The Art Of Going Solo

Embarking on solo travel can indeed feel overwhelming and intimidating. However, with my newfound experience and confidence in solo adventures, I’m eager to share the incredible benefits and vibrant environment that solo travel offers, especially for young travelers.

After taking on numerous solo adventures over the past two years, I can confidently say it’s my favorite way to travel. Solo travel provides the freedom to do as you please and the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people in the world. The magic of solo travel and hostel life lies in the shared mindset and perspectives of fellow travelers. Many are exploring the world on a budget, seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, and looking for meaningful connections. This makes it incredibly easy to meet people and form deep connections with travelers from diverse backgrounds. Solo travelers are always open-minded about engaging with others and trying new activities. There’s a unique and special energy that backpackers, especially solo travelers, share.

Let’s delve into both sides of solo travel. There have been plenty of times during my solo adventures when I’m constantly surrounded by others, feeling like my social battery is running low because I haven’t had any alone time in days. That’s the unique beauty of solo travel. When I reach the point of needing to clear my head and spend time with myself, I can. I’m not tied to anyone or any specific plan, allowing me the freedom to do as I please. This flexibility lets you recharge, become more grounded, and enjoy activities you might miss out on when you’re with a group.

Finding yourself alone in a foreign city can be intimidating, but it’s your choice whether to let it be a frightening experience. When I travel solo, I make sure to stay engaged and focused on the present moment. I always carry a book, a journal, and a pair of headphones. These items help me stay occupied and provide comfort when I feel lonely.

I also love spending time alone at cafes. Though I might intend to recharge my social battery, I often end up striking up conversations with people around me, especially the staff. These interactions with locals are incredibly fulfilling. After a meaningful conversation, I often feel content and ready to call it a day, even without further social interaction.

Here’s the beauty of solo travel: the freedom to choose your own adventure. I can switch from a cozy cafe to joining a bar crawl with 50 others from the hostel, find a chill group to play cards with and call it an early night, or simply lay on my bed in silence. Solo travel is about seizing opportunities, strengthening your connection with your true self, and becoming the person you aspire to be. It gives you time to reflect, live in the moment, and meet fascinating strangers in beautiful places around the world.

If you haven’t experienced solo travel yet, I highly recommend giving it a try. Start small, perhaps within your own state or country. Begin by enjoying dinners alone, where you can read a book or journal instead of scrolling on your phone. Take solo walks in the park, listen to your favorite music, and see who you meet along the way. The more you build confidence in yourself, the more rewarding your solo travel experiences will be.

Check out my article on how I chose my first solo travel destination!