Whenever someone says they’re off on a solo travel trip, you can guarantee the reaction from most people is “aren’t you brave”. While many of us dream of strolling the streets of a beautiful Italian city solo or lying on a beach with no distractions, how many of us have actually channelled our inner chapter of Eat, Pray, Love?

Th good news is that solo travel is on the rise globally. According to recent studies, solo travel bookings have increased by over 40% in the past few years, with more individuals seeking the freedom and empowerment that comes with solo adventures. Whether it’s millennials embracing independence or retirees fulfilling lifelong dreams, solo travel transcends age and demographics, captivating the hearts of adventurers worldwide.

Venturing beyond our comfort zones is often precisely what the soul craves. A solo sojourn offers the opportunity to forge new connections, create memories where you take centre stage, and expand your horizons. This was the ethos guiding my decision to embark on my inaugural solo trip to Italy. I  learned so much about how this experience differs from travelling with others.

You decide what you want to do… no pleasing your partner or keeping the kids happy, solo holidays means you and only you choose what to do each day. Spend hours by the pool? Go for it! Eat when you want and where you want. It’s totally up to you. You can be totally selfish about your plans and learn to rely on your instincts.

Discover the real you… when was the last time you enjoyed some quality “me time”? It’s rare that we can spend hours without someone wittering away in our ear or using our brain space. Travelling solo means minimal distractions; it’s literally a journey of self-discovery with you in the driving seat and you’ll learn to love your own company.

It’s guilt-free… if you want a morning lie-in or a post-pool nap, there’s no one to roll their eyes at you on a solo travel trip. There’s a lot of pressure when you holiday with other people to do things you don’t fancy just to keep everyone else happy.

You’ll learn a new language… because you’ll have to speak to more people you’ll inevitably end up picking up a few key phrases (“Can I have a glass of white wine please?” springs to mind), boosting your confidence at the same time.

It’s the perfect feel-good trip… whether it’s zip-wiring in Costa Rica or visiting temples in Bali, you will end up doing things on your own that you never thought you were capable of. What’s not to love about that!

You’re not really alone… unless you’ve trekked to the middle of a jungle, you’re more likely to be surrounded with others whilst you’re exploring or relaxing. And you’ll be surprised how open the world becomes when you’re alone, whether that’s new people, stories or opportunities.

Stay safe!

Despite its allure, solo travel also necessitates mindfulness and preparation to ensure safety and wellbeing. Here are some essential tips to consider:

1. Research your destination thoroughly, including local customs, cultural norms, and safety advisories.
2. Stay connected with loved ones by sharing your itinerary and checking in regularly.
3. Trust your instincts and prioritise personal safety, particularly in unfamiliar surroundings.
4. Utilise reputable accommodation options and transportation services, giving emphasis to security and reliability.
5. Embrace the buddy system when exploring nightlife or venturing into remote areas, fostering camaraderie and safety in numbers.

Ultimately, the greatest gift of solo travel is the profound sense of connection it cultivates – connection to self, to the present moment, to the world around us, and to the cherished loved ones who accompany us in spirit. Whether you’re embarking on your first solo adventure or reminiscing about past escapades, may the spirit of solo travel inspire deeper connections and enrich your journey through life.  

Kiran Badyal – Co-founder of sisterhood platform @britishbindi

Watch the highlights of Kiran’s trip on our Instagram.