Thursday, March 8, 2012

How Lonely Is Too Lonely?

A big concern and topic of conversation when it comes to solo travel is loneliness. There are countless blog posts about how to combat loneliness, how to make friends, how to appear less lonely (because it's not only off-putting, but can make you more vulnerable) or how to deal with loneliness when it strikes. A lot of people are hesistant to even attempt a solo trip because they're so terrified of being lonely!

Think about it, one of the biggest publishers of travel guides is called Lonely Planet! There's no denying travel can get lonely.

Turns out this fear might not be so unwarranted. According to this recent study, we're hardwired to not want to be isolated because loneliness can kill us over time.

Knowing that now, does it make you more reluctant to travel on your own?

For me, it was never really a concern, so I wonder if I'm missing something biologically. Maybe solo travelers have a defect? Either that or there are degrees of loneliness and isolation, and what can be too isolating and lonely for one person might feel like a loud party to another. What do you think?

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Not So Solo Travel?

I recently read an article about a Travelodge survey that says 35% of British adults still sleep with a teddy. Not only that, they bring it with them to hotels, on business trips and the like. I'm really surprised because I didn't think adults slept with teddies, but when I think about it, well why not? It's harmless.

Since I'm a person who tries to travel light and wants to bring the LEAST amount of stuff possible, I can't imagine doing such a thing. My most essential item for travel aside from my passport is a toothbrush. Oh and a sleep mask. And maybe lip balm. And gum. Ok, but those are small and that's it. The rest can be dealt with.

So do you travel with a teddy or other comfort object?