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Main | Tripcenter: Faq's | ||
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Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can I go alone? A: A faraway land, an unfamiliar tongue, and different cultural values. These are just some of the reasons that may deter you from venturing out to South America. However, not only do I advocate that you visit South America, but I believe that the best possible experience can only be had if you go solo. By going with a friend, you are less likely to meet new people for a couple of important reasons. First, you are less approachable when you’re with other people. When I was alone, more people struck up conversation whether I was on one of the famously long bus excursions or part of a group tour. As soon as other travelers realized that I was not a local and could communicate with them, many would introduce themselves—if I hadn’t done so already. As soon as locals realized that I could speak their language, some started to talk to me because I wasn’t busy talking to a travel partner. Second, because I was alone, I was forced to meet new people if I wanted to have human interaction. I couldn’t just drop by a friend’s apartment when I was lonely. I had to muster up the courage to strike up conversations with complete strangers. Some were not receptive, but on the whole, most were. I’m the first to admit that I could be a more extroverted guy but as the trip wore on, I felt more confidence that I could meet new people whenever and wherever I wanted to do so. When I traveled with a buddy I still had a good time, but I met fewer new people. To me, meeting new people, whether they’re local or foreign, is the best part of traveling. It’s the best way to learn about the places you are visiting and about other places to visit on future trips.
That said, traveling alone can be a bit more challenging. You have to want to be the person with the map who figures out where the hostel is. You have to make more decisions such as where you want to go, how long you want to stay, what you want to do when you get there. You have to be more careful with your belongings or they could be gone at any time. You have to pay higher rates for single rooms. You have to be extra careful at night (especially women). You have to handle all the conversations with the locals and get ripped off if you don’t understand them. You have to keep a positive outlook when you’re having a bad day and you won’t have someone trusted to advise you or cheer you up. You have to remember to pack up everything with you every time you leave (Oops!).
Now that I’ve probably kept you from even considering a trip alone, I’d tell you that I enjoyed making the decisions because that allowed me more independence to leave if I was bored or stay if I was having a blast. I felt totally in control of my life, moreso than ever before. I didn’t have to worry about work or school tying me down for some amount of time and limiting me from doing whatever looked good at the moment. If you like being independent, if you don’t mind being a bit more careful, if you have a good attitude and relatively stable mental set, if you have a few extra dollars or pesos to spare, and if you truly hunger for the ultimate adventure, then going alone is the only way to go.
By the way, if fit that description and you’re an attractive female then I’d be happy to accompany you!
Are you a woman? Are you afraid to go alone? Don’t be. Surprisingly, I met many women traveling alone. They usually met the description above, and none of them regretted their decisions to travel alone. They usually met other travelers and hung out with them for a stint, then moved on to the next place and met other people to travel with. They took a few more precautions: stayed in nicer places when they were alone, didn’t go out at night by themselves, etc. For the most part, they could do whatever I did.
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| travelbackpacker.com is dedicated to unique backpacking travel experiences. Viaje A Sudamerica highlights a six month trip backpacking through South America. |
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