N※N

Solo travelling isn''t brave, it''s smart!

Nat Locke: I’m Here to Dispel the Myth That You Have to Be Brave to Do Solo Travel. You Absolutely Do Not

Let me start by setting the record straight: solo travel is not some Herculean feat of courage that only the boldest among us can undertake. I've heard it time and time again—people gushing about how "brave" I must be to jet off alone to far-flung destinations. Brave? Hardly. If anything, it's the most practical, liberating, and downright enjoyable way to see the world, especially when your travel preferences don't align with those of your nearest and dearest. I'm Nat Locke, and as someone who's clocked countless solo miles across continents, I'm here to debunk this persistent myth once and for all. You don't need bravery; you need a passport, a bit of planning, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Let me explain why, drawing from my own adventures that prove solo travel is accessible, safe, and utterly rewarding for anyone with a sense of curiosity.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room: why go solo in the first place? For me, it boils down to compatibility—or the lack thereof. My partner isn't as enamored with travel as I am. He prefers the comforts of home, while I'm the type who gets itchy feet after a few months without a new stamp in my passport. We've tried compromising, of course—short trips here and there—but ultimately, I've realized that forcing someone to tag along when their heart isn't in it just leads to resentment on both sides. So, rather than forgo my wanderlust altogether, I started venturing out alone. My first major solo jaunt was to Europe a few years back, and it was a revelation. No debates over itineraries, no waiting for someone else to finish their coffee before hitting the museum. Just me, my backpack, and the freedom to do exactly what I wanted, when I wanted.

Take that European trip as an example. I landed in Paris, armed with nothing more than a loose plan and a healthy dose of excitement. Did I feel brave? Not particularly. I felt prepared. I'd booked a cozy Airbnb in a safe neighborhood, researched public transport, and even downloaded a translation app for those inevitable language barriers. The beauty of solo travel is that it forces you to be self-reliant, but in the best possible way. I wandered the streets of Montmartre at my own pace, lingered over croissants in quaint cafes, and struck up conversations with locals and fellow travelers alike. One evening, I ended up sharing a bottle of wine with a group of backpackers from Australia—ironic, given I was halfway around the world—and we swapped stories late into the night. These serendipitous encounters are the magic of going it alone; you're more approachable without a companion, and people are drawn to your independence.

But let's not sugarcoat it—solo travel isn't without its challenges, though they're rarely the dramatic perils that naysayers imagine. Safety is often the biggest concern people raise, especially for women like me. "Aren't you scared?" they ask, wide-eyed. Scared of what, exactly? The world isn't the hostile place it's sometimes portrayed to be, provided you use common sense. I've traveled through parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and even remote areas of South America, and my strategy has always been straightforward: stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid flashing valuables, and trust your instincts. In Kenya, for instance, I joined a guided safari tour, which not only ensured I was in a group during vulnerable times but also introduced me to incredible people from all walks of life. There was the time in Nairobi when I got a bit lost navigating the markets—my phone's GPS decided to glitch at the worst moment—but instead of panicking, I asked a friendly vendor for directions. She not only pointed me the right way but invited me to try some local street food. Crisis averted, and a memorable experience gained.

This brings me to another myth-busting point: solo travel doesn't mean you're lonely. In fact, it's often the opposite. When you're alone, you're more open to the world around you. Hostels, for example, are goldmines for social interaction. I remember staying in a vibrant hostel in Lisbon, where the communal kitchen became a hub for impromptu dinners. There were travelers from Brazil, Germany, and Japan, all sharing recipes and travel tips. We formed a ragtag group and explored the city's hilly streets together, laughing over past mishaps like missed trains or language faux pas. By the end of the week, I had new friends I'd keep in touch with for years. Contrast that with traveling as a couple or group, where you might stick to your bubble and miss out on these connections. Solo travel encourages you to step outside your comfort zone, but not in a "brave warrior" kind of way—more like a "curious explorer" vibe.

Of course, there are practical perks that make solo travel a no-brainer. Cost, for one. Sharing expenses isn't always cheaper when you factor in differing budgets or tastes. On my own, I can opt for budget flights, street food over fancy restaurants, or even couch-surfing if I'm feeling adventurous. In Vietnam, I zipped around Hanoi on a rented scooter (after a quick safety check, naturally), sampling pho from hole-in-the-wall spots that a group might overlook. Flexibility is another huge win. Plans change? No problem. During a trip to Italy, I spontaneously extended my stay in Florence because I fell in love with the Uffizi Gallery. No need to consult anyone; I just rebooked my train ticket and carried on.

Now, I won't pretend there aren't moments of doubt. Jet lag hits harder when you're solo, and there's no one to share the burden of a delayed flight or a dodgy hotel room. In Morocco, I once dealt with a bout of food poisoning that left me bedridden for a day. Was it scary? A little uncomfortable, sure, but I had travel insurance, a stocked medical kit, and the hotel staff were incredibly helpful. These hiccups build resilience, teaching you that you're capable of handling more than you think. And honestly, they're no different from the curveballs life throws at you back home.

To those still hesitant, I say this: start small. A weekend getaway to a nearby city can ease you into the solo mindset. Research destinations known for being solo-friendly—places like New Zealand or Japan, where infrastructure is reliable and people are welcoming. Pack light, stay connected with loved ones via apps, and remember that bravery isn't a prerequisite. What you need is curiosity, preparation, and an open heart.

In the end, solo travel has enriched my life in ways I never anticipated. It's given me stories to tell, perspectives to ponder, and a profound sense of self-sufficiency. I've watched sunsets over the Serengeti, hiked misty trails in the Scottish Highlands, and savored gelato in Rome's piazzas—all on my terms. So, if you've been holding back because you think it requires some mythical bravery, let me assure you: it doesn't. Grab that ticket, step onto the plane, and discover the world waiting for you. You'll wonder why you ever waited.

(Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full The West Australian Article at:
[ https://thewest.com.au/lifestyle/stm/nat-locke-im-here-to-dispel-the-myth-that-you-have-to-be-brave-to-do-solo-travel-you-absolutely-do-not-c-19363694 ]