When it comes to travel, it doesn’t get better than going it alone. Being alone in unfamiliar countries is an amazing way to confront yourself. Plus, you don’t have to worry about pleasing anyone. You can do what you want when you want to. The experience belongs to you alone. It can be whatever you want it to be.
But, that doesn’t make traveling alone easy. You’ll face varying demons during your experiences, and one, in particular, will be at the forefront of everything. There’s no avoiding loneliness when going it alone. For the most part, you’ll love what you do. But, every now and again loneliness will leave you winded. And, when that happens, it stands to ruin whatever journey you’re taking. The good news is, there are easy ways to keep it manageable.
For the most part, you need to realize that you aren’t an island. None of us are! Even during solo escapades, it’s important to keep lines of communication open. Here’s how to do it.
Traveller forums
No one understand the monsters of solo travel better than people in the same position as you.
And, lucky for you, the internet makes it easy to reach out to them. There are some fantastic solo travel forums out there. These could become a real help during your time away. Here, single travelers discuss thoughts, feelings, and travel tips. You could develop some amazing friends here, and even cross paths with some of them on your travels. Bear in mind that you should always act with caution if meeting anyone from such forums. Meet in a public place, and make sure someone knows where you’re going beforehand.
Contact loved ones
Let’s be honest; many of us like the idea of forgetting our obligations when we head off on solo travel. The idea of calling your parents hardly creates a nomadic vibe, right? But, you should contact people back home. This will help their sanity and yours.
In truth, there’s nothing better than talking to those you love most when loneliness kicks in. If you don’t want to go as far as calling home, you could always find other ways to check in. Even small communications can help you feel less alone. You could send quick messages over Facebook, or send postcards online via mail services.These methods take no more than a few seconds but ensure you feel close to the people who matter.
Speak with the locals
In all honesty, solo travel won’t work unless you’re willing to talk to locals. These are the people who can enhance your experience. And, once you form friendships where you are, loneliness will stay well away.
It’s daunting making new friendships, especially when they speak a different language. But, you need to try. To give yourself confidence, learn some basics and attempt to start a conversation. Don’t worry too much about your skills in the language. If you’re terrible, they may well take pity on you and befriend you because of it!
