She set out to embark on a journey into the unknown, and realized that some of life’s journeys are best explored alone.
Have you ever toyed with the idea of gallivanting across the world, magically transporting yourself (in your head of course) to backpack across the European continent? Travel through the idyllic countryside of the UK, or set off to explore exotic countries in the Far East, to experience their culture and taste their delectable cuisine? However the very thought of venturing out without the comfort of a companion gives you cold feet and sweaty palms? Well my friend, I think we have all been there, some of us, sadly, still are.
We want to see the world, explore new lands, experience life outside of our comfort zone. But then ever so often are either held back by our fears of venturing into the unknown or end up waiting helplessly for the availability of a companion who could provide the much-needed security we “think” we need. And that’s the reason why our plans never take flight. Oh the irony, coz neither do we.
You may have read a lot of blogs where women have raved about their adventures and couldn’t help but whisper to yourself “Oh the brave hearted, if only I was one too”. You get inspired for a split second and then sadly those chicken legs start stepping back, convincing you that just because they could do it does not mean you can too. Safety issues, travel blunders, itinerary hiccups, boredom, unpleasant situations are all thoughts that continue to deter you from taking the plunge. But the fact that they claim that a solo trip has been the most enriching experience of their life can’t help but call out to your inner adventurer.
What if I fall? Oh but my darling, what if you FLY?
We often underestimate our capabilities to deal with difficult situations and are unable to shake off the inane feeling of meeting with failure. In the bargain we let go of our only opportunity to rediscover and reconnect with ourselves. Being yourself, doing things your way, making decisions at the spur of the moment are all things that will invigorate your mind and soul and all you need to do, is take that first step.
So let’s talk about the Perks of Solo Travel:
1 – You are the Big Kahuna, the master of your Itinerary. Right from the country you visit, to the cuisine you eat. You decide which path to choose, the often tread one or the offbeat one. A relaxing day in or a jam packed itinerary. You get to plan your day, your way, something you would miss out on trips with family and friends. Don’t get me wrong, I am all for travelling with companions which can be a lot of fun, provided you share similar interests and enjoy like-minded activities. Unfortunately, more often than not you are obligated to work with “moods”. Thereby bowing down to the whims of others purely to avoid an argument. Fitting your personal interests in a schedule where other people have a say, well, is not always easy.
2 – You decide to take that walk to explore a new city without being dragged off to go souvenir shopping, or tick a clichéd must do activity off your friend’s bucket list.
3 – You choose to sit in that cute Café with a cup of coffee and read that book you have been meaning to but haven’t had the time.
4 – You make new friends. “Sometimes the greatest adventure is simply a conversation.” This holds true for random conversations that could start anywhere. I personally met my now best friend in a one-day workshop on time management where we were paired together for an activity and ended up bonding over our mutual love for dance and animals. I still don’t think we manage our time well enough though, the very purpose of the training we actually met for. LOL! Venturing out by yourself gives you the opportunity to learn about people, their culture & way of life, making this experience truly enriching.
5 – Your mistakes, well, are your mistakes. Advice (especially unwanted) is free and you will hear too many “I told you so’s” from well-meaning naysayers. The fact that you no longer care about what others think prepares you for a liberating and enlightening trip. Laugh over any blunders that happen along the way, make the best of it, move on and enjoy your time.
6 – You get time to reflect. The time and space that solo travel offers you is unparallel to any other. It allows your mind to wander and take time off from the daily stressors that affect your life. Your time away from a high-flying corporate job that may be paying for your trip but ironically is also the reason “WHY” you need that trip. A 2×2 cubicle could never give you that freedom unless of course you want to get fired. You get to think about where you’ve been, where you would like to be and what exactly you need to do to get there.
The takeaway here:
Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. I mean, that branded bag you got on your last trip is bound to reach its shelf life eventually. But your crazy adventure stories, now those will live on forever. All you need is a positive attitude, an open mind and a street-smart swag. So get moving already!
Fill your life with adventures, not things. Have stories to tell, not stuff to show. I mean the branded bag you got on your last trip is bound to reach its shelf life eventually. But your crazy adventure stories, now those will live on forever. All you need is a positive attitude, an open mind and a street-smart swag. So get moving already!