The two, in my opinion, are synonymous. This perspective might also be influenced by my experience as a first-time solo female traveller. After navigating security, passport control, and baggage claim, I found a taxi to take me to the hotel where I would spend the next six days.
I handed over my two large suitcases to the driver, along with my carry-on luggage, and got into the back seat holding my laptop bag. Coming from South Africa and traveling alone, I asked if it was safe to walk around the city. When we arrived at the hotel, the rush-hour traffic was intense. We stopped in the middle of the street, luggage in hand, and hurriedly moved everything to the curb, where a doorman graciously helped me bring it inside.
I was thankful for his assistance and his willingness to help unwrap my suitcases from the plastic wrap that had protected them during the flight. After a minor hiccup with my check-in that was quickly sorted out, I finally closed my door, exhaled, unpacked, and hopped into the shower after 22 hours of travel.
The warm water under the magnificent waterfall showerhead was a much-needed welcome. The fragrance filled the air with notes of Bergamot, African marigold, Black Amber, and Moroccan cedarwood. My initial impression of both the city and hotel was filled with rush-hour chaos, renovations at the hotel, and the stress of traveling alone.
But after a refreshing shower and checking that my luggage had arrived safely, my second impression was entirely different. Feeling rested, I ventured out to explore.
