5 Solo Travel Myths That Need to Be Busted

Thanks to movies like Eat Pray Love and Queen, solo travel has gained immense popularity lately.  But unlike Julia Roberts and Kangana Ranaut we don’t have to get fat on Pizza, or run into cops just because we’re travelling solo. Viewed as absolute self-indulgence, solo travel also has its share of myths. Here are five popular solo travel myths that we’ve busted for you. Thank us later.

1.   Solo Travel is Boring

 

Solo travel presents you with a wonderful opportunity to enjoy your own company and reconnect with yourself. Spend your time at your own pace sitting in a café, reading a book, or just taking a stroll down unfamiliar streets. Having said that, solo travel is a great opportunity to meet other travellers and who knows, you’ll probably make friends for life. Travelling solo also gives you an opportunity to interact with locals and familiarise yourself with the local culture. 

2.    Solo Travel is Dangerous

Take necessary precautions and you’re bound to be safe. Research well before your trip. Find out what the locals of the city are like and what are the popular tourist scams. Keep all emergency contacts, including your embassy details handy. Secure your belongings and travel during daylight hours. Get a local SIM card and stay in touch with your family and friends back home. Lastly, trust your instincts. If a particular person or place seems suspicious, don’t hesitate and leave immediately.  

3.    Solo Travel is Expensive

On the contrary; solo travel can be much cheaper than travelling with a group as you can set your own rules. As a solo traveler you can choose a budget friendly accommodation and eat at cheaper places, as opposed to being made to eat at more expensive places by your fellow travellers. Scout for tourist hostels and dormitories, explore street food, use your bargaining skills and you’ll realize that a solo trip doesn’t have to be expensive at all. 

4.    Language is a Barrier

Don’t let language be a barrier, in fact look at solo travel as a fantastic opportunity to learn a new language, or two. Learning a few phrases in the local language will save you many frustrating moments during your holiday. Also, locals respect tourists who make an effort to learn their language. These days you don’t even need to buy guide books, apps like Duolingo and Memrise can help you lean handy phrases in various languages. 

5.    You Can’t Explore Much

Did you never get to explore the cultural side of Pondicherry because all your friends wanted to laze on the beach? Or did you miss out on trying Bangkok’s delicious street food, because your family wanted to have Indian meals? Here’s how solo travel is a blessing. You have the freedom to choose what you want to do and where you want to go. There’s no itinerary to follow, or people to please! 

Now that we’ve busted these myths, what are you waiting for? Pack those bags and get going. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!