When I share that I am traveling solo, reactions range from raised eyebrows to admiration to an expression of “oh gosh I could NEVER do that.” Initially, solo travel can feel intimidating or out of reach, but let me make a case in its defense:

1. For starters, you do not have to wait to have a group of friends or family agree to travel with you. Weekend trip to the beach? Dream holiday destination? No admin needed to coordinate with your friend group. You can book everything the day before and just go.
2. You don’t have to shift your schedule or itinerary to fit anyone else’s needs. When I was backpacking through Europe, I traveled across Austria to take a Sound of Music bus tour in Salzburg (I woke up that morning in Vienna). If you want to take a day to rest, visit a niche destination, or maybe you’re that person who reads every single sign at the museum and everyone tries to rush you, not a problem!
3. Let’s just be honest, you will have a peaceful time. Raise your hand if you have ever had a massive fight with friends and/or family on vacation? I have seen friendships end because people have different expectations, travel styles, or end up fighting about money.
4. Time with myself. When I was living in New York City, I always lived with multiple roommates in tiny apartments. Taking a week by myself to just be always such an important mental break.
5. Self-Reliance: this is the part that I think really scares people. But this is also the most rewarding part of solo travel. Lost your wallet and passport in another country? Is your four years of high school Spanish not cutting it? Did you book that train for next month or next year (spoiler, I have done all of this)? In the moment these experiences are difficult and might earn your friends/family a teary facetime call home. But in the end, when the sh*t hits the fan, you are the one who has to deal with it. Not only has this taught me to be more prepared (guess who triple checks for her wallet now), but I have much more confidence in myself. If everything starts going wrong, I can handle it, because I have dealt with worse before.
6. You see the goodness in others: This is a lesser-known plus about traveling, but if I am having a moment where I am lost, struggling with a language barrier, or trying to get the perfect photo by myself, I have always had other women help me. There is something about being a woman alone where other women look out for you. (I always encourage paying this forward if you can help someone with directions or recommendations at home).
7. Bragging Rights: I am not one for bragging but how many people do you know who have solo traveled? You have this amazing accomplishment that you can share with people now. Be proud of yourself for stepping out of your comfort zone.