Why Everyone Should Travel Alone At Least Once

Before we jump in, I have an important thought provoking question:

Have you ever had the desire to go somewhere but nobody else is available or wants to go with you?

Here's my advice: when you get the urge to leave, you just have to go. Yes, it might be incredibly uncomfortable at first. It is a strange feeling when that first step into the airport you feel like you should know like the back of your hand (considering how many times you've been there before) makes it feel brand new and a little bit scary. That first step onto the plane from the bridge, knowing it is taking you away from the familiarity of home but the necessary reminder that change doesn't happen if you stay in the same place.

My California adventure began with a night of restlessness, because I was worried. I am not one to talk about how I'm feeling a lot of the time, but I woke up and asked my mom if she would walk with me to security and voiced my concerns, because she knew something was up. As it turns out, parking the car and walking to security at Pearson is a much longer process than if I had just been dropped off and went directly there from the drop off zone. I just wanted the emotional support for as long as I could have it. Now, I was going to California to see family there, so the only time I was truly by myself was in the airports.

Sitting at the gate in Pearson, I was a little nervous, but so excited! I mean there aren't many feelings like it. I went to get my Booster Juice... and then realized that I did not have my phone charger. Fortunately, there are lots of shops that sell chargers...for the cost of an arm and a leg. I needed that charger though, so I had to make a choice. I bought it, and felt instant relief.

Navigating the San Francisco airport was easy due to the fact that I know a lot of airports and they all have similar features and layouts (and I know how to read the signs). Receiving directions from my aunt was enough for me to be able to find her at her car. I often tell myself I am directionally challenged but the fact of the matter is that I never had the confidence. Slowly, as my confidence has developed, I noticed that I have gotten lost far less frequently. All it takes is a few moments to slow down and pay attention to where I am in the moment.

Spending time away from home is the best, because it gives me the opportunity to pause and think about life and simultaneously forget about my daily responsibilities for just a brief moment. I know I was born to travel because leaving hurts less than coming home. I have left (hypothetical) pieces of my heart in every place I've ever been, and that is so special. The freedom that comes with making decisions for yourself can be amazing, but on the other hand it can be overwhelming when there are too many options to consider. It is all about how you choose to approach a decision. For me, the decision to visit my family was an easy one. Since they live so far away and I don't get to see them often, I take every opportunity to fly down and visit.

My first taste of solo travel may have just been a transborder flight to the States but even that was enough for me to realize that I need to plan more vacations and just go by myself somewhere when I want to. My love for adventure and unique experiences has grown in the last few years, and the world is out there waiting for me to explore.

Readers: I want you to take the risks, leap at the opportunity for solo travel when it comes up, and add to your own travel expertise whenever possible. I hope this sincere reflection of my first solo travel experience has made an impact for you. And thank you for taking the time to read this post!

Question of the Day: have you traveled solo before? If so, where, and how was the experience? Let me know in the comments below!