Many people are probably asking whether it is normal to travel alone. I mean, why travel alone if you can go with your friends or family member? To answer it back, does your friend or family member can travel with you whenever you want to? Do you want to know whether you can actually do things on your own? What it feels like to eat alone in a restaurant? Will you be able to handle loneliness? Will you have the courage to talk to a stranger? How about the idea of going somewhere alone, meeting new friends and keeping in touch with them? It’s normal to travel alone for both men and women. Here’s why you should consider traveling alone.
The chances of knowing and interacting with other people when you are in a group are less compare when you are alone. Unless you are very shy like me. It will take a lot of courage to know someone 🙂
As a frequent traveller and a solo backpacker, my friends thought that I am rich, that I have lots of money in my pocket to spend, that I am so brave that I could go anywhere alone. Little did they know, I’m the exact opposite of what they thought about me.
Shy @ Taj Mahal India
First, I am not rich. Second, I’m not brave enough to go anywhere around the world alone. I’m just crazy. If you really want to gain something, you really need to take a risk and go for it. You can earn confidence later but first, you need to be brave enough to take the first step.
Based on my experience, and also the questions my friends asked me, I listed the 3 common worries travel beginners have as they decide to travel alone.
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How much money do I need?
Who doesn’t worry about money? We all do, whether it’s your first time, or not. Traveling solo can be costly or cheaper. It can be expensive because you cannot split the expenses, and cheaper because you can choose an inexpensive accommodation, food, transportations, etc.
If you are traveling alone, it’s all up to you how you will spend your money. You can opt for a hostel instead of a 3-star hotel, or you can go for a nice but affordable restaurant.
The budget really depends on the country you plan to visit, and your lifestyle. If you enjoy walking, then, you can go on foot instead of taking a bus, or take a public transportation instead of a cab. In some instances, you can also join another group, so you can get discounts.
Before taking the plane, make sure you estimate the costs; do a prior research of the country you’ll visit such as how much the cost of transportation, the food, and also the entrance fee of the places you would like to visit. If you need any help, drop me an email, I can help you for free 😉
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What if I get lost?
So what? Who doesn’t get lost? It’s normal, believe me. I got lost numerous times and walked many miles.
Back when I started traveling, smartphone isn’t very popular, I had to depend on the sketch map I drew before I left my country. I am terrible in following the maps, I’m also very shy, but what should I do? I needed help. So, I always repeat this mantra in my head “Why should I be shy? They don’t know me! Go ahead and ask! Do it! Be brave, for there is nothing to fear.
But what if they cannot speak the language that I know? I experienced this many times, and I survived, I’m sure you will too 😉
Always print the address of your accommodation or the place you would like to go. Keep asking different people, till you find the right answer. It’s okay! Don’t lose hope, don’t be disappointed. Who knows, you will find a new friend from asking. I did. I found my bestie when I got lost in Rome, not just him, but many of them. In fact, I enjoy getting lost now. 😀
I got lost in the middle of the night, and I made it to my destination. If you’re lucky, the person you ask will guide you all the way.
Today, you can use your GPS, it’s faster and more accurate. But what if there’s no signal? Always download the offline maps, this will help you. You can also call your accommodation to help you out.
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Is it safe to travel alone?
It depends on where you are going and what kind of attitude you have when you travel. If you don’t want to be in trouble, always respect the people around you. If you will go in a conservative country, I highly suggest to observe their culture and adhere to their rules. Dress and behave properly.
I’ve been to some European countries, and I can say it’s really safe to travel alone, be it night and day. But you have to be mindful of thieves lurking around. Some countries in Asia are also very safe to travel.
Do not go to a dangerous place alone. Don’t accept an offer from strangers. Always be vigilant.
Worrying won’t help you. Have faith in yourself. Once you started traveling alone, you’ll find it very addicting.
