Every time I go on vacation abroad, I always met people with travel stories I am envious of. In a good way! Last year I took a solo trip to Europe. While in a hostel in Scotland I met up with a gentleman named Matt. He was on an extensive trip all around Europe. Since we were both traveling solo we decided to stick together for the rest of the time I was there. Matt and I have stayed in contact ever since Scotland.
I’ve always wondered how much planning and money it would cost to take an extensive trip. Luckily, I was able to catch up with Matt after his trip and get the full scoop.
Meet Matthew Brown
@an_artist001
Q: How long was your vacation for?
Matt: My vacation lasted from May 13th to August 28th. 104 days total! I originally started my trip with family and then started out on my own on July 4. For 85 days total!
Q: What made you decided to go?
Q: What countries/cities did you go?
(In order from first to last)
Hiking- (Consists of hiking and setting up in camp sites)
UK- Milton Keyenes, Daventry, Rugby, Nuneaton, Tamworth, Hopwas, Whittington, Fradley Junction, Burton upon Trent, Willington and Nottingham.
Backpacking (Staying in hostels)
UK- Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow, (back to) Edinburgh, Brighton, London
Romania- Bucharest, Brasov
Hungary- Budapest
Austria– Vienna
Germany- Cologne
Belgium- Brussels
France- Lille, Vimy
Belgium (again)– Bruges
UK- (again) Edinburgh
Netherlands- Amsterdam
Belgium (again)– Antwerp
Switzerland- Lauterbrunnen
France (again)- Paris
Q: Why did you choose those countries?
Q: How much planning did you do beforehand?
Q: How long did you have to save up for?
Q: Estimate cost of your trip?
I had saved about $7,000 (CAN) and got another $1000 (CAN) in birthday money from my family. I spent it all and came back with nothing.
Q: How did you budget for your trip?
I didn’t, I had a flexible ticket home and I just watched my bank account and tried to be smart about my spending.
Q: Is there anything you would do anything differently?
Q: How did you make friends?
Q: The best part about your travels?
Meeting new people and exploring new places with them or on your own.
Q: The worst part about your travels?
Long over night bus rides. They are necessary but unpleasant.
Q: Where are you going next?
I’m looking at camping in Albert or Manitoba this summer. In the longterm, I have been looking at visiting the Faroe Islands.
Q: What advice do you have for people wanting to do the same?
