Does anyone here travel the world alone?

Question

And I am talking about going to different countries and experiencing different cultures, not speaking the languages fluently....If so, do you ever get scared? And do you enjoy traveling alone? Why do you do it?

Answer 1

I used to travel a lot with my job  (based in UK)- went to Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa and USA and loved it. Besides work I always tried to explore and see a bit of the country I was in. I love travelling alone, flying and seeing new places. I went on holidays once alone but travelled in a group around South America which was great but have no issues with actually travelling somewhere alone - I love it!

Answer 2

I've travelled quite a bit on my own in different countries (including where I don't speak the language).

I have been scared sometimes but usually I just enjoy it (but I do enjoy travelling with people and now mostly travel with my husband).

Why I like travelling alone:

- you can do what you want and when you want it

- you are more open to meeting new people and I've found that you sometimes meet more locals that way (on of my favourite experiences was travelling alone in Darjeeling (India) and the family who owned the guest house, as I was a woman travelling by myself, put me in a room close to them and invited me to spend time with their family!)

- the adventure of seeing the world entirely dependent on your own wits and skills (it gives you a sense of accomplishment!)

If you're thinking of going someplace on your own but aren't sure you'd like it why don't you start off with one or two days as part of a trip with more people?  Or you could do a package tour on your own (ie. with new people) and spend a few days on your own.

Tips I've found useful when travelling by myself:

- if you're concerned about safety ensure that you avoid dodgy areas and try and let someone know where you're going and when you plan to get back

- plan out your days so that you don't find yourself wandering (unless that is what you plan to do which can be a joy in itself!)

- if you're uncomfortable eating out in restaurants on your own - bring a book/magazine or have picnics in your hotel room!

- sign up for a tour or class in the place you're visiting to meet new people and locals

- read a book about where you're going to get you in the spirit!

Happy Travels!