Everyone says it’s the scariest and most amazing experience of your life. And although it’s true that you always need to be cautious about it, it’s definitely something that you NEED to try. Solo travel comes in a variety of forms so don’t worry about “doing it right.”
You can bring a friend.
Power to you if you can just get on a plane and peace out. But travelling solo doesn’t necessarily mean going somewhere completely alone. Maybe you’ve always traveled with your family or taken tours with groups so to you, getting on a plane with your best friend might be a scary leap outside of your comfort zone. Do it!
It doesn’t have to be far.
You don’t have to travel halfway around the world (but you totally can and should at some point). You don’t even have to leave the country! It’s about going somewhere you are not familiar with and make that connection without someone holding your hand so to speak. It’s an incredible feeling to notice interesting things about your surroundings by yourself rather than having them pointed out to you. Maybe you’re new to the city and haven’t gone exploring yet. Or there is a new restaurant in your town that you really want to try. It’s all about seeing something new.
No one is looking at you weird.
The first time I traveled by myself I couldn’t help but think that anyone who looked at me immediately thought “what a loser, here all alone.” Literally no one is thinking that. Think about it. When you’re at a restaurant with friends, how much attention do you pay to the row of individuals having their meal at the bar? You don’t because you’re talking to your friends (and probably checking your phone).
Confidence is more fun.
So stop speculating what other people might be thinking (because you’re wrong anyway) and proceed with confidence. You will notice yourself having waaay more fun. Don’t be afraid to walk into a restaurant and ask for a table for one. Go to that rooftop bar and take in that view, drink in hand. Don’t miss out on an incredible experience just because no one (or everyone) wanted to go to the same place as you.
You’re in charge.
This is probably the most compelling (and my favorite) aspect of solo travel. You decide how long you spend sitting on that park bench taking in the fall colors. You decide when and what your lunch will be. You can wake up early to watch the sunrise on the beach or just sleep in late and not tell anyone. You can clear the rest of your afternoon to walk the Venice boardwalk. Traveling with people is great but just think of not having to look for a washroom when you don’t need it or not blowing your entire transit budget on an Uber when you’re in the mood for a walk.
In any case, whether you fly to South Beach with your best friend or bus to New York City by yourself, the goal is to push the boundaries of your comfort zone, whatever that may be for you. Give it a try. It’s never what you think.
