Gorgeous view from my hostel in Mũi Né. Hostels are great places to meet people, and each one is unique in its own way.There is no question that solo traveling is a difficult journey that can be lonely at times, but it also offers invaluable lessons in self-reliance, discovery, and adaptability. From meeting strangers from all corners of the world to exploring unfamiliar streets filled with culture, solo traveling enriches both the mind and the spirit on a whole other level.
When I decided to solo travel in Vietnam, I was questioned about my decision to do so. However, as it turns out, Vietnam caters to all types of travelers and is the perfect destination for solo travelers. With safe cities, welcoming locals, rich history, delicious food, and efficient transportation, anyone can navigate Vietnam on their own! After experiencing solo traveling in Vietnam for myself, here are three things I learned:
1. You’ll never be lonely because you’ll constantly be meeting people
Solo traveling isn’t as lonely as it seems because you’re never truly alone when you’re traveling in Vietnam. It’s always easy to find fellow travelers in Vietnam because they’re everywhere—from bustling city markets to quiet, hidden cafes—and oftentimes, they are just as eager to encounter other foreigners. The locals are also extremely friendly and always willing to practice their English. Even on solo treks through the most uncertain of places, it is possible to create unforeseen connections. For me personally, hostels are the perfect environment for meeting new people to help combat feeling lonely. They provide a unique opportunity to foster great connections with people of similar interests.
2. You’ll appreciate the smaller details more
I noticed that when I traveled solo compared to with a group, I had a more profound appreciation for the small details around me, such as the random facts my tour guide would share with me or the little signs I read in museums. Solo traveling forces you to spend a lot of time with yourself and allows you to explore the world without worrying about the opinions of the group. Although traveling with a group has its perks, I think that I definitely get more out of an experience when I witness it on my own.
3. The best travel advice you’ll receive is from other travelers
A huge passion of mine is traveling, and I am always looking out for my next destination. But it can be hard when there are thousands of books and websites telling you where the best places are. Through my solo travels, I found that the best advice actually comes from other travelers. While on tours or at hostels, I gained valuable insight into where to travel next thanks to travelers I met along the way. It seems crazy to plan a trip off of word of mouth, but it’s the best way to do it if you’re looking for an authentic experience!
Solo traveling is a unique experience. It’s not for everyone, but if I could say one thing, it would be just to try it. You never know—you may actually love it and come back wanting more!
Isabelle DeMeo, University of Kansas, is interning abroad in Vietnam with TEAN.
