Solo-traveling is one of my all-time favorite things to do, an experience that calms my soul and satisfies my hunger for exploration.
Solo-traveling is no longer a new trend in the world, but I know that many young women, especially those living in Asia are still hesitant to give it a try. That is exactly why in this first post of the Tea Talk series I will be talking about my experience while answering some of the most common questions about my journey. Hopefully, my sharing can reach out and inspire more young women to experience solo-traveling themselves!
Is it “weird” to travel alone?
In many societies, the conventional way of thinking views ‘solo-anything’ as something not so normal. In addition to this, women who do things on their own also risk being called out because women are often labeled as “dependent” and “weak.” So many questions asked: Why would you travel alone when you are unable to take care of yourself? Isn’t it dangerous for a woman to do that? Are you mentally sound? The conclusion to such question might even be that there must be something wrong with you!
However, the limit of your life should not come from society or anyone else but you yourself. Living by the conservative standards set forth by collectivism might lead many young women to think that doing things alone seems pathetic. This very view of life may be a
Most of the solo travelers I met have special stories to tell about why they made the decision. For example, the Turkish girl sitting next to me on the train, a freelance cook – solo traveling helps her learn more about the diversity in cuisine all over the world.
Solo traveling, therefore, is not only an
How to be more confident?
Before changing social norms, you should be able to take control of how you think and feel about your life. Starting from the smaller things like while dining solo at a restaurant, enjoy yourself (and of course, the food) and what happens around you instead of just staring at your phone the whole time! Try to avoid victimizing yourself and be the warrior who is full of pride and confidence in your own story.
Getting rid of prejudice and always finding the way to your positive energy is the quickest track to a happier, more peaceful life.
Is it going to be boring?
This is the most common question I received. Hitting the road alone, you are in charge of everything, which means you can talk and meet anyone! The freedom is all yours. How could you possibly be bored?
Solo traveling brings me unprecedented surprises!
It could be the awe that filled me after an exhaustive hike up a hill in Budapest when I could see the splendid Parliament building in the gorgeous sunset light.
It could be that day when I sat on the breezy bank of Zurich, watching the beautiful swans of the lake, while serenaded by the charm of the street musician with deep blue eyes.
It could be that night my Swiss girlfriends (whom I just met) and I went on a pub crawl, then a late night meal and girl talk until 3 o’clock in the morning.
Those memories are all very special to me, unlike anything you’d experience in life.
In a metaphor I really like to make, solo traveling is like reading a good book. Every single page brings you knots and twists you never expected, a world full of journeys you don’t want them to end.
Is it dangerous to travel alone?
Some areas are among those with higher risks that would require prior research before making your decision. However, most destinations are safe for female solo travelers.
Keep in mind that incidents (social unrest, robbery, racism, harassment…) could happen to anyone anywhere whether you travel alone, in groups, or if you travel at all. So instead of overthinking, make a point to always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instinct. You will do just fine.
Many young women have been and still are traveling alone safely and more happily than ever. The more you travel, the more you know. For example, something like sleeping with 12 strangers in the same hostel room may freak you out, but not for seasoned solo travelers. For them, this has become normal.
Given that you have enough knowledge and resources in your luggage, you can always ask for more help from others if anything arises. In a world where information access is available and affordable, it is totally possible to be both adventurous and safe.
What did I learn traveling alone?
“Being on the road alone is the best way to be lonely. Lonely and free. Nobody can follow or get hold of you. Like a butterfly, you do not need to act up, to confront; your mind is free and your muscles are dreamy…” (Nguyen Ngoc Tu).
Recently, I have taken up meditation and realized the similarity between meditating and traveling alone: they allow me to live in the moment.
When meditating, I focus on even the tiniest sounds around me and feel my breath circulating my body – something I could rarely do in daily life. This requires a lot of patience, and inner peace.
Traveling alone, I learn to deal with loneliness. No one
Finally, I learn to open up to total strangers. Solo traveling is not necessarily about being alone all the time. Quite the contrary, you get to meet friends from all over the world, from different nationalities and cultures. Without any prior planning, people just show up and become my companions, which makes me start wondering how I would ever get to experience all of this if I did not one day decided that I should hit the road alone?
Sounds good. What now?
► Make a list of destinations where you want to visit as a solo traveler and set aside some time/money to make an actual trip to one of those places.
► Try doing something you often do with your friends on your own.
► Keep a lookout for my upcoming blog post on some fun things to do while traveling alone so you could prepare for your next solo trip!
Tea Talk is a series I created to share my opinions on various daily life issues in the most truthful way – something that I would want to sit down and talk with my readers over a cup of tea. Share yours by commenting below. Let’s make a real conversation 🙂