In 2006, my friend Libby and I were two of the four to backpack throughout Western Europe. In school, we’re both relatively calm and responsible; so being out of the country was our time to…shine, if you will. From skydiving in the Swiss alps, to celebrating an Italian couples’ anniversary in Florence, to going out in quaint Portsmouth, England with a group of over the hill party lovers, we knew how to have a good time! Not only were we fearless to try whatever situation, we also loved meeting people and embracing the culture, regardless of the time and the place. From eating Sharma in Prague on a daily basis, to becoming Gelato connoisseurs, Libby and I loved adapting to new cultures, and had no hesitation fitting in right away. We went bike riding in Tuscany, indulged in le crepes at the quartier latin, and also happened to “meet” Hilary Swank on the steps of the Trevi Fountain. Libby and I planned and organized our backpacking trip for months, but as many of you can relate, our trip was never executed as planned. What I’ve learned about Europe is that it’s not about the location, but the people that make the difference. While wandering the streets of London, Libby and I came across a local pub. We sat down and started casually drinking beer and enjoying the environment. While talking, we noticed an older man sitting by himself. Being the brave and curious girls that we are, we decided to sit with this old English chap and begin chatting. That small encounter led us to meet a group of Young gay men wandering London with bright red-belly shirts. From here on out, the rest of the night was spent with 2 Americans, 5 gay men, and the English chap sitting around the table talking into the wee hours of the night. From afar, we may have looked like the strangest social group, but ironically, the conversation never stopped flowing. After 5 weeks of visiting world-renowned locations, meeting wise and open-minded individuals, we had the trip of a lifetime. Of course, I couldn’t have done it without my partner in crime. Libby and I challenged each other to put aside our doubts and insecurities and embrace the world with open arms.