I have this saying that “If I needed a companion to travel, I would never go anywhere” which means I can’t depend on someone else to help me check off the destinations on my travel list. It’s great to have someone to travel with, however, traveling alone can be an amazing experience and life-changing. Here are four reasons you should travel solo

FINDING YOURSELF

Self-discovery and reflection is a great way to take an inventory of your life. Discovering new places and cultures can teach you a lot about yourself. When we are home and in our environment, we can be distracted by all the “noise” around us. By having this time to yourself you are sure to get clarity on where you want your life to go and what you want in your life.

Quiet the mind and the soul will speak

MASTER OF YOUR JOURNEY

Often times when traveling with others you have to structure your trip to accommodate the wishes of your fellow travel companions. Which may result in you not seeing or experiencing everything you want to. Going solo affords you the luxury of traveling on your own terms. A few years ago I took a trip to Vietnam that was going to require multiple flights, bus rides, and overnight trains. I didn’t want to deal with anyone complaining about the demanding schedule and I also was able to make last-minute detours without it affecting anyone else.

A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving

Lau Tzu

CHANCE ENCOUNTERS AND UNEXPECTED CONVERSATIONS

Let your guard down and be open to meeting new people. You are bound to cross paths with people from different countries and backgrounds so don’t pass up an opportunity to connect with someone, you will be amazed about how much you can learn. When I was Rome I booked a day trip tour to Pompeii, and when I arrived (late) to the bus there was one seat available. I ended up talking to another solo traveler from Canada. We spent the entire day hanging out. I learned a lot from her and about myself. As a bonus, I gained a friend.

A simple hello could lead to a million things.

FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Overall it comes down to the budget you have set for yourself. When traveling with another person or in a group you may feel obligated to travel on the level they are on. You may want to fly first-class and they want to fly coach or they could want to stay at a 5-star hotel and you desire more modest lodgings. Not having to cater to another person’s needs and wants affords you the luxury of maintaining the level of comfort you desire for your trip.

Traveling is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.