One Year and a One-Way Ticket

Ditching My Mother's Five-Year Career Plan to Travel Solo

Non-Fiction - Travel
309 Pages
Reviewed on 01/19/2025
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite

Danika Smith aspired to gain admission to veterinary school. When she failed and worried about her future, she decided to travel for a year to reflect and clear her mind. Luckily, she found a website that allowed her to exchange work for room and board. This experience led her to visit countries such as Sri Lanka, India, Germany, Spain, etc. At first, she faced challenges, such as the uncertainty of traveling alone, adapting to new cultures, and performing various trades. However, she also made friends, explored amazing places, and enjoyed a variety of cuisines. Most important to her were the connections, personal growth, and purpose she found along the way. In One Year and a One-Way Ticket, Danika demonstrates that the world is full of opportunities, which we can enjoy if we overcome our fears.

I loved Danika Smith's narrative because she not only describes the places, flavors, and emotions but also shares personal aspects. We see how she overcomes her fear of being judged and becomes a stronger version of herself. Additionally, she deals with even the most difficult and painful experiences as part of her evolution. Her writing style is close and enjoyable as if she were conversing with a friend. She takes us through her activities such as participating in a theater play, dancing, or hiking, accompanying these with some lovely photographs. Her anecdotes are full of reflections that inspire and teach. One of the aspects I liked the most is how, throughout her journey, Danika transforms her perspective on work. She doesn't see it as an obligation but as a choice. One Year and a One-Way Ticket reminds us that we don't have to give up what we love but can learn to adapt to the circumstances.