As a young child, my parents made it a point to give me as much travel experience as possible. Going to Disney World was an annual event since I could walk on my own. There's no other feeling than being in a plane and being one with clouds. At night, looking out the little window feels as if you are so close to the stars, you can feel their warmth. When I was 17, I flew all by myself for the very first time to Texas to visit family. Ever since then, I have been hooked on traveling, and want to encourage as many people to do the same. Although flying with a companion is fun, flying alone presents you an opportunity to learn so much more about yourself. Here are the reasons why:
1. Flying alone gives you an increased sense of independence and confidence.
The very first time I flew alone, my mom dropped me off at the airport. When we hugged, she started crying. She felt as if her baby finally “flew the coop” (pun intended). For me, it felt like the first time in my life I was truly doing something for myself. I was taking a vacation to see my family, and it was something I could do all alone, without the supervision of my parents. Walking around the airport was a little scary, but I genuinely felt free to whatever I pleased.
2. You have to figure out how to navigate around an airport, as well as trying to find your terminal (It’s a lot harder than you think).
Some airports are smaller, which are definitely easier to navigate. The signs tell you where to go, and that's exactly where you end up. On the other hand, an airport like Charlotte, North Carolina or Atlanta, GA, are some of the largest airports in the country, and can be quite complicated. I had a layover in Atlanta one trip, and in order to get to my next plane, I had to take a train to the next terminal. The man who sat next to me on the plane was kind enough to escort me to the train and my terminal, to make sure I didn’t get lost. If it weren’t for him, I don't think I would have made it. Nonetheless, it was quite the adventure running through the airport like “that person.” Navigating an airport is definitely a life skill you never knew you needed.
3. It’s only you and your thoughts.
This one is a little scary. Some people don’t like to be alone, others need someone to talk to all the time. But when you're at the airport alone, you truly are alone. Of course with today’s technology and free wifi everywhere, you can still communicate with your loved ones, but it is definitely a different feeling. During this time, I read a book (which is very rare), and have the Me time that is well deserved. If you happen to be at a large airport, there are mini spas where you can get a mani and pedi. They may be a bit more expensive than normal, but it is definitely a plus to letting go and having a relaxing time before you get on your flight.
4. You can take the best nap of your life.
There is no better place to nap than an airplane. Seriously. Somehow your body wakes up exactly when you land, and you feel totally refreshed.
5. Your definition of babies might change.
Ugh, babies. You love them, and you hate them. If you’re lucky, you’ll be sitting next to a baby who is sound asleep, or in my experiences, next to a baby who wants to play peek-a-boo with you and hold your hands while you make faces (which makes my heart so warm). If you’re even luckier, you'll be right next to the screeching child who won't shut up. Or, even better, the kid behind you who constantly kicks your seat. In most cases, you have your mom to turn around and set the parents straight. Now that you’re alone, you have to do the dreaded deed all by yourself.
6. You could meet amazing people from all over the world, some of whom you really connect with.
Countless times I have had conversations with people who have the most interesting stories. I met a businessman who traveled too much to see his family. I met a young rapper who was on his way to Houston for a show. One time, I ran into the entire Arizona State Men’s Hockey team. My favorite flight was when I sat next to two brothers, who could barely speak English. Despite the language barrier, they offered me gum and chocolate, which in their culture was common courtesy. Although we couldn’t speak, we could share our snacks and smiles.
Some of the best memories I’ll ever have is from roaming around an airport, or being on a plane next to a cute old person wanting to share their life with me. I am thankful I have had the means to travel as much as I do. The most common misconception is that flying is expensive. After a while, you become a guru at buying tickets and can fly roundtrip for $30 or $60 like I have in the past. Having a little get away is definitely affordable even for the most broke college student (like myself), and is 100% the experience of a lifetime.
