Solo Travel: An Unforgettable Adventure
Many of you have asked me why I haven't posted on my blog in the past month.
It wasn't writer's block, and I didn't run out of ideas. In fact, I have several posts that I haven't published yet. The reason for my absence is that I was living one of my dreams: I spent the past month solo traveling through Spain and Portugal. I wanted to take some time to reflect on my experience before sharing it with you and prevent selling you a wrong thing, but I really cannot help because with this post I will try to sell you the idea about why you should try to travel alone at least one time in your life.
The Amazing Aspects of Solo Travel
Imagine embarking on a journey where you are free to explore the world at your own pace, make new friends, and challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. Solo travel offers these incredible opportunities and so much more. Let’s develop them one by one.
Freedom and Independence
When you travel alone, you are the master of your own destiny. You can decide where to go, when to go, and how long you want to stay in a particular place. During my trip, for example, I had originally planned to spend four days in Madrid, but I enjoyed the city so much that I opted to extend my visit by an additional three days!
This level of freedom and flexibility is unparalleled, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in your journey. Nevertheless, this significant advantage comes with a corresponding responsibility - as the sole decision-maker, it is crucial that you choose wisely.
Solo travel requires you to rely on yourself and make decisions independently. As you navigate new places, languages, and cultures, your confidence and independence will naturally grow. In the beginning I literally arrived with no place to sleep! But after many weeks I learned how things work, how to be more independent and do the things by myself.
This newfound self-assurance can have a positive impact on all aspects of your life, even after your journey is over. Today, I feel like a completely different person.
Personal Growth and Learning About Yourself
Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone and encourages you to face challenges head-on. It provides the perfect opportunity to learn more about yourself, your abilities, and your interests. You may discover new passions or gain a deeper understanding of your own values and beliefs.
I was unaware of my natural ability to converse with strangers and how engaging and captivating I could be to others. During a dolphin show, I was moved to tears by the realization that happiness can be as simple as floating on the water with good company.
As I reflected on my experiences, I set new goals and reignited old dreams. The self-discovery I achieved during my journey made the entire trip worthwhile.
Making New Friends
Traveling alone doesn't mean you'll be lonely. In fact, it often leads to making new friends and connections from around the globe.
Initially, I must confess that I didn't have the opportunity to meet anyone. However, as I began to feel isolated, I realized that traveling solo wasn't the issue. I simply needed to make an effort to connect with others. And once I did, everything changed dramatically.
Whether you meet fellow travelers at a hostel, locals at a pub or park, or other adventurers on a group tour, the connections you make while traveling solo can be lifelong and incredibly - and believe me, incredibly rewarding.
If you want to make friends, join Airbnb or Booking experiences, stay at the common areas of the accommodation or public places, participate on the activities of the lodging like pub crawling or cultural events, etc.
Another tip for you all is consider opening a Snapchat account before approaching travelers, especially if you're interacting with Americans or Canadians. I thought the app was dead, but It seems like many of them use the app. Download it, you’ll be grateful later ;p.
The Challenges of Solo Travel
While solo travel is an incredible experience, it's essential to acknowledge the potential challenges you may face.
Safety Concerns
As a solo traveler, you must be extra vigilant about your personal safety. Research your destinations, stay in reputable accommodations, and trust your instincts. Stay connected with friends or family back home to let them know your whereabouts and plans. And remember, never ever leave your belongings unattended without a lock.
I had a night during my trip where I left my documents unattended with some friends I had made, and later on I began to suspect that they might have stolen my identity. Although I didn't realize it at the time, certain things seemed suspicious upon further reflection. However, after some careful consideration, I came to the conclusion that it would be nearly impossible to do anything with just a passport and Instagram photos. Despite this, I was frightened for a brief period.
Many Costs are Typically Designed for a Pair
Traveling solo can be costlier since you won't have a companion to share expenses with. Individual rooms, food, and even personal transportation tend to be less expensive when split between two people, making it an optimal number in terms of cost, travel, and companionship.
However, there are ways to offset these expenses by staying in places with per-bed pricing, requesting half portions or set menus at restaurants, and utilizing public transportation.
Nevertheless, I must admit that traveling with a partner is more advantageous when it is about costs.
You Have To Think On Your Feet
When traveling solo, you'll have to handle unexpected situations on your own. Embrace these challenges as learning opportunities and trust your abilities to find solutions.
Throughout my trip, I encountered various issues such as booking problems, banking complications, transportation hiccups, and more. I had to handle all of these obstacles by myself, as there was no one around to lend me a hand.
Why Everyone Should Try Solo Travel at Least Once
Ultimately, solo travel is an invaluable experience that allows you to grow personally, make lasting connections, and explore the world on your terms. It can be a life-changing adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for your own capabilities.
So, whether you're a seasoned traveler or contemplating your first trip, I encourage you to take the plunge and embark on a solo journey, it’s not so expensive as it looks! The world awaits, and the person you become in the process may just surprise you.
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