It surprises me how many folks think I’m a little cray cray for my love of solo travel. I’ve heard “Well you certainly are brave” (with the raised eyebrows, of course) or “Are you sure that’s a good idea as a female?” And almost always “Isn’t that dangerous”?
Well, being smart when you travel is necessary for anyone.
Being aware of your surroundings and carrying a little somethin’ that can be used as a weapon if necessary is a good idea. I also believe everyone should have some basic self-defense skills.
I’ve never actually had to use either my skills as a martial artist or the low key travel weapons, but better safe than sorry, right?
But when someone actually asks why I travel alone so often, the answer is simple.
Because I like to.
I love finding the road – or path – less traveled.
I like the backstreet noodle shops and underground dance clubs. The out-of-the-way spots that to some might just be a little sketch.
I have been lost – intentionally and unintentionally- in the backstreets of New York, Paris, London, Glasgow, Lisbon, Prague and many other places. Being lost can be both stressful and an amazing adventure, but it is definitely not for everyone.
I love setting my own pace. Sometimes that means I’m speed walking or trail running, sometimes I just want to mosey, stopping to smell the roses, sit beneath a tree or the wide open sky and just be.
Do you feel that, too?🚶🏼♀️🏃♀️🌳
I love meeting new people; having conversations with random folks in a quaint café or on a trail. This is harder to do when traveling in company.
I once had an amazing conversation in some random SoCal deli with an older gentleman who was writing the history of African Americans.
Like, the entire frickin’ history. So cool, right?😎.
But that conversation likely would not have happened had I been with company.
I love the quiet of long open stretches of road, being alone with my thoughts – or listening to an audiobook or music, top down and sunlight streaming into the car, stopping as I please in small towns and out-of-the-way hamlets. Or not.
I’m not saying that I always want to travel on my own. Having the right company along for life’s journeys can add to the beauty and fun of many experiences, too. 🥰
But I think we get too caught up in the idea of constant company and stimulation. I believe we should all seek solitude and silence – and our own good company and the companionship of Source – as often as possible.
How else can we learn who we are? What other experience besides being on our own and figuring things out when necessary can teach us independent thinking and the value of our own innate capability and intelligence?
Not to mention the fun in finding the road less traveled…😁
What are your awesome solo stories?
Happy Monday!🌞💖😎
#adventure #solotravel #freedom #independentwoman
This Blessed Sacred Life 