When I was living in Valladolid for a year, I made a decision that forever changed my life path. I really wanted to travel on the weekends more, but my friends were very non-committal. In the new year, I made a promise to myself; I was going to have the best year ever. I was the one in control of the quality of my time abroad, and no longer wanted to wait for my friends to have the time or money to join me. So, with palms sweating I booked a trip to Sevilla..alone!
It’s easy for me to sit here and recommend that everyone should try solo travel at least once in their life. After all, at this point it’s become second nature and I have been to 6 out of 7 continents alone. One of the drawbacks to living in a digital age is that we are constantly comparing our journeys to other peoples. I am here to keep it real and remind you that my chapter 43 looks nothing like your chapter 1. The first time I traveled solo I was shitting my pants! I can still remember sitting on the rooftop of the hostel pumping myself up to ask a group of strangers if I could join their game of Cards Against Humanity. Of course they said yes, and we ended up eating dinner all together, pregaming, and having the most fabulous night out in Sevilla! So even if you’re scared, here’s why I think you should do it anyways
- You will meet tons of new people!
When you travel by yourself, you are so much more open to meeting other travelers. Hostels are an amazing place to stay, especially if you are alone. They often have common rooms and organized activities throughout your stay!
- You are in control of the itinerary!
This is probably one of my favorite things about going on a trip by myself. There’s no compromising to be done, you get to plan everything EXACTY the way you want.
- Independence
There is just something so amazing about learning to truly enjoy your own company! Now a days I actually look forward to spending time alone!
- Problem Solving Skills
When you travel by yourself you have no one else to rely on, which has really honed my creativity in problem solving.
- Empowerment
A little secret: even as a seasoned traveler, I’m still always a little nervous right before a solo adventure. Once I land in my destination though I begin to feel so excited and empowered, every single time! This is one of my all-time favorite feelings and I truly believe everyone should experience it once in their lifetime!
Have you ever solo traveled before? If not, what’s holding you back? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!