I have always valued time alone. It is something that I picked up on college when I lived alone in my final year at the university. There is a lot to be said about being by yourself. I used to be fidgety about being on my own but once I got the hang of it, it actually is kinda fun.

My friends used to frown on my personal tales of doing stuff alone. It seems that not everyone feels comfortable doing groceries or malling alone; certainly not in the early ‘90s when I started doing so! Some of them would amusingly laugh upon hearing that I like watching movies alone and eating alone in restaurants never bothered me at all.

About three years ago, I decided to travel alone too. On my birthday. I have to admit that I was apprehensive about it but it was on my bucket list and I needed to tick it off while I still could! No regrets!

With heart beating in my chest, I went off to Boracay and spent four days just winging it in that beautiful island. I was continuously amazed how people seem surprised that I was on my own!

At the airport, we had spent an extra 30 minutes waiting for my (invisible) companion! Hahaha.

Unknowingly to my hotel, they had booked two transfers assuming that I would be coming with someone!

I can still vividly remember the surprised look on their faces when I said that I had come alone. Hehehe.

Traveling alone has its upside, you know. You control your time and itinerary. You don’t have to seek approval from anyone about any detail concerning your trip.

The better thing about it too is that you are always free to change your mind about it. Woke up and realized you needed an extra two hours in bed? No problem! The beach (or parasailing) can wait! Decide you needed an extra day? Go ahead!

I love that about travelling alone!! You can tweak your daily activities as much as you can without fear of pissing anybody off!

I can make my itinerary as I please! Of course there downsides but you can’t always have everything!

I have to say that I have gotten good at taking selfies because I have no one to take pictures of me! I have this inherent fear of asking a stranger to take my picture for fear that they would run away with my mobile phone!

I would always get sunburnt on my hard to reach spots because I don’t have anyone to ask to apply sunblock for me!

And there’s always leftover food when I eat because I don’t have anyone to share it with!

Traveling alone can be expensive but if you are wise enough, you can enjoy it with a shoestring budget!

I am very particular about my budget and how I can maximize the experience while getting a good bang for every buck!

So don’t be afraid to do stuff for yourself. It is good for your soul. You develop self-trust and confidence. You find joy in being alone and learn a lot about yourself, other places and other cultures too! :)