Until I met my husband I did most of my traveling solo. I’ve been to the US, UK, Ireland, Belgium and Brazil on my own. You see, traveling with people is difficult for me. Even with close friends, it’s not the same to go out for dinner as spending a few days together 24/7. BFFs clash too, you can disagree on things that are really important to me such as:
- Time to wake up and set off. Some people like to sleep until noon, I like to make the most of my day.
- Things to see. You may be interested in museums but your bestie finds them boring.
- Places to eat/stay. Not everyone earns the same amount of money or likes spending a lot on these things. A nice hotel and good food are important for me.
Of course, I understand there are ways to reach an agreement and there are many times in life when you have to give in. However, when you are traveling you are on a tight schedule, so you may not have time to see lots of things. That’s why I’m inflexible when it comes to traveling.
Fortunately, my husband and I agree on those 3 points which was quite a relief when we started dating. He does ask to see a sports stadium but I also need him to be patient when I’m shopping so that’s our agreement.
Apart from the freedom, I believe that traveling solo gives you time for contemplation and personal growth. It forces you to be a problem solver and it changes your view of the world opening your mind like nothing else does.
Surely, all that glitters is not gold. There were times when I felt lonely and I wished I had someone by my side. At those times it’s good to talk with locals, join tours or stay at a hostels where you’ll find more people in the same situation.
When I tell people about my experience traveling solo I hear things like…
“YOU ARE BRAVE”
I don’t consider myself to be brave, I don’t like taking risks and I have a hard time with things I can’t control. I love watching planes fly, but I hate being in them. However, I do consider myself a determined person, when I really want something, nothing gets in my way. Not being afraid of flying, not being on my own, nothing. My mind completely changes when I’m traveling. I’m so passionate about it that I feel safe and at ease when I’m abroad. It’s like exploring new places feels natural to me.
“OH POOR YOU”
Some people seem to be sorry for me because “you poor thing had to travel alone”. They couldn’t be more wrong. It’s my decision to do this and I really recommend doing it at least once in your life.
A few quick tips for the solo traveler:
- Is it safe? I’ve never ever had a problem as a solo traveler, however not all destinations are equal. Choosing an organized tour is better for places that aren’t considered so safe.
- Plan your itinerary and do some research: can you drink tap water? will my chargers work?
- Choose the right luggage. Check that you are able to carry that weight.
- Take a little first aid kit with you that includes band aids, ibuprofen and oral saline solution.
- Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home.
- If you want to have your photo taken, ask someone with a DSLR. Not only will the photo be good, but it’s also less likely that they will run away with your camera.
If you are going to travel alone for the first time or want to reminisce about past experiences, I suggest you read Eat, Pray, Love the best-selling solo travel memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Have you ever traveled solo? Are you considering doing it?
xo Cristina
OUTFIT DETAILS
Tommy Hilfiger Skirt
ESSENTIALS FOR THE SOLO TRAVELER
I think you are fabulous. I would find it so hard to ask people to take photos. Very inspiring x
Excellent tips and lovely photos. I also traveled solo for years before meeting my husband. I have to admit I don't quite understand why someone would hesitate. Travel always makes life richer.
Yes, I would tend to agree with you on many of your points. This past weekend I went with my girlfriends on a trip and while I like to shop, I really wanted to see the art museum and it just didn't happen. I also agree that when you are some place that may not be so safe that sticking to an organized tour is a great idea. I am going to Slovenia at the beginning of June and I am going alone, so I will take a tour bus to the major destinations while leaving alone time to inner city and shopping. YOur outfit is lovely.
I enjoyed this thoroughly. I studied abroad with a group and loved the journey and person I relized I was.
I think its amazing you travelled solo! It takes a lot of courage as well!
x
Shloka
http://www.thesilksneaker.com
I think this is great and something I really really want to do. My mom has and I always admired her for it. She said she learned so much about her self. My best friend traveled all of Europe alone and I said the same thing "man you are brave" but you are right it doesn't take bravery it takes wonder and strength and determination.
Great tips! I have never traveled alone, but you have inspired me to consider it. I love traveling with my husband, but a little alone time might be fun.
I have not traveled by myself, but I do think that traveling by yourself definitely has perks. I love that coat you're wearing!
http://www.mylittlenest.org
I'm a "just in case" packer so I have such a hard time when I have to pack… My tip is to make a calendar with what you are going to wear each day, that has helped me a lot
Great tips! I think traveling alone makes way for amazing life lessons and experiences!
Katherine | http://www.oneswainkycouple.com
I couldn't agree more, Katherine
I do it a bit – I jam so much more in. By the end of the last family trip I would ditch husband and kids in the afternoon because they were sick of churches and museums (and they walk too slowly ;). I think they were all glad to see the back of me and chill in the room.
Glad to see I'm not the only one! What places did you visit on your own?
I couldn't agree more. Traveling brings some of the most amazing experiences you can have during your life
Thanks, Maria. You are so sweet!
I seem to always overpack. I think I need to bring better luggage to not be tempted to bring more!
Marvelous photos – and I admire you for your willingness to travel solo. I much prefer the company of a loved one when I travel.
Have a great week, and thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/01/fun-with-textures-in-photoshop.html
It may seem scary at first but it's actually really rewarding 🙂
Awesome tips Cristina! I have traveled solo as well and have similar experiences before meeting my hubby. You are so right though and unless you can find an agreement the trip does take a toll. I am grateful that my family enjoy traveling because there are truly some magical places out there and I am not just taking beach or structures but experiencing the culture and really seeing real life away from Instagram.
Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com
Thanks, Shloka! It's a rewarding experience but now that I have the perfect travel companion I won't be doing it that much anymore
Wow, I felt like I wrote this post based on my own experiences! I traveled solo a lot before getting married. After some failed trips with friends, I decided to do my own thing. The other thing is that problems relating a trip can damage a relationship pretty badly. I prefer to keep my friends and enjoy a trip!
I've traveled solo before and will again! It's such a wonderful thing!
Thanks so much for the tips for travelling solo! Sounds like an eye opening experience!
Vivian | LIVE IN LOVE
IG | @viviyunn_
~
Hahaha. Thanks for sharing your experience, Lydia 🙂
Thanks! I also love traveling with loved ones. I think it's easier with the closest family rather than with friends
Thanks, Lor! I'd love to meet your sister, I bet we can share many experiences
You are welcome, Gabriella. Hope to see you here again soon!
Yes, Courtney, it's all about determination! Thanks for stopping by 🙂
This was a really great post! So many solid tips! Thank you!
I love that you mention luggage size/weight. The first time I traveled alone with my toddler, I realized that my husband always carries the car seat along with our bags. It was difficult to manage on my own. I always remember that when packing my own bags!
That's great Heather! Where did you study?
My sister would really appreciate this post! – she loves to travel solo, for all the reasons you listed. And I can totally see the appeal! She'd be upset when people told her to "be careful" or if she in any way, felt limited because she was female. I get both sides! I say if you can do it: go for it! 🙂
~Lor
Reading this makes me want to go on a trip! I have always wanted to travel solo, but it scares me! Thats why I am thankful to have a partner who agrees on most things when we travel together
Thanks so much, Ruth!
Kelleyn, thanks for sharing your experience.
I hope you have a safe trip to Slovenia. There's a girl a follow on IG that posts beautiful pics of that country. I want to go too!
I don't have children yet, but I can imagine that it's a lot of extra luggage when traveling.
Thanks for stopping by, Marcie
I've never traveled alone really but I imagine it must be pretty empowering!
Indeed, that' true… travelling alone is personally growth. It's the own way!
Thanks, Erica
It is! Thanks for stopping by, Jenna
I have travelled alone before but, not to a place where I don't know anyone. Maybe its about time I take a chance. I can definitely agree with the points made here. With friends like mine, I'll definitely have some clashes. Ha!!
Great post and love love your military inspired blazer. Very chic!
https://www.missymayification.co.uk
You're points about clashing when traveling with others is SO true! I've put off traveling with friends for these very reasons! I think I'd really like to try traveling alone some day!
I loved my solo travels in my 20s. It's been awhile. I now spend all my free time and trips with my husband and kids, but I also miss exploring a new city on my own.
Sounds like we would travel well together! I am just like you, up early and eager to see every single thing! Great post!
I totally see all your points here! And it sounds like a wonderful experience! I've never traveled solo because my hubby and I married young and thankfully have the same travel taste hehe!
I got married young so I never had the opportunity to travel alone, but I hope I would have done it if I was single longer. Traveling is important to me and I hate how so many people don't do it because they don't have a partner to go with!
First off, I love your skirt! I have always heard good things about solo travels, but I'm just not sure I could do it for very long. Maybe one day. Your adventure definitely looks fun!
looks like a great trip! Traveling solo is something I haven't done in a long time!!
I love these tips Cristina and think you must gain alot from your trips. i have not traveled solo, but will in March for a blogging event. i think it is wonderful you enjoy it too. i love your pictures, beautiful place!
thanks for linking!
jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylsh.com
Good reasons to travel solo and I agree most with the point that it makes you a problem solver. Lucky you got a like minded spouse, travel will be interesting. You look gorgeous in that outfit.
That navy coat is gorgeous! Thanks for sharing such lovely travel photos.
xo, Natasha
PALM+PINE | A style blog
palmandpineblog.com
Your coat is cute. And your travel pictures are beautiful!
I sometimes like traveling alone. Plenty of time to think and I can do exactly what I want!
I don't travel as much alone as I could. I like the company since I spend much of my daily life alone. But i do agree there can be conflicts when it comes to eating, things to do and where to go. I've had my fair share of those too. But all in all, I like to travel with at least one other person.
100% agree! Sometimes it is just easier to travel alone. Love this look, your coat and skirt are beautiful!
xx, Elise
http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com
Wow that is amazing! I don't know if I could do it. But does sound like it would be a good get to know you type thing! Thanks for linking up with The Blended Blog, this was one of the most clicked on links last week!
Thanks so much! It's so important for me to have a like minded husband. I know couples who fight a lot when they travel and I wouldn't like that at all
I couldn't agree more, Ruth. I have friends who have fallen out after traveling together and it's so sad.
It really is! Thanks for stopping by, Vivian
Thanks so much, Jess!
Your partner is a keeper, Cait! I know couples who have a hard time traveling together because they want different things
I think everyone should try traveling solo at least once in their lifetime. Anyway, cute coat you got there dear.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
I agree, Suzanne. It's an amazing experience.
Noticed your wedding ring on the wrong finger, hummm…. Wonder what your husband would think. I travel without my wife but always leave my ring on…
I couldn't agree more! Thanks for stopping by, Jess.
I'm glad I'm not the only one! Thanks for stopping by, Jeannette
It's great that you have the same taste in travel. I know couples who fight a lot when they travel and it's so sad!
Thanks so much, Missy May 🙂
I think there's a time for everything in life. There a time for traveling solo and there's a time for doing it with family
Wow, thanks, Sarah! I feel so honored.
You are absolutely right! You can't stay home just because you don't have a traveling companion. Plus, you never know who you can meet during a trip… 🙂
Thanks, Sarah! You are so sweet 🙂
Hahaha. Thanks for your sweet comment, Kristin 🙂
I completely understand, Shalama. If I spend much time alone, I end up feeling lonely. I guess we all need company 🙂
Hahaha, no worries. It's not on the wrong finger. In Spain we wear the wedding ring on the right hand 🙂
Very interesting, Cristina. I like to make the most of my travel time and enjoy good food when I am traveling, too. Gorgeous photos and beautiful look!
When I was single over 20 years ago I went to a number of places abroad on my own, usually spending a couple of days in a city and meeting up with a tour group later. These were some of the best vacations of my life because I was forced to not be so shy. When you are with a friend or partner it's easy to stick to yourselves. When you are on your own, you reach out more and others see you are alone and naturally reach out to you. You do have to be very cautious though. Nothing to be scared of but be mindful!