I have a friend (no it's not me) who'd like to travel but she's a bit introverted. What can she do to overcome her shyness? She would make a great travel writer, but when it comes to meeting people, she becomes a clam!
How can introverts overcome fears of solo travel?
(4 posts) (3 voices)
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I'm an introvert myself, so I don't see any need to 'overcome' what you may perceive as shyness.....and I have a great time traveling by myself. I'm not unfriendly, in fact most people would describe me as very friendly, but I just don't need to be accompanied to get around, see things, or enjoy myself.
Instead of encouraging her to change her nature, I would just encourage her to go ahead and travel alone.....you could start by rattling off some of the benefits, such as not having to plan your trip around someone else's schedule or agenda, not having to compromise on where you go, what you do, or when to eat, having as much time as you need to focus on taking notes, photos, or writing without worrying about ignoring someone else.....the list goes on!
If she would seriously really like to travel, then she should. "Meeting people" is not a requirement, but it will just happen naturally, and she can choose to pursue conversation with them or not, as she likes.
Posted 1 year ago # -
Hey Martha,
I totally agree with Trisha's post. There is no reason why introverts couldn't travel on their own.
I am also an introvert and have travelled solo extensively. I love it!
Of course there were moments when I was terrified of stepping into a crowd on my own, but by just doing it, I very quickly realised that people don't bite and soon I gained more confidence.
I personally preferred observing people/situations to actively joining in (still do), but it was not until I started travelling that I discovered that it was fun being in a crowd even if I just observed and soon started joining it bit by bit.I think a lot depends on your character, but it also depends on the way you travel.
I backpacked my way around. On my travels I stayed in youth hostels and did seasonal work to fund the next part of my journey. Travelling that way meant that I was never really alone, because the youth hostels were full of people doing the same thing and I soon found myself in 'crowds' of like-minded people who liked to share their experiences. It was great fun.I would tell your friend to 'just go for it'. If she doens't like it or can't get used to it, she can always go back home. Then at least she has tried it out.
Maria
Posted 1 year ago #
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