Before I met my fiancé last year, I had become accustomed to traveling the world alone.

Yes girl, you read that correctly. . . alone!

In fact, traveling by myself had become the norm for me. I frequently traveled by myself all around the world, from England and France to United Arab Emirates and Turkey. I had become so comfortable with traveling solo that I completely forgot how uncomfortable it made many people around me.

I would constantly find myself in conversations with people that were shocked at my ability to travel alone. I was repeatedly faced with the same questions and comments such as “I don’t know how you do it!!!”, “How do you feel safe?!” and “OMG! I could never travel alone!!!”. All of which are expected reactions and questions to have. If the thought of traveling alone makes your heart beat fast or your palms sweat, don’t worry! It is completely normal to feel apprehensive, and even frightened. I was very nervous my first time traveling alone but the reality is:

It is possible!

It is safe (as long as you are aware)!

You can do it!

I’ve put together a few bullet points of the advantages of traveling alone below. It is my hope that my words encourage you to have the confidence to step out on your own and take that trip, girl.

1. You establish independence

Traveling alone is a sure-fire way to establish your independence. By putting yourself in a position to rely solely on yourself, you open yourself up to discovering more about... well, you.

I found traveling abroad helped me become more comfortable on my own. Previously, I felt awkward eating alone at a restaurant. I also felt weird going to the cinema alone! By constantly traveling abroad, I gained more confidence in myself and most importantly, being by myself.

2. You have more freedom

Traveling solo opens your schedule to so much more freedom. When you are by yourself, you can do what you want, when you want and how you want. Wanna stay at the beach all day? You can! Wanna go on that tour?! Go! Wanna stay in your hotel room and order everything on the room service menu? Do it!

I found it easier traveling alone, in terms of itinerary, because I had the deciding vote. Often times, I found it difficult for me to travel in large groups. It was challenging to reach a consensus in which all travelers were happy. When you are alone, you don’t have to worry about this.

3. You immerse yourself in new environments

Traveling solo means immersing yourself into a different culture, environment and way of life! By stepping out of your comfort zone, you learn. You learn about cultures and customs different from your own. You can discover new places. You have the ability to meet new people and make new friends. You are also able to explore new foods and activities.

From my experiences, I discovered traveling solo was one of the best gifts I could have ever given myself. I found myself recharged, balanced and hungrier for more adventures after each trip. I learned about myself and became more independent. I also made new friends around the globe and have experiences that I will always carry with me. Now I travel with my fiancé, but I am thankful for the adventures I had by myself.