I have a simple message. Travel alone. I know it sounds scary but as I take in the beauty of Latin America, I have never felt more connected to nature, society and myself. Where to start? That’s up to you. For me, Belize was a turning point in my journey of self reflection and exploration. With a population of over 300,000 Belize inhibits the happiest crowd of people on Earth. Beautiful beaches, luscious flora and fauna, and of course The Mayan Ruins. Caribbean music is always playing, and almost everyone walks bare feet. The official language is English, though Spanish and Creole are also commonly spoken.
Xunantunich – Mayan Ruins
After arriving to Belize City, I take the Water Taxi, and head towards Caye Caulker, a beautiful island about 50 min from Belize City, heading northeast.
A year of planning, and saving up came down to this moment. On a hot sunny day a new chapter had begun… What an excellent start.
After leaving my job in Calgary, I was blessed with a sense of release and happiness. Though, diving into the unknown, uncertainty, and starting a-new can be at times overwhelming. I had never bag-packed nor traveled alone before. But my sense of adventure was speaking louder than ever, and I had to listen.
But wouldn’t you get lonely?!
This is a common question I have been asked many times. The same question I asked myself before travelling. I’m not much of an extrovert; I have always been part of a small group of friends. I prefer an intimate environment where I feel safe. Conversing with random strangers has never been my strongest forte.
I arrive to my hostel, drop my bags, and being tired from the travels, I grab my book, and find a hammock. Afterward I go for a walk for couple of hours, then head back to the hostel and think to myself: Ok so now what do I do?!
I was bored, and I started to doubt if I could do this alone. Feeling awkward, and out of place I decided to check out the common area. Within minutes I started to meet travellers from all around the word – US, Germany, New Zealand, Panama. All the self-doubt, and nervousness had disappeared. I realized that I wasn’t alone, and there are so many other solo travellers and they are all awesome. Everyone has a unique background, and has a great story to share.
Travelling brings people together.
Diversity, culture, language, adventures, and humor are all part of the same package. It has been almost three months, and I have not once felt lonely. I have met more people during my travels than I did in my 2.5 years of living in Calgary.
Now I don’t think twice before sparking a conversation with a random stranger, many of which have become my travel buddies. We all have at least one thing in common; Travelling. This is a HUGE topic, and the conversation can go on for hours. There is a lot to learn, and the best part is that based on other travelers experience and feedback you can plan your next adventure or change up your itinerary.
I have learnt that travelling allows you to release and let go of what holds you back. At times it puts you outside of your comfort zone, this is a place where great lessons can be learnt. And once you tap into that uncomfortable place, finding contentment is guaranteed.
There are endless adventures waiting for you, and if you have the travel bug and want to go solo, I say go for it.
You won’t regret it, I promise.
Don’t forget to keep following me as I continue to discover Latin America! Next stop is…uuh…don’t know! but we will both find out soon enough 🙂
If you liked this article take a look at my practical advice on how to travel on the cheap!