It been new territory for me, traveling solo. Good and bad coming with the experience.
How I am perceived by locals is always interesting; and a small self evaluation moment. For example; one guide shared their thought; Saying that most single, “older” men traveling to SEA had a different profile then what they see when I arrive. They expected the typically fat, slow, and lazy American man....(looking more to the bar nightlife and it’s entertainment). And they were surprised by who they found at the airport. Nothing like the creepy old-man they where expecting.
And when I share a bit about myself. Being retired, single, my science and computer background they again are surprised. Mostly for the good. They do see my sincere interest in their culture and countries.
On the bad-side of solo travel, the loneliness can be real. The use of Instagram, and this web site, and of-coarse texts bring home close. Those tools erase some of the loneliness of the moments. But at-times, you want someone to watch your back, to be your wing-man, to help with transactions. Life is best shared.
The beneficial side of never having to wait for a travel partner's bathroom break. Or their shopping event, or their overly cautious behavior..are all winning reasons to travel solo. I move freely across the busy traffic of these streets, keep a fast pace and see a ton more territory.
Even my onward travel plans at this moment are spontaneous. Do I book a dive in Bali, or push for a boat in Raja Ampat ? I don't need to debate the topic with anyone. Just let it happen.
I guess this post is just stating the obvious. But until you travel solo widely, the freedom it profer's can't be appreciated. Onward travel.
(...at least until I start talking to myself.)
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