Updated on February 26th, 2025
When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone? Did you dive in? Or just dance around the edge?
Last weekend I did just that and went to an all-night dance club, with back-to-back DJ’s, filled with people young enough to be my kids and came home as the sun rose.
It was my partners idea. He loves dancing and was keen to go to a “rave” together.
I’ll be honest. I love a good boogie but had no desire to combine it with a late/all-night session.
Who wants to lose a night’s sleep?
And miss a day catching up with what you lost?
And what and when would I eat to manage it?
Even more importantly, what would I wear?
And knowing everyone would be so much younger than us. Will they stare and laugh at the old people trying to reclaim their youth? Or our old-fashioned dance moves? Won’t they think we are ridiculous?
These were just a few of the reasons to say a resounding “No!” that were going through my head.
However, I never want my life to be dictated by my comfort zone. Much of my travels have been about pushing those boundaries. Going into the unknown, being uncomfortable, sometimes even a little a bit scared.
It is a long-held belief of mine that whenever my head is filled with negatives and justifiable reasons not to, the best course of action is to reply with an emphatic “YES!”
And (almost) every time I do, I enjoy myself. And even if I don’t have the time of my life, at least I return with a great story to tell!
So, with a combined age of 120, we got in the car at 10pm and headed into London for a night of clubbing. We even had to show ID on the way in!
I recognised about three tracks all night, but even they were so expertly mixed that I barely knew them. But, fuelled by just one can of cider, I got my hips oiled up and I was off. The muscle memory of my long-forgotten dance moves kicked in.
I also realised that everyone else there was focussed on having their own version of a good time, not judging us on our age, our outfits, our slightly less fluid hips, or our dance moves. I even took up the challenge when I was “invited” to dance in the cage.
And I loved it!
By the end of the evening, I had spent 4 hours on the dancefloor. The pedometer on my phone was even fooled into thinking I’d walked 15 kilometres. Exercising when I would normally have been sleeping!
My endorphins took over and I eventually got to bed at 5am, just after sunrise.
And it made me remember how much I love sunrises!
Sunsets while travelling are always a treat. Sometimes they are even an event. Like in Oia in Santoriniwhere every night, as the sun disappears over the horizon, the crowds who have gathered give a round of applause in appreciation.
But sunrises are different. Somehow, they always feel more exclusive to me. They are a special treat only shared by those who have put in an all-night shift. Or cut their slumber short for an early morning appointment. A select few people who have chosen specifically to be there to witness the event.
For example, seeing the orange glow come over the horizon after walking uphill in the snow since midnight when I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro (as in the photo…that one was epic!).
Then there are those I was up early specifically to watch. Like for a yoga session overlooking the stunning landscapes of Viñales in Cuba. Or Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Or the other-worldly bubbling mud and steaming earth in Bolivia. (Click on any of the links for more details).
Last week I spoke about knowing your WHY for travel. (If you missed it, hit reply to let me know and I’ll resend the email). To understand your WHY, is to truly understand what you are travelling for. Travel can be a catalyst for a big life transformation if you are clear about your intent and committed to be open to opportunities. It is essential if you want a trip to be more than just a break from your routine.
But this will not happen without stepping out of your comfort zone. Maybe it requires dipping your toe in, maybe it’s plunging head first, maybe just dancing around the edge. But the truth is that nothing will change unless you decide to take action. And once you do, you commit to the process.
If you want to explore this more for your next trip, then get in touch now. Or wait until next week when I’ll share a new tool I am developing to help you explore your WHY.
So, will I be back out for an all-night rave anytime soon? Probably not, but at least I know I still can! What do you think? When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone? How hard was it and what did you gain as a result? Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
This week, over on YouTube, I am back in Turkey. Istanbul to be precise. Last year I only had 48 hours to experience the best this city has to offer. In my latest video, I share my perfect weekend itinerary giving a flavour of the MUST-SEE attractions, a cruise down the Bosporus, haggling in the Grand Bazaar and a just how relaxing I found the traditional Hammam (hot steam bath). Check it out HERE for all the details.
Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Blog – A First Timer’s Guide to Cambodia
Blog – Your Ultimate 2 Day Santorini Itinerary
Video – City Break to Istanbul – MUST DO 48 hours in Turkey Itinerary
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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