On a sunny March day, I donned my favorite footy scarf, slipped on comfy shoes, and headed out for a half-hour walk to the MCG. With a podcast in my ears, I skillfully avoided families checking their maps and the long line at the donut stand.
Taking my seat in the Shane Warne Stand, I clapped as the Tigers’ theme song blared. I chatted with an English tourist enjoying his first Aussie Rules match. During quarter-time, I leapt up to grab the last hot dog. When the sun got too hot, I found a shadier spot with some enthusiastic hecklers.
Eventually, as energy slipped away, I checked the ticket gates and walked home, feeling fulfilled.
Recently, social media has become a guide for those brave enough to venture out alone. TikTok influencers churn out tips for introverts, while travel vloggers share itineraries for solo trips. Others offer reassurance: no one really cares if you enjoy a drink alone. The comments often reveal a common anxiety: “What will they think? Am I lonely?”
This brings to light a curious paradox. For many, going out solo feels daunting. Why does spending time alone require a plan or a mental shift?
At events like the Melbourne International Film Festival, I lose track of time. I immerse myself in back-to-back films, occasionally running into friends for a quick chat or a meal. However, I often indulge in the experience alone, savoring every moment. I find joy in choosing films, diving into books, and sitting where I like. It’s a routine that feels fulfilling.
In our busy lives, coordinating plans with friends can be tough, and we often miss out. So, if a film or concert calls and no one is available, I’ll go solo. What matters is the experience, not who’s by my side.
Sometimes, though, there are challenges to exploring alone. In the past, Arts Centre Melbourne faced criticism for requiring tickets in pairs, inadvertently penalizing single moviegoers. “The single tax” is a burden many face when booking travel, often paying much more for a solo trip. Society often caters to couples and families, making solo adventures tricky but worthwhile.
Next month, I’ll take a trip to the UK and then travel around Europe for three weeks. While some friends will join me on parts of the journey, I’ll mostly create my own path. I eagerly anticipate walking into a Parisian wine bar and asking for “Une table pour une, s’il vous plaît.” The fear of being judged for dining alone is overshadowed by the excitement of the experience.
Interestingly, a recent study found that more people are choosing to travel solo than ever before. A survey indicated nearly 40% of travelers took a solo trip in the past year, up from 31% in 2020. This shift reflects a growing acceptance of solo experiences.
So, whether it’s movies, travel, or dining, choosing to embrace solitude can be empowering. The world is full of experiences waiting to be enjoyed, and sometimes it’s best to explore them on your own terms.
For more insights on travel and solo experiences, you can check out National Geographic’s travel page.
