Lonely Traveler Syndrome

Valencia, Spain 2010

 Yup it happens! But people don’t really talk about it. You never really see anyone blogging about their feelings of loneliness because they think no one wants to read about it.

…and

…………………………………………………no one wants to look like a loser… (>_< ) You only read about all the fun and exciting things one wants to share. But it does happen and it is normal.
For me, being a single gal in the land of “couple drinks, couple under wear, and couple cell phone charms”, its quite easy to feel like a wayward child in South Korea.

Guadalajara, Spain 2010

But this is when being active plays a role. I’ve always been very active in clubs and different leadership groups I was younger. Its a great way to meet people. So just because my location has changed doesn’t mean I can’t join organizations and become apart of a community group. But you have to do some work and seek them out. But with Google and Facebook etc, its a lot easier to do today than in the past. I have met so many different people, aside from my co-workers and other native teachers, by just getting out and wandering different areas.

Being a in a position surrounded by many people who have the same one year contract as you , means that many of the friends you make will be leaving soon, if you sign on for another year and they don’t. So I’ve been trying to hang out with people that have set up roots in Ulsan. And are not likely to leave anytime soon. Its just makes it easier for you in the end.

Paris, France 2010

I try to find the beauty in traveling alone. You travel on your own terms and schedule. And if anything goes wrong there is no one to blame but yourself. Its quite funny actually. Also I’ve seen so many couples fighting in public, even on a water taxi in Venice, haha. I’m always like “I’m glad that’s not me“. BUT there are times when I experience something amazing and I look to my left like ” oh did you see that!...” and remember, “right…I’m alone.” I’ve met other solo travelers in random places. Locals treat you kindly(most times)  when they realize you are traveling alone. Granted every solo female traveler needs to have a certain level of street smarts. After all there are some “crazies” out there! Be careful!

Lonely Traveler Syndrome ( LTS, as I will call it) can strike at any moment. But trying to remember why you are exploring  new grounds in the first place will help you deal with it. I know to  those who believe they “can’t travel” this might sound pretty selfish. Even though I believe everyone can get out and see the world!

I’m going to do a Internet search and see what people are actually sharing regarding this issue. What are your thoughts about LTS?