When you’re eager to pack up and travel the world, it’s not always easy finding someone who can tag along with you. With friends and family members being tied down with their busy lives, sometimes your only option is to travel solo or forgo the adventure altogether. And since the 'travel bug' isn’t something that can easily be ignored, it means stepping up to venture out alone. But despite what you may have heard, travelling alone really isn’t all that scary or intimidating. In fact, it can be the very opposite, giving you some serious soul-searching time to enjoy personal freedom, gain self-confidence, and meet some great people along the way.
If you’re contemplating a trip, here are a few of the most common misconceptions about travelling solo to help ease your mind.
It’s Lonely
If you’re worried about being lonely on your trip – don’t be! It’s easy to conjure up a plethora of images that can leave you expecting the worst, like witnessing the beauty of Angkor Wat or Machu Picchu without anyone to share it with. But the reality is, there are so many other people doing just the same as you are. And the travel community is very social, open and welcoming. Whether you’re staying at a hostel or taking a bus across Thailand, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people just about anywhere you go. You can strike up a conversation or even tag along with new friends as you go. It’s all part of the adventure!
You Have to Be Incredibly Brave
The idea of travelling on your own can be terrifying — not knowing what to expect or whether you can handle navigating the globe on your own. But as every solo traveller will tell you — we all go through that natural bout of fear. And being brave really has nothing to do with it. It’s just a matter of doing it. The most challenging step is getting on the plane. After that, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to manage your way around, especially with the extra benefit of Google Maps and translation apps to help you.
You Have to Be Very Outgoing
Think you have to be a natural social-lite to travel alone? Think again! Aside from the fact that travellers are generally friendly people, travelling on your own is one of the best ways to learn how to step out of your shell and be more outgoing. It can be nerve-wracking at first, but when you’re hunkered down at the local bar or hostel, try to strike up a conversation with people by asking where they’re from. It’s the easiest way to break the ice. Do that a few times, and you’ll laugh about how scared you were of doing it in the first place.
It’s Dangerous for Women
Whether it’s at home or abroad, as a woman, you’re going to face unwanted attention. But that should never deter you from doing what you love and exploring the world. Staying safe while travelling comes down to having common sense and trusting your intuition.
It’s Boring
When you’re out there travelling on your own, you have the personal liberty to do what you want and whenever you want to. There’s no compromising for other people’s needs or wants. Stay in bed for half the day, eat what you want, check out the landmarks you actually care about. Plus, just think of all the new friends you’re guaranteed to meet along the way.
Don’t get fooled by these most common misconceptions about travelling solo. It could be one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences of your life. When you’re ready to book, head to Nanak Flights for the best prices in airfare and hotel bookings!