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You can be completely selfish
This may be the only context in which selfishness isn't really a bad thing. Traveling with others means making plans with others. Checking out local landmarks, museums, restaurants and attractions can be challenging when each traveler has something different in mind. But what if you could spend each day anyway you like? Fancy spending six hours in a single museum, or trekking for miles in chilly conditions? Go right ahead. You meet interesting people
When you travel with others, you typically stick together. In other words, you're less likely to wander away from your group. But traveling alone brings something truly valuable to the table – you'll be more likely to chat with locals, meet new friends and generally be more sociable. You can devour as many books as you want
Two major perks of escaping day-to-day life while on vacation include sleeping in and reading as much as you like. But when you're traveling with others, you're usually nudged to put your book down and come back to the group. Solo travel gives you the opportunity to read to your heart's content. You come to know yourself more intimately
These days, we're constantly bombarded by stimulation – relentless connectivity to others, as well as the Internet. Rarely do we get the chance to sit with ourselves and simply be. Solo travel provides the opportunity to do just that. Being on your own in a new place serves as a permission slip to slow down, without the distractions you'd feel buzzing around you when traveling with companions. Being alone, and really embracing it, is a wonderful part of solo travel. You step outside your comfort zone
When traveling with friends, you often troubleshoot travel hiccups together. Can't find your way around? The solution usually comes by talking it over. Taking a trip on your own means you have to get out of any tricky trip situations by yourself, which can help with problem-solving, dealing with pressure and developing self-belief. You're less likely to feel stressed out
When you're out and about with your usual friends from home, it's easy for old routines and group dynamics to creep up on you. Not so when you're on your own. You’re there for you and you alone – the only drama you’re going to experience is the drama you make yourself. You'll have the time and inspiration to work on creative projects
Been dying to delve into a creative project? Whether it's writing poetry, developing a new business plan, or playing the guitar, traveling alone provides the opportunity – and inspiration – to tap into these desires. When you're untethered to the demands of others you'll probably find it easier to nurture your creativity. It might make you happier in the long term
Research suggests that getting into vacation mode has the potential to increase our happiness levels. And spending time alone has also been shown to stave off depression. The takeaway? Heading off on a solo adventure just might be good for your overall well-being. You'll probably improve your language skills
What better way to learn a new language than to throw yourself in head first? Full immersion in a foreign culture (and tongue) is possibly the best way to dismantle the language barrier. When traveling with others, you're more likely to rely on them for help with translating. And, let's face it, chances are high that you'll communicate with one another in your native language. When you're alone, on the other hand, you're forced to constantly practice the new language. It'll give your confidence a boost
There is something to be said for heading out into the world on your own with no social safety net, so to speak. Forging a path in solitude and making your way through unknown terrain can do wonders for your self-confidence and personal authenticity. It's more cost efficient
It doesn't take a math's wizard to see that traveling solo is easier on your wallet. Being on your own means only purchasing one set of flights, as well as single accommodations, excursions, meals, and so on. This may not sound like much, but if you're planning an extended trip, these expenses can add up fast. Going it alone means you'll have more cash leftover to spend as you choose.
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