6 Reasons to Solo Travel / Budapest

There's something magical about solo travel. 

I took my first trip solo this past week to Budapest, Hungary. A very last minute decision seeing my friend was sick and couldn't make the trip, I decided to go anyways and not miss out on an adventure!
There are so many reasons to take your first solo travel trip, but these are just a few that applied to me:)

Why solo travel?

1. Independence
This is by far one of the coolest parts. When you travel in groups, you have to be in agreement on activities, places to eat, things to see, rest time, etc. but when it's just you, you decide everything! Want to eat? Go eat. A bit tired? Go take a nap. Want to keep wandering around? Go for it! It's all up to you.

2. Being present/Freedom
I didn't have a schedule; I did whatever activity I wanted. I ate when and where I wanted. It was freeing. I could just walk around the city and discover things on my own while being in the moment:)

Cool street I found while wandering around Budapest

3. Reflection
It's just you, so you have a lot of time to think, reflect and enjoy your presence.
One of my favorite moments was walking along the Danube river with my earbuds in, water reflecting the sunset, and just breathing in the moment.

Parliament lit up at night

I loved the Central Market Hall and got some great traditional Hungarian trinkets and food. I was able to chat with shop owners to find out the meanings behind the tradition of the Hungarian secret puzzle box. These intricate wooden boxes can store jewelry or special belongings, and can only be opened with a combination of hidden panels and locks solved like a puzzle! I also got to try local food and discover everything on my own.

Make sure to try some Hungarian traditions: Goulash, stuffed cabbage, and my favorite, rétes (strudel!) and paprika of course !

Hungarian secret puzzle box (Source: Google Images)

4. Locals/language
Being a party of 1, it's easier to interact with locals. I went to a corner store and asked the clerk what were some typical Hungarian chocolates, and he seemed surprise at my interest; he couldn't wait to show me!
It's also great to learn a few key words of the country you're traveling to. It means a lot to a local that you took time to greet them in their native tongue. I've always noticed they are much friendlier if you start with their greetings even if you don't fully know their language. Thanks Duolingo! 

5. Self discovery. 
When you solo travel, you learn about yourself: your strengths, weaknesses and what you like. I learned I can get around any city and am savvy with the metro!

6. Confidence/Self-trust
By learning more about my strengths, I developed a greater confidence in myself knowing even in a foreign country, where I don't know the language, I'm still super capable of getting around, communicating with others, and not being scared to experience new things!

"Because it's life affirming to discover that you can reach out of your comfort zone all alone and survive it." - Tracy Aaron

bisous,
Lyndi


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