my way to Burgwallen Nieuwe Zijde, also known as Amsterdam Central. The weather that day was on the colder side, and yep, it was raining. Typical Amsterdam, right? On the walk over, I passed a few canals, and wow, they gave the city such a unique vibe. Sadly, I didn’t have enough time to do a canal tour, but even just walking by them felt magical. When I finally reached Amsterdam Central, I was greeted by the largest railway station in the Netherlands. The architecture was impressive, and the whole area felt so alive!
A Walk Through De Wallen (The Red-Light District)
From there, I crossed a few more canals and found myself at De Wallen, Amsterdam’s medieval city center. The streets are narrow, lined with small bars, and surrounded by the famous neon-lit red lights. Yes, the Red-Light District—it’s one of those places you hear about and think, “I got to see this for myself.”
Walking through the area, I noticed rows of sex toy shops and escorts standing behind glass windows illuminated by dim lights. Surprisingly, there weren’t many women around; most of the crowd seemed to be men. The atmosphere was lighthearted, though, with a mix of curiosity and intrigue in the air. Honestly, this is one of those places that you have to experience at least once in your life—it’s so different from anything else.
My First Casino Experience at Holland Casino
Later that evening, I headed to the Holland Casino, which was another first for me. The place was massive, with loud music, flashing lights, and rows of casino tables. The vibe was electric! I’d never played casino games before, so the Roulette Wheel was completely new to me. But once I figured out how it worked, I was hooked! And guess what? I actually won 50 Euros! The thrill was unreal—it was such a fun, exciting experience that I’ll never forget.
A Peaceful Escape to Giethoorn
The next morning, I switched gears and headed to Giethoorn, a small village in the northeastern Dutch province. This place is straight out of a fairytale and often called the “Venice of Holland.” Why? Because there are no roads—just canals!
Giethoorn is a dreamy, peaceful village with green canals, lush plants, and cozy thatched-roof cottages on either side of the waterways. People get around on foot or by canoe, and the whole place feels like a slice of heaven. It was such a serene contrast to the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, and honestly, it became one of the highlights of my trip to the Netherlands.
From the vibrant energy of Amsterdam to the calm beauty of Giethoorn, this trip gave me memories I’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re looking for excitement, history, or tranquility, the Netherlands has something for everyone!


I had a day trip to Geithoorn and came back to Amsterdam in the evening.
The next day @ Bataviaplein Lelystad for shopping, The Small charming village is a hub for fashion lovers. So many fashion u0026amp; lifestyle brands like Hugo Boss, Michael Kors, Fossil, etc.


The day finally came for me to head back to India, and honestly, I didn’t want this trip to end. I boarded the flight for the long 15-hour journey back, but this time, I spent most of the flight asleep, completely exhausted from the adventure.
During that flight, I had a bit of time to reflect on my trip. One thing really stood out to me—traveling solo gives you a whole new level of experience. There’s something so powerful about being on your own, figuring things out as you go. And eating your meals alone? It’s a strange feeling at first, but you start to really connect with yourself. There’s no one around to ask if you’re okay, so you learn to rely on yourself and find comfort in your own company, through both the good and bad moments. It’s a totally life-changing experience.
Of course, my family back home in India was a bit worried. They weren’t used to the idea of me traveling solo, and it was something they couldn’t quite wrap their heads around. But when I finally walked through the door, my mom’s face lit up with relief.
Before I ended the trip, I picked up a few souvenirs as reminders of the amazing journey. Can’t wait to share those with everyone!


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This journey was truly unforgettable for me. I never imagined it would turn into such a beautiful and cherished memory. Before the trip, I was full of doubts and a bit nervous, but in the end, I had the time of my life—and that’s what inspired me to write this post.
A huge shoutout to the amazing Solo Women Travel Tribe (SWTT) group on Facebook! The women in that community are incredible—so supportive and inspiring. Their stories gave me the motivation and confidence to finally live my dream. 😊♥♥♥
Thank you so much for reading my blog! Keep smiling and keep chasing your dreams! 😊
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Nice read
Wow…..✌✌✌????
Love your work here
Thanks 🙏
Great photos! Wow, 13 days, 3 countries, and 8 flights? Too fast for me 😉 But, also understand that when you only have a limited amount of time, then it’s a rush.
Many thanks for stopping by my travel and photography blog – much appreciated.
Yes it was short trip coz of holidays constraints. But it was real fun..!!!!
Many Thanks.. 🙏 😊
You are an amazing writers ❤
Thanks…!! 🤩