About Solo Traveling

Solo travelling is something I could write and talk about forever. I’ve seen many people trying it, struggling with it, loving it. So I just wanted to share a bit of my own experience, maybe it helps your next trip feel a little lighter.

You see a lot of videos these days saying how much people grow while traveling alone. And while I do think that’s true, they often leave out why. Because as we know, growth usually doesn’t come from the easy parts of life.

Still, if you’re curious, I’d say: go. Try it. But I wouldn’t say it’s for everyone. You can’t force that kind of experience.

First Things First: You’re Going Alone

Sounds obvious, but it hits different once you’re out there. Yes, you’ll meet people, maybe even constantly. But in the end, it’s just you. And that’s both the hardest and the most beautiful part.

You’ll decide how to spend your time without anyone watching you. That kind of freedom can be scary. Back home, we’re all part of routines, even with the best people around us, there are circles we move in, expectations, comfort. When that’s gone, it feels like something’s missing at first.

But after a while, it starts to feel like freedom. And somehow, you learn to carry that freedom back with you. Into your old routines. Into the place you call home. And routine isn’t the enemy. People need structure to feel safe. That doesn’t mean you can’t feel free at the same time.

What Really Changes

For me, solo travel stripped away the things that made me feel like myself. No job. No gym. No friends around. So who was I, really? What would I do with my day? What would I eat? Where would I go?

It sounds simple, but it’s actually a big thing to face. And yes, it gets lonely too. Watching the sunset or having a nice small chat with the guy you bought takeaway-dinner from might become the highlight of your day. That teaches you a lot: gratitude, self-love. But you also realize: sunsets are nicer when shared.

So what I want to say is: go. But don’t get discouraged when you feel nostalgic or melancholic or even a bit lost. That’s the part where growth happens. You start to know what matters to you. What makes you feel alive. You learn to enjoy life alone, but also that sharing it is the most beautiful part.

It's Not Always Easy, But That’s the Point

There’ll be days where you feel completely lost. You’ll look for home and find it in strange places. You’ll feel frustrated. But that will make you more resiliant. You’ll learn to take control, because if you don’t, no one else will. And that’s what solo travelling teaches you.

But there are also magic moments. You’ll talk deeply with someone before even learning their name. You’ll realise how human we all are. You’ll learn to find friends in strangers, find love for the small details, learn to speak up for yourself, set your boundaries and life will get fuller.

So if you feel stuck or unsure where you’re going: Let go of the things that tie you too tightly to comfort. Step into the unknown. Write it all down. Be honest. Be open. Speak your truth. Easier said than done, I know. But sometimes it’s easier on a quiet beach at the end of the world.

Weiter
Weiter

Rethinking Volunteering