I have loved every one of my solo travel experiences! On each one, I learn so much about the world, its people, cultures, and also myself. Here are some of the top lessons I've learned through my solo travel adventures. 

• The world is full of kind people. Helping hands always seem to manifest themselves when you’re least expecting it. Even when language is a barrier, good people still want to do their best to help someone in need. Remember to also be this kind person for someone else, too, when you're traveling or not.
• When you move quickly, it’s easy to let things roll off. You don’t have time to think about or worry about any problem or issue. You’re too busy putting one foot in front of another and moving forward. I try to incorporate this lesson into my "real" life, too. 
• Constant change is crucial. You might love where you’re at in the moment, but you’ll also love where you’re going next. So, go through that door and close it. Move forward and don’t look back.
• It’s best to leave flexibility in your plans and take advantage of opportunities when they arise. If someone invites you to a concert, go. If someone asks you to join them for drinks or an espresso in a café, don’t pass it up. Drop your other plans and go spend this time with these new friends. You never know what kind of lifetime friendships can be developed by embracing the serendipitous moments. 
• When possible, walk. Stroll through a city and soak in the atmosphere. Especially if the weather is beautiful and the city is a friendly one. 
• Most people, regardless of where they are from, yearn for connection and love. They want and need friends. They feel strong ties to their families. These are universal truths that transcend culture, language, and country boundaries. You'll discover this in every country you visit. 
• A good quality backpack is essential. Padded shoulder straps and a hip belt are truly the difference between an enjoyable vacation and a miserable one. Do your research and make that investment. You won’t be sorry.
• Hostels are filled with solo travelers yearning to make friends, just like you are. Be the first person to say hello. Offer a smile, your name, and ask theirs and where they’re from. 99.9 percent of the time this opens up the door to beautiful, lasting friendships that will transcend time and distance.
• Minimalist backpacking requires creativity and problem-solving skills. When something breaks, you’ll need to use whatever you’ve got to “make-do” in the moment. These situations activate your brain like nothing at home ever will. I’ve made a clothesline out of a string that was wrapped around a pastry package in Madrid and used a hair tie to fasten a new zipper pull for a purse in Amsterdam. You’ll feel proud at how you can solve a problem with what you’ve got.
• Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone. You’ll have to figure out everything on your own. This is a little unnerving at first, but also super empowering once you accomplish it! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of knowing you could be dropped off in any train station in any city in the world and you’d be able to figure out your way around. I love this feeling of independence and achievement! 
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you feel like someone isn't giving you a correct answer, ask someone else. As Rick Steves says, don’t worry if someone thinks your question is stupid. You literally are never going to see that person again. Get the help and answers you require in any way you need to.
• Use translation apps when necessary. These are great ways to communicate when language is a barrier. 
• Learn a second or third language. It’s empowering! Windows, doors, and countries of opportunities will open to you!