Yogi Bear land...

My time at Whistler has come to an end and I'm truly sad to leave this place. I keep saying it reminds me of Yogi Bear land, with massive lakes surrounded by huge trees and picnic benches. Yes I've had a few strange looks when I've said that, but it's the only way I can think of to describe it.

I stayed at the South Side Lodge in a place called Whistler Creek - about a ten minute bus ride from the busy village. The views are to die for and every corner takes you to a new place. There's nothing like walking down a valley, turning the corner to see the trees part and a huge, glistening lake stretches out in front of you.

Whistler has been all about chilling out for me. With a hour walk into the village I got thinking and realised that I have absolutely no regrets about this trip and meeting people in the same situation as yourself teaches you so much about life, about yourself.

I met a girl, Carly, straight away and instantly become friends; well I nearly knocked her out as I battled with the door to my room, the door that you seem to have to run up and elbow your way into like in some kind of action film! We ended up in a bar until whatever time in the morning discovering each other's lives (she is working up here and gearing up for the ski season) and like me she wanted to take a break from things and travel whilst young enough.

Yesterday was probably the most chilled out of all as we just laid by Lost Lake sunbathing, chatting and watching the world go by. I did paddle, but have to admit the water was way to cold for me to venture in any further, the thought of just jumping in and becoming a human icicle just didn't appeal to me. The day was followed by a night out where Michelle (from Newcastle - the first British person I've met) joined us and we randomly ended up in a club and just letting go doing some crazy dancing; which I'm sure was highly comical to those watching.

As I sit here typing this it's great to reflect on the past few days and it's so good to feel settled. This whole trip is one huge challenge for me and there was moments in the first week when I wondered what the hell I was doing and I'm sure there will be more moments like that. But now, the nerves aren't there so much and I'm getting used to everything that comes with traveling, like sharing a room, a bathroom, making yourself talk to people... not drying or straightening your hair - I can hear my friends gasp with amazement now!

So many people talk about being a girl traveling on your own, some tell you not to do it, but if there is anyone reading this that wants to go alone then all I can say is do it! Grab on to that challenge and live your dreams.

Right, I'm signing off from Whistler and am just about to jump on a bus for 16 hours to Banff. See you there!