I've read a few posts about the joys of traveling alone. How you can learn so much about yourself and the world without the distraction of others. And although I am very much an introvert, the idea of spending a week on my own in a strange place eating dinner on my own or meeting people in the hostel common room does not sound appealing to me. Here's why:
1. Less chance of having to call Liam Neeson to come save you. Even though the girls in Taken traveled in a pair, the logic still stands with the buddy system.
2. You have someone to share the experience with.
3. Once the trip is over, you have someone who will enjoy reminiscing and telling the same stories over and over. Those who weren't there with you don't want to hear the same stories over and over. If they are polite, they will entertain them two or three times, but any more than that, expect eye rolls.
4. You have someone to watch your bags while you go to get food or go to the bathroom in the airport. Coffee lines and bathrooms were not made to navigate with multiple bags.
5. You don't have to constantly ask a stranger to take your photo or strain your arm trying to take a selfie. Although the art of mastering the selfie is a valuable skill these days.
6. If you are a group of four then you can fill an entire room at a hostel and don't have to share it with questionable backpackers.
7. You do not have to make all of the decisions on your own. And by decisions I mean where to eat.
