by Katie Mcgreal

Created on: July 09, 2010

For many people travelling alone is not an option. It is scary, daunting and something a lot of people will never do, and that's okay. Don't worry if you're not the type of person to decide on a whim to travel in Asia for three months, not many are. But if you are one of those lucky few you won't be disappointed! Travelling alone is exciting, fun and rewarding! And it is of course scary, but being scared or nervous before you go is a good thing! It means that whatever you do or accomplish while travelling will feel so much better and that feeling of accomplishment is hard to beat!

Pros of travelling alone;

Being alone means it is easier to make decisions. There is no 'do you mind', 'what do you think' or conferring of any sort. You just open the guidebook, sit at a computer or simple look at a random map and decide that's where you want to go. It can also mean there is less planning necessary. Of course parents and friends may want to know where you are going and plane tickets are generally cheaper when booked in advance but these things would still be there whether you were alone or not.

Looking for one bed is a lot easier to do then looking for 2 or 3. This means, as you may have no plans as to where you are going, you don't need to worry about finding somewhere to stay. Unless you are travelling at the ultimate peak season (and even then you are bound to find something!) you shouldn't have much trouble finding a bed in a hostel or even in a hotel.

Staying within a budget can be easier to do when travelling alone. Just as it is difficult to find someone who wants to travel when and to where you want to, it can be just as difficult to find someone who needs to stay within the same budget as you. Being alone means you have your needs, wants and budget only, in mind. This can make it a lot easier to stay within budget, as there is no one to alter the way you are thinking.

Being alone all the time during the day or while in transit means that meeting new people while in hostels or even at a local cafe can become very important. It can be a lot easier to do this if you aren't in a group of two or three. In hostels people may view a group as a bit daunting to approach but a lone traveller sitting at a table writing in a journal or reading a book can seem a lot less daunting.

Cons of travelling alone;

The biggest drawback to travelling alone is loneliness. This will happen but that's okay, it happens to all solo-travellers! Staying in hostels is the best way to beat the loneliness. Whether you are an outgoing person or not you will meet people in hostels! You may not feel comfortable going out to local clubs or bars on your own but that can be a good thing! Not going out means staying in your hostel common area or bar which will inevitably lead to you meeting people. If you are shy or uncomfortable initiating the conversation with strangers make sure to choose your seat wisely. Choose somewhere out in the open, somewhere everyone walks past and within minutes your bound to have a few people coming over wanting to hear your story. The most important thing to remember is; be open to meeting new people! Meeting people from different countries and with different stories can make your travelling all the more interesting and exciting!

So if you are the kind of person to try everything once; do it! Travel alone! Even if it's only for a week or a few days. Just test the waters and see how you feel, you may surprise yourself!

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