Aged 50 marked the point of my alcohol abstinence – a perk of taking vacations.
At age 50, a management consultant chose to forgo alcohol consumption, recounting experiences that encapsulate the challenges and rewards of traveling sober.
Admittedly, alcohol was once an integral part of the consultant's social life, whether with friends, at work events, or on vacation. However, after five decades, the decision to discontinue alcohol intake was born.
Initially, the thought of a "dry trip" was a personal challenge, but the consultant soon found herself inquisitive about the potential changes such a choice could bring. Fearful of missing out on the social aspects and being excluded in unfamiliar environments, the consultant embarked on a journey of self-discovery and mindful traveling.
During a business trip in Switzerland, the consultant encountered an unexpected delight at a boutique hotel in the Bernese Alps. Offering an alcohol-free menu, each meal was accompanied by thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic beverages, showcasing the complexity and nuance previously offered by wine pairings. This experience transformed what could have been an ordinary meal into one of the most memorable of the consultant's life.
Yet, the path to mindful traveling was not without its obstacles. In places where alcohol plays a significant role in the culture, such as a trip through Northern Ireland or a solo two-week Antarctic cruise, the consultant felt adrift, missing out on cultural experiences that were integral to the destination.
Facing such challenges head-on, the consultant adapted their travel habits. Strategies included requesting hotel minibars be emptied to reduce temptation and embracing the clarity and heightened sensory experiences that accompanied mindful traveling.
Through this journey, the consultant discovered that while traveling sober may initially present hurdles, it also grants unexpected benefits, such as sharpened memories, enriched sensory engagement, and a broader, more meaningful travel perspective.
As the consultant continue to traverse the globe, they find solace in seeking out new ways to engage deeply with travel experiences, forgoing the comfort of a drink in favor of genuine curiosity, openness, and a heightened awareness of the world around them.
What if, instead of focusing on alcohol during my travels, I delved deeper into the realms of science and health-and-wellness? I could leverage this opportunity to explore the intricate connection between mental-health and lifestyle while exploring new destinations. Perhaps, during my travels, I could also immerse myself in the local culture without the influence of alcohol, fostering a unique and enriching lifestyle experience. My journey toward mindful traveling could then expand to include emotional and spiritual growth, settling not just my body but also my mind in a state of well-being and fulfillment.
