If you want to feel empowered and independent, take a solo trip. 

Less than two months ago, a significant change in my life completely altered my summer travel plans. Determined to embrace adventure and not let these changes deter me, I decided to have my European girl summer—solo. 

The Solo Adventure

One of the best things I did for myself was taking a solo trip to Europe. It was empowering and healing all at once. When I got uninvited from a 10-day Europe trip that was less than a month away, I was heartbroken. I sat in that grief for a moment, then decided to take action. I researched places I might want to go and made a list. I asked a few friends if they could join me, but none could get off work on such short notice. This led me to take a solo trip.

I landed on Copenhagen, Denmark, for no other reason than Delta had a good flight deal and I heard it was safe. Ticket booked, leaving in 20 days. Boom. Hotel booked, boom. Those two things—flight and hotel booked—were empowering in themselves. The day came, I boarded the flight for my solo venture. Although traveling solo on planes was not new to me, going to Europe alone was a new adventure.

The Lesson Learned

This trip taught me that I am indeed smart, empowered, and capable of doing things on my own. Heartbreak had made me doubt myself, but this journey showed me that I could navigate the world solo and come out stronger. It also reminded me that life is full of unexpected connections and moments of joy; we just have to be open.

Here’s what I learned on my solo trip:

Embrace the Unknown and Be Open to Surprises

• Let Life Surprise You: Traveling alone teaches you to embrace the unexpected and appreciate the beauty of spontaneity. The best moments often come unplanned.
• Be Open: Keep your mind and heart open to new experiences, people, and places. Openness invites opportunities and enriches your journey.

Personal Growth and Empowerment

• Discover Your Inner Badass: Solo travel empowers you to trust yourself and realize how capable and resilient you are. You can navigate anything life throws your way.
• Empowerment in Solitude: Traveling alone isn’t just about seeing new places; it’s about proving to yourself that you can thrive independently.
• Life Goes On: No matter what challenges you face, life continues to unfold beautifully, just as it should. Keep moving forward.

Connections and Community

• Right Place, Right Time: Serendipitous encounters can happen anywhere. You never know who you’ll meet and how they might impact your life.
• The Universe Has Your Back: Trust that everything happens for a reason and the universe is guiding you to where you need to be.
• Connections Await: The world is full of amazing people waiting to cross paths with you. Stay open to making new friends and connections.
• The Right People: You’ll encounter mature, kind, and inspiring individuals who can positively influence your journey. They might be your airplane seatmate, you never know. 

Joy in the Journey

• Exploration Is Infinite: The world is vast and full of wonders. Keep exploring and expanding your horizons.
• Savor Your Own Company: Learn to enjoy and find comfort in being alone. Solo dining or exploring can be a liberating and joyful experience. Remember, you’re not alone, you’re with yourself.
• Travel Renews the Soul: Travel has a unique power to refresh, enrich, and transform your spirit. Every journey is a step towards personal growth.
• Be Spontaneous: Allow space for unexpected adventures. Sometimes, the best experiences are those you didn’t plan for.
• Experiences Over Things: Cherish the experiences you have over material possessions. They create lasting memories and personal growth.

Practical Tips for Solo Travelers

• Master Public Transport: If you can navigate a new city’s public transport system, you can handle just about anything.
• Everything Is Figureoutable: Challenges may arise, but with patience and resourcefulness, everything can be figured out.
• Be Safe and Smart: Trust your instincts and stay aware of your surroundings. Safety is always a priority but don’t forget to have fun.

Trust the Process

• Trust Yourself: You’re smarter and more capable than you think. Have confidence in your decisions and abilities.
• Be Flexible: Plans may change, and that’s okay. Adaptability is key to enjoying your journey.
• Be Brave and Bold: Step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges with courage and optimism.
• Let Travel Transform You: Every trip leaves a mark on your soul. Allow each experience to shape and transform you.

Finding Joy and Fulfillment

• Enjoy the Solo Journey: Appreciate the freedom of traveling on your own terms and timeline. It’s a unique and empowering experience.
• It’s Okay to Be “Just One”: Whether it’s booking a table for one or joining a tour solo, embrace being your own best company. Plus, you’ll find a lot of other people who are traveling solo. 
• Notice Your Feelings: Pay attention to how you feel in your own company. Solo travel is a time for introspection and self-awareness.
• Explore with Joy: Have fun exploring on your own. It’s an opportunity to do exactly what you want, when you want.

The Beauty of Connection

• Be Open to New Connections: Whether it’s a fellow solo traveler or the person sitting next to you on the plane, be open to meeting new people.
• Impactful Encounters: Everyone you meet has the potential to leave a lasting impact on your life. Embrace these connections, no matter how brief.

Solo travel is a journey of empowerment, discovery, and profound personal growth. It’s about learning to trust yourself, embracing the unknown, and finding joy in your own company. So, go alone, be brave, and let the world surprise you.