My Journey Through Slovenia: No Deadlines, Just Detours

There was a moment, somewhere between the cobbled streets of Ljubljana and the quiet stillness of Lake Bled, when I realized: I hadn’t thought about work in days. Not my to-do list. Not emails. Not anyone else’s needs or expectations.

Just me. My feet on the ground.

I didn’t come to Slovenia looking for answers. I came because I came because I had never traveled internationally by myself. And something inside of me wanted to do it.

As women, we’re often celebrated for being everything to everyone. The reliable one. The capable one. The one who says yes. But somewhere along the way, we forget how to be with ourselves. 

In Slovenia I could be me. Without apology or guilt. It gave me time to breathe—not to be productive, but simply to be.

First, I'll start by saying that by traveling solo, I don't mean I wasn't with other people. I was on a Gate 1 (yes, I highly recommend them) tour. It's a new form of travel they offer called Stay and Explore. So once I got to Slovenia, I met with the group. Then for the next 8 days, I could choose to do things with the group or do things on my own. I did both.

I arrived about 10:00 am on a Wednesday morning. It was too early to check in but our Tour Director (David) was there and gave me some hints as to where I could walk and see some of Ljubljana.

So off I went. I walked 1 block and found the city square. Wow! There are no vehicles allowed (except the random delivery van) on the streets near the square so it was all people, bicycles (so many bicycles!) and some little shops. I was in love with Slovenia already.

I had a great time exploring. There is a river canal that runs through Ljubljana that is lined on both sides with restaurants and little shops. These are also pedestrian only. I walked up and down both sides of the pedestrian only area, just taking in all the sights. I stopped and had lunch at a delightful little restaurant. The food was amazing!

I spent the day by myself exploring and just enjoying the city. I had a "welcome dinner" hosted by Gate 1 and then headed to my room. I was exhausted.

The next week was filled with adventures and education. I spent some of the days traveling with the group during the day and hanging out by myself in the evenings.

We visited Lake Bled which is how I ended up in Slovenia in the first place. Lake Bled is this beautiful, stunning lake that I once saw on my screensaver. I told myself I would visit one day. It did not disappoint In fact, it was more breathtaking in person. The color of the lake is amazing. The color is caused by the minerals in the ground there. I am standing at Bled Castle when I took the photo below. The lake, the island with the church, the mountains in the background...... We took a row boat over to the island and the view from the island looking up at the castle was just as wonderful!

One evening there was an "Open Kitchen" in one of the outdoor squares. They do it once a week during Spring through Fall. I had to visit. It was an entire area filled with vendors cooking and selling their food. I was so glad I was walking around by myself. I was able to just stop and watch. And smell. And listen. The people were so diverse. So many languages being spoken. So many different smells. Every age, every size, every nationality. It was amazing!! I walked the entire venue before deciding on what to eat. Below is the result. I cannot tell you how to pronounce it but I can tell you it melted in my mouth. Some type of dumpling covered with goulash.  ❤️

Another day we traveled to the Postojna Caves. This was so cool. There is actually a castle built in to the cave. We toured the castle and then went to a different section of the cave and toured the cave.

Another day we traveled to Piran and Portoroz. These coastal towns are everything you would ever dream a coastal town to be. And I was able to step into the Adriatic Sea! Everything about the towns were quaint and charming. David bought us all gelato and we had a delightful afternoon.

So to the woman reading this who feels like she has to earn her rest—Who feels guilty even thinking about getting away—Who’s afraid to travel alone, or to be seen doing something just for herself—

I hope this sparks something in you! You are allowed to step away.You are allowed to choose joy without justification.And you are allowed to explore. Explore the world.

No deadlines. Just detours.And sometimes, that’s where the magic lives.

Much love to all !

Ruthie 🤍