My Experience Traveling Solo

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