This year, I have started doing some travel alone. I’ve been to London twice and Athens once, bringing just myself and a backpack.
Though to some people the very idea of this sounds dull, crazy, or both, I for one have enjoyed it quite a lot. Of course I like travelling with friends and family, but being alone in an unknown place is a feeling unmatched by anything else I’ve ever done.
A standout benefit is the freedom it allows you. Within reason, you can do whatever you like and go wherever you want without the restrictions of being in a group.
I also believe that being alone in a foreign place helps you to understand yourself more. You are made vulnerable because there is no one to solve problems for you- you are fully responsible for yourself during that time. I’ve found that this means you begin to understand yourself and your capabilities even more.
You are never totally alone though- I’ve found meeting new people is a huge part of solo travel. Especially when staying in hostels, you bump into all sorts of people from all around the world. I’ve only stayed at a few so far, but I have already met people from Australia, Denmark, Portugal, Germany, Greece and the U.S.A.
Lastly, I find solo travel relaxing and even calming- especially when you are doing things you enjoy. I am slightly on the ‘introvert’ side of the introvert-extrovert scale, so I think this is something likely keener felt by more introverted people, but I still think that largely anyone can benefit from some time alone in a brand-new place.
Overall, solo travel is new to my life this year and it is something that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. I feel extremely lucky and privileged to have the opportunity to do this. Although travelling with others is also good and probably more fun sometimes, going solo is an entirely unique experience which brings myriad benefits of its own, and I believe it is something more should try, especially younger people like myself.
