Confessions of a Solo Traveler

in travel •  6 years ago 

When I tell people that I have traveled and will continue to travel the world all by myself I always hear the same response "Wow you're brave!", "Aren't you scared?", "What if something happens to you?", "Don't you get lonely?", and the list goes on and on. Well to tell you the truth sure some of those assumptions may be right, but some are completely out of this world wacky. It definitely takes a strong personality to be able to solo travel the world, but honestly what's the difference between traveling by yourself and going on a business trip for work? You're still going to end up at a restaurant somewhere by yourself, you're still going to want to see something (if time permits). So why is solo traveling still looked down upon today? Here are some things I've learned after I took that first leap of faith and went on a solo trip, (especially as a woman).

Why I travel alone.

Well... Because it's fun! I've never been fortunate to grow up in a family where we went on extravagant family vacation, our family vacation was always Wisconsin Dells. Sure it's fun when you're 5, but going there every year for 16 years becomes a bit monotonous. So as I grew up, made my own money, I spent that money how I liked, and I like to travel. I wanted to see the world. Sure I invited my friends in the beginning, but most of them were still in school, couldn't afford it, or couldn't take the time off of work. If I want to do something, I'll do it with or without them.
IMG_2644

Aren't you scared?

Let me put this nicely... The world is not that bad of a place! Not every single person you meet will want to kill you. The media has talked up so much hate and crime that they don't take the time to look outside their blinders and really see what is out there. Follow your gut and you will be ok. I grew up in Chicago (which is practically number one murder capital in America). There are bad neighborhoods and crime everywhere you go. But, the majority of the world isn't out there to get you.
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Don't you get lonely?

Well sure, but I sometimes get lonely being in a group of people too. Most people that know me know I have a very outgoing, adventurous personality. I will talk to absolutely anyone and I will make friends with anyone. I don't care where you came from, what your background is, and what color your skin is. If you're nice to me I will be nice to you. I believe everyone has a story, especially travelers. So put yourself out there, meet some friends, ask them to have a cup of coffee with you, and learn their story. You will learn something from every single person you meet while traveling.
DON'T YOU GET LONELY?

I learned to be selfish.

My entire life I've prioritized everyone else before myself. After taking a few solo trips I learned what really matters and should matter. That is me, myself, and I. You will learn to do you and keep doing you. You have to know your worth and realize that you matter before everyone else. You will learn to love, respect, be independent, become more confident, and most of all you will learn to face your fears.
I LEARNED TO BE SELFISH
So don't worry too much and don't sweat the small stuff. Pick a destination and buy a plane ticket. You won't regret it. I'm part of many traveler communities and I have not met one individual that has told me they regretted a solo trip. What I have met is people saying "I wish I can do that". Well, you can. Get up and go!
Xoxo Ania Travels 💜
“Long term travel is not an act of rebellion against society; it’s an act of common sense within society” – Rolf Potts

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This place will be very cold No and so hot good looking

Nice pictures!

Great post! could have been my story, Always went on the same family holiday too. Still sometimes try to invite friends but the can never make it so i go by myself

Well it sounds like you're keeping the tradition going, which is great! I'm so glad you can relate to my story too!

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@aniantravels nice introduction about your lifestyle & you are the inspiration for the women. good job keep it up.

This a great inspiration to all wannabe travelers, and clears up fears some people have.

This post demonstrates originality, relevance and depth. So I am going to feature it in the EXTRA of the next Xposed Curator's Rebound #22. You may find details about it Xposed Curator's Rebound

My hope is to bring your quality work here the exposure it deserves, and with it, hopefully the rewards.


Congratulations, and best wishes.

Thanks so much for the kind words. I really hope this story brings some inspitation to toher aspiring solo travelers. Thanks for sharing.

The pleasure is mine. Thanks. Hang on!!!