Over the past week and a half, I have been traveling some for business and some for pleasure. And, I traveled solo. While that’s not something that bothers me, I know so many women who don’t like to travel alone.
Sure, I understand that dinner every night isn’t always great when there is no one across the table. And I attended a wedding this weekend where most of my dance partners were 11-year-olds. Other than that, let me give you some reasons to enjoy solo travel.
Traveling Alone is Great for Shopping
For me, shopping is a number one. I don’t think I need to say any more about this topic except that it is so great not to have to justify purchases.
I felt no need to ask anyone if my bottom looked big in these pants. I bought four pairs of shoes, three of which I would have left behind had I not been solo, and I did not have to go to a golf store in fairness to anyone. It was all me, me, me.
My Time Is My Own
When I travel solo, I do what I want. If I want to sleep in, I can. If I want to stay up into the wee hours of the night to finish a book or binge-watch a series, I can do that. I can even schedule something super early, come back and nap if necessary, then head out again. I am on my time.
I can’t do any of it when I have to adjust to someone else’s schedule.
I Get All the Attention
My children live across the country. I visit them often, and when I do, I get 100% of their attention. I don’t have to share them with anyone. We do what they want to do and nothing else.
If they want to see a movie or go to a play or shop for stuff for their house, we do it. I get one-on-one time while we run errands and pal around together. I can’t put a price on that. I just love being with them in their daily lives.
Not a Sport in Sight
No matter where I am, no matter what teams are in town, I do not have to go to a sporting event! If you are like me, you have had your share of sports with your children and your spouse or friends. I am as big a fan as the next girl, but I do not travel for sports any longer – and I love that.
For me, this means no rain gear unless I am going to a rainforest! While this may sound like my own pet-peeve, everyone has their thing that they have to do when vacationing with their crowd.
When I am with my children we will often go for a run: you can bet when I am alone I don’t pack running shoes! And play tickets are easy to come by when the number is one.
Eating Alone
Some women feel very bothered when they need to eat alone. Not everyone likes the idea, and I agree that when it happens day after day, it can get a little rough.
But I went to a lovely resort where you must have a reservation well in advance for brunch. I walked up and asked the hostess if I could get a table and when I added, “For one” she brightened up and said she could accommodate me.
Both of us couldn’t believe it! Not only did I get a table, I got one on the window that was a little tight for two. How lucky was I?
This brunch was the best, and I didn’t waste one inch of my plate on protein at this beautiful buffet: bread pudding, waffle, biscuits, bananas foster, strawberry shortcake. Would I do that with others watching? The answer is “Heck no!” But let me just say that I did not eat anything else the rest of the day.
If I am having dinner by myself I always eat at the bar. Usually, I can get a conversation going with someone, and it’s great when that person is a local. This way I can get some tips and suggestions on local attractions – dinner and a virtual tour, all in one!
I have several friends who would not think of traveling alone, but I’m certain that if they tried it just one time they would be hooked. And if you can pepper it with trips with people you love, then you have the best of all worlds!
What was your favorite solo trip? What tips would you give others who want to take the plunge? Please share in the comments below.
