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In 2022, after 36 years of marriage and at 55 years of age, I filed for divorce.
Two months later, I was on my first solo trip to Switzerland.
Neither of those things, divorce or solo travel, was something that I would have ever thought I’d be doing. Yet here I am.
Funny how life is.
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Why I Decided to Solo Travel After Divorce
Many people assume that my decision to travel solo was driven by a need to escape my new reality or to find myself. After sharing my life with someone for over 35 years, this assumption is understandable.
While solo travel after a divorce does provide time and space to heal and rediscover oneself, those were not my reasons for embarking on that first solo trip.
Instead, it was the realization that the only significant change in my life was “his” absence. I could still pursue the future I had envisioned, but I would be doing it alone. That included traveling.
To be sure, the divorce wreaked havoc on my finances, but I found creative ways to manage my new budget. What I couldn’t accept was the idea of not traveling simply because I was by myself.
Of course, I could ask friends or family to travel with me. But I couldn’t rely on that. I had already postponed so much travel, waiting for my now ex-husband, who was a horribly stressed and anxious traveler.
No, if I wanted to travel, I needed to be able to travel solo. No friends, no family, no tour group. Just me.
So, I booked my flights and hotel and off I went…determined to prove to myself that the future is still mine, that I could support myself through life’s changes, and that I could continue thriving after my divorce
What is Solo Travel Like After Divorce?
Although I took this first solo trip to prove to myself that divorce wasn’t going to stop me from traveling, what I experienced was unexpectedly so much more.
The trip became a journey.
Each day unfolded like a new chapter in my life, filled with moments of joy, adventure, and self-discovery. Navigating unfamiliar cities, meeting new people, and embracing different cultures on my own provided a sense of liberation that I had never felt before.
This journey was a crucial part of my divorce recovery, helping me heal and build a life as an empowered, independent woman.
The solitude gave me space to reflect on my past, process my emotions, and heal in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I found strength in my ability to overcome challenges, from deciphering foreign languages to finding my way in bustling streets.
The freedom to follow my own whims—whether it was lingering at a café, hiking up a mountain trail, or simply wandering through a quaint village—was incredibly empowering.
I learned to cherish my own company and discovered interests and passions that had been long overshadowed. Despite occasional pangs of loneliness, these moments also brought opportunities for deeper introspection and growth.
This solo trip was not just about travel; it was about reclaiming my life, rediscovering who I am, and embracing a future full of possibilities. It taught me that I am capable, strong, and ready to build a life that is entirely my own.
9 Benefits of Solo Travel After Divorce
Traveling solo after divorce is a transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. By embracing independence, seeking new perspectives, and stepping outside your comfort zone, you can embark on a path towards a brighter future.
Here are nine benefits of solo travel after divorce that I have found through my travels.
1. Freedom and Independence
Total Control Over Your Itinerary: One of the most liberating aspects of solo travel is the freedom to create your own itinerary. You can decide where to go, what to see, and how long to stay without needing to consider anyone else’s preferences. Whether it’s exploring castle ruins, lounging on a beach, or wandering through bustling markets, the choice is entirely yours.
Spontaneity and Flexibility: You can be spontaneous with your plans. If you wake up one morning and decide to take a detour to a nearby town or stay an extra day at a place you love, you can do so without any hassle.
2. Self-Discovery
Introspection and Reflection: Solo travel provides ample time for introspection. As you navigate new environments, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to think about your life, your goals, and your future. This quiet time can lead to valuable insights and a deeper understanding of yourself.
Rediscovering Personal Interests: Engaging in activities you enjoy, whether it’s hiking, painting, or cooking, allows you to rediscover passions and interests that may have been sidelined during your marriage.
3. Healing and Closure
Gaining Perspective: Being in a new environment can help you gain perspective on your past relationship. The physical distance from familiar surroundings often makes it easier to process emotions and gain clarity.
Emotional Healing: The journey can be a form of therapy, offering a break from the emotional turmoil and routine of post-divorce life. The solitude and new experiences can contribute to emotional healing and a sense of closure.
4. Building Confidence
Self-Reliance: Successfully navigating a new place on your own can significantly boost your confidence. From figuring out public transport to finding your way in a new city, each small victory reinforces your ability to manage on your own.
Problem-Solving Skills: Overcoming challenges, whether it’s a language barrier or a missed flight, enhances your problem-solving skills and adaptability, further building your confidence.
5. Experiencing Joy and Adventure
Embracing New Experiences: Solo travel allows you to immerse yourself in new cultures, try new foods, and engage in activities you might not have considered before. This sense of adventure can be exhilarating and bring a renewed zest for life.
Creating New Memories: Traveling alone gives you the chance to create new, positive memories that are entirely your own, untainted by past associations.
6. Loneliness and Reflection
Dealing with Loneliness: There will be moments of loneliness, especially when you’re surrounded by couples and families. These moments can be challenging but also provide opportunities for deeper reflection and growth.
Staying Engaged: Planning activities, joining group tours, or taking classes can help mitigate feelings of loneliness. Keeping a journal or blog can also provide an outlet for your thoughts and experiences.
7. Forming New Connections
Meeting Fellow Travelers: Solo travel often makes you more approachable, leading to new friendships with fellow travelers. These connections can be enriching and provide a sense of companionship, even if temporary.
Interacting with Locals: Engaging with locals can offer a deeper understanding of the culture and enhance your travel experience. These interactions can also provide a sense of community and belonging.
8. Personal Growth and Empowerment
Strengthening Resilience: Overcoming the emotional and logistical challenges of solo travel after a divorce can strengthen your resilience. You learn to cope with uncertainty and develop a more robust sense of self.
Empowerment: Successfully navigating the world on your own is incredibly empowering. It reaffirms that you are capable, independent, and ready to embrace the future on your terms.
9. Planning for the Future
Setting New Goals: Solo travel provides a chance to reassess and set new personal and professional goals. It’s an opportunity to envision a future that’s entirely yours and take steps towards achieving it.
Embracing Change: Travel teaches you to embrace change and uncertainty, skills that are valuable as you move forward in your post-divorce life.
Overall, solo travel after a divorce is a journey of rediscovery and renewal. It allows you to embrace your independence, heal from the past, and open yourself up to new experiences and possibilities. It’s a time to focus on yourself, build new memories, and create a future that’s truly your own.
