Differences

One of the first things you notice (consciously or not) when you go to a new culture are the differences. You start with the external differences, and move to the internal ones.

For me, the first thing I noticed upon leaving the airport is that it was 60 degrees warmer in my new location. Next, a total absence of skyscrapers and throngs of people. The cows look different than any I’ve seen before. There is a lot more nature here than at home (than New York City anyway!) In my first 6 days here, I didn’t see anyone smoke a cigarette or smell any tobacco! (On day 6 I saw 3 people smoke, all on the same beach.) Most people are around my height or slightly taller, so I don’t feel like a complete midget. Women are beautiful because they have curves and I haven’t seen anyone dressed to the nines or worried about how they look. ALL beaches are open to the public. Iguanas roam freely…

Some other differences surprised me. After almost a week in Costa Rica, no allergies. This is the first time in ages I have not had a crazy allergic reaction to a new place. I don’t feel bloated after eating,  even fried food. I sleep really well, and am awoken by the chatter of birds sharing their morning gossip. 

As a female solo traveler, I am not accustomed to having to random men approaching me, wanting to know why I am alone and what hotel I am staying in. And, I am home by nightfall, as I have been told it’s not safe for a woman alone at night. (I didn’t ask for the details.) As someone that has traveled a lot, it feels strange to have some of my liberties put in check.

I find that all these differences, and the ones I have yet to discover, are key to a better understanding of yourself, what you want, and who you are at the core – all of which are the very things I am seeking. Through external differences, you pay attention to how you are different and the things you like and don’t like lead to future choices, whatever they may be.