Being alone at exotic locations allows her to fully immerse herself in the moment, as this writer discovers
I am all alone in the middle of paradise – in a spacious bungalow with a king-size bed and a jacuzzi, on a tiny island in the middle of the Maldives. I checked in to Maafushivaru the day before and as a treat, the resort has organised a night at their honeymoon outpost on a secluded island a short boat ride away.
After preparing a lavish feast on the beach for me, the kitchen crew has returned to the main island. As I tuck into my meal, I suddenly notice hundreds of crabs emerging from the shallows and scuttling around my table and feet. Over the past four years as a digital nomad, I’ve gotten well-acquainted with the weird and wonderful experiences of solo travel but this is a whole other level. Scenes from the TV series Lost crowd my mind as I ponder my solitude.
Thankfully, as night falls, the rain comes and chases the crabs away, and I breathe a sigh of relief. I use the lack of audience to cartwheel on the beach and greet the rain. The rest of my trip passes in a state of bliss as I explore the crystal-clear waters and enjoy my self-chosen solitude at each resort I visit.
Solo female travel has been on the rise in recent years but travelling alone to romantic destinations such as the Maldives or Bali requires that much more mettle. I’m often asked how I travel to all these exotic destinations surrounded by lovebirds and not feel lonely. My answer? Being alone allows me to fully immerse myself in the moment. Instead of thinking of conversation topics or worrying about my partner’s enjoyment, I have the freedom to do whatever I want and go wherever I fancy.
Having gone on several other “solomoons” since my last eventful trip to the Maldives, I can safely say I love this kind of travel and would recommend it to anyone. More than the physical expedition, the journey your soul traverses makes each experience extra meaningful.
3 resorts to check in to for self-care
1. Gili Lankanfushi, The Maldives
They were the first resort in the Maldives to launch a solo travel experience, which includes discounted rates and a “dinner in the dark”.
2. Capella Ubud, Bali
Enjoy maximum me-time with a customised in-room programme that includes a Balinese cleansing ritual, a massage and a roast dinner on your private deck.
3. The Hideout, Koh Yao Noi
This picturesque resort has no electricity and no WiFi, giving you plenty of time and space to re-connect with your thoughts.
Illustration by Olivia Waller
SEE ALSO: Why solo travelling for women can be fulfilling
This article was originally published in the February 2020 issue of Silkwinds magazine
