How Traveling Solo Later in Life Changed Not Just My Perspective but My Self-Worth

 

All stories have a beginning.

This one is a new volume in my life story.

As we get older, one of the gifts we receive is self-reflection. I look back and think of all the things I would have done differently, and yes, I have a ton of regrets. But the hardships also shaped who I am now. It sounds cliché, right? Yet it’s absolutely true.

Not long ago, an ex-partner messaged me to apologize for how our relationship ended and what he had put me through. I appreciated the message and acknowledged that, while those times were incredibly difficult, I wouldn’t be on this path now without those traumas.

Sometimes the paths we take are not always the easiest ones, but they can still lead to amazing destinations.

For me, those paths led to packing up just before my 40th birthday, booking a one-way ticket to Europe, throwing on a backpack, and heading into the unknown.

What started as a solo journey to explore different countries became so much more. It was a journey of self-discovery, one that changed how I saw myself and how I valued my own worth.

To condense the next 8 months;

I celebrated my 40th birthday in France with new friends I met in a backpackers’ hostel. Age didn’t matter, even though they were much younger. We explored Paris together, and it opened my eyes to how this adventure was going to unfold.

From there, I headed to Wales, where I WOOFed on a beautiful estate garden. That experience was the start of so many new skills I would learn during my travels. It was magical and full of meaningful connections.

Next, I went to the UK for a job as a live-in carer, something I had never done before. I’ll be honest, I was completely out of my comfort zone. But I met incredible people, learned a lot during training (In which I stayed in a student flat, another experience), and discovered just how capable I was.

After three months of work, I left the job and traveled to Scotland to trace family roots. From there, I wandered through Italy, Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Morocco, and back to Wales before ending my adventure in Turkey, where I met one of my best travel buddies.

There are far too many stories to share from those 8 months, but let’s just say this: that trip was life-changing.

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, life isn’t a fairy tale.

I returned to New Zealand for my siblings’ weddings, slipping back into “normal life.” It wasn’t easy. Finding work again, settling back into a quiet town, and realizing that some of the struggles and the same shit that I had originally tried to escape and leave behind were still there. Some things just don’t change, but you do.

And one thing I knew for sure? It wasn’t the end of my travels.

Travel had become an essential part of my well-being. Even with very little money, I made a commitment to myself to travel solo each year. My style was slow travel, weeks at a time, where I could volunteer, WOOF, or join Workaway. Not only did this stretch my budget, it gave me unforgettable memories, friendships, and a deep sense of connection.

Through these experiences, I gained something I’d been missing: self-confidence. I realized I could do hard things, adapt, and thrive.

I opened myself to different cultures, new ways of life, and people I would never have crossed paths with otherwise. It created patience, empathy, curiosity, and a desire to keep learning.

At 54, I’m still learning. I don’t have life neatly figured out. I still battle self-doubt and frustration (bloody hell, menopause doesn’t help!). But when I look back at my solo adventures, I don’t feel any regret. I feel gratitude.

Travel even brought me love; I met my current partner while traveling. You never know what doors it may open for you when you say yes to solo travel.

You just need to be open to step through those doors!

 

 

 

 

Solo travel remains a big part of my life. And now, I feel blessed to share it with other women who are ready to take that step for themselves. Whether you’re a woman over 50, an empty-nester, newly single, or simply craving something more, solo travel can help you rediscover yourself in ways you never expected.

As I prepare for my next adventure in Vietnam, I am excited for the ups and downs of travel, connections, challenges, and joy ahead. It’s another chance to refill my cup.

Make sure you take time to refill yours, too.

 

 

 

Want to join us on a adventure OR build your own adventure?

At Wanderlust Solo Women Tours & Wanderlust Travel Coaching I celebrate the spirit of exploration and support among women travelers.

Whether you’re seeking a room-sharing adventure or a solo escape, my tours and retreats are designed to cater to the diverse needs of all women. Or maybe you just need help in guiding you to plan your next journey? Let’s map-out an exciting, purposeful adventure for you!

Join us in discovering the world, one amazing destination at a time.