Have you ever been told you can’t do something because of the color of your skin? Well, I have and one of those horrible things was about traveling solo. As a black woman or woman of color, I love to travel solo. There’s just something about planning my trip and going alone that just empowers me. Plus, it is my personal middle finger to all who told me that I couldn’t do it. 

But I have to admit, it’s scary and something very new for me. But this is a new age and we can do anything we set our mind to. 

So, let’s set our minds on stepping out of our comfort zone. You will be pleasantly surprised by how much you will love it.

First thing first: 

I know that as black women we are very communal. We love being in our community and having our girlfriends around us. At least I do. 

I once read an article that raved about how amazing friendship is among black women. And I have to admit the article is so right. That is why I want to make sure you understand that traveling solo will not take away from that. 

That fear you feel is just a condition of the society we live in. We must overcome it.  Traveling solo doesn’t take you away from your community. It strengthens you so that you and help you appreciate your community more.

With that being said here are the three reasons why you need to travel solo as a black woman. 

1.    It’s empowering 

The first time I got on a plane alone without my friends or family was scary. I was so alert to make sure that I was doing everything right.  I checked in with everyone, so they know that I was still alive. 

And I was only going from Florida to New York.  But when I landed in New York I was so empowered. I felt like I could rule the world. No one could tell me I wasn’t the bomb. (Lol who still say that). 

2.    You get to discover yourself 

As I travel around time square and stroll through Central Park. I felt like I could conquer the world. Because I did it by myself.  I didn’t rely on anyone it was just me doing it for myself and by myself. 

And that’s the feeling you will get when you travel solo. That empowering accomplishment that will motivate you to do more and be more. It takes you away from relying on others to make decisions and plan things for you. It gives you the control you often wish you had. And girl,  that is an addictive feeling. 

If you ever felt like you need to discover who you are then solo travel is your therapy. It allows you to spend the time with yourself that you actually need for self-discovery.

Most of us don’t really get an opportunity to spend time alone. With our thoughts and our emotions. And if you are looking for a way to actually hear what you’re thinking. Try planning a small trip alone and do the activities alone. 

And the only company you will have is your thoughts. Your emotions and the clarity you have been longing for. 

3.    It’s all you boo

I guarantee that this will be your favorite part of being a solo traveler. Because well it’s mine. 

When you travel solo you get to do it all for you. That means it’s YOUR itinerary, you wake up when you want, go where you want, and do what you want. 

Yes, I know it sounds awesome. You don’t have to ask anybody what they want to do. If you want to lay up in your hotel room all day then that’s all you boo. 

It’s your trip you’re in control of it. And you can do whatever your heart desires. As a person who is always taking care of others doing things for me is something I look forward to. And when you are on a solo trip you are forced to do you. AND trust me you will love it. 

Last thoughts

Traveling solo is all about empowering you. Giving you the chance to discover yourself. While giving you the opportunity to take control. But like everything in life don’t forget to stay safe and be responsible. 

While traveling alone your safety should be your number one priority. Don’t forget to put in to practice proper Uber and Lyft taking techniques. And other safety procedures. 

Keep up with Mernelle on her blog here, and more travel posts, here.