Semi-solo Travel - Solitude and Encounters
After living in the company of others for so long, I've gradually begun to crave my own space and time to understand myself. Perhaps it's because I've lived in a non-Taiwanese environment for so long that I've begun to need more space and time for my own reflection, and I've also begun to gain new insights. This shift has changed my long-standing travel habits. Therefore, to strike a balance between me-time and meaningful communication and conversation, I've begun pursuing semi-solo travel.
What is semi-solo travel? For me, it's essentially about scheduling time for myself and time with others during a trip. This definition emphasises a two-way process of recharging: after spending time with others, I have time to digest and reflect, and to proactively practise, adjust, and even change my behaviours. This ensures that everyone on the trip isn't immersed in solitude for long periods, nor does prolonged socialising drain energy; it strikes a balance.
<I'd like to share some of my semi-solo travel stories with you!>
1) Rotterdam & The Hague, Netherlands: My friends and I planned a five-day, four-night vacation from Germany to the Netherlands during our exchange student vacation period. At one point, my friend and I were discussing independent travel (we wanted to spend a day exploring our own destinations), and I thought it was a great idea! I was actually quite nervous when I agreed, as it would be my first time travelling alone for an extended period in an unfamiliar city and country. But I didn't think too much about it and decided to go ahead with the plan. After all, it was a country I loved and there were places I wanted to see! During the travel, it felt like something had clicked. It was incredible that I could actually do it (taking the train and tram in the Netherlands and communicating with station staff on my own)! Suddenly, I felt like nothing could stop me! Human potential is truly limitless; never underestimate yourself!
2) Melbourne, Australia: It was my first time meeting a friend in Australia, and also my first time in Melbourne. Aside from meeting him at his hotel that night, I planned everything else on my own (travelling in another state felt like another country, hahaha).
3) Osaka & Kyoto, Japan: Travelling from Australia to Japan to meet a friend who was attending a language school there. Since he has to attend school on weekdays, for me, his school hours are my own time exploring the city, and I can freely switch between his school hours and his free time (me time and activities together). This was also my first time using public transportation in Japan by myself, and it felt both familiar and new (I'd previously travelled with my family on tours, and Taiwanese people have a certain level of understanding of Japan). ~ Communicating with them in basic Japanese was incredibly cool, lol.
I've discovered that semi-solo travel has had a significant impact on my life because it allows me to have flexibility in my own time and with others. I enjoy discussing ideas with others, reflecting on them, figuring out what's right, and then taking action. After trying them, I reflect on them myself and then have a relaxed conversation with others. I think this cycle is healthy and helps me make every move and decision. A secondhand perspective can sometimes provide valuable insights!
Would semi-solo travel be suitable for you? Please share your thoughts in the comments!