When entering the train to Bergen, I could sence other passengers looking at me with amazement. As they were thinking, can a hijabi norwegian-pakistani afford a seat here in the comfort class section. I sat down and looked at the weather. It was raining. The windows were wet. The sky was grey. Its gonna be lovely to take a trip out of Oslo, I thought. Soon the train started its journey. I was waiting with astonishment not knowing what I can expect.
I am an perfect mix of introversion and extroversion. Sometimes I`m outspoken other times I like to be alone or in small groups.
I could really love to travel, but the thought of being oversocial for days doesn`t work for me.
I`ve been to dubai over 4 times. My parents took me with them on several business trips. More often than to Pakistan. Over the past 3-5 years my friends have repeatedly asked me to go on vacations together. But low salary and expences where in the way. This summer was different. I felt like I really needed a getaway. Like my mental health was counting on it. So I booked a trip to Bergen. It was the best experience I had in over a decade.
I have always been against solo-trips. Especially for women. Understanding the hikmah behind why it is important to have mahram on trips, makes sence. Still I made the trip on my own. I really needed to feel the independence of being on your own in a unknown place, and feel capable to do so. If or maybe when needed. Maybe in the future. Than I will have some experience. Knowing that one is protected is good. But by being in a way independent, your mahrams whether family or husband, doesnt have to worry so much for you. Even when you are out together. And I have learned that life becomes better when you can carry your own burdens yourself. I don`t want to put unnecessary burdens on my spouse.
So here I was all by myshelf, with no books. Only phone and chargers. I really wanted to enjoy the Norwegian nature from the view of the train. We were so lucky with the weather. The sun was up, the sky was blue, and the view of trees, fjords, morning fog, mountains, cute cabins and greenery was mindblowing. This is the best way to enjoy the country if one does not like hiking. The train spent 7 hours from Oslo to Bergen. Though it felt like 1,5 hour for me, who has not traveled in almost a decade or more.
All praise to Allah I have two friends from Bergen. I hurried and sent them messages if they would like a meet-up. Mostly because my father could not understand why I was going alone, without meeting anyone or with anyone. So I wanted proof. So he would not worry or bother me too much. This was also a learning process for him. Because I am always there when he asks for me. So know he would have to understand how it is when I am distant and not available.
When I arrived at Bergen my eyes where big and lid up. I was almost making picture of everything. To my surprise the weather in Bergen was fantastic. The sun was shining and a lot of wind. Perfect for my Trip. Finding my way alone around Bergen City. Eating place. Eating alone. Being alone in the hotel room. Looking at the beautiful architecture of houses. All this was different and yet so rejuvenating and needed.
Sometimes it is time. It is time for something. And when it is that. No one can change that. Whether it is a marriage, a new job, moving away or a new life journey. May Allah bless me and grant me baraqa in everything in my life and akhira amen. And also all the readers amen
Roshnii179 