A woman traveling solo around the world unfortunately is still a major taboo.
When I traveled completely alone for the first time in October 2018, there were many questions and concerns from other people. I understand that besides going on a solo trip, choosing Morocco as my first destination was somewhat shocking, but it was the best thing I could have done!
I will never forget when I was in the immigration queue, already in Casablanca, and a friend told me, "Get ready, because traveling alone is a one-way path." And it's really true. Now, almost 5 years after this first experience, I have traveled alone most of the time.
In addition to Morocco, I have traveled solo to South Africa, Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, several cities in Brazil, and various countries in Europe. And since June 2022, I have been a digital nomad.
With this time as a solo traveler, I want to encourage as many women as possible to also experience this adventure. So, I want to share 8 reasons to convince you to travel alone at least once in your life (The last one is the most important, in my opinion):
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Freedom and autonomy
It's amazing to be able to do whatever you want, whenever you want, and have your own rules. Whether you want to wake up early or late, go out for a drink or go sightseeing, it's your decision! -
Independence
If you get lost, you need to find yourself. If you don't know how to take a bus, you have to ask. I have had many moments of insecurity, but having to rely on myself has made me much more independent and even bolder. -
You don't have to be alone all the time if you don't want to
If you choose to stay in a hostel, Couchsurfing, or find yourself in environments with other people, you will only be alone when you want to be.
If you want some company to go to a bar at night, for example, the hostel will be full of people in the same situation. Moreover, apps like Couchsurfing and Meet Up are very useful for meeting other travelers and locals to have incredible moments. I have had all these experiences and I recommend them! -
Flexibility
Want to change your itinerary at the last minute, do other things, or recalculate your route? Just go for it! There will be no one to disagree or try to convince you otherwise. -
Control over your expenses
Prefer to skip lunch to spend more at night? Or do you want to have dinner at the most expensive restaurant in town? Prefer to do activities on foot to save on transportation? You don't need to convince anyone that it's the best option or adapt to other people's plans and expenses. -
Practice languages, discover new cultures, and socialize
Sometimes when you travel with another person, you may end up isolating yourselves and living in your own world because it's more comfortable. Being alone makes it easier to feel more comfortable and have a greater need to expose yourself and take risks.
For example, if you are in a different country and are learning the local language or even want to meet natives of that place, exchange different ideas, it's easier if you gather the courage to dive in when you're alone. -
Peace and tranquility
Want to spend a day doing nothing? Just reading a book or watching Netflix? Feel free to do so, no one will convince you otherwise! -
Self-discovery
I believe this is the best reason! You get to know yourself better, allow yourself more. Understand your preferences, your limits, and what truly makes your eyes shine! Learn to demand less from yourself and follow your own pace because at this moment, there are no judgments or external expectations... It's truly transformative!
Obviously, I don't think it's really necessary to go to another country, far away, with a different culture, as I did. Each person will assess what's best for them! But do it, at least once! Travel alone, even if it's to the neighboring city for a weekend.
You maynot like it? That's possible.
You may, like me, love it? Absolutely!
Either way, there will be no losses. You tried and had a new experience! 😊
