The Lone Traveller

When I was in South East Asia for 3 months last year I was essentially alone. Sure I met people every time I turned around and ended up sharing rooms, boats and buses with familiar strangers, but at the end of the day I was on my own.

I had wanted to take off and explore the world by myself, with my own agenda and plans.

And while I am one of the seemingly rare folks who enjoyes her own company and has no problems being alone with my thoughts and a good book, some people thought I was nuts to go at it on my own. They all expressed various reason, mostly them being safety related, but some were worried about me getting lonely or depressed.

With all honesty I can say that I was never lonely or depressed. Sure I pined for home a few days here and there & missed my boyfriend. Sure long night bus rides through the Vietnamese countryside can be a bit trying solo, but the experiences changed me.

Enroute to the Mui Ne

My time travelling solo made me stronger, more sure of myself, gave me the courage to step out of my confort zone and take on the unknown. It made me a better woman in all sorts of ways.

Enjoying my 2 day boat journey up the Mekong River from Laos back to Thailand

But thats just me.  Some people just cant even fathom the idea of travelling alone. And for some who do take it on, it may not end up being the experience that they had hoped for.

Cycling around the Mekong Delta

BootsnAll has posted another great article on Dealing With Loneliness As a Solo Traveler, how solo travel can change you.

I encourage EVERYONE at some point to get out and do it on your own, even if its just a short road trip. You may just surprise yourself :)