3 Tips Every Millennial Needs for an Unforgettable Solo Trip
When I turned 30, I told myself I would stop talking myself out of living life to the fullest. As a millennial, I often get so wrapped up in feeling like I’m not doing enough, struggling with the growing pains of adulthood and building my career. Well quite frankly, I’m fed up with overthinking. I finally did something I wanted to do for such a long time, and now I’m sharing what I learned with you. Here are 3 tips every millennial needs for an unforgettable solo trip!
I’ve always wanted to go to Arizona, and since I was already going to Vegas to see Usher during his residency (an AMAZING show, by the way) it was the perfect moment to plan my first solo trip. I booked three nights at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, and created my itinerary. Here’s the first thing I’d suggest:
1. Don’t overthink – nobody cares
I know, I know. it sounds harsh but it’s so true!! People on vacation are often there for the same reason you are. They’re trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and are often accompanied by friends or family. Even other fellow solo trip folks are often in their own little world. Nobody cares if you’re sitting alone at the bar or restaurant at the resort. Nobody cares if you’re sunbathing alone by the pool. Nobody cares if you’re the only one on the downtown mural tour who didn’t come with anyone (yes, that happened to me). Just enjoy yourself, because nobody cares!
2. Don’t take the silence for granted
One obvious thing I didn’t think about ahead of my solo trip was how silent it would be. I learned that being alone with your thoughts while you’re experiencing new places, cultures, and food is a beautiful, peaceful experience. If anything, it made me appreciate everything more and created a sense of mindfulness that I desperately needed. I’m social by nature, so I definitely made a couple of friends on accident along the way. But for the most, it was just me and me- and I loved every second.
3. Don’t over plan for your trip
Have you ever been on a trip you didn’t plan and the itinerary wasn’t giving what it was supposed to give? But hey, it’s not YOUR trip so you don’t have the autonomy to make the decisions or suggest activities that the host didn’t include. On a solo trip, you don’t have to worry about that, at all. From start to finish, you have the power to control your day-to-day. We millennials are often in a constant state of planning. My suggestion for this trip is to avoid planning out every inch of your day and to leave room for spontaneity. If you want to go on a food and art tour, you can. Want to take a nap? Why not?! You can make choices that directly align with your interests, values, and desires. How powerful is that?
Bonus tip: Just do the thing. This year, don’t let anyone or anything keep you from living your life to the fullest. Life is way too short for regrets.