I never intended to travel solo; it sort of just happened. When I was planning my trip to Europe following my graduation from University, I knew there was no better time than now to take an extended trip abroad before getting sucked into a full-time job.

The only problem was…who the hell is going to come with me?

Luckily, my boyfriend, Manuel, was able to join me for the first three weeks. But he would have to return to the states for work, weeks earlier than I anticipated. After lots of self-convincing, I decided that I would travel the remainder of my time in Europe solo-yolo.

In the beginning, the thought of solo travel was intimidating. For one, I had never even been out of the country and didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. Two, I was going to be on the other side of the world, not knowing a single person and having to depend completely on myself. To prepare I looked to the internet for help, researching other solo travelers’ experiences. After reading nothing but great things, I was convinced that this was going to be the best adventure of my life.

As expected, when I told my family, they were not thrilled with the idea. Everyone thought I was crazy, and I can’t even recall how many times I was asked if I had seen the movie ‘Taken’.  I could understand my family’s concern, and why they were trying to talk me out of the idea but being as stubborn as I am, I wasn’t budging at all. I was too excited thinking about all the cool things I was about to see and do in Europe.

Finally, the day came for Manuel and I to fly across the world and start our adventure. The first three weeks we spent together in Europe were unforgettable, but they came and went too fast. Before I knew it, he was on his flight back to the Bay, and I was on a different flight heading to Berlin.

THE SOLO ADVENTURE BEGINS

Getting off the plane, reality hit me like a bus. I was alone, somewhere completely new. Navigating across foreign countries with multiple language barriers. Having no one to rely on but myself, or cell phone service for that matter, was no easy task. But those situations that challenged me and pushed me out of my comfort zone, were the most rewarding. As cliché as it sounds, you really do learn A LOT about yourself when traveling alone.

During my solo endeavor, I had a lot of time to reflect on my life without any distractions, which is rare. I had been going through such a transitional period in my life, having recently finished my undergraduate studies and being ready to embark on the real world. All while still learning to cope with drastic changes in my personal life. Having no distractions from my daily routine back home gave my mind much clarity. I found a whole new appreciation for all the trials and tribulations I had faced and was happy with where I was headed.

Furthermore, meeting so many other travelers gave me a new perspective and a different way of seeing things. It’s amazing to hear other people’s stories, learn about their cultures, and share your own.  We still had so much in common despite our completely different backgrounds. I’ve made global friends that I am still in contact with and, hopefully, will get to visit again one day.

TIPS FOR SOLO TRAVEL

I’m by no means an expert in solo travel now, but I learned many things from this experience that I feel are valuable for someone who may be considering it.

• Travel during the day time. I can’t recall a time when I felt endangered or at risk of being mugged. But for the most part, I never ventured off alone at night and was always aware of my surroundings.
• Be sure to do some research on whichever destination you are thinking of visiting. This is important for female solo travelers. Some are safer than others, be aware.
• Stay in hostels to meet other travelers. I was fortunate to meet many other awesome solo travelers from diverse backgrounds who I would explore with.
• Be careful who you tell that you’re traveling alone. For example, whenever I was asking a stranger for directions, I always said I was meeting a friend there.
• Tripods or selfie sticks will be your best travel buddy for all those awesome photos to send your family and friends back home, so they know you’re alive.
• Most importantly, enjoy your solitude but be present. Though, you’re never really alone when you travel. It’s rare to spend time with yourself away from your daily routine, somewhere foreign. So put your phone down and take it all in.

So what are you waiting for? Step outside of your comfort zone, as I did. Fly across the world and don’t stress about getting lost in a city you’ve never been to and know no one. That’s all the fun in it.

I think everyone should give solo travel a chance at least once. Even if it’s not for you, you’d know you it a try. Sure this is just my opinion from experience, and it’s probably not for everyone. But regardless, you’ll still come back with some awesome photos and stories to tell after.

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