Voyage Of Self-Discovery: Travelling Solo

I have traveled many times on my own but usually on an organized tour or to visit friends and family. This time I went completely alone; no friends, no family, no tour, no all-inclusive package and it was probably the best vacation I’ve ever had.

Traveling alone had its drawbacks: higher rates for single supplements, no one to share the events of your day with, often having meals alone and having to do everything yourself. But the advantages outweigh the drawbacks. Going solo, you don’t have to worry about anyone else but yourself, you can do what you want when you want, you have complete freedom to be yourself and don’t have to carry your home life with you, you don’t have to please anyone else, and you meet so many more people. More than anything, it forces you to step out of your comfort zone and try things you never would have at home. Isn’t that what going on vacation is really about?

This was not a cheap trip. My plan was to pamper myself and that’s exactly what I did. I opted out of an all-inclusive package, which I'd recommend if you want to explore and meet people. I spent a little more on a better hotel to ensure my safety, but hotels in Cancun are very similar so you don't have to spend the extra money.

Excursions are typically a great way to meet people, but in Mexico most people you’ll meet are honeymooners, couples and families. Know what you want to do before you go because it can take a day out of your holiday to figure out your options and there are hundreds of places to book these excursions, all of which charge a different price.