Feeling lost and questioning her life, Aiah sets off on a solo trip in search of answers. She never expects that this journey will lead her to a deep, meaningful connection that changes her forever.
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AIAH'S POV
There will come a point in your life where nothing excites you anymore. Each day feels the same-same routine, same surroundings, and the same people from morning until night and it's draining the life out of you. It feels like you're a piece of paper drifting in the wind, with no control over where you end up.
I've always been a good girl-the high achiever, the kid her parents didn't have to worry about. I've always followed the path laid out for me by my parents since the day I was born. It feels like I've lived my 25 years of existence just to please them. But lately, I feel like taking a different route, a route I want for myself.
I lived a very comfortable life and was very pampered growing up. But when the existential crisis crept in, I realized that the life I have now is different from what I want for myself. I knew that I am not made for the corporate world, but I've always been a creative person. I crave my own independence, to explore the world on my own terms, and to tell people my story.
After I handed in my resignation, I took a flight to Siargao for my first solo travel experience. I knew this path wasn't ideal or easy, but it was the path I was willing to take and experience. For once, I needed to step out of the security blanket that had me wrapped up my whole life.
The uncertainty of this journey felt liberating, a chance to embrace the unknown and find out what truly makes me happy. This was my opportunity to live on my own terms, to challenge myself, and to grow beyond the confines of my comfort zone.
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I arrived at my hostel around 6 PM. I purposely booked a place where I would share a room with 10 strangers, trusting that this would make my trip even more fun. It's all part of the experience, I guess. And besides, it is also a chance to meet new people as well since I'll be alone for the rest of the trip.
I settled in and arranged my belongings in the locker provided under my bed. As I headed towards the front desk to ask about a good nearby restaurant recommendation, I noticed a girl in the corner, deeply engrossed in reading The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. A lightbulb moment sparked in my brain-this could be my chance to make a new friend. She might be one of the guests staying here at the hostel.
