So you have always wanted to travel solo yet never found the courage to embark on one. While travelling with groups and friends does have its own attraction and charm, many people choose to travel alone. You may find asking yourself why? As a solo traveller so beautifully put-"to discover who you are when no one is looking."

Solitude is often not just about being alone but having the space and time to discover yourself. Solo travel provides you with the much needed solitude to pursue your dream and interests at your own pace. Wonderful revelations can come from travelling solo. It gives you a chance to stretch your boundaries, get out of your comfort zone, a chance to be what you truly want to be, break loose from responsibilities and rules, reflect and build your confidence and understand the power of freedom.

What are certain things to keep in mind while travelling solo? For a beginner, the entire prospect of undertaking a journey can be daunting and overwhelming. It is therefore necessary that you plan ahead. Travelling solo means taking on each day as it comes, yet some amount of initial preparation (for instance where you plan to spend your first night) and advance planning ensures less hassle and chaos. A little bit of research about the place you are headed to can help you gain an idea about the culture there and safety measures you need to keep in mind.

Pack only the essentials and avoid making your luggage unnecessarily heavy. Solo travelling is all about the experience, so make sure you try something new. Interact with locals, connect with other travellers and learn how to start a conversation.

Meeting new people and cultures can be an amazing experience in itself. Also, make sure you have emergency cash stashed on you.
Learn to enjoy your time alone when travelling. Go to restaurants, bars and pubs, theatres and concerts and discover how much fun being alone can be. If you wish to break the monotony a bit, go on organized tours. Keep all your essentials in a bag and take it with you whenever you go out. Try things that push you out of your comfort zone and have adventures. Be safe and avoid dark alleys and deserted places. Most importantly, trust your guts. If something doesn't feel right, whether it be a restaurant, pub or bar leave. Stick to crowds during the night and make sure you are in constant contact with friends and family so they know where you are.

Remember, travelling solo is all about you. Your first solo trip will be a memorable, almost sacred experience. So step out and make that revelation you have been so desperately seeking possible.

Hobbylancer and You

At Hobbylancer, post pictures, recount your adventures and discover the power of solo adventures. Interact with experts from the field, learn from their experiences and make your own in the process. Organise safety workshops in your locality and spread the joy of going solo. Discover the new you and help enlighten others on the journey at Hobbylancer.