Alcohol-Free Summer

Being a non-drinker in the UK can feel tough sometimes. It’s often seen as being boring, weak, or like you’re doing something wrong.

But trips like this remind me how grateful I am for an alcohol-free lifestyle.

For me, adventures aren’t about what I’m drinking ~ they’re about where I am, who I’m with, and how I feel. People sometimes say, “You can do this with alcohol.” And you can. But I’ve found more benefits without it.

I come home feeling recharged instead of drained, not needing a holiday to recover from a holiday, and they’re less expensive too. I also feel more present when I’m there and not like I’m numbing anything.

Then there’s the bonus of coming home and being excited to see what’s on my SD cards. Back when drinking was part of my travels, it would become the focus.

Bars were always the default, adventures were rarer, and when I did get away, I’d explore less and come home feeling anxious.

Now I slow down, I’m more in tune with myself, and I prefer the natural dopamine high that comes from being outdoors.

Being alcohol-free on little weekenders gives me the freedom to do what I want. And since the pandemic, exploring the UK has stuck with me.

I still like to travel abroad, but there’s something to be said about avoiding queues, shorter travel, and the chance to go whenever the weather feels right.

Port Iago has even become a little summer tradition, one I look forward to each year.

And moments like this on the Llyn remind me being alcohol-free adds to trips, not takes away.