Solo Travel

"I never expected to travel alone. But there were places calling to me — places I had dreamed about for years, and no one else in my life shared that same pull."

Why I chose to travel solo

After securing my first job, I felt compelled to do something meaningful for myself — to mark a significant life transition through independent exploration.

How I chose my first destination

England, Ireland, and Scotland were ideal: close together, English-speaking, safe, and culturally rich — which outweighed more distant dream destinations like Japan or Thailand, given my limited vacation time. Edinburgh's holiday-season imagery on social media gave the final push.

The itinerary was eight days: two in London, three in Edinburgh, and two in Dublin — a balanced mixture of historical sites, cultural experiences, and seasonal charm.

What I learned about myself

The journey revealed my independence and organizational capability. I became more self-aware about my authentic preferences and developed stronger planning skills. But I also recognized an uncomfortable reality: as a woman of color in elite spaces like business-class train cars and luxury hotels, my presence stood out — a reminder of how underrepresented minorities remain in these environments. That's exactly why it matters for young people of color to travel solo: to normalize representation in historically exclusive spaces.

How I planned and prepared

Planning centered on safety and organization using Costco Travel, which bundled flights, train passage, accommodations, excursions, and airport transfers. Four-star hotels ensured comfort and security. I also notified my credit card company, purchased an international phone plan, and enabled location-sharing with family.

Why I'll keep traveling solo

It gave me unexpected mental-health benefits, offering fresh perspective during monotonous periods. After all these years, I find — or remember — a piece of myself that I never knew existed or had forgotten, every time I travel by myself.

Solo travel removes the necessity for compromise, letting my own preferences determine every aspect of the journey. Without anyone else's opinions in the background, you can hear your own thoughts more clearly. Paradoxically, traveling alone often deepens your connection with strangers and places, through greater openness and genuine engagement.