“Sometimes the greatest journeys are the ones that start within ourselves.” – Author Unknown
Have you ever yearned to do something, but felt held back by a lack of support, resources, or knowledge? I’m here to tell you, I’ve felt that way for a large part of my life. For me, traveling the world was that lifelong dream, but for a long time, it felt unattainable. I constantly sought others’ approval or waited for someone else to lead the way. It wasn’t until I stopped relying on external validation and started believing in my own capabilities that things began to change.
You might ask, “Michelle, how did you make that shift?” Let’s just say it involved taking small, consistent steps until I was living the life I wanted, not the one others expected of me. Your dream might not be travel; it could be writing a novel, pursuing photography, becoming an artist, or landing your ideal job. Regardless of the goal, I’ve come to realize that without action, dreams remain just that – distant aspirations.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
The Power of Taking Action
There’s immense power in taking those first steps towards your dreams. Opportunities begin to emerge in unexpected ways. As I mentioned, traveling the world was a long-held aspiration, and it wasn’t until I started actively seeking out opportunities and aligning my life to embrace them that it became a reality.
While technology has advanced significantly, there’s no magic pill for manifesting dreams. If you’re waiting for a miracle to happen without putting in the effort, you might be waiting a very long time.
Tips to Turn Your Travel Dreams into Reality
Whether traveling has always been your dream or not, these tips can apply to any aspiration you may have:
1. Self-Reflection
- Ask yourself: Why is this goal important to you?
- Address concerns: How can I manage travel (or your specific goal) with limited resources, family commitments, etc.?
- Confront fears: What are my fears about pursuing this dream? What steps can I take to address them?
- Consider the consequences: If I don’t take the trip, pursue the class, or take that leap, what will it mean to me in the long run?
2. Taking the First Steps
Once you’ve clarified your desires and are ready to move forward, here are some practical steps to get started:
- Start small:
- Take a weekend road trip to a nearby town.
- Explore a new neighborhood in your own city.
- Visit a local museum or cultural event related to your dream destination.
- Immerse yourself:
- Watch films or documentaries about your desired destination.
- Read books or articles about the culture and history.
- Seek inspiration:
- Talk to people who’ve been there and learn from their experiences.
- Connect with me or others who share your passion for travel.
- Visualization:
- Write down what the experience would be like if you were there.
- Imagine your perfect day at the destination.
- Create a vision board to visualize your goals.
3. Overcoming Obstacles
You might be thinking, “Michelle, this all sounds great, but I don’t have the money, time, or support.” I challenge you to re-examine those barriers. If travel (or your particular dream truly matters to you, consider how you can make it work with the resources and time you have.
- Time Management: Instead of scrolling through social media, spend that time researching your destination. Swap a TV show for a travel documentary.
- Involve loved ones: If family commitments are a concern, find ways to include them in your dream. Share your excitement and involve them in the planning process.
- Small steps, big impact: Before my first trip to France, my husband and I watched the Netflix series “Versailles.” I started watching French cartoons with my daughter and reading French books like “The Little Prince.” These small actions boosted my confidence and made the dream feel more attainable.
4. Dealing with Negativity
Be prepared for negative responses from those closest to you when you start taking steps toward your dream. There’s no easy way to handle negativity and doubt, especially when you might be your own biggest critic.
- Focus on your cheerleaders: Share your aspirations with those who support and encourage you.
- Morning Pages: Write out your thoughts and feelings to process negativity and fortify your mental and emotional well-being. Use pen and paper or your preferred digital device.
- Chip away at self-doubt: Take consistent action to overcome those doubts that have taken root in your mind.
My French Adventure: An Itinerary for Inspiration
Now for the fun part! If your dream happens to be visiting France, here are some recommendations from my recent trip to Paris and the Loire Valley that might help you shape your own itinerary:
Paris:
- Accommodation: Grand Hotel de l’Univers – A charming hotel in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, offering comfort and excellent service.
- Museum Visits:
- The Louvre: Not only the world’s largest art museum but also a historic monument. Don’t miss the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
- Palais Garnier: Opulent architecture had me mesmerized the entire time and is one of the world’s most famous opera houses.
- Musée d’Orsay: A must-see for Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
- The Palais Garnier: One of the world’s most famous opera houses, a feast for the eyes.
- Musée de l’Orangerie: Home to Monet’s iconic Water Lilies.
- Louvre: The world’s largest art museum, featuring the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
- Panthéon: A mausoleum honoring distinguished French citizens.
- Paris Museum Pass: Purchase this pass in advance to skip lines and save time and money.
- Dinner Cruise: La Calife offers a unique dining experience on the Seine River. While the menu is limited, the breathtaking views make it a memorable experience.
Arche de Triomphe
Day Trip to Vaux le Vicomte from Paris:
- Getting There: Take the RER R train from Gare de Lyon to Melun.
- Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: This magnificent château had a profound impact on French architecture and history. It’s a must-see for its grandeur and influence on the Palace of Versailles.
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
Day Trip To Giverny from Paris:
- Getting There: Hop on the train and enjoy the scenic journey from Paris to Vernon, your gateway to Giverny. Then take the short bus ride to Monet’s residence (5 Euro Bus Ride). As you exit the train station you will see the bus’s that shuttle passengers to the house and back daily.
- Claude Monet’s Home and Gardens: Step into the world of the renowned Impressionist painter. I was there at the end of May so everything was already in full bloom. The home is so charming as if Monet had just stepped away and was allowing you to take residence at his home for the day.
- Monday Crowds: Despite arriving early, the crowds were overwhelming. But don’t worry—you’ve pre-purchased your ticket so you can make your way directly to the entrance!
- Time to Savor: Ignore the rush and immerse yourself in the beauty. Monet’s house and gardens deserve your full attention.
Monet’s House
Saint-Malo to Mont Saint-Michel
- Accommodation in Saint-Malo: Hôtel France et Chateaubriand, offering old-world charm and beautiful views.
- Scenic Drive: Rent a car from Saint Malo and enjoy the picturesque drive from Saint-Malo to Mont Saint-Michel.
- Mont Saint-Michel:
- Accommodation: Le Relais Saint Michel hotel offers comfortable rooms and breakfast with a view. At first glance the place looks a little dated but the rooms (clean and spacious with a view of the abbey) and restaurant onsite made up for that.
- Exploration: Wander the surroundings, explore the abbey, and witness the changing tides.
- Evenings: Experience the tranquility and beauty of Mont Saint-Michel after the day-trippers leave and the calmness of the area settles in and the abbey is lite up a night. It was truly a magical experience. Staying overnight it is a must.
Mont Saint Michel
Loire Valley Châteaux tour:
Accommodation in Amboise: Maison Hulotte, a charming and inspiring place to stay. Agnes was such a great host and beautiful home to set the tone for the start of your castle hoping visit in Amboise.
Scenic Drive: Leave Mont Saint Michel and head to Amboise in the Loire Valley.
Maison Hulotte
Chateaux Visits
- Clos Lucé: The final residence of Leonardo da Vinci, offering insights into his life and work. A great place for families to play around with all of de Vinci .
- Chenonceau (Ladies’ Castle): Famous for its unique design over the River Cher and its connection to influential women in history. The fresh flowers in almost every room and inviting feel throughout the castle you will feel inspired to find ways to redesign/refresh your home.
- Chambord: The largest Château in the Loire Valley, blending medieval and Renaissance styles. Perfect for history buffs and families (e.g. HistoPad (interactive tablet), Bike or Rosalie Rentals, Walking Trails, Cassandra The Salamander” Puzzle Books and more).
Pro-Tip: Don’t try to cram too much into one day! If you’re like me you will spend more time exploring than you expect.
Chenonceau
Conclusion
I hope my French adventure inspires you to take those first steps toward your own travel dreams! Remember, the journey towards your dreams is a personal one. There will be challenges and setbacks, but don’t let them deter you. Keep your aspirations close to your heart, surround yourself with positivity, and take consistent action. You have the power to turn your dreams into reality.