We live in a world that glorifies busyness. The more we hustle, the more successful we feel. But in this endless cycle of doing, we often forget to simply be. We forget to pause, to disconnect, and to tune into our own needs. Reconnecting with yourself—away from the noise, the schedules, and the constant demands of life—can be a transformative form of self-care. It’s more than just a break from the hustle; it’s a chance to reset, recharge, and reclaim your inner peace.
And trust me, I learned this the hard way.
My Solo Journey: Finding Solitude in the Mountains
Back in 2020, after quarantine, I was like many of you—completely suffocated by being stuck at home, staring at the same four walls, day in and day out, and feeling the overwhelming weight of everything happening in the world. I hit a point where I just knew I needed a break, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. So, what did I do? I booked a 3-day stay in the mountains for just me and my dog, Vanyel. Yep, I left my husband at home and took off on a solo vacation. And let me tell you—it was glorious.
Now, it wasn’t just about being out in nature or enjoying the quiet of two peaceful nights alone (although that was definitely a perk). Those three days turned out to be something so much deeper. It was a gateway into a type of self-care I didn’t even know I desperately needed: time to focus solely on myself and my needs.
I know, it sounds simple, right? But trust me, it was a revelation. So much of my energy goes into making sure everyone else is okay and happy, and suddenly, on this trip, I didn’t have to think about anyone else’s needs. I didn’t have to worry about making an itinerary or if someone else was bored or didn’t like the plans. It was just me, my needs, and my peace.
And let me tell you—it was freeing. Mentally, it was a total game changer.
Since then, I make it a priority to plan at least two solo getaways a year because I’ve realized how essential that space is for my emotional and mental well-being. My husband completely supports it and understands that I need time to heal and hibernate. Plus, Vanyel is an amazing travel buddy! We’ve hiked mountain trails, jumped waves at the beach, and spent hours just soaking in the peace and solitude together.
Some trips are light and carefree, while others have been more intense, bringing me face-to-face with my emotions. I’ve had a few "dark nights of the soul" where I poured my heart into my journal—tears and all. But every trip has been cathartic in its own way. That’s the beauty of these solo journeys: they give me the space to process, to heal, and to come back home feeling refreshed and ready to take on life again.
As I’m writing this, I’m gearing up for another adventure. Originally, I had planned to head to Asheville, but after the recent tragedy there, I’ve decided to change my destination to an oceanfront condo at the beach. Vanyel won’t be joining me this time, but I know I’ll still get plenty of peaceful alone time to reset and take a much-needed mental break.
If you haven’t tried taking a solo vacation, I highly recommend it. There’s something incredibly empowering about being on your own timeline, focusing on your own needs, and having the space to reflect in solitude. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Read on for my top tips and the benefits of solo travel!
Benefits of Solo Travel and Reconnecting with Yourself
Mental Clarity – Solo trips give you time to quiet the noise and distractions of everyday life, giving you the headspace to reflect, recharge, and gain some perspective. This mental clarity allows you to relearn yourself in a way, letting the constant voices and opinions in your life fade into the background so your true inner voice can come through. It’s a powerful experience that can reveal your deeper desires, needs, and thoughts, helping you connect with who you are at your core.
Emotional Healing – Whether it's journaling, hiking, or just being still, solo trips provide the emotional space you need to process any feelings or challenges you may have been avoiding. Personally, I always book a mental health therapy appointment after my trips, just to process anything important that might come up. It’s incredibly helpful in sorting through any deep emotions that arise during solo time, allowing you to return home feeling lighter and more in tune with yourself.
Self-Confidence – On my first solo trip, I didn’t realize how important this aspect would be. Being responsible solely for myself taught me so much about how my brain works—how I react to stress and how I handle challenges. I still have moments, even now, when traveling solo, that I freak out (like getting lost), but it’s in those moments that I have to push myself to grow in confidence. Honestly, it can be kind of scary at times, but safely pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is what creates inner growth. The independence and self-assurance you build during solo travel leave a lasting impression, well beyond the end of your trip.
Deep Rest – One of my favorite parts of solo vacations is being able to sleep in guilt-free. My husband is an early riser, but I love a good morning lie-in. When I travel alone, I can indulge in those extra minutes (or hours!) of rest and enjoy the quiet without feeling like I have to rush to start the day. These trips also give me a chance to work on my photography skills. If I feel like spending an hour getting the perfect shot in one spot, I can, and there’s no pressure—Vanyel is just happy for my company! It’s a time to savor moments, whether that’s staying in bed a little longer or capturing a beautiful landscape.
Quality “Me Time” – Solo trips offer the chance for truly uninterrupted “me time.” You can do whatever you want, without feeling rushed or guilty. Whether you’re spending the whole day sitting on a beach reading, taking five hours exploring a museum, strolling through random shops, or meditating on a mountaintop—it’s all about doing what you want. I once spent 45 minutes sitting on a tree branch over a rushing stream, reading my book, while Vanyel played in the water. There I was, completely at peace, with no worries in the world. These solo moments of tranquility and self-discovery create lasting memories that continue to nourish you well beyond the trip.
Discovering Yourself Through New Experiences – One of the best parts of solo travel is trying out new experiences and discovering parts of yourself along the way. On one trip, I visited a Korean spa—a whole different world of relaxation with saunas, bathing pools, and a Korean body scrub that made my skin feel completely new. It was wild! On another trip to Raleigh, I stumbled upon a special Lego exhibition called Art of the Brick and found myself as the only person there. Experiencing it in solitude was mesmerizing. Over the years, I’ve discovered used bookstores with their own bookshop cats, tasting rooms for wine, mead, and cider, hidden waterfalls, fun restaurants, and met some fascinating people along the way (always be cautious when striking up conversations with strangers!). These trips aren’t just about exploring new places—they’re an adventure in discovering yourself.
Personal Tips for Solo Travel Safety and Enjoyment
Now that you’re feeling inspired to take your own solo adventure, let me share a few practical tips I’ve picked up along the way to make sure your trip is safe, smooth, and enjoyable:
Air B&B Tips – When booking your stay, try to pick places that have self check-in. This makes things easier and safer, especially if you're arriving late or prefer more privacy. Also, look for full houses or apartments—not a basement or something connected to the host's house. Privacy makes all the difference! Aim for rare finds or guest favorites that have plenty of 5-star reviews.
Check Recent Reviews – Always read the most recent reviews from the past few months. Things can change quickly, and the last thing you want is to arrive at a place that used to be great but has since gone downhill. Recent reviews will give you the most accurate sense of what to expect.
Message the Host – Before you book, send a message to the host and see how fast they respond. This is important, especially if anything goes wrong during your stay. If they’re slow to reply or not very helpful, consider it a red flag. Hosts who respond quickly and are helpful right away are usually the best to book with.
Create a Loose Schedule – A couple of weeks before your trip, start looking into things to do. See if the area has a tourism website or any city tours, museums, or outdoor activities. Airbnb Experiences also has listings for local tours or activities run by people in the community, which are usually more personal. Once, I went on an architecture walking tour and was the only participant, so it turned into a private tour where I could ask all the questions I wanted! Also, check if your Airbnb host offers a guidebook closer to your trip—they often share local recommendations for restaurants, hikes, or hidden gems in the area. Having a loose schedule keeps you from wasting time wondering what to do but leaves room for spontaneous adventures.
Hiking? Plan Ahead – If your solo getaway involves hiking or outdoor activities, have a basic idea of your plans beforehand. It’s smart to share your itinerary with family or friends, especially if you’ll be off the grid. Let them know where you’ll be hiking and when you expect to return, just in case of an emergency.
Pet-Friendly Stays – If you’re traveling with a pet, like my dog Vanyel, make sure to pack everything they’ll need. This includes travel water bowls for pit stops, treats, a crate or carrier, any sedatives for anxiety if needed, and anything else to keep them comfortable. Fun fact: Vanyel basically has his own suitcase! I pack all his essentials, plus a few of his favorite toys to help him feel at home. And if you’re looking for dog-friendly places or activities, check out BringFido. This site has helped me plan several trips where Vanyel could tag along—whether it’s finding pet-friendly restaurants or hiking trails, it’s a lifesaver.
Share Your Plans – Even though you’re on a solo adventure, it’s important to share your plans with someone close to you. Let them know where you’ll be staying, what activities you’ve planned, and check in regularly. This is especially important if you’re heading into more remote areas.
Pack Smart – Since you’re traveling alone, it’s essential to be prepared. Pack light but bring the essentials: snacks, a first-aid kit, extra phone chargers, and plenty of water (especially for hiking). When you’re your own problem-solver, it helps to be well-prepared for anything.
Embrace the Magic of Solo Travel
Solo travel is more than just a break from the routine—it’s a powerful way to reconnect with yourself, discover new experiences, and heal in ways you didn’t know you needed. It’s an adventure, a journey into your own soul, and a chance to rediscover the magic of life.
So if you’ve been thinking about taking that solo trip, go for it. Let yourself wander, explore, and grow. Trust me, the adventure of discovering yourself is one you’ll never forget.
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