Good or Bad Idea to Travel Alone

LegacyUser

I'm thinking of going to do a marathon in Barcelona and was going to go alone but I'm wondering if this a bad idea. Any friends wouldn't be into that kinda thing and I'd be very focused on the race anyway so would rather be alone.

I'd love to do the race and would enjoy it but don't want to feel weird about going alone.

does it seem like an ok thing to do ?

Eve_Dublin

Hi OP. Maybe going places alone is something you´re not used to doing. Of course it´s okay to go alone but it's what you feel comfortable with that matters. I actually went for 5 days alone to Barcelona a few years ago (I live in Madrid) and stayed in a hostel, met some people and had a baaaall. I´m very comfortable in my own company, so it didn´t bother me. I´ve travelled, moved country and gone on a few holidays alone but that's just me. I understand it's not for everyone.

If you're worried about what people might think, then don't. What you've suggested sounds like a good plan if that's what you want. Nothing strange or not "okay" about it. Sounds like you're going there with a mission and like you, I find running a solitary activity, so I'd say go for it. Good luck with the marathon. Fair play to you!

Oryx

I do that kind of thing all the time. If its weird well then heck, I'm weird. Its good from the point that you only have to worry about yourself and you can do what you want, but on the downside it can be lonely. You have noone to cheer you on or meet you at the finish. Ive met lots of people and you can latch on to other groups. It certainly improves your confidence.

wurzlitzer

Hey I went to Berlin for three days last April & did the half marathon, I did not feel lonely at all, there was so much to see & do. The crowd always cheers you on, in all the marathons I have done. Enjoy I found it very enjoyable to be honest.

Daisy78

Spent 6 weeks in south east Asia on my tod. Loved it and met loads of people along the way. Don't see why people think its a big deal. If you really want to go then go, you shouldn't miss out on something like this just because there isn't anybody to go with you.

Was in Spain for about 10 days traveling around by myself. Had the best time ever, as I was staying in hostels in each city and got to meet so many good people - there was never a dull or boring moment. Heck, most of the people I met were there by themselves too.

Just be smart about yourself, where you are, your possessions, and whatnot and you'll be fine!

tomboylady

I really enjoy travelling on my own, have done so quite a few times. Went to the US for a few weeks last year by myself. I could go wherever I wanted, whenever I wanted, without having to check with someone else or please them. Plus, I met lots of different people in various places which was nice too.

It's really up to you whether or not you feel comfortable going by yourself. Maybe you could have a friend join you after the marathon for a few days? That way you could focus on the race, but still know that you wouldn't be by yourself the entire time?

ladysarah

go for it. i am doing it for the last year and always meet people

LegacyUser

Thanks for the advice guys.

Its good to know that others enjoy travelling alone and its not a hindrance.
I'm pretty certain I'm gonna go ahead with it.
I really want to go so I think I definitely should !!