Dr. Tiffany Ofili Porter

Last week, I traveled Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games to support my sister Cindy as she competed in the 100-meter hurdles.

Being that I’m a retired professional athlete who spent her 20s basically living on a plane, I’m no stranger to travel, and I’m certainly not scared to travel alone.

Once I got over the unreasonable mom guilt that tried its hardest to prevent me from going to The Games, I got excited for the trip, what it represented, and for the opportunity to be there for my sister.

And I’m so happy that I did.

Even if the results weren’t what we were hoping for. (For those who don’t already know, my sister hit a hurdle and fell in the semi-finals. Huge disappointment, but the grace and poise she exhibited in the midst of tragedy spoke to her character).

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A post shared by Cindy Sember (@cindyofili)

BUT, in addition to me feeling grateful to be there for my sister throughout the whole Olympic experience, I also had time to reflect on the benefits of solo travel and how it’s impacted my life.

Solo travel is more than just an adventure; it’s a journey that can lead to profound personal growth and self-discovery. While traveling with friends or family has its charm, exploring the world alone offers unique benefits that are often overlooked.

Here are 6 reasons why solo travel should be on everyone’s bucket list:

1. It Provides Freedom and Independence

One of the most liberating aspects of solo travel is the absolute freedom it offers. You have complete control over your itinerary—no need to compromise on destinations, activities, or schedules. Want to spend an entire day at a museum or spontaneously change your plans to explore a hidden gem? With solo travel, the choice is entirely yours.

Now, I did meet up with a friend while in Paris (shout out to EvaMarie), and she provided me with a welcome companionship that elevated my travels, but the benefit of solo travel still remains.

The independence that solo travel provides fosters self-reliance. Navigating new places on your own, handling unexpected situations, and making decisions without external input builds confidence and a sense of autonomy that can extend far beyond the trip itself.

2. It Provides Personal Growth and Self-Discovery

Traveling alone provides ample time for introspection. Without the distraction of companions, you can connect more deeply with your surroundings and with yourself. Whether it’s hiking through a secluded mountain trail or sipping coffee at a quiet café, these moments of solitude allow you to reflect on your life, values, and goals.

The alone time, which is nearly impossible to achieve once you have kids, teaches you to embrace your own company, confront your fears, and overcome challenges independently. This self-discovery often leads to personal growth. The skills and resilience you develop while traveling solo can empower you in all areas of life.

3. It Encourages Meeting New People

Ironically, solo travel can lead to richer social experiences than traveling with others. When you’re alone, you’re more likely to engage with locals and fellow travelers. Without the comfort zone of a companion, you become more approachable and open to new friendships.

These encounters often lead to meaningful connections, offering insights into different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. Whether it’s sharing a meal with a local family or joining a group of travelers on an impromptu adventure, these experiences can leave lasting impressions.

4. It Enhances Cultural Immersion

Traveling alone allows for deeper cultural immersion. Without the buffer of a travel partner, you’re more likely to dive into the local culture—trying new foods, learning the language, and engaging in customs.

You have the time and space to truly absorb the essence of a place, understanding it on a more intimate level.

This immersion can lead to a more authentic travel experience, as you’re not just observing from the outside but participating in the culture.

5. It Encourages Flexibility and Spontaneity

Solo travel is the epitome of spontaneity. You can change plans at the drop of a hat—extend your stay in a city you love or take a detour to an unplanned destination. This flexibility means you can follow your instincts and pursue what excites you in the moment.

This spontaneity can lead to some of the most memorable travel experiences. Whether it’s discovering a hidden beach, stumbling upon a local festival, or finding a perfect spot for sunset, these unplanned moments often become the highlights of your journey.

6. It’s Empowering and Gives Confidence

Successfully navigating solo travel can be a major confidence booster. From managing your finances to dealing with language barriers and unfamiliar environments, every challenge you overcome reinforces your capabilities.

This sense of accomplishment is empowering and can translate into greater confidence in your daily life. You’ll return from your travels with not only memories but also a stronger belief in your ability to tackle whatever comes your way.

In addition to the incredible opportunity to visit Paris, the 2024 Olympic Games travel also reminded me that solo travel is a powerful way to step out of your comfort zone, explore the world on your terms, and grow as an individual. It offers unparalleled freedom, fosters self-discovery, and allows for deeper cultural immersion. While the idea of traveling alone may seem daunting at first, the rewards are immeasurable. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and embark on a journey that could change your life.

You’ll be happy that you did!

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