As I sit on the ferry heading back to the first country I ever visited alone, I’m overwhelmed by a whirlwind of emotions. Fourteen years have passed, and I can’t help but wonder—has this place changed, or have I? My thoughts drift to the memories I left behind, the person I once was, and the journey that has brought me full circle.

2010 - 2024

At just 14 years old, I embarked on my first solo trip overseas to Macau. I was practically a baby! That trip was a mix of awe, discovery, fear, and personal milestones that left a lasting imprint on me.

Recently, I returned to Macau, and as I retraced my steps, a flood of memories surfaced. It was a powerful reminder of how much I’ve grown since that first solo adventure, and just how transformative the journey has been.

The First Step That Changed Everything

When I arrived in Macau in 2010 early in the morning by bus from Nanning, I was just a young girl stepping into the unknown. It might sound cliché, but that first trip alone was honestly terrifying. At first, it felt overwhelming—the thought of navigating a foreign country without speaking Chinese or Cantonese was intimidating. Trust me, my mum was worried, but she said I’d surely be fine.

I remember feeling completely lost trying to find my way to the border (immigration) during that trip. One of the most heartwarming moments, however, was meeting a group of fellow Taiwanese travellers from Kaohsiung. Among them was Kimberley, who went out of her way to look after me. Her group happened to be heading to the border as well, so we decided to go together. Since it was early morning and most places were still closed, we ended up sharing breakfast at McDonald’s.

Thanks to Kimberley's kindness, she ensured my safety, even offering me bread and her business card before separating. Moments like these, etched in my memory, serve as a powerful reminder of the profound beauty in human connection and the generosity of strangers.

The Adventure That Followed

My first solo trip to Macau was an unforgettable adventure from start to finish. I vividly remember exploring iconic landmarks like the Ruins of St. Paul’s and the A-Ma Temple, all while figuring out how to navigate the city. At one point, I jumped into a taxi and, spotting a kind-looking driver, used my broken Chinese to ask for recommendations on places to visit — what an experience!

I fully immersed myself in the vibrant culture of Macau, wandering alone through bustling street markets and indulging in its incredible cuisine. The city left a lasting impression on me with its charming atmosphere, clean streets, and cute narrow roads. Its rich history and unique Portuguese cultural influences were beautifully reflected in the architecture, the flavours of its food, and the warmth of its people. It was an exhilarating journey filled with new experiences that broadened my horizons. In that moment, I made myself a promise — I needed to see more of the world.

Reflecting on Change

"Grateful I dared to step outside my comfort zone. The once timid 14-year-old girl has grown into a confident woman who faces challenges fearlessly HAHA."

Macau wasn’t just the start of my travel adventures—it was the beginning of a transformation. That trip taught me that the hardest part of any new experience is taking the first step. Since then, I’ve learnt to trust my instincts, embrace challenges, and see fear as an opportunity rather than a limitation.

Here’s what I’ve come to appreciate since that trip:

Returning to Macau – A Full Circle Moment

"The same city that once felt so unfamiliar now seemed like an old friend."

Revisiting Macau recently felt like stepping into a time machine. Walking the familiar streets, tasting the same egg tarts, and seeing the iconic landmarks transported me back to 2010. But this time, I saw it all through a different lens. The same city that once felt so unfamiliar now seemed like an old friend. Macau is now a lot more crowded than before, and the church I remembered seemed smaller, but I was still amazed by its architecture. And the egg tarts? Still as delicious as ever.

Your Journey Awaits

"I remember back then my first impression after the trip was like, people are very nice and it wasn’t scary as I thought it would be. I want to explore more!"

This trip wasn’t just about nostalgia—It reminded me that, no matter how daunting the unknown may seem, the rewards of taking the leap far outweigh the risks.

Travel is powerful because it’s not just about discovering the world—it’s about rediscovering yourself. Every trip, big or small, brings lessons, memories, and growth. And for me, Macau will always be the place where it all began.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve felt that same curious pull towards the unknown. Maybe it’s a tiny voice or an insatiable desire to see more of the world. Whatever it may be, I encourage you to listen and embrace that feeling. Take that first step into the unknown and see where your journey takes you.

Thank you Macau.