Why do people start traveling alone?
When I was in high school, the idea of traveling alone as a solo female seemed entirely foreign to me. It felt like something I would never be brave enough to do, and everyone constantly reminded me that there was the seemingly inevitable danger associated with lone venture travel that made me second guess the idea.
“The journey of life is amazingly beautiful if you take it as a fearless adventure.” – Debasish Mridha
I wasn't particularly independent growing up or in high school. I was always surrounded by friends and a support system. What would I do alone? What if I were to get lost or have a major mishap during my travels? The reality of the situation overwhelmed me until I realized that if I waited, I would never do it. Can't tell you how many times over the years people change their minds, plans change, they don't end up having the funds, someone gets pregnant, etc. I didn't want to kick myself not going just because other people couldn't go with me.
As time passed by however, I started to feel more secure in feeling truly confident and comfortable being completely independent! Nowadays, it's something I intensively enjoy – no more worrying about pleasing someone else or relying on a buddy for company; I hate nothing more than doing things based off external agendas set by others!
How does solo travel help personal empowerment?
Solo travel has the unique ability to open your eyes to the world and yourself, granting a fresh perspective on life like no other. Taking the time to disconnect from our everyday lives is an empowering tool that creates boundless opportunities for growth.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
As you embark on your journey, uncertainty can create feelings of anxiety – but it’s all part of the experience. It's giving you the chance to step outside of your comfort zone and test new waters. When in a foreign place and surrounded by so much unknown, we get the opportunity to ponder life’s big questions with clarity.
On solo trips, we have a greater opportunity to gain insight into ourselves and who we really are without distractions or influences from others. In doing so, you connect more deeply with not only those around you, but yourself too.
You build self-belief through facing uncertainties on your own terms; gaining more trust and less fear as each step brings confidence in your ability to rely on yourself when need be - an invaluable asset as you navigate whatever comes next in life.
The era of a new independent solo traveler
The new conscientious solo traveler is in search of memorable, meaningful experiences that provide something unrivalled; the timeless freedom of an escape. Without the hassle of travelling companions, and a new focus on self-care and wellness after the pandemic, more people are turning to solo travel as their choice for a journey. Whether co-working trips, weekend getaways, or backpacking trips, this new era opens up more possibilities than ever.
With many optimistic mindsets about re-discovering the world around us again, the modern solo traveler looks for peace and renewal without having to sacrifice comfort or quality.
"Climb the mountain so you can see the world, not so the world can see you.” –David McCullough Jr.
Indeed, there are now numerous opportunities available for every type of traveler. From adventure to wellness establishments, luxury hotels to ‘silver service’ excursions – whatever rings true in your soul can be experienced without compromising on expectations or standards. Life-changing experiences from any corner of the world can be found at exclusive hideaways - whether it’s spotting wild game through African safaris or indulging in spa treatments around the Greek Isles. The only thing missing is another fellow companion! Either way, investing into this newfound trend will bring memories etched forever in your mind whilst undeniably pampering your body and soul too – it’s something you owe yourself!
Best travel destinations for solo travelers from 2023:
Lonely Planet's Top Travel list
21 Best Solo Travel Destinations in 2023 (USA & Abroad)
Condé Naste's The Best Solo Vacations to Take in 2023
Solo Vacations: The 33 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2023
What will you learn about yourself traveling solo?
Traveling alone means taking on full responsibility for your actions, but it also offers a chance for self-discovery. You're the boss of your own adventure! No more compromising for someone else's preferences. For many of us who are used to compromising (some of us maybe more than others!) this is a very weird thing at first!
When you travel solo, you can explore and pursue whatever you want without restrictions.
Want to visit a museum? Do it!
Craving a specific dish? Find it!
Feeling like a night owl? Stay up as late as you want!
The possibilities are endless when you're free to make your own decisions.
The newfound independence cannot be understated; rather than feeling obligated to adhere to someone else’s itinerary or ideals when traveling abroad, it can open up many opportunities that were not available previously.
Admittedly though, this freedom may also come with a certain burden of anxiety over whether one has chosen correctly or if they have put themselves in harm's way by going somewhere by themselves. Nevertheless, if everyone takes the time to properly prepare ahead of their trip, these concerns will likely become less prominent as the excitement of exploring new places and cultures
Why traveling alone can help you to be more social
Traveling solo can seem intimidating, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience. I used to be shy! It's hard to believe now because now I have no problems meeting people in social settings. I learned that I had to push myself a bit but that I would be a fantastic reward in meeting really interesting new people.
In fact, you might find yourself meeting far more people than you initially anticipated when traveling alone. This is because rather than spending your time with a group of friends, family or a significant other, you open yourself up to the world around you—talking to locals at markets, joining organized tours or simply being social in hostel lobbies. Keep in mind that there’s never a reason to feel lonely while travelling solo; There are plenty of ways to make friends on the road!
How solo travel helps your self-love and confidence
When it comes to traveling alone, self-love and confidence go hand in hand. As a solo traveler, you have the power to create your own unique journey tailored to fit your preferences. This act of taking control of your life and finding comfort within yourself represents an inflamed form of self love as you strive for something bigger than just being content with where you presently are.
As this type of adventure (traveling alone) is no easy thing; such journeys will present a number of challenging situations that need to be handled and managed by you, the traveler! Thus, as time investment and experience grows, so too does the self confidence of any individual brave enough to face the intimidating challenges that come with traveling alone.
Over time, anyone capable of successfully overcoming these obstacles can become more confident in their own skin as they have accepted and welcomed these uncomfortable experiences in order to create something greater out of nothing. Now that’s an achievement worth celebrating! Your newfound sense of courage can be applied far beyond the realm of travel and can really help shape oneself into who they wish to be both personally and professionally. Hence why choosing such a journey is not only invaluable but also unarguably rewarding for anyone daring enough to break through those fears.
In conclusion if you've ever thought about traveling alone but were too scared to do it, know that you're not alone. But if you take the leap, you'll be rewarded with an empowering and liberating experience unlike any other. Step out of your comfort zone and just go for it. You won't regret it!
Want more travel tips?
ANDREA HUNT - Online Transformational Life Coach & EFT Tapping Practitioner based in Munich, Germany
I'm an accredited transformational life coach from Animas Centre for Coaching UK and a member of the International Coaching Federation. I'm also a Level 2 practitioner in EFT Tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) and a member of AEFTP (Association of Emotional Freedom Technique Professionals).
If you're not sure where to start transforming your life, you can download my free ebook on How to Start Your Personal Growth Journey.
Are you ready to change your life, let go of old beliefs, empower yourself for a mindset shift to move forward? Mark Batterson says: You're always one decision away from a totally different life.
If you're interested in booking a free 15 minute discovery call for transformational life coaching, EFT Tapping or checking out my services page click here.
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