why go solo? My Journey of Self-Discovery Through Solo Travel
Growing up, I struggled with doing things on my own. The feeling of loneliness often triggered my anxiety. But after a tough breakup, I realized how much this impacted my life, and I knew I needed to change. That’s when I decided to start my solo travel journey.
The COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in my plans of traveling the world, and I became frustrated with waiting for others to join me. Eventually, I felt a strong pull to explore the world alone, so I made the bold decision to take the leap. Sometimes, you just have to say “f*ck it” and follow your gut.
How Solo Travel Changed My Life
For years, I feared being alone, but solo travel completely transformed my mindset. As a woman, safety was a major concern, and I had to be realistic about it. I kept seeing ads for group travel companies on social media, and one stood out to me: Contiki. Their focus on social travel for 18-35s, affordability, ease of planning, and strong reputation gave me the confidence I needed to join.
I signed up for a Contiki group trip to Europe, knowing that this experience would be something I had to do for myself. To my surprise, I got a family hookup with United Airlines and flew first class on their Polaris service to London. It felt like everything was aligning perfectly.
The European Adventure
Once in London, I met my roommate from Australia, and we were ready for a 10-day trip across four European countries by train. The fast-paced schedule didn’t leave much room for homesickness. Between exploring new cities and meeting fellow travelers, I was completely in my element.
Traveling solo gave me a deep sense of freedom and personal growth. I learned to immerse myself in different cultures, try new things, and engage with locals. But what stood out the most was how much I grew as a person. I met travelers who weren’t as open to new experiences, and unsurprisingly, they didn’t enjoy the trip as much. I couldn’t relate.
By the end of the trip, I gained so much confidence in myself—I knew I could do anything on my own. The anxiety I once felt about traveling solo was gone, and I realized that this was just the beginning of my journey toward independence and adventure. Europe was unforgettable, and while I’ll save the details for another post, here are my top takeaways for anyone considering solo travel.
Top Tips for Solo Travel:
If you’re thinking about going on your own adventure, here are my top solo travel tips to help you make the most of your journey:
- Don’t Wait for the Perfect Moment – Book That Trip!
The ideal time will never come, so stop waiting for others. Book that flight and go! Your future self will thank you. - Be Open-Minded and Embrace New Experiences
Money will always come back, but time won’t. Be willing to try new things, from food to activities, and really dive into the culture. - Engage with Locals
The true magic of travel lies in the people you meet along the way. Don’t be shy—talk to locals and fellow travelers. These connections will enrich your journey beyond your expectations.
Why Solo Travel is Empowering for Women
Solo travel for women can feel intimidating at first, but it’s also one of the most empowering experiences you can have. Whether you’re exploring Europe, Southeast Asia, or any corner of the globe, traveling alone builds confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of yourself. If you’re looking for adventure, growth, and a new perspective on life, traveling solo is one of the best decisions you can make.
Conclusion
Traveling solo has given me a new sense of independence, and I’ve learned so much along the way. The friendships, the personal growth, and the memories—there’s nothing quite like it. If you’re considering solo travel, I encourage you to take the leap. It might just change your life, as it did for me.