For the past 24 years, travel has been a defining aspect of my life.
Throughout these years, I've rarely turned to a travel agent for assistance in planning. I've always believed that travel advisors might steer me toward choices that earn them higher commissions than what's best for me. Early in my travels, this reluctance was also driven by necessity—I was often on a tight budget and learned how to stretch every dollar. Planning a trip became almost as exhilarating as the trip itself. That sense of control over my travel destiny was empowering.
However, there were also times when the lack of support backfired.
A particularly memorable example occurred during a trip to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Eager to explore the city's rich history and culture, I ventured off on my own to discover the sprawling Merkato market, the historic churches, and the picturesque Entoto hills.
I hadn't anticipated how challenging it would be to navigate Addis Ababa as a solo traveller. The city's vast size, chaotic traffic, and language barrier made reaching the places I most wanted to see difficult. Ultimately, I only skimmed the surface of what the city had to offer. I felt disconnected from the deeper stories of the places I visited, unable to piece together their histories without someone to guide me.
This trip marked a turning point in my perspective on travel planning. I began to understand that sometimes, a guide or an expert can enhance your journey in ways you can't predict. That little bit of comfort can be worth losing some of the raw spontaneity.
But have I changed my approach since that trip to Ethiopia?
Not entirely. When people ask why I still prefer to plan my adventures, I often share stories of the most memorable moments from my travels. Strangely, many of those moments came from unplanned detours.
However, there's also an underlying reason for my reluctance: my ego. After 24 years on the road, it's difficult to imagine handing over the reins of my travel plans to someone else. How could I justify relying on a travel agent when I've navigated this world solo for so long?
That said, I'm starting to recognise that there's wisdom in knowing when to ask for help. As I look back on my trip to Ethiopia, I realise that hiring a local expert might have transformed that journey into something far richer. Would I ever let someone else plan my trips completely? Probably not.
If I were to visit Germany, for instance, I wouldn't feel the need to rely on a planner. But if I were to return to Ethiopia, I'd approach it differently. This time, I would set aside my pride and consult a local guide, knowing that my few extra dollars could open up a world of insight, stories, and experiences I might otherwise miss.
In the end, the beauty of travel lies in its unpredictability—its ability to challenge and surprise us at every turn. The key is finding a balance between control and surrender. While there is great joy in charting your path and the thrill of unplanned adventures, there are also moments when it's okay to lean on the expertise of others. After all, a well-planned journey can still hold plenty of room for discovery.
