Alone But Connected: How Solo Travel Transforms Us
- Wendy Byard
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
We often think of solo travel as a journey into the unknown, new countries, new cities, new sights, sounds and food. But it's also about discovering a lot about ourselves. Travelling alone challenges us, reveals our capabilities, and teaches us about our joys and fears.
Each solo trip is a step further into discovering who we really are, and my recent adventures in Budapest were no exception. New experiences, like navigating the streets of cobbled streets of Budapest with a wheeled suitcase and trying the rather heavy and rich local cuisine, pushed me out of my comfort zone, but that's not a bad thing; it helped me grow.
The Power of Solitude
Moments of solitude by the Danube, watching life unfold as couples admired the twinkling lights of the Chain Bridge, not only made me appreciate my past but also highlighted how far I've come. These quiet moments were once something I'd feel with unease, but now I see them as an opportunity for growth and reflection.
In the past, I would never have gone out alone at night in a strange place. I would always have company and the security of another person, but if I had been on my own, I would have been scared of all kinds of 'unknowns'. But Budapest felt safe. I had no problem exploring the quiet streets.
I won't lie. One moment, onboard an evening river cruise, I realised I was alone. Alone and surrounded by people enjoying the evening, laughing and chatting about the beauty of the monuments lit up along the banks of the river. We may all know of a time when we wanted to share those moments with someone but were unable to do so, but that's ok. I know that now. The sights were none less beautiful, and maybe I noticed them all the more. Being alone around others is never going to disappear, we can only learn to notice it and look for positive ways to experience our situation.
Overcoming Challenges
A memorable part of my trip to Budapest involved navigating the city's transport solo. A first-time experience that taught me a lot about self-reliance and problem-solving. From successfully hailing an Uber using a smartphone app to mastering the metro system with just a tap of a credit card, these experiences not only made me more confident but also highlighted the importance of embracing new technologies and local customs for a smoother travel experience.
Have you ever used an Uber ? It's easy to assume that most people have; I wasn't one of them. It turns out I met others who hadn't used it either. At the end of my river cruise, I needed to get to my hotel in a different part of the city, so I decided to take an Uber. Rather than worry about the driver finding me by the docks along the Danube, I walked to the Marriott hotel; I knew I'd be safe there. On arrival I booked my ride, only to receive instruction on a map that I needed to walk for one minute to the pick up point. I had no idea where the map was telling me to go. Some younger women were standing outside the hotel, so I asked for help, but they had never used Uber either (lesson learned: never assume that just because someone's young, they've used all the tech out there). I knew I was safe, there was no need to worry...and then whilst I was taking a breath to get myself together....my ride turned up. I didn't have to walk at all.
Embracing new technologies turned my initial apprehensions into empowering victories. These tools not only simplified my journey but also reinforced my confidence in handling unexpected situations, proving that sometimes, the right technology is all it takes to turn a potential travel mishap into a smooth adventure
The Role of Community in Solo Travel
The community I found along the way in Budapest, from conversations with fellow river cruise guests to exchanges with local taxi drivers, added unexpected joy to my journey. These interactions, often sparked by a simple question or a shared smile, turned fleeting encounters into lasting memories, emphasising that even in solitude, we are part of a larger, interconnected world. I love learning about other people's lives, and these interactions not only provide safety and company but also enrich the travel experience with new perspectives.
When you travel solo, you'll often find someone to talk to; it's almost as if you give off a signal. Yes, you may meet people who 'aren't for you', but similarly, you will always meet people who are. Accents, clothing, and interesting situations all combine to make talking points. If it's something you've never done before, it might feel awkward to start with. Still, after a while, you will naturally gravitate towards others....if you choose to do so.
Practical Tips for Solo Travellers to Budapest.
To help you navigate your solo travels with confidence, here are some practical tips based on my experiences in Budapest:
Navigating the City: Use apps like Budapest Go for seamless public transport use.
Dining Alone: Visit restaurants early; dining before the peak hours can lead to a more relaxed experience and easier service.
Choosing Your Stay: Consider your preferences for nightlife and transport convenience when choosing between Buda and Pest. If you prefer a quieter location, choose Buda. Pest offers opportunities to walk along the river at night and has better public transport links. My top tip is to pick a hotel close to the metro line, and you won't go wrong. getting around by metro is quick and cheap.
Useful Links:
Budapest Go App - ticket purchase and validation at the same time
Uber and Bolt
Budapest Pay&GO
For information about how to get around and how to use public transport
Conclusion: Embracing Solo Travel
I realise that each solo trip I take is not just about the places I visit but the person I become.
Whether you choose solo travel or find yourself on such a path by circumstance, remember, within our Going Solo community, you are never truly alone. So, when you're ready to embark on your next adventure, do so with enthusiasm and the assurance that you are supported every step of the way.
