Traveling alone is probably one of the scariest phrases to hear for most people. Panic strikes at the thought. I mean come on, being alone, while sometimes nice, is not something that sounds like a great idea in a foreign place.
Hear me out though. While it seems like it could be lonely, there are some things that traveling alone can give you that a group can’t. Which is why everyone should try it at least once.
No time limit
Okay, so you know how when you’re with a group you end up staying at that art museum longer than you really care to? Or your group leaves that random music festival when you could have easily stayed another hour or five?
The beauty of going it on your own is you are only obligated to think of yourself. You get to be selfish with no shame. You can stay somewhere as long or as little as you like.
Your places only
Along with the time being yours, so is the itinerary. You don’t have to waste your precious time and trip going to places that you aren’t interested in at all. As well as not having to give up a place for someone else in the group because it’s their turn to pick.
Let’s be honest, you had no interest in that rock museum because they were, well, rocks; but it was your friend’s turn to pick. Geology majors, am I right?
Drama doesn’t exist
Yes, you may run into awkward situations but not nearly as many. Group tension doesn’t exist because there is no group. No arguing about where to eat, unless you are having some inner turmoil between pizza and Chinese. I’ll give you a hint, pizza is the way to go.
You don’t have to deal with moaning and sighing from others not getting their way. You’re the boss and you only have to deal with yourself.
Can you say NO drama? Because I can.
Empowerment
Traveling alone is a huge empowerment boost. You get to be in control and learn how great it feels to be able to do your own thing. You feel way better about yourself. Not to mention it’s a huge confidence booster when talking to new people and trying other things you’ve been afraid to do. Like asking the new guy in your office to coffee. You spent a week in NYC alone, you can do anything!
You deserve it
All of this really comes down to one thing. You. You get to be selfish in the most accepted way possible. You’re giving yourself a chance to discover not only a change of scenery, but yourself as well.
You realize all the things you can do and that you are smart, strong, and can do anything you set your mind to. You owe yourself a chance at experiencing all of this.
Have you traveled alone? What was your favorite part? Leave your advice and experience in the comments!