What I learned traveling alone

Hi everyone!

Every time I see a plane in the air I wondered where it is off to and when my next trip will be? A few years ago I started to really gain interest in traveling and exploring our planet. Beginning to develop a bucket list of places I've taken every chance to cross a place off. In November I make one of my scariest adult life decisions…leave my full time job, travel for 24 days, then come back and start a new job search. Two days after leaving my job I booked a Contiki trip to Australia with a departure day in 16 days. Not much time to prepare! This bold decision is one of the best adventures of my life and I am so thankful I burst out of my shell to try something alone. I learned a whole lot over those three weeks away.

1. Ask when you are lost: Before leaving one of my friends said wonder and get lost during the day. You'll be able to find your way back. Indirectly this happened and I ended up in a really neat spot in Sydney. I am extremely directionally challenged and usually become easily lost even at home. I had to learn to ask someone for help and trust their directions.
2. How you prefer to spend your time: Even during our "Me Time" breaks I wanted to spend it being busy going on an excursion, writing in a journal, or exploring with friends. Watching TV or spending a night in our accommodation to relax wasn't a consideration. I learned I'm more of an extrovert traveling than when I'm at home.
3. Eating a meal alone isn't awkward: I ate a few meals alone because I was traveling alone and sometime there isn't anyone else around. It doesn't have to be awkward if you don't make it. Bring a book, a journal, or even your phone. Also have to admit I may of people watched a few times, I couldn't help it! Try-pods and self timers help for taking pictures as well! I learned to enjoy my own presence. 
4. How to make friends from across the world: When traveling alone you'll want to share experiences with someone and you can make friends when traveling. As I was on a tour, it was a lot easier to meet people and make new friends. Thankfully with social media we are able to keep in touch!       
5. Freedom to dictate your day: One of my favourite aspects of life was having days to determine my schedule and not be stuck behind a desk working. I also made decisions based on only my input. I learned I value freedom in changing agendas day to day. 
6. Forgetting the to-do list and world of social media: Much of your to do list from home will not be able to be completed while you're away, so why worry about it? I spent little time on social media and checking writing lists. I was reminded of the importance of removing yourself from social media and living in the moment.
7. Life at home: I missed everyone back home so much! I learned how much I appreciate everyone in my life and how special they are.
8. Living with less: Packing up a lot of bags, means you'll also have to carry all these bags around. Packing light saves your energy on travels days. I learned how to live with fewer belongings and a simpler way of life.
9. Staying calm: Delays, schedules, changes, are bound to happen and when you are alone you have to stay calm. I learned how to stay calm under pressure.
10. Gratitude: Lives flash infant of our eyes and i'm so thankful to have the chance to go. I knew after university I'd want to travel and worked hard to save up money. This was well worth the expense. I learned how to appreciate every aspect of adventure in my life.  

I would absolutely travel alone again and could possibly backpack without a tour in the future.

Have you traveled alone?

Thanks for reading and we'll see you back tomorrow.

~ L

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