Under the blazing sun of Ecuador's coast, I found myself surrounded by the vibrant beauty of nature and the warmth of local life. Iguanas lazily basked on the dusty road, flanked by vibrant bougainvillea. A street vendor pedaling fresh produce ambled by, embodying the lively essence of this coastal paradise. My initial plan was to make a beeline for the beach, but first, I decided to step into a nearby shop to grab a bottle of water and an ice-cold beer.

As I approached the counter, the friendly shopkeeper smiled and greeted me in Spanish, saying, "Enjoy your beer and the sunshineand remember to cherish your health, your life, and your time. We only have today. Life goes fast." Her words resonated deeply with me, encapsulating the very reason I chose to spend five weeks on the coast of Ecuador. They also reflected my broader decision to embrace life in South America as a solo traveler.

At 33 years old, I've spent six and a half years living in Ecuador after a brief six-month stay in Colombia. My journey began with a simple curiosity about South America that blossomed into a deep appreciation for its warm climate, rich culture, and stunning landscapes.

This year, I reflected on the unique experiences of being in my mid-30s, single, and without children. The answer I arrived at was both liberating and empowering: the freedom to explore, enjoy my life, and unleash my creativity. Thus, I rented a cozy cabaa along Ecuador's stunning coastline to indulge in writing, reading, and soaking up the sun's rays. I realized that if life were to change in the future, I would undoubtedly regret not seizing this incredible freedom.

Admittedly, I never envisioned being single at this stage of my life. For years, I viewed my relationship status as a personal failure. Like many millennials, I grew up surrounded by fairy tales of princesses and princes, which seamlessly morphed into feel-good romantic comedies during my teenage years.

When I first moved to Ecuador in 2018, the country's breathtaking scenery captivated me. The lush valleys, majestic volcanoes, and charming small details like avocado trees and tiny green hummingbirds held me in thrall. It was here that I chose to embrace life's unpredictability, which has included navigating the exhilarating yet occasionally chaotic world of modern dating as a thirty-something.

As a naturally outgoing person, I've been fortunate enough to go on numerous dates, many of which were delightful. I met a soccer player who not only cooked delicious meals but also taught me how to prepare authentic shredded chicken tacos while sharing stories from his time abroad. Another date took me to upscale bars in the vibrant city of Quito, and yet another would always surprise me with an array of three desserts.

Throughout this journey, I found myself embarking on motorcycle rides, engaging in lively dance sessions, and dining at hidden local gems. However, when the initial spark failed to ignite or when a months-long relationship came to an unexpected end, disappointment would settle in.

Meanwhile, many of my friends back home are now married or entrenched in long-term relationships, leading me to assume I would have followed a similar path. Yet here I was, swiping through dating apps and navigating cultural nuances while avoiding red flags, all while striving to maintain an open mind. Some experiences were exhilarating, while others left me rolling my eyes in disbelief.

Societal expectations often cast a shadow over the lives of single women, and I found that my internal dialogue could be just as critical. Unintentionally, I had subscribed to societal pressures that did not align with my true self.

However, my perspective has shifted. I have come to appreciate the numerous benefits of being singlebenefits I had previously overlooked. Travel has become a significant part of my life. From spontaneous trips to Panama's pristine San Blas islands to solitary pre-holiday escapes at mountain lodges, and most recently, my coastal retreat, these adventures have enriched my experiences.

With the freedom to travel whenever I choose, I have no one else's preferences or schedules to consideronly my own desires. While on the coast, I spent hours reading in a hammock, reveling in the thought, "This trip is turning out wonderfully." The superficial perks included mornings sipping coffee in exotic locations, afternoons swimming in the ocean's salty embrace, and the thrill of crafting my own adventure in Ecuador.

However, beneath these surface joys lies a deeper sense of self-sufficiency. Living abroad has enhanced my ability to tackle numerous challenges independently, from navigating logistics to engaging in social situations. My Spanish has improved remarkably, likely due to the necessity of communicating effectively in my daily life.

When I embark on adventureslike my sun-soaked escapade along the coastI find myself engaging in conversations with locals that may not have happened had I been part of a couple. In this way, being single reveals itself as an opportunity rather than a loss.

Moreover, I recognize that my single status at 33 is a conscious choice made possible by my educational background. Being part of a generation of women who have achieved higher education, I am fortunate enough to support myself without the desire for children, allowing me to steer my life in a direction that feels right for me. Under these circumstances, entering a relationship would merely be a choice, not a prerequisite for fulfillment. This realization is empowering and highlights the privileges that many women still strive to attain.

The remainder of my time at the beach unfolded effortlessly. I was invited to a lively birthday party where I danced until the early hours, and I strolled along the shore, taking refreshing dips in the ocean under the sun's warmth. On a delightful evening, I learned about authentic Argentine cuisine from some men hailing from Buenos Aires who offered me the most delectable pizzas and empanadas.

I am inclined to believe that the shopkeeper, who imparted her wisdom on that arid road by the ocean, spoke the truth. If time truly is limited, as she suggested, then it is best to avoid dwelling on hypothetical situations.

Looking ahead, I am filled with excitement for future adventures. Whether someone is there to share them with me or not, I am perfectly content embracing life on my own terms.