Solo travelling is like an inward journey. On a solo trip, one finds time to interact with one’s self, connect with nature without being bothered about the world.
Kolkata: We all need a break, period. And who doesn’t like to take one but how often do we find all our priorities being fulfilled? And things get difficult when it comes to travelling with others. From deciding the choice of place to the type of cuisine, everything seems to fall apart and, in the pursuit to bring everybody on board, there are meant to be a bagful of sacrifices. Unless, you plan to go solo.
We’ve all thought about solo travels in some point of time and feel jealous about that one fried who is lucky enough to embark on endless solo trips. But we have either been stopped by our parents or have been much worried about how to arrange things on our own and have shelved our plans forever. However, if you wish to go for a solo trip, here’s a quick guide.
Why travel solo?
Independence. It is not possible to travel to places with friends and family members all the time because of today’s socio-economic situation and fast-paced lifestyle. There are tons of example of people traveling solo only for the sole reason that they want a break away from the hectic schedule, to have some ‘me-time’.
Psychologically, it is very important for a person to find his or her own inner peace and discover what they actually want from their life. Solo traveling is not a selfish theory but one that helps a person to reunite himself/herself from within. There are people who have enough means to travel but do not have the time to travel whereas some people who have a penchant to travel but their pockets do not permit. For those falling in the second category, solo trips are an ideal way to make things happen because after all, it’s you and you alone that you need to worry about.
Perks of traveling solo
Solo travelling is like an inward journey. On a solo trip, one finds time to interact with one’s self, connect with nature without being bothered about the world.
While travelling alone, a person can also take as much time as he or she wishes to at a particular place without having to worry about who would say what. Knowing about a place becomes easier as there is more time to have conversations with the local residents and this often opens the gates to local cuisines, the ones that even the local eateries won’t sell — the traditional ones.
Solo travelling in India
Solo traveling in India is gradually becoming a hobby, rather an escape from the busy lifestyle for the youngsters and also for some elderly persons. And thanks to social media, the idea about travelling solo is also spreading much.
How to plan a solo trip?
One should be confident about one’s choice and be ready to take impromptu decisions. While travelling for the first time, choose a destination that is closer to your hometown so that if you are not comfortable, you can get back to the comfort of your home at the earliest. Select weekend destinations to start with.
Be sure of your budget and preferences and always be ready to face any kind of hostile situation. Prepare to put yourself out of your comfort zone. Do not hesitate to interact with the local people; you never know who might come to your aid in the hour of need. But most importantly, you should get your parents and family members into confidence and they should know that you are okay and ready to go for a solo trip.
Dos and Don’ts of solo traveling
Pack your backpack accordingly depending on the destination you choose to travel to and try to carry everything in just one bag. Always carry some dry food and keep yourself hydrated no matter where you are traveling. One of the most important things to do is to do a thorough research about the place that you wish to travel to.
Carry your photo identity card. Keep your near and dear ones informed about your whereabouts. Don’t get into unnecessary troubles. If traveling to the mountains, listen to what the locals like the drivers say, because they will be the first ones to rescue you in any adverse situation.
Try to avoid traveling during the night unless you are using public transport and traveling with other passengers. Don’t start clicking photos at places where entry is prohibited. Don’t disrespect any local or their culture.
(Victor Das is a businessman and a passionate solo traveller, in his words peshe se baniya, dilse banjara!)
