Why I Continue To Solo Travel

Have you ever felt the need to impulsively book a flight and go explore the world, but you didn’t act on it because nobody wanted to come with you? If the answer is yes, then keep reading because this article might change your mind!

About 7 years ago, I found myself living in London with a circle of friends having different schedules to mine, who didn’t want to spend any money or simply did not feel the need to travel and visit new places. Well, the thing is… I did! And I really wanted to go to Barcelona that year. So after relentlessly asking my friends to come along, and receiving negative responses, I decided to book the flight, a hostel and simply go by myself. 

Right after booking the flight, pure fear took me over completely. What had I done? Me, alone in a new city, nonetheless sleeping in a hostel and in a city where they did not speak my native language! I panicked and almost considered blowing everything off. The only thing that stopped me from cancelling everything was the realisation that I was 23 and broke, so wasting money was simply not an option.

Little did I know how unfounded my worries were. Firstly, guess what? Most people spoke English and I didn’t have any issues communicating with people. And the hostel? Well that was the most amazing experience I have ever had. I met so many people, all from different countries and with amazing stories to tell. The room had 15 beds in it and was mixed (men and female), but despite my reservations, I didn’t feel uncomfortable for a second. Everyone was so respectful, and I quickly discovered how we shared similar values about exploring and learning from other cultures. It felt like I finally found my people, every single person shared my attitude and the same passion for discovering new cultures and places in the world.

On my last night, a bunch of us from the hostel went to a festival and had the time of our life! We laughed, talked and danced till dawn. I remember hugging everyone goodbye before leaving for the airport that morning and we all got a little emotional. I still keep in touch with most of those people to this date and we all have great memories of that night.  

But there’s more than meeting new people behind solo travelling. My first solo trip gave me the gift of confidence. I began feeling so powerful. I found out that I am way stronger than I think and I realised that often people let their mind stop them from achieving greatness. I built a confidence that translated into every domain of my life, both personal and professional.

I gained the ability to be independent, to not let other people’s opinions stop me from doing what I really want to do in life and to follow my goals and passion despite not having someone to share them with. Don’t get me wrong, I still love sharing experiences with friends and family and I will always cherish human connection as I think it’s essential to have a fulfilled life. I learnt that the lack of a companion doesn't need to stop you from experiencing amazing things in life.

I believe it’s crucial to share my experience and thoughts as a solo traveller because as a woman I have always encountered a lot of stigma around the topic. I've encountered many people that believe a woman should not be adventurous or travel alone. So I made it one of my life goal to change the general perception about that and show everyone that WE CAN DO IT TOO! With enough planning and common sense, places become safer and more accessible. 

Back to the present, since my first experience as a solo traveller, I visited over 30 countries, hiked the Himalayan range, inter-railed across Europe with only a backpack… and so much more! All on my own, but never alone.

Solo travelling is often misconceived as if being a lonely experience. My reality is that I am almost never alone when I travel solo. During my last winter trip, I spent 2 weeks in South Asia, and between staying in hostels and visiting places on guided tours I was constantly surrounded by great people.

So, my advice for you is this: if you are dying to go visit that place and you do not have anyone to go with… JUST DO IT! Don’t miss out on something just because you don’t have anyone to go along with. Life is short and FOMO is real. One day you may look back and realise that you could have done this or that, but you didn’t because of other people. And who want that?!

Solo travelling is so much more that visiting new places. Solo travelling means having dreams and pursuing it. Solo travelling is discovering yourself and what you love. Is independence and confidence. 

Don’t wait, book your flight now. ☺

- Manu