Why would one ever want to travel alone? Rohan Gidwani, Melina Chawla,Keshav Pathela, and Sidak Singh answer exactly this question in Masala’s piece on solo-travelling. Self-discovery, challenge, and freedom were some of the reasons they embarked on their first journeys by themselves. Our four featured community members share their mindsets, the benefits, and some advice for those who want to tread the same path of independence and personal growth.
I have travelled solo to Buenos Aires, Argentina, Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and Bali, Indonesia. Solo travel can be highly rewarding. It teaches you to be happy by yourself, to enjoy your own solitude, and to get things done on your own. Travelling independently gives a person full freedom to do exactly what they would like to do at their own pace without the need to coordinate with a group.
Some of the highlights for me have been going on a solo health and wellness trip to Bali where I would go get day passes at different gyms, play padel, and eat all the delicious and healthy food Bali has to offer. Very often, when I’m traveling solo, I get a private room at a hostel, so I also have the option to socialise. Quite a few hostels organise pub crawls which is a fun way to meet people from different parts of the world.
In Argentina, I was traveling with a group. We were there to explore the Perito Moreno glacier and the incredible Torres del Paine National Park. Once we wrapped up our trip, I continued and spent four nights in Buenos Aires solo, just to explore the neighbourhoods, food scene, nightlife, and everything else the city had to offer.
I feel like going to music festivals solo works wonderfully as well because you get to pick the artists you want to see. One could also meet a lot of fellow solo travellers at festivals in the process.
“Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone.” This quote perfectly sums up what 2024 was all about for me—taking the leap to do things I had always dreamed of but was too afraid to pursue. It takes courage, countless pep talks, and a deep breath to convince yourself to step into the unknown. Yet, the moment you give yourself permission to “try” and do it anyway, you have already taken one of the biggest steps toward success and change. It was this mindset that got me to embark on my first solo trip to Georgia for nine days, a journey that would forever change how I saw myself and the world.
Georgia stood out for its incredible diversity, offering everything from city life to serene beaches and majestic mountains. Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it’s a land of breathtaking contrasts, where ancient history blends seamlessly with natural beauty. As my first solo destination, I wanted a place I had never visited before—somewhere immersive and inspiring. Plus, being just a nine-hour flight from Bangkok, visa-free, and renowned as a safe destination for female solo travellers, it felt like the perfect choice.
Not every journey starts smoothly, and mine was no exception. From nearly missing my flight due to passport issues to almost losing my wallet (only to find it after a frantic search)—all this chaos happened in a single day. But from there, my trip only got better. The beauty of the Caucasus Mountains in Gudauri, the serenity of Borjomi, the crashing waves in Batumi, and even the bustling traffic of Tbilisi all came together to create a unique experience. Gudauri offered my favourite views, while Borjomi gave me my most cherished moments of peace and memorable experiences.
If there’s one thing I took away from this trip, it’s the confidence I gained. I still remember sitting with a friend just two days before my journey when she asked, “Are you excited?” Overwhelmed, I broke down as a million thoughts raced through my mind: “Will I be safe?” being the loudest. At that moment, my friend said something I’ll always be grateful for: “If you can do this, you’ll be able to do anything because you’ll have all the confidence you need.” She was right. This trip taught me to make confident decisions, believe in myself, and follow my dreams fearlessly.
If you asked me whether I would do this again. My answer would be, “Absolutely!” It was, without a doubt, one of the proudest moments of my life. I would encourage everyone to try it at least once—even if it’s just for a weekend. The rush of adrenaline and sense of accomplishment you feel afterward is indescribable and something I’ll cherish forever.
My advice? The world is your oyster. Feeling scared when you try something new is completely normal—it’s a sign that it matters. So, feel the fear and do it anyway! You’ll be amazed at just how brave you truly are.
To see Melina’s full experience, head to her channel on YouTube: @Journeywithmeli
At 25 years old, as an event coordinator for Indian destination weddings, my life revolves around creating unforgettable moments for others. Yet, in October 2023, I embarked on a journey to craft a unique memory for myself: my first solo travel experience. My destination was Chiang Mai, Thailand, a place that promised culture, adventure, and the opportunity to challenge myself in ways I’d never imagined. Solo travel had always been a dream of mine—one I was both eager and afraid to pursue.
Growing up in an Indian household where family and togetherness are central, the thought of being entirely on my own was daunting. However, the idea of stepping into unfamiliar territory, exploring hidden corners, and immersing myself in new cultures was irresistible. My trip to Chiang Mai was filled with unforgettable highlights. Bathing and feeding elephants in a sanctuary, where they roamed freely in their natural habitat, was a surreal experience. I also met a fellow traveller, and together, we explored Chiang Mai for two days, sharing stories and adventures. I biked to Doi Suthep, a stunning mountain temple and sang with strangers at a random bar, an impromptu act of courage and connection. Staying in a shared hostel for the first time in my life allowed me to meet fascinating people from around the world. Conversations with a humble vegetable vendor gave me a glimpse into the life of someone living in the mountains, a perspective that resonated deeply with me.
What inspired me to take this leap? Solo travel had always been on my bucket list. I thrive on pushing my boundaries, and this experience allowed me to confront my discomfort head-on. For me, solo travel is not just about exploring new destinations. It’s a time for reflection, healing, and escape. It provides the peace I need to process my thoughts and recover from the demands of my industry. Loneliness was undoubtedly the biggest challenge I faced. Being alone in an unfamiliar environment, without the comfort of family, was nerve-wracking. However, I learned to embrace it. I found solace in riding a bike, which felt therapeutic, and in meditating, which helped me connect with my soul. These practices turned moments of solitude into opportunities for growth and self-discovery. To anyone considering solo travel but feeling hesitant, my advice is simple: pack your bags and go. The most nerve-wracking experiences often lead to the greatest growth. Start small, plan well, and trust the process.
Chiang Mai is an excellent destination for first-time solo travellers, offering a welcoming atmosphere and countless opportunities for adventure. As I reflect on my journey, I know it’s just the beginning. I’ve fallen in love with solo travel and already have my sights set on places like Koh Samui and Vietnam. Travelling alone has taught me to embrace discomfort, find joy in solitude, and create memories that are uniquely mine. It’s not just a trip; it’s a journey inward, one that I’ll cherish forever.
In 2016, I decided to take a solo trip through China. I’d always been fascinated by its history and culture, and I thought it would be an exciting challenge, especially with the language barrier. It definitely didn’t disappoint.
I travelled from Beijing to the ancient city of Pingyao, then to Xi’an, Guilin, and Yangshuo. Each place had something special to offer—whether it was the incredible sights, the amazing food, or the friendly people I met along the way. It was an unforgettable experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a whole new perspective on solo travel.
One of the biggest highlights was the stunning natural beauty of Yangshuo. The dramatic karst mountains rising steeply from the river created a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. Cruising along the Li River, surrounded by towering limestone peaks and lush greenery, felt like stepping into a traditional Chinese painting. Spending New Year’s Eve by the riverside, surrounded by the serene beauty and lively atmosphere, made it even more special. Exploring the area by bike was another unforgettable experience—cycling through lush rice fields, quiet villages, and winding paths with breathtaking mountain views at every turn was the perfect way to take in the peaceful essence of the countryside.
Another highlight was exploring the ancient city of Pingyao. Walking through its well-preserved city walls and narrow alleyways felt like traveling back in time. The traditional courtyard houses, red lanterns, and centuries-old architecture gave the town a unique character, offering a glimpse into China’s rich past in a way that felt authentic and immersive.
Of course, no trip to China would be complete without visiting the Great Wall in Beijing. Standing atop the wall, looking out over the rolling hills and endless fortifications, was truly surreal. Beyond the history, Beijing itself was a highlight—offering an incredible food scene and a fun, energetic nightlife that made it easy to meet people and experience the city in a whole new way.
I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and experience the freedom of traveling on my own terms. Solo travel allowed me to explore new places at my own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and fully immerse myself in the experience without having to compromise. It was a chance to challenge myself, gain confidence, and discover what I truly enjoy when exploring the world.