Chichen Itza 
Mayan Ruins in Tulum
Every year for my birthday I take a trip (usually a solo trip). I never know in advance which way the wind will blow me but I’m never disappointed. For my 40th birthday last year I knew I wanted to do something big. After-all, my milestone birthday deserved a new type of celebration right?
I started browsing travel sites and landed on one that sold All Inclusive packages, something I hadn’t done before but always dreamed of. I still didn’t know where I was going but in that moment I knew I was leaving the country to do it. I immediately set up an appointment to go apply for my first passport.
I found a great deal on an All-Inclusive Adults only resort in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo (Mexico) and before I knew it, with a racing heart I had swiped my card. A huge smile spread across my face and I was EXCITED! I knew I had a lot of planning to do in a short period of time. I had plenty to do to keep myself busy. The biggest question was if my passport would arrive on time.
Note: If you’ve never applied for a passport it can take several weeks to arrive. You can pay for expedited, which I did since I booked last minute. My trip was 45 days away. Definitely cutting it close. My passport arrived in 21 days. I was so relieved. The best way to make sure your application gets approved in time is to ensure you have all required documents with you and photo copies of ID’s and birth certificates ( you MUST provide the original birth certificate AND A COPY ). You can save yourself time and print the forms at home but don’t make the same mistake I made. I wrote in blue ink and that is a big no no. Your passport application may only be submitted in black ink.
I spent the next few weeks planning my itinerary and brushing up on my spanish using Duo Lingo. It’s a pretty decent free app that immerses you in the language and teaches you basic phrases that will help you get by and a little more.
I went on guided tours of Tulum and Chichen Itza ( a world wonder). I had the best time with some amazing people that were traveling as well. I came to find out many of them were from Canada and they were escaping the harsh northern winter. I’m still friends with some of them today and we plan to travel together again soon. Don’t be afraid to meet new people and make friends while traveling. Especially when you’re alone. It was nice to have new friends to ease the small bouts of loneliness.
I hope you enjoy my little preview of heaven I was blessed to experience.
Your globetrotting friend, Katrina
Photos from the Platinum Yucatan Princess Resort in, Carmen del Playa, Quintana Roo
Katrina's Travel Adventures 