Italy
ITALY
It had been more than a year since my last proper trekking experience. That had been Torres del Paine, back in Chile in 2023, during my gap year. Though I’d still regularly go on hikes in Malta, as well as during trips here and there, I missed multi-day treks.
Together with Alessia – a nurse I had met back in my first year as a doctor who ended up becoming one of my best friends – I’d finally be going on a proper trek once again. She grew up practically at the foot of the Alps, and was more than elated when I asked her if she’d wanna go trekking with me. It gave her the perfect opportunity to revisit some of her childhood places.
In fact, the second I invited her, she was immediately on top of everything. She asked her mum to clear out her room and come pick us up, and she had her grandpa organise the route and the lodging. For once, I barely had to do anything.
Onto an Alpine Adventure
I had really been looking forward to exploring the Alps. In all my years of travelling, I’d always preferred the more exotic countries I had to cross the world to get to, mainly because of their wild, vibrant nature and wildlife.Â
In doing so, I had kind of neglected everything I had right next to me. I could say the same about Malta. It took a year away from it for me to realise how much there was to see and do on this little island, let alone in Italy, or in other places in Europe for that matter. For years, travelling in Europe had been synonymous with boring city holidays. Finally, that impression of mine was gonna change.
Having a local guide is always the best way to explore somewhere. That said, I can’t say I wasn’t a bit apprehensive about travelling with Alessia. Though we had known each other for years and were practically soulmates, we had never travelled together before, let alone climbed a mountain. We’re both loud, flighty and short-tempered – not exactly the best combo. I could already envision a clash of the titans, but, as I figured, our friendship could come out of this stronger than ever.Â
Also, the whole mountain-climbing thing would be a non-issue given that she’s one of the most athletic people I know, and the fact that she climbed mountains before she could speak. Figuratively, of course. I, on the other hand, had done plenty of multi-day treks in the past and was kinda used to it, though my stamina would probably pale in comparison to hers.
And so, after more than a year of collecting dust in a corner of my room, I took out my trusted trekking bag and Blister 2.0 in preparation for another adventure of a lifetime.
DAY ONE