"Exploring Independence: The Importance of Solo Travel After Tying the Knot"

Happy Valentine's Day! Are you a travel enthusiast who believes that marriage means the end of solo travel? Think again! Recently, I have noticed that there is a growing trend of married women traveling solo. In today's world, marriage is often seen as the ultimate goal. However, this does not mean that solo travel adventures should be left behind. The benefits of solo travel are numerous and extend far beyond the experience of a single trip. In 2022, I traveled to Morocco alone, thinking it would be my last solo trip since I got married seven months later. After traveling alone for eleven years, it was hard to break away from my on-the-go lifestyle. There's something truly daring about embarking on a solo adventure, and it's a feeling that I'll never be able to resist. Having a partner who truly understands and supports my passions can be a powerful source of inspiration.

Lucky for me, my wanderlust and solo travel dreams have their biggest fan in my partner! He understands how storytelling and empowering women through my travel blog fuel my soul, even playfully teasing me (knowing full well) with, "So, where's your next adventure? You need to update your blog!" While exploring solo isn't his cup of tea, he finds joy in seeing me soar, both literally and figuratively, regardless of whether we're together or I'm off on my own. This incredible partnership fuels my fire to keep discovering, sharing my journeys, and inspiring others to chase their own dreams.

So let's ditch the formalities and dive straight into why solo travel is actually good for your marriage! Contrary to popular belief, it's not about running away from your partner but rather about enriching yourself and your relationship. Think of it as hitting the refresh button! Here are five reasons why venturing out solo can strengthen your bond, even after tying the knot:

1. Rediscovering your individual sparks

While married life brings immense joy and partnership, solo travel offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself outside the dynamics of your shared life. Immersing yourself in new surroundings, navigating unfamiliar situations, and making spontaneous decisions rekindle your independence and self-reliance. It can help you discover hidden talents, passions, and perspectives you might not have known existed.

2. Strengthening your relationship

I can't wait to get home from a trip and share all the exciting details with my partner. Cooking dinner, laughing, and having enriching conversations about my adventures is always a joy. Independent experiences help us keep our individual identities and prevent us from losing ourselves in relationships. As they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Returning home can renew your commitment and bring fresh enthusiasm to your relationship.

3. Yo! your PTO (Paid Time Off) is important; use it all!

Last month, at the La Travel and Adventure Show, I spoke on a panel discussing solo travel, and blogger @girlwithbluesails indicated that she is visiting Bolivia this fall. Her spouse will not accompany her on this vacation because she has more paid time off than he does. I was thrilled to hear that the PTO played an important role in her decision. It's not just about PTO; sometimes married couples have different work schedules that make it difficult to travel together. For those in the acting industry, like my spouse, taking time off can be a challenge. However, traveling doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. Even short trips over long international destinations can be a great refresher and a lot of fun.

4. Pursuing personal interests and your passions

Married couples often have different interests and hobbies, which can sometimes lead to challenges when planning trips. Some couples may not want to travel to the same country. I have faced this issue before, and to solve it, I have decided to travel solo at least once a year. This way, I can plan my trip according to my interests and hobbies without having to compromise or cater to anyone else's interests. For instance, this fall, I am considering a "Women Photo Tour," which is a specialized tour designed for female photographers. Although my partner isn't interested in the trip, I believe it's a great opportunity for me, and I don't want to miss out.

5. Girl's group trips are life!

Nothing beats the excitement of going on a girls' trip! It's the perfect way to strengthen bonds with your girlfriends and make unforgettable memories. In December of 2023, I got the chance to travel to Cuba with a group of strangers who had booked a tour through @elcaminotravel. My aunt was also part of the group, and it was her first international trip. After spending time with these amazing women, I made new friends and cherished memories that I will never forget.

In conclusion, my solo travel reminds me of who I am.  Marriage brings incredible growth, but it can also blur the lines of individual identity. Solo travel carves out space for introspection and self-reflection. You reconnect with your core values, strengths, and dreams, returning to your relationship with a clearer sense of self. With that being said, I believe that there are some destinations, like Greece or Italy, that I would prefer to travel to with my spouse. However, what I know for sure is that I won't stop expanding myself and nourishing my individual spirit. According to my belief, traveling alone can add a secret ingredient to a stronger, more fulfilling marriage.

Did this article resonate with you? If so, feel free to get in touch with me via email or DM on my social media channels. I would love to have a deeper conversation about this topic.

Live Colorfully, Wander Freely!

-Passport Bohemian