Two summers ago, I had the amazing opportunity to travel alone to Costa Rica. Through this journey I was able to experience what it is like to travel alone. During the weeks I spent there, I gained many experiences and discovered so much about myself in the process. I believe that everyone should travel alone at least once in their lifetime. Even though it may be uncomfortable and unfamiliar at times, that’s just the beauty of it. So here are 5 reasons why I think traveling is not only life changing but one of the most enjoyable experiences you will have:

1. Everything is up to you, so you can make all the decisions.

Although it can be frightening at first if you tend to depend on others often, but you will ultimately hold all the power in everything you desire to find and do on your trip.

2. You will learn so much about yourself like never before.

When you spend that much time with yourself, you are bound to discover new and unique qualities about yourself.

3. When you travel to a place that intrigues you, you will also discover people who have similar interests as you and it will be much easier to connect with them.

When you are traveling with others, it is easy to stay within that group that you are comfortable with and not branch off. Traveling alone compels you to put in effort and form a bond with those around you.

4) It is inevitable that things will not always go as planned when you travel.

When you’re solo, it’s entirely up to you how you react to these difficulties. On my trip to Korea, I was fortunate enough to form deep friendships with a group of young adults I met during an 3 hour flight delay.

5. And finally, when you travel alone, there is absolutely no one and nothing holding you back.

You are alone in an unfamiliar place, so the possibilities are endless.