Photo Credit: Nappy Studios
Remember those days when we would call up all our friends and excitedly talk travel plans? Where to next? And being so “free” that all needing to be finalized were travel arrangements and packing bags?
Remember everyone actually going on the trip?
How times have changed!
With each passing year, this has now become more of a distant memory as the priorities of myself, as well as my longtime travel companions have shifted significantly. Many of us now have spouses, families, demanding careers and….actual budgets! It can be frustrating to get excited about pending travel plans, only to have people dropping out at the last minute (sometimes seconds). This usually results in the remaining group nixing plans altogether due to lack of motivation and increased shared costs.
There is a lot of world to see.
Many of us have a bucket list of places we want to see and things we want to do. It can soon feel like you are missing out on countless travel experiences while waiting for everyone you made plans with to get themselves together. I, too, am guilty of getting bogged down with family and work life, making for very little travel time. Never in a million years would I have even considered traveling alone, but now I wholeheartedly embrace it! It would be a shame to look up later in life, realizing that you left so much to be desired, and having no one to blame but yourself. I am grateful to have my spouse, children, siblings and friends to share most of my adventures with, but I have also opened myself up more to the idea of traveling alone.
I am inspired by those free souls who pick up and jet off to see what the rest of this world has to offer; not everyone has that luxury. There are amazing sites right here in the United States, and in our very own backyards, to explore. Some nearby destinations are easier to plan and mainly involve getting in the car and simply going the distance. Others, not so much, but it is great to know that there are personal tour guides available internationally to ensure that you have a very fulfilling experience.
Some main reasons why you should consider traveling solo are:
- The responsibility relies on you.No more logistical debates or relying on others to hold up their ends of the bargain. Much more, if the plans do not pan out, it is strictly on you.
- It’s empowering.It can be difficult to muster up the courage to even go to the movies or out to eat alone, but once you get a taste of how amazing it can be to enjoy your own company, you will feel a different sense of accomplishment. Now, just imagine what an experience it would be to book the solo trip of your dreams. Life is meant to be lived; don’t put yourself in a box. Moreover, don’t worry about what people will think or say.
- A form of self-care. Much-needed alone time gives you the ultimate opportunity to enjoy unique moments with hardly any distractions. You can explore a new location or culture in your own way (i.e., food, clothing, people, and landmarks) without having to go along with the crowd. In other words, you get to do what youwant versus what everyone elsewants!
You set the standard for what you wish to explore in life. Cheers to no longer waiting on “permission” to travel the world – save, plan and go!
Have you, or would you consider, traveling solo? Sound off in the comments!
