The solo Wanderer
I have to start off by saying, I love my own company. The peace, the safety, the reassurance and the freedom that comes from spending time alone is like no other. I could just give you all bullet points on my tips for solo traveling but it wouldn't feel right to not preface this all with asking you, why? Why are you afraid? What is holding you back?.
Listen, I get the fear that comes with; visiting a new place, possibly not knowing the language, and the other possibility of something going terribly wrong. I have to be honest, these have not necessarily been my fears, my biggest fear has always been getting so comfortable in my own solitude that I don’t make space for anyone else to join my adventures whether that be a new coffee shop or a trip to Italy.
I love traveling. I love the food, the scenery, and the people. Taking every moment in and seeing a place for the first time is so poetic, refreshing, and liberating. I always leave wanting more.
I find taking big leaps is the best way to water your garden, taking care of yourself looks different for everyone but for me it’s not letting experiences pass me by. This begins with romanticizing life, not every moment will be one to brag about but the ones that are, turn into fond memories, memories you have the freedom to create yourself.
If you have a fear of traveling alone, my best advice would be to first write down a list of what comes up for you when you imagine being on a trip alone. Once you have that list, feel into each emotion - let’s use fear as an example. If you are afraid of judgment, let’s think about why? Do you believe people are watching you, thinking why is she/he alone?. I can assure even if it is a thought, they won’t dwell on it. Are you afraid of someone thinking you don’t have anyone to be with because you are alone? Guess what? It’s none of their business. Are you afraid of something happening to you? This is a real concern and I will get into it with the bullet points to come. It’s important to get into why these emotions come up around simply doing something alone.
I understand this requires a lot of courage, and self awareness. For many, taking a leap like this one requires some work; self reflection, mental preparation etc. All things that are completely doable and worth it.
Now that the wheels are turning, let’s get into the tips:
Baby Steps: if going across the world sounds like a nightmare, I highly recommend taking baby steps. If there is a town two hours away by train you would like to visit, start there. Then maybe a 2 hour flight, and work your way up. These steps will boost your confidence to take bigger leaps.
Plan: Planning ahead will save you time and from feeling anxious once you have arrived at your destination. Once you’re there you may find that the plan goes out the window because you have decided you just want to go with the flow but it’s nice to have some security. Plan how to get to your accommodations, put together a list of activities you would like to take part in, things you would like to see, make reservations at restaurants (depending on where you go, sometimes it’s nice to grab a seat at the bar if you’re feeling social.) Although I am suggesting you plan, leave room for spontaneity. In my experience the unplanned moments are the most memorable.
Safety: I know this is where fear can kick in, especially for women. I highly recommend sharing your location with a loved one. Be vigilant, and aware of your surroundings. Even if you’re not fearful it’s nice to be aware of what’s going on around you. Pay attention to your belongings, and be smart about being out late at night and with that being said I would also recommend not drinking heavily and remaining coherent. Be friendly but try not to share too much information about yourself or where you are staying.
Accommodations/Travel: When thinking of hotels or Airbnb, do research on locations. I recommend staying near attractions you are planning to visit, this way you don’t have to worry too much about travel. Walk as much as you can if it’s an option, it’s the best way to explore. If you do take local taxis vs an Uber, make sure you have confirmation that it is in fact a taxi.
Tour/ Language: If you are looking to meet other tourists and learn more about your destination, I recommend doing a walking tour or some sort of group activity. If you don’t speak the local language, I would recommend learning a couple of words to show you are at least trying and being respectful to the culture.
Just be: Take in the scenery, people watch, and enjoy just being. If there is something you enjoy doing back home, try doing it when traveling. For example, if you enjoy reading a book in a park - find a park, pick a book, read. If a workout class is your thing, look for local classes and join one, this is another great way to meet locals. It’s nice to immerse yourself, especially when having the freedom to move around as you please when you please.
Bring a journal: I find that solo travel often brings up a lot of feelings. Write them down, you can revisit this when you are back home. Inspiration may come from these deep moments of being so present, you’ll want to document this.
Capture The Moment: I highly recommend taking as many photos you can - with YOU in them. Don’t be afraid to ask someone to take your photo, other tourists are usually happy to trade. Another option would be to bring a tripod or find an object you can prop your phone/camera on. Trust me you’ll regret not taking photos of your adventures all because you are feeling a little embarrassed to ask or whip out a selfie stick. While I do love a good IG moment, I do not recommend posting in real time. I don’t recommend this ever but even more so while traveling alone. If you wish to share your travels, try not to tag or share any locations till after you are miles away from the location or back home.
Embody your most confident self: There may be moments where you’ll feel nervous, lonely, or unsure. This is where you remind yourself how far you have gotten and all that you have done to bring yourself to that moment. Embodiment may be required, embody your most authentic self and let that lead you into feeling more confident and from this you’ll gain reassurance that you are right where you are meant to be.
Solo travel does not mean lonely travel, with each leap you will continue to gain confidence in who you are and what you want to experience in this lifetime and know that you have the power to walk the journey whether it be on your own, or with a companion. Exploring the world will unlock new parts of you that you didn’t even know existed; new interests, new desires, and new outlooks. You have the freedom to decide where you wander next. Your Soul will thank you.
P.s. I will be updating this post as I continue my solo travels