You step off the plane in a new destination and feel that both liberating yet terrifying feeling sweep over you as you realize you are in a new country and completely alone.
Without a gaggle of friends to flank you on either side or a companion to hold your hand and watch your bags, you eventually learn to tap into your inherit street smarts and embrace the beauty of being solo.
Whether backpacking through Asia, spending a week in Argentina or passing through London, the following 10 things will happen to every solo traveler.
You Will Get Lost.
You may have a map fused to your hand but despite your best efforts you will get lost during your travels. A winding street will take a sudden turn leaving you wondering when exactly you crossed over to a new part of town; when this happens simply breathe and get oriented. Getting lost can be a wonderful thing while traveling as it can introduce you to charming cafes, cobblestone streets and lovely parks you might have otherwise missed.
You Will Question Your Sanity.
There will come a point where your brain will whip around, face your heart and ask “WHAT were you thinking?!” It might be on the flight as the engine revs up for take-off or it could be upon landing when trudging through the airport but you will question your sanity for solo traveling and wonder why you ever thought it was a good idea. Give it time. Solo traveling reveals itself to you slowly, blossoming in all its emotional intricacies as a truly life changing experience.
You Will Have Some Sort of Financial Mishap.
You’ll exchange money and misjudge the currency exchange (the rate was what!?) or you’ll leave for the day with less money than anticipated and find that your handy mathematical skills have failed you. The best advice is to be aware of your belongings and surroundings as you’re traveling sans family and friends to watch your back. Never leave with all your money, never exchange all your dollars and only take the money you need for each day when going out.
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