Why You Need to Travel Solo
Traveling SOLO Around the World
I recently did a 3-week solo trip across 3 different countries, 2 different continents, and 10 different cities. Later in 2020, I did a solo backpacking trip through South America and visited rural areas of Patagonia and even jam packed vibrant cities like Rio De Janeiro. While traveling Greece, and going through many flights, ferries, long bus rides, beautiful stays in majestic hotels, hostels, and lots of fun. What I thought would be a nice vacation, turned into the trip of my dreams and one I will never forget. Every moment was filled with excitement, love, and bliss. I was able to do anything my heart desired, be in the flow of life. I learn new things about myself, about the world, and experienced things I never thought possible such as visiting a place a lived 3000 years ago.
When you are traveling alone, it's like the universe brings you special moments, spontaneous experiences, and amazing human beings, that create the most amazing trip that would would never imagine. You end up making connections with people from all around the world and have exciting adventures. I think many people are afraid to travel alone because they think it will be lonely, but it is always the opposite! You always end up meeting people and having fun and exciting experiences. It is what the universe wants you to have. I saw breathtaking view, ancient sites, connected with so many cool people, and also pushed myself outside of my comfort zone to hike glaciers, visit underwater cities, and so much more. I did all of things that I wanted to do, when I wanted to do them. I went to the restaurants I wanted to visit, spend a lot of time in areas I wanted, take a chill day, wake up late, or do what ever I desired. If I was with others, maybe they wouldn't have liked that, and I would have to make sacrifices or I would be worried if they are enjoying themselves too. Traveling solo allowed me do everything I wanted, cherish all of my surroundings, and expand my awareness of the world around me.
Traveling solo teachers you to be present in every moment and in turn provides a sense of contentment and peace. After all, it is just you, so you are forced to learn how to be with yourself and make yourself happy. You have to make decisions for yourself and do what is right for you in every moment. It also allows you to have a stronger sense of self. Traveling solo helps you learn new things about yourself and break out of the rigid structures we are often in day to day in our work lives, and be in your own unique flow of life. You will come back from your trip feeling stronger, refreshed, and with greater love and gratitude for the universe. When you get to know and love yourself in this new way, its like become your own best friend.
My favorite thing about traveling alone, is all of the people I meet. It's so exciting connecting with people from all over the world and different backgrounds. You end up making new friends to do spontaneous things with, try new foods, what ever you desire! When you are with others, you are always so focused on each other, you don't even notice the amazing world and people around you! People often think traveling solo means being alone, but its so the opposite! I end up hanging out with more people than I would if I was traveling with someone. Every city I went to I connected with someone who was also traveling alone and we ended up doing activities together, grabbing a drink, dinner, and becoming new travel friends! Sometimes we would even meet up in different countries. I even meet people on my plane rides, who gave me great company, and a also a great friendship. It is such a fun way to make friends all over the world.
I find that when you let go of control, of the shoulds, and old thoughts, the universe immediately brings you exciting new opportunities and experiences that are aligned with your true being and your soul. This was a hard thing for me to do as I was always used to planning; it made me feel safe. As an over-achieving eager-to-please child, it was hard to let go of other peoples expectations for my life, their judgements, and actually do what was right for me. But traveling solo easily gave me the practice and the strength to continue doing what was best for me and then continue that in my normal life. It forced me to look within, break down my walls and my guards, and allow myself to be in the flow. It really is a magical experience every time. I wish for everyone to experience it. If you are like me and need that push, booking a solo adventure is the perfect way to do that and get out of your comfort zone and really get to know your whole self. You are so amazing!!! Why wouldn't you want to.
Now traveling for almost a month on your own may seem daunting, but you can always start small! I started by doing small day trips or weekend trips alone. I would go to Yosemite for the weekend or to Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Mount Shasta, all of which have amazing cheap, clean hostels too! During my stay in Big Sur, I met one lady who was biking the whole California Coast all the way to Mexico. It was so cool to hear of all of her adventures. I also did a solo road trip through California, and stayed a few nights in each city with different friends and ended my trip at surreal and gorgeous Joshua Tree National Park. Due to my mini solo adventures, I felt so comfortable doing a 3 week trip alone. I knew I would be okay, as long as I had a good book in my bag, and journal in my hand, I could go anywhere.
It is summer time and many of you are planning or heading into a vacation. If you are, I highly encourage you to also look into traveling solo! It is a something that you will never forget, always cherish, and will forever be uniquely just yours.
If you do decide to take the leap and travel alone (which you totally should!), I will be releasing a new blog next week with 7 travel tips to travel alone and how you can plan the perfect trip for you!! I will also share my detailed trip itinerary from Iceland, Greece, Holland, and others.