Solo travel is life-changing, according to a TikToker who shares their reasons why more people should try it.
Your trip is all about freedom to do whatever you desire.
Going solo on a trip can be a great way to explore the world without relying on others. A former United Airlines employee and TikTok creator shares their reasons for why you should book a solo trip.
Megan Homme, who has gained popularity on TikTok by motivating others to embark on solo trips, shared with Planet Chronicle Digital that her first solo trip was a transformative experience.
Homme initially believed that solo trips were not enjoyable when he worked with United and his co-workers had the perk of free flights.
"I initially thought it would be impossible to enjoy it. I believed you would feel lonely. However, after experiencing it, I realized the benefits. People always advise you to do it, and they were right," she stated.
She was "tired" of waiting for others to join her to use her flight perks, so she embarked on her first solo venture to Key West, Florida, saying she wanted to go someplace "easy" and "comfortable" for her first trip.
"After doing it once, I felt confident and comfortable going to new destinations. Since then, I've become even more comfortable exploring further locations," she stated.
Solo traveling allows individuals to fully enjoy their trip and do what they want without any constraints, as people often have limited vacation time and funds.
"When people spend a lot of money on a trip, it's important to prioritize activities that you enjoy, rather than doing things you're not thrilled about just because your friends want to do them. Using 100% of your time is valuable," she said.
Traveling alone requires you to connect with new people differently than when you travel with friends, according to the TikToker.
"When I'm with my friends, we may not interact with other people on the trip because we already have people to hang out with. However, when I'm alone, I'm more motivated to strike up a conversation and meet someone while I'm there," she explained.
For your first trip, Homme suggests starting small and choosing a comfortable destination, such as a weekend getaway near a U.S. beach.
The TikToker stated that while many people imagine solo travel and see videos of backpackers in Southeast Asia, it doesn't have to be their first trip.
"Starting with solo travel, you're becoming accustomed to the practical aspects of it, such as going to the airport, boarding a flight, and checking into a hotel on your own. This is likely the simplest way to begin," she stated.
Homme suggests staying in hostels to meet other solo travelers or booking group tours to put yourself around other people when traveling alone.
When you're on a river cruise with a small group of people for a few hours, you'll have a captive audience and be able to start a conversation with them. Another way to meet new people is to ask someone to take your picture.
During my summer trip to Denmark, I met a couple of girls who asked me to take their photo. We struck up a conversation, and they invited me to join them for dinner. To my surprise, we ended up hanging out for the rest of the weekend.
Staying in a hotel while jet-setting solo makes her feel safe, as she believes the hotel staff are watching over her. Otherwise, basic safety measures should be practiced both at home and while traveling.
Be cautious of the area you're in when you're out after dark, whether you're alone or with a group. Homme emphasized that she has never felt unsafe while traveling alone.
The creator urges others to take the risk of booking a solo trip, as they will never be "trapped" if they need to end their vacation.
"No matter how difficult the journey may seem, there is always a flight home. You will never be stranded. If you encounter any difficulties, you can always return home tonight or tomorrow. You can always change your mind if the journey does not work out. However, it is important to experience the journey firsthand and take the leap of faith."
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