Couples getaways and family vacations are often much needed and necessary; however, going solo, whether internationally or domestically, is potentially life-changing.
When you take a vacation with your family, chances are you have a ton of ideas for all of the things you will do together. Usually this means that if you interact with anyone else at all, it’s the guy taking your tickets as you embark upon the behemoth roller coaster your kids keep saying is “the bomb.” When you opt for a solo trip, it forces you out of that comfort zone. It can help make you more outgoing, if for no other reason than that you have to engage with others, and not depend on someone else to do the talking for you. Solo vacationing teaches you a lot about yourself as it gives you time to observe people around you in a way that you may not while encumbered by family responsibility. You’ll also find that you react to situations differently when you’re alone rather than part of a familiar group.
But where should you go? Start jotting down places you would love to visit. Have you always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower? You don’t necessarily have to book the next flight out to Paris; however, if you do decide to travel internationally, it’s a good idea to read up on the customs of other countries. If you are a woman traveling alone, safety is the utmost priority.
Again, your first solo trip doesn’t have to be any further than a nearby city in your own state. For starters, you don’t have to learn a new language in order to be able to communicate, which will boost your confidence level big time. Also, trips within the US can be short, like a 4-day weekend. This is perfect if you’re unable to get a large amount of time off from your job, or if your family responsibilities deem it necessary that you’re not gone for any longer.