So I guess I'm pretty asocial when it comes down to it. I like people and getting to know different walks of life, but I don't go out of my way to meet new people. I just went on my first solo trip, backpacking around Europe. My biggest concern was being a lone female backpacker but I didn't once run into any problems (which isn't to say not to be careful out there!).

I did everything I wanted, never felt pressured to stay out longer or change my plans for other people. I met some amazing people backpacking, people I'll probably never talk to again, but man. Wow. I'm so glad I went. I had a day and a half of travel blues midway through but once I was through that I was golden.

Earlier this year I was suffering from a chronic pain illness, which has for the most part dissipated. It was so good just to be, just to do what I wanted and to feel like every day I was doing something worthwhile, seeing something new, learning something.

I don't think backpacking solo is for everyone, it's not. It can get lonely, it can get scary, and it can get bad but I was lucky enough to never fall into that. I'm pretty lucky in that I'm a person pretty happy with myself, and solo tripping felt like the best possible adventure. I've learnt a lot, not just about me but the countries I've wandered around. The subreddit helped so much with my questions and uncertainties and man, this was a good one.

Stay safe and happy out there, folks.