Exploring a new country can be scary, especially when you don’t know the area or language. Having a group or travel partner can sometimes lighten the stress, but what do you do if you want to go on a trip when your schedule doesn't align with anyone else?

Everyone has obligations and busy work and family lives. Work, kids, dogs, cats, hamsters, you get the idea. But don’t let life tell you you're too busy for an adventure!

Solo travel is becoming more and more popular, and there are real advantages too. Next time you have a hankering for something different, think about travelling on your own. You'd be surprised at where your plans could take you!

Not only can travelling alone expand your friendships and help you grow culturally, but it can also turn you into a real seasoned traveler with loads more self-assurance.

Take a look at the top reasons why we think you should try traveling solo!

  • Philipp Guelland, Getty Images
    Philipp Guelland, Getty Images
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    1

    Confidence

    I feel uncomfortable eating alone at a restaurant let alone traveling to a far away land by myself. Imagine knowing you navigated yourself to famous landmarks in Europe or even just finding your gate at the airport with enough time to spare. That sounds like an accomplishment to me!

  • Joerg Koch, Getty Images
    Joerg Koch, Getty Images
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    2

    Mingling with the Locals

    Traveling solo can open new doors to friendships you never thought you’d make. Imagine making a friend in Paris, or Germany (and then imagine all the free pasties and beer). You can learn what the locals do for fun or what’s really worth seeing in the city, saving you time to move onto something you would have missed.

  • Sean Gallup, Getty Images
    Sean Gallup, Getty Images
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    3

    No Compromising

    As we all know experiences with other people usually have compromises attached. Get to do what you want, when you want, and not have to answer to anyone.

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