Before I went to Dublin last year, I had never flown alone before, and I had never spent more than a couple of hours on my own in a new city or country. My anxieties had always convinced me that travelling alone was something that I simply could not do.

Since then I’ve been on a sunny holiday on my own, and I’m definitely planning some more solo travelling as soon as possible.

Here are a few reasons why I think you should consider travelling solo.

1. You can do whatever you want when you’re travelling solo

You can go at your own pace. You have the freedom to pick up and go without waiting for someone. You can see the sights you want to see and ignore the ones you don’t. You can lie on the beach and read for hours. You can eat at times that suit you. The list goes on.

2. Travelling solo will push you out of your comfort zone

Yeah, it’s nice and safe and easy to go where you know, with people you know, but the zone in which you’re comfortable will never grow if you don’t test the boundaries. My favourite little phrase lately is, “the more you do, the more you do.”

3. It’s easier to organise a solo holiday

Getting even one other person organised to go on holiday with is difficult enough, let alone a whole group. Cut the hassle and just go on your own.

4. There’s no drama when you travel alone

This speaks for yourself really. There’s no one else there to disagree with or bicker with. You don’t have to deal with anyone else’s issues. You can truly relax.

5. You can meet new people… or just cats

There’s more opportunity to meet other people when you’re travelling alone, if that’s what you want to do. Or you can just sit on your own and talk to the local cats. That’s ok too.

6. You’ll have more time to reflect on a solo holiday

A few days away in a foreign place gives you the time and space to really think about life. To nurture yourself. To disconnect. To get away from everything and write down those lingering thoughts & figure out what you want. You can find the time to really appreciate yourself & your feelings.

7. You won’t care what people think

Everyone’s a stranger, so it doesn’t matter if they see you without make up or wearing a questionable (but seriously comfy) outfit. It’s highly unlikely you’ll ever see them again!

8. You’ll feel brave and empowered by travelling alone

Completing a challenge you once thought you could never do makes you feel amazing. Knowing that you can go somewhere on your own and survive is so exciting. You’ll be planning your next lonesome trip sooner than you realise..

So what do you think? Will you be booking a holiday on your own anytime soon?