A taste of freedom.
March 2021, the borders finally opened, and I could start chasing my dreams. I was finally old enough to subscribe to Worldpackers, and ofcourse travel alone. I was looking for budget-friendly travel options, as well as an easy way to meet other travellers. Worldpackers seemed like a safe way for a young unexperienced traveller to do so. On this platform I came in contact with the owner of a hostel in Corfu, she needed volunteers to help get the hostel ready for the season. Then it was only a matter of booking a flight and my journey finally began.
I arrived in Corfu and got picked up by the owner herself. She explained to me the work we had to do, what the island has to offer in our free time and explained that there was only one guest, one other volunteer and another arriving the next day. Upon my arrival at Corfu Backpackers Hostel, I got settled into my own room and got to know the others over homemade dinner. Delicious!
The next day, we woke up early for breakfast. The classic bread, butter and jam, with a cup of tea. We each got a big waterbottle that we could get filled up at any time. Work was mostly sanding and painting chairs, tables and beds. We finished around lunch time and met the new volunteer, Martin. We all got along great and spent the rest of the day at the beach. Dinner again was prepared by the owner.
The next weeks were pretty much the same, painting some furniture, eating delicious homemade food and hanging out at the beach. Martin and I had gotten close over these days and we enjoyed kayaking, hiking and swimming together. We welcomed new guests and volunteers and all hungout together.
I extended my trip by one day for the owners’ nephews’ birthday party, the first day since Covid that the Pink Palace Paladium was opened. Exclusively for family and friends. We had a great night, dancing and drinking ouzo. The next morning I had my bags packed, and the owner brought me to the airport again. I told her we will keep in touch and I definetely would be back during high season.
These three weeks were the perfect start to my journey and made me excited to travel more. But for now, back home to earn some more money and get my drivers licence.
