Traveling is one of our favorite pastimes. There are not many people (if any) who don’t have major wanderlust for this magnificent planet. Traveling is an enriching experience that nothing else can replicate.
Does Solo Travel Get Lonely?
Whether you travel independently or join a group, solo travel can be a very social experience. You can definitely travel alone without being lonely.
While lots of us adore being able to visit different parts of the globe, not everyone has someone to do it with. Even if you do, solo traveling is something everyone must try at least once. It can seem daunting; however, after reading this list, you’ll be running out of excuses not to!
1) Experience a New Side Of Yourself
We spend so much of our lives surrounded by other people. Whether that’s family, colleagues, or friends, we are often putting on a face for the people around us. Especially so if you are usually around people you have known for a while, you can get comfortable and not push the boundaries of ‘self.’
How regularly do you get more than even an evening with just yourself? Spending a few days in a different city or country can encourage a new side of you to emerge. Perhaps one without any barriers or worries of other people’s opinions.
2) Call The Shots!
One of the best things about globe-trotting alone (and most solo travelers will likely agree) is that you get to do whatever you want to do. Being able to compromise selflessly is a virtuous trait, but sometimes it’s nice to do exactly what you want to do. No compromise!
This also means the vast majority of your holiday can be spent thoroughly enjoying yourself without trekking to or seeing places you’re not interested in.
3) It’s Never Been Easier
With mostly everything now being on our little handheld devices, the practicalities of solo adventures are much more smooth. Phones carry our boarding passes, maps, recommendations, and important phone numbers, amongst other useful tools.
As more people are solo traveling, places of accommodation – such as hostels – know how to cater to you, too.
If you’re planning on traveling with your service dog, formal registration opportunities and animal passports mean it’s completely possible. This is great for those who struggle independently without their furry pets.
4) Make New Friends
Sometimes when we already have a group of friends, we tend not to bother trying to make new ones. However, it’s always fun to meet new people! Others can have so much to give, and fellow solo travelers are likely to have a similar mindset and interests as you.
You could make some friends for life at most, if not just some new people to create some fun memories with.
5) Get a New Perspective
Going abroad can help with getting a more clear perspective of life back home. When alone, this perspective is less tainted by other people’s energies and opinions.
You might be craving a fresh perspective on yourself, your career, or relationships. Alternatively, you might end up discovering something you never really set out to. Either way, it can be refreshing to view life through a different pair of specs every once in a while.
6) Try Things You Might Not Normally Do
With more time on your hands, the desire to keep busy, and no limitations of others, you might end up trying things you wouldn’t usually bother with. Not only could this be a thrilling experience, but you might discover something you really enjoy.
Conclusion
Solo traveling in itself could also be that thing you don’t usually do. You never know, this may be breaking the ice for an exciting new you.
There is a whole world out there, and the only real thing that could ever hold you back is you!