Existential Question: Are You Truly Travelling Alone if You Keep Making Friends?
Solo traveling while studying abroad in Europe is one of the most liberating and rewarding experiences you can have. With its compact geography, excellent transportation, and vibrant culture, Europe is the perfect destination to explore on your own. Traveling solo allows you to embrace independence, connect with new people, and learn more about yourself in the process.
Finding the Right Hostel
Hostels are the ideal accommodation choice for solo travelers—they’re affordable, social, and often centrally located. However, not all hostels are the same, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your travel goals. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, opt for a party hostel where events like pub crawls and karaoke nights make it easy to meet new people. If that’s not your vibe, there are plenty of hostels that are great for travelers who prefer a quieter setting. Apps like Hostelworld allow you to filter by hostel type, read reviews, and use the group chat feature to connect with fellow travelers before you even arrive. For more information on hostels, feel free to read my post “Ian’s Ultimate European Hostel Guide.”
Meeting Others While Traveling Solo
One of the best parts of solo travel is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Use Hostelworld’s group chat feature to find fellow travelers who might want to explore the city or grab a meal together. Many hostels also host group activities, like walking tours, which are great for breaking the ice. While it might seem daunting at first, putting yourself out there often leads to friendships that make your journey even more memorable.
The Freedom of Traveling Alone
Solo travel offers a level of freedom that’s hard to achieve when managing a group. You can create an itinerary entirely based on your own interests, whether that’s spending hours wandering through art and history museums or hopping from café to café (or bar to bar). There’s no need to compromise or worry about coordinating plans with others. If you decide to change your plans on a whim, you can do so guilt-free. This flexibility often leads to unexpected adventures and finding hidden gems.
Embracing New Experiences
Solo travel is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone. Try local dishes you’ve never heard of, participate in cultural exchanges, and visit destinations that aren’t on the typical tourist radar. While it’s natural to feel nervous at first, remember that traveling solo is about growth and exploration. By branching out and trying new things, you’ll not only gain a richer travel experience but also build confidence in your ability to navigate unfamiliar situations.
Solo traveling while studying abroad is an incredible way to learn about the world and yourself. Whether you’re making new friends at a hostel or enjoying a quiet moment in a city square (and accidentally crashing a wedding party, whoops!), every experience adds to your personal journey. Don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith, trust your instincts, and enjoy the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms.
