WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL ALONE ONCE IN YOUR LIFETIME

Often, women hear many fear-based responses when they share their dreams to travel alone. “But it’s dangerous! What if you get kidnapped? Or mugged?” someone will say. Or the famous: “Always use the buddy system.” 

Although these are completely valid safety points to consider, this world is full of vast opportunity. With the right location research, practical preparation, and a good amount of self-trust, there stands a once-in-a-lifetime list of amazing reasons you should say YES to traveling alone.

YOU SEE THE WORLD THROUGH AN HONEST PERSPECTIVE

When you travel somewhere without a friend or family member by your side 24/7, you have a special chance to see the world exactly how you experience it. Especially when traveling to unfamiliar cities, countries, or continents, the newness of a distant location and culture can come alive to you in ways that are totally unique. 

Solo travel frees you of another person’s filters and expectations. You’re free to do what you want when you want. You can say no to anything that makes you uneasy without the social pressure to “be adventurous.” You’ll be challenged to observe other lifestyles without judgment. 

A CHANGE OF SCENERY CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Call it Culture Shock: You most definitely might have moments of solo travel when you ask yourself, “Um, am I even on the same planet anymore?” 

Depending on where you go, be prepared to let go of all preconceived opinions you held about the right or wrong ways to live life. Your culture’s ideals about food, sanitation, table manners, treatment of animals, transportation, money, spiritual practices, and social etiquette could all fly out the window.

It’s okay, though! The drastic change in scenery isn’t meant to scare you or make you feel bad. It can actually be a life-changing opportunity to learn new ways of daily thought, relationship, and action. Many times, you’ll realize how much you truly have to be grateful for.

IT’S EMPOWERING AS FUUU-N

Traveling solo might seem scary at first, and some parts are intimidating for sure! In the end, however, it’s super empowering. AND FUN. 

You could be humbled, entertained, creeped out, amazed, exhausted, delighted, or even confused– all in the same day. But you have to remember: Damn, you’re doing this! You’re taking yourself on an incredible adventure and opening yourself up to the journey, whatever might come. Every day is a new thrill.

THE WORLD IS BEAUTIFUL

This point is obvious, but oh, it hits home. The world is freakin’ big and beautiful. There are infinite sceneries to behold. Both natural and man-made wonders to marvel at. Stories of history, both high and low, to introduce to your presence.

Is everything going to be photo-worthy and aesthetically pleasant? NO. But the best part is the noticeable beauty that moves you is the most meaningful kind of beautiful.

YOU LEARN WHAT YOU NEED TO LEARN

Can’t find a trolly or Tuk-tuk? Don’t know how to ask what’s on your plate without sounding offensive? Haven’t tried to barter at a street market yet? You’re gonna have to learn!

One of the coolest parts about the solo travel experience is that you’ll be thrown into new situations where you’ll need to practice common sense, intuition, active learning, and people skills–usually all at the same time. And you will learn A LOT. 

IT HELPS YOU STAY OPEN-MINDED

There’s quite possibly nothing as eye-opening as travel. Even if the trip is to a new state several hours away, the act of moving out of your personal bubble and into new territory can open your mind to something new. 

On the flip side, if we tend to remain in the same place where we feel comfortable and familiar for too long, over time our perspectives can grow rather small. Movement and travel make us feel alive, am I right? If you need a shift in mindset about the world, traveling will definitely open your mind for you!

YOU GET TO MEET FASCINATING PEOPLE

Traveling’s not all about eating new foods, seeing sights and museums, and taking Insta-worthy photos the whole time. Travel lets you meet some interesting people and potentially even friends!

Because you’re going by yourself, it’s probably a good idea to at least dip your toes into the social scene, nightlife, or some kind of entertainment event (all while checking in with your safety radar and gut feelings, of course). 

YOU MAKE UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES

At the end of your trip, you’ll be surprised at how many stories you go home with. I like to bring a journal or take notes on my phone of the most influential experiences I’ve had each day (photos optional but highly recommended!)

Whether your adventures last a few days or over a month, the memories you make will last a lifetime. 

What places call to you, future solo traveler? Do you have any fun travel experiences already? Join Hey! VINA and start connecting with other vinas in the Jetsetters community! And don’t forget–if you become a VINA VIP, you get the ability to teleport to anywhere in the world, so if you have a solo trip planned, you can scope out the VINA scene beforehand and make some plans!✈️💖