The Case For Traveling Solo while in a Relationship
As an only child, I have always thrived by myself. I learned early on the difference between being alone and being lonely, though I have experienced my fair share of both.
I spent so much of my life, especially the winter months, daydreaming about surfing in Africa, snowboarding in the Alps, and trekking across the Australian Outback. I would watch hours of surfing videos made by Roxy, Billabong, and Rip Curl. Marvelling at the surfer girls, I just knew that one day I would be travelling all over the world, perhaps by myself, chasing the adventures I’ve always been drawn to. There is a voice in my head that pushes me to speak first, jump first, and seek out experiences off the beaten path.
Perhaps this is part of why I said “yes” to moving to London, but I also knew deep down that someday I would live abroad for a long period of time.
I think that one of the healthiest things I can do in my relationship is to hold onto the independent pieces of myself that make up who I am. Part of nurturing the relationship I have with myself is my life long commitment to running. My newfound passion for practicing yoga. And, my innate ability to navigate solo travel effortlessly.
Not once during my trip did I believe I was incapable of figuring out where to go, what to eat, or how far I should walk before turning around.
My gut guided me and I was at peace. I trusted myself but I also trusted that my four months living in Bhutan as a 20 year old had prepared me for this.
To sum it up, I had a blast.
I met a handful of women in various stages of their lives who shared common interests and goals with myself.
I spontaneously bought a bus ticket to the other side of Portugal’s coast to fulfil my childhood dream of watching a professional surfing competition.
I met one of my favorite professional surfers.
I ran a half marathon (successfully, without any injuries), and finished with a sweaty, full-hearted smile.
I had some incredible meals, soaked up the sun, and walked until my feet were tired.
So, solo travel, would I do it again? In a heartbeat.
I think it is one of the best things you can do for the relationship you have with yourself, with another person, and for the greater travel community. It allows you to be slightly uncomfortable at times, all while giving you the opportunity to embrace uncertainty, listen to yourself, and literally follow wherever your heart desires to go that day and at any moment in time.
Cheers for now,
Caroline