Over the weekend, I read this column by Rick Steves in the PD about the benefits of traveling solo. I've found that when I'm on my own in a new city, I'm much more adventurous and likely to chat up people I don't know. Two trips in particular stand out in my mind. First, Paris when I crashed the dinner party of my Eurostar seat mate and then San Diego (my first trip) when I met a woman who treated me to a flight of wine at an awesome outdoor wine bar. And, NYC solo is always fun since my schedule is usually frenetic anyway. (Plus, you guys make fun of me for asking random strangers to take my pic in front of landmarks. I have no shame.)
Don't get me wrong, I think I would have hyperventilated multiple times if I traveled to Asia on my own. Having a traveling companion when we got super lost on a four-hour bus ride in Thailand while looking for a beach would have been extra terrifying without a friend at my side. Same for navigating multiple bus and train routes throughout Japan...Gina's navigating skills were a lifesaver!
So, wanna go somewhere but can't find someone to go with? First, ask me :) and second, just go! You'll learn a lot about yourself.
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I'll have to give that column a read. I've been debating a solo trip for some time, but to be honest, I'm a little nervous about it.
ReplyDeletePaige, go for it! I've found that research is empowering. Read up all you can about where you want to go, ask people who live or who have visited and do your best to learn a little of the language.
ReplyDeleteI love love this!!! I recently wanted to travel alone to a city and was nervous and excited at the same time. I ended up going with a friend, and we had a great time but I still plan on branching out on my own in the future!
ReplyDeletePs) We are neighbors, I live very close to Cleveland!
Hi, Dina! Thx for the comment! Regarding a solo trip, go for it!
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