SOLO TRIPS FOR YOUR SOUL

Many people are intimidated by travelling alone but the founder of a podcast called Chica Travel explains why you need to try out

Nombulelo Boyana, founder of Chica Travel, a podcast started in 2019 that shares her travelling experiences, says people shouldn’t be afraid to take time out to travel alone. While there’s a misconception that travelling alone is lonely, Nombulelo begs to differ. “I love travelling alone,” she says. “Looking back at my travels, one of my best trips ever was a solo trip to Paris. Solo travel is great if you want to take time out to be on your own and reflect, or to rest because you can do things at your own pace and change plans as and when you like.”

BEING ALONE DOESN’T MEAN LONELINESS

Even though solo travel is not for everyone, she emphasises that it’s one of those things that you need to do at least once to know whether or not it’s for you. “It’s actually great for meeting new people and making friends because when you’re alone, it’s much easier for other people to approach you and chat to you than when you’re with a group. It also teaches you self-reliance.”

SELF-CARE MEETS TRAVEL

Nombulelo, who organises the annual Chica Travel group trip but has halted the plans for 2021 due to the pandemic, maintains that if you’re invested in self-care, travelling is one of the best gifts you could give to yourself. “It’s almost like taking yourself on an extended date. Travel gives you a break from your routine and nourishes your soul. You come back from your trip revitalised, and it’s also a great way to disconnect from the digital world, if you don’t’ travel to document everything,” says Nombulelo.

She explains that if you’re curious but nervous about solo travel, then start with a shot left and see how it goes. There are lots of beautiful places in South Africa,” she says. “The majority of the places on my bucket list are in the Western Cape, so I would say it’s top of my list. I recently travelled to Arniston and I loved it.”

HAVE FUN

Nombulelo says being armed with enough information about your destination will give you all the confidence you need. “The most important thing is researching where you are going, the area you’re staying at, and reading online forums so that you can know how to stay safe. Ask your hotel for tips ahead of your solo trip. If you’re leaving the country, get travel insurance, just in case you fall sick or something happens.” ■

For more info about Nombulelo’s travels, check out: