Ditch the Wingman: Why Solo Travel is the Ultimate Adventure

Let’s face it, the whole “brave woman travelling alone” thing is a bit much, wouldn’t you say? It’s not like I’m scaling Mount Everest in a tutu (although that might be a future trip). Travelling solo is like getting to choose your own Netflix binge-watching adventure – except way cooler, with less questionable plot lines.

For years, I’ve been the recipient of that tired “so brave” comment whenever I mention my solo adventures. Here’s the thing: it’s not about bravery (though dodging that rogue camel in Egypt required some ninja reflexes). It’s about the pure, unadulterated freedom of exploring the world on your terms.

Solo travel lets you ditch the itinerary debates and embrace the unexpected. Feeling like a gondola ride through Venice at sunrise? Done. Craving a spontaneous detour to chase down the most epic street tacos ever? You’re the boss! Have you ever dreamed of living out of your country cowgirl in Nashville? Let’s go!

How I Became a Solo Traveller

My first solo trip started as a happy accident (my flight landed some four hours after the other took off). Instead of Baja, I ended up with 24 hours to kill in Mexico City. Fellow passengers offered a chorus of “good luck” instead of high fives. Thankfully, another traveller (now a great friend!) shared my predicament.

Navigating trains, overpriced taxis (to anyone planning a visit to Mexico, always book the yellow cabs from inside the terminal), and hostels on our own was a baptism by fire. But when we stumbled upon the city’s heart, the magic of those quirky streets, the thrill of getting lost, and the discovery of potentially the best margaritas ever (sorry Mescalitas, they prefer mezcal here) trumped any initial awkwardness.

Fast-forward a few years (and countless travel stamps on my passport), and I’m a seasoned solo pro. My trusty backpack is my constant companion, lovingly nicknamed “The Beast” (it has seen many things). Packing light means I can waltz through airports like a runway model (sometimes with slightly less grace). Never having a plan (I’m the queen of booking last minute) only adds to the spontaneity of it all.

I would never have experienced free diving with shortfin Makos had I had a plane to catch, nor would I have embraced frat parties in Hawaii or a last-minute trip to Ibiza (I met a pilot in Deia) partying until my feet refused to stay standing and seeing the sunset more times than one should in a week. The bottom line? I wouldn’t change these experiences for anything.

Why It Is Not Always Easy

Yes, there are times when you feel overwhelmed, scared and very far away from home (e-sims are a godsend!), and sure, there are occasional hiccups. Like the time I ended up on a rickety bus hurtling towards a cliff with questionable brakes, or when I (accidentally) jumped into a random car thinking it was my Uber or the moment I spent my weekly allowance in Abercrombie & Fitch (damn, those persuasive, topless store assistants). But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right? Besides, the amazing people I’ve met along the way – from lifelong friends to holiday romances – all makeup for any bumps in the road.

So, the next time the travel bug bites and you don’t have a partner-in-crime ready to pack their bags, don’t sweat it. Ditch the “brave” comments, grab your trusty backpack (or a sassy suitcase, no judgment here), and get out there! Solo travel is your oyster. You’re the captain of your adventure, ready to get gloriously lost in the maze-like streets of Marrakesh or haggle for that perfect pashmina in Delhi without anyone judging your questionable bargaining skills.

The world is waiting to be explored, and trust me, you’ll be surprised at how much fun you can have on your own. The point of solo travel isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list. It’s about making connections, collecting experiences and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone – all of these will long outlast your tan.