We smiled at each other as we admired the Reclining Buddha.
A magnificent sight – and a busy one too! Groups of tourists bustled up and down the attraction, strolled around the temple grounds, and snapped pictures wherever they could.
I noticed a group of girls struggling to take a photo and offered to help.
“Would you like me to take that for you?”“Yes please! Thank you so much,” they smiled – a young group of American women, probably in their early twenties.
I took a few shots, changing the angles of course, and passed the phone back.
“Oh my gosh, I love it!” the leader exclaimed. Then she asked thoughtfully, “Would you like me to take one of you?”
“Yes please! I’m here alone… it’s hard to get pictures along the way. I appreciate it.”
Their mouths dropped almost in unison. A chorus of shocked responses followed:
“Oh my God!”
“You’re here alone??”
“Wow, you’re so brave!”
“That’s badass!”
I laughed and posed for my picture. I thanked the girls and was ready to walk off, but I sensed our time together wasn’t quite over yet. I stepped aside as more tourists arrived for their photos, and the girls hurled questions at me about solo travel, intrigued by my adventure. I answered their questions as best I could.
It turned out they were a group from Michigan, travelling together after meeting at university. Their faces lit up with excitement, framed by blonde and auburn strands, wide smiles and comfy clothes. They were impressed that I’d taken my first solo trip at 18; I was impressed they’d pulled off a large group trip at such a young age. It was a sweet exchange before I wished them well and set off.
“Be safe!” they called, as we headed in different directions.
Cue The Chaos.
Just moments later, while exploring another part of the temple grounds, my graceful day took a turn. Wandering around, mesmerised by the architecture, I suddenly felt a pop on my foot – and my sandal nearly flew off.
“Crap!” I thought, realising it had broken.
I packed lots of older items for this trip, planning to travel light and buy new things along the way over my five-and-a-half weeks. Well… these sandals were clearly too old and ready for retirement.
Trying to style it out, I pushed the strap back in – no luck. If I’d been with friends, this would’ve just been a funny moment. But when you’re alone, your problem-solving skills need to be on point.
I shuffled to the side, chuckled quietly and kissed my teeth. Then improvised. I removed the hairband from my ponytail and slipped it over my foot and sandal to keep it in place.
Now what?
I looked for the nearest exit. I’d planned to walk back to the hotel—yeah, not happening. I made it outside and checked how much cash I had… not enough for a solo ride, considering how far away I was. Sigh. No nearby ATMs either (I’d checked that before leaving), and I knew I’d made a rookie error not bringing enough money.
Trying not to panic, I thought through my options.
I tried haggling with taxi drivers – no luck, the price was extortionate (which is why I walked in the first place). I tried walking again – comical. Then I checked the Bolt app one last time and saw motorbike taxis as an option. The only issue? I didn’t want to get on one!
Growing up, I’d always been cautious about whose motorbike I got on. And now I had to trust a stranger?! Ugh. But I had no choice. I pulled on my big girl pants and booked it.
He arrived and I climbed on. Boy, did I hold on tight. No helmet, just prayer.
As we pulled off – my heart in my mouth and brain on overdrive – I saw the American girls walking out of the temple.
“Oh my God! It’s Danielle on the bike!”
Bless them. They looked excited, tapping each other and pointing. It was hilarious – I was terrified. They shouted and waved at me,
“You’re so cool!”
Somehow, pride gave me the strength to release one hand for a quick wave and smile.
“Bye girls!!” I shouted as we headed for the junction. One arm gripped the driver’s waist, my thighs probably cutting off his circulation, and my toes squeezed the broken sandal for dear life to stop it flying off.
Hilarious.
Reflections
I have documented so many stories over the years. This one came from my time in Southeast Asia, where I started in Thailand before heading on to Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines. Armed with my laptop and balancing work along the way, it turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done.
A friend once shared this quote with me: “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta
And I couldn’t agree more. Travel opens your eyes to beauty, teaches global understanding and fills you with inspiration along the way.
Solo travel can be amazing – but it’s not for everyone, and that’s completely okay. Being able to enjoy solo travel can depend on how well you’re organised and even your personality type! Some people love winging it and riding the highs and lows. Others (like me!) prefer to plan ahead, then relax during the journey. And some people may not enjoy solo travel at all – and that’s okay. I often say life is tailor made – one size does not fit all.
So before diving into the practical tips, I think it’s important to be realistic. If any of the following feels true for you, you might want to start small, or explore other ways of travelling that suit your style better.
Who I don’t recommend solo travel for:
– If you struggle to say no or lack assertiveness, often ending up in uncomfortable situations.
– If you wouldn’t describe yourself as particularly “street smart,” and you tend to assume the best in others, even at your own expense.
– If you deeply value sharing experiences with someone, and travel doesn’t feel the same alone.
– If spending time alone makes you anxious – e.g., sitting solo at a restaurant, or joining a tour as the only individual.
If this sounds like you but you’re still curious, try starting with a local trip or staycation – no need to jump into the deep end.
Who I do recommend solo travel for:
On the flip side, there are certain traits and situations that make solo travel especially fulfilling. You don’t have to be super adventurous or outgoing – but if you relate to any of the below, solo travel might just be your thing:
– You’re naturally curious and enjoy exploring at your own pace.
– You’re craving alone time or a change in perspective.
– You’re comfortable making decisions on your own (or want to get better at it).
– You enjoy personal growth and reflection through new experiences.
– You’re in a transition season – post-studies, post-breakup, new job, etc – and looking to reconnect with yourself.
– You want the freedom to build your own itinerary without compromise.
Even if you’re a little nervous (that’s normal!), these traits can help you thrive during solo trips. Start small if needed – but trust that confidence grows with every step.
In closing
So, what does it actually take to plan and enjoy a trip on your own? From budgeting and safety to booking tips and must-pack items, I’ve pulled together everything I’ve learned into a practical guide to help you feel confident on your own journey.
👉 Read Part 2 here: “Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Adventurers”
