Don’t Pass Up A Challenge

It might be worth it.

There is something to be said about the good things in life. Really, if you’ve ever wondered about why you enjoy things so much better when they do not come so easily, then it is definitely because the harder you work for something the better the reward. I was reminded of this when I recently arrived in Águilas, España.

Perhaps, I did not have to spend long days, months, and years to arrive in the city as some people do to complete a goal, but it was not the easiest city to arrive in. Águilas is a small coastal town in the State of Murcia. Tucked away, it is not a likely destination for most backpackers. In fact, I may never have come here if it weren’t for my current tour of Spain with Urbany Hostel, Hostelling International’s Spanish conglomerate.

When I first searched for the bus schedule with Alsa, I could not find the best way to arrive in the city. Typically when I travel in Spain, I use Alsa as they are a good and reliable bus company, but in this case Águilas was just too local. After some bus changes, I arrived in Águilas, then realized that I was to go to Calarreona, a small enclave of Águilas, located about 6 kilometers just outside of the center. It may sound strange, but I chose to walk. I didn’t choose to walk because I didn’t want to pay a cab or ask someone for a ride.  It is challenging to walk with a heavy backpack, but walking is the best way to get to know a country in my opinion. I chose to walk because for me it is part of the journey, and for me embracing the walk is a part of the whole.

I strolled into Calarreona around 11pm (23:00) and was greeted with a big smile and a handshake. After a quick tour of the facilities, I retired to my room for some much needed relaxation. Tonight, I was to stay at Albergue Calarreona, which I later found out was conveniently located on the ocean. My room was quite nice, but I didn’t know just how beautiful the surrounding landscape is.  Needless to say, after all the buildup I had my doubts, as I think you always do when you are challenged. But my how wrong I was.

Just after breakfast the preceding morning, I set off to do some hiking. I had been told the night before that there was some hiking trail that connected the surrounding beaches. So, I thought it would be nice to check out since I am always up for a good hike.

In walking, I found seemingly abandoned beaches, beautiful rock cliffs, and breathtaking scenery. It was almost a godsend as I needed some recuperation and exercise. I trekked up hills and over rocks, then found a nice place to sit and stare off into the colorful Mediterranean. For me, it was serene.

For next time, I’ll remember that it might be worth the trouble to get somewhere or do something challenging.  Don’t forget to take on those challenges in life. Don’t always pick the easy and low-hanging fruits. It just may be that the sweetest ones are at the top.

 

What challenges have you had recently that were totally worth the end result?

**Tags: Aguilas Spain, Albergue Calarreona, hiking in Spain**