Traveling Alone? Don't mind if I do!

I don't know what it is about me that makes me so comfortable being by myself.  Maybe it's my Independence?  Maybe I just like experiencing things by myself.   Over the past couple years, I've been adventurous and curious about different states, the world... culture in general.  I am always wanting to throw a dart at a map and just go, but there is always trouble finding someone who is as willing as I, to travel... and experience what I want to experience.  So, last summer I just decided to pack up my things and go to Colorado.  Granted, I have family there... but that's a long journey for a girl by herself.  However, it was one of the best journey experiences I've had.  Traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiescence to any other person or group. In other words.. No compromises. No arguments, and my personal favorite...NO second-guessing.



Traveling by myself is the ultimate confidence builder as well, and that's exactly what I need right now.  I am a confident and impulsive person... but sometimes when things bring you down, it's hard to focus on anything else.  Last summer, being a couple hundred miles away from home and hardly feeling lonely, I was never scared, and never unsure of anything.  In retrospect, I realize the great value of that small journey for a new found confidence was born in me. You learn you can solve problems, get over the blues, and find hidden treasures all by yourself.  I'm in the works of planning a trip out west again however this time around I'll be making a lot of stops and just spending time with myself... and frankly,  There’s nothing nicer than returning from a solo trip and facing the people who said you’d never be able to pull it off.  The most important factor to me while planning a trip alone is my own sense of independence.



Thomas Jefferson once said: "One travels more usefully when alone because he reflects more." It's true: you have abundant time for contemplating, even vegetating, or anything you want. A day long visit to one museum? No problem. A long hike on a trail fraught with danger? Not an issue. You don't have to deal with someone else's mood swings, ---nor they with yours.