Day 1: Train Trials & Other Fun
Today was difficult! Day 1 of my new 30 day Ai train trip through Europe I had anticipated excitement and fun. So two thoughts have been rolling around my mind as I’ve rolling all over Spain… the first is a reminder to myself to let go of expectations and the second is a reminder that doing something for the first time can be, and often is, challenging.I am fortunate to be taking a train trials in Spain for the first time, not knowing the language very well (I’m slowly improving!) and at 50 years young.
This makes me feel marvelously happy (I have an enormous smile at the moment writing this on my last train of the day).
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While this has been very stressful, I keep reminding myself that it’s a learning curve and it will get easier—this is part of the process. Learning something new requires resilience, persistence, patience, and a lot of grace.
PEOPLE MAKE THE JOURNEY
Sitting on my first bus, full of excitement for the day, I’m giggling listening to a young-ish pair of friends discussing how it’s possible for the adolescents of North America to have fun without owning a car. Surely it’s not possible – they must simply borrow their parent’s car because certainly would not have their own. And do college students have cars? Probably not! — I suspect there is an assumption that we do not have trains in North America, and how else would adolescents get around. Very sweet.
One of my favorite aspects of traveling is meeting wonderful people. At the Malaga train station a very kind woman noticed I was struggling and offered her personal hotspot from her phone so I could connect to the internet. So generous and kind! But you know when you’re having “one of those days?” That’s mine today. Even her hotspot didn’t work (my hotspot didn’t either). My solution? I spent about an hour slowly walking through the train station, stopping every few feet to try different Wi-Fi networks. Finally, it worked. Phew! 😅
Expectations
The danger of expectations is that they can lead to disappointment and frustration. Letting go of what we think should be happening, however, we allow ourselves to embrace and enjoy the moment. Today I have been so wrapped up in the idea of following the ChatGPT itinerary and budget that I forgot to enjoy the moment and have fun.
This challenge will be a wonderful opportunity for me to learn to relax and enjoy even when I’m on a prearranged agenda, which is very much not my style!
Firsts
While today has been very stressful, I keep reminding myself that doing this 30 day AI generated train trials through Europe is a learning curve and it will get easier. Learning something new requires resilience, persistence, patience, and a lot of grace.
So the question I have for you is this… When was the last time you did something for the very first time? What was it, how was your experience, any learning lessons / insights?
Please comment if you’re up for sharing. I would love to hear your stories. 💕❤️
Budget
Transportation
ChatGPT estimated €145 for transportation from Marbella to Marseille. Since I decided to purchase a global pass rather than pay as I go, I divided to cost of the pass equally between each section of the trip. Therefore, the breakdown is:
- €90.36 train pass
- €21.95 train reservation
- = €112.26
Woohoo! I’m actually ahead.
Accomodation
This is where I suspect AI may be absolutely insane, I mean… missed the mark! The nightly accommodation “allowance” is €60. In reality my stay in Barcelona cost €196 (including tax) – it was the least expensive private room I was able to find near the train station.
Food & Activities
There were no activities and luckily food in Barcelona is very affordable by North American standards. The daily food budget is €40. I have a 1st class train pass so access to the lounge so I ate for free in the Madrid lounge. Then dinner with a friend in Barcelona split in 1/2 between us was €25 each – for 2 coctails, 1 beer, 1 hamburger, and 1 enormous chicken salad. A bargain!
Total
ChatGPT
- €145 transportation
- €60 accomodation
- €40 food & activities
- €245 total
Reality
- €112.26 transportation
- €196 accomodation
- €25 food & activities
- €333.26 total
$88.26 over budget! So far anyway, I have plenty of time to make this up.
Keep reading through the end of the 30 days to see my spreadsheet of the budget.
My Goal : Day 1: Train Trials & Other Fun
First and foremost, this train trials is all about having fun, meeting amazing people, and diving into new cultures. Plus, you get to see how good ChatGPT is at crafting travel itineraries and budgets!
This journey promises excitement and new experiences, and I am so excited to share it with you. Follow along and get inspired to embark on your own adventure!
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I would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, praise… (insults maybe not so much, but go for it if it makes you happy. Haters are going to hate!). Or just say hello 🤗 ⬇️⬇️⬇️
Common Questions Answered
Discover the Best Travel Tips
What's on your mind?
Packing can be stressful, especially when you’re going on a month-long trip. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Check out my recommendations for the perfect packing list, so you can travel stress-free and in style!
What to Pack
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Most likely you’ll be walking a lot, so make sure you have comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy. I love sneakers, they go with everything from shorts to dresses – I buy one new pair every year, this year’s fave are Converse Chuck Taylor® All Star® Lift Low Top Leather Sneaker. ❤️
What to Bring
2. Universal Travel Adapter: Don’t let a dead phone or computer ruin your trip. Bring a universal travel adapter so you can stay connected.
Organize Your Luggage
3. Packing Cubes: These will make organizing your luggage a breeze.
Stay Comfortable
4. Lightweight Jacket: Even if you’re traveling to a warm destination, it’s always a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket for those unexpected chilly nights.
Be Prepared
5. First Aid Kit. Accidents happen, so pack a compact first-aid kit with essentials like adhesive bandages, pain relievers, and allergy medicine.
