Random Ramblings # 3 - Going Solo

                

                    Travel! Everyone loves to travel. Most people travel with family or friends to enjoy the place and overall wholesome experience.

               Travelling gives us a chance to explore and promotes joy. But there is a general misconception about travels taken alone. That's right Solitary Travel. The general perception of solitary travel is the safety concerns and fear of loneliness. There is a social stigma associated with this as well. Many people start judging you and talk negativity into you. There is also social pressure where people talk into convincing you to be a part of a group. Plus you will have to make all the decisions related to travel, food, activities etc. In one way it might be true. Travelling in a group is a safer option than going solo.

                But is solo travel that bad? Not at all. Travelling solo does have its benefits. First and foremost, we can decide where to go, what to visit, what to do, where to eat and sleep and how to travel. Travelling in a journey curbs your choices to some extent. The choices are always the choices of the majority. I am an introverted guy who likes to take it slow visiting places of historical value, libraries, or even walking down the roads or commuting locally rather than jumping into a pool or beach or being an adrenaline junkie. When on a trip, my choices get buried under the decisions made by the majority. Travelling solo allows me to enjoy my preferences and experience the place in my laid-back vibe. Along with independence, it helps us cultivate the art of self-reliance, decision making and proper planning. Planning self-reliance and decision-making can be daunting initially. After all, we are social beings, right? But once you get the hang of it, this can be an adventure by itself. Overcoming anxieties and having an open mind can be a route to self-discovery. Your solo travels can take you to different places of stay like hostels, tour groups, different cuisines, and local events allowing you to connect with new people and indulge in their cultures. Proper planning, Cost-effectiveness, Checking for safer options, and self-preparation for this sort of journey are some things that you can consider before setting out on such trips.

                  Even though you like travelling with others, do take small solitary trips. It is an excellent way to see who you are and you will start looking at the world from a different angle. Solo Travel is about the joy of being independent, not lonely. Liberate yourself, overcome challenges, meet people, indulge in new cuisines and cultures, and be self-reliant.

"It's not the destination, it's the journey" - Ralph Waldo Emerson