As I’ve gotten older, I’ve found the best way to celebrate a birthday isn’t with a party or vacation with friends — it’s with a solo trip.
I’m also convinced that birthdays celebrated in other countries don’t count, which keeps me younger. Though I’m from the US, I’ve already spent several birthdays throughout my 20s and 30s abroad in places like China, Barcelona, and Tokyo.
Now that I’m in my 40s, I appreciate being able to do this more than ever, especially on a trip I’ve planned by and for myself.
Solo birthday trips can come with a lot of perks
From flights to activities, planning for just myself is pretty easy.
Since my birthday is around Thanksgiving, I can combine the long weekend with a vacation.
Although this can mean paying higher prices for domestic destinations, late November is low season in many places, including countries where the holiday isn’t as widely celebrated.
There were years I waited too long, and flights were prohibitively expensive. Other times, I’ve found great flight deals a month out, which I view as an early birthday present to myself.
On a group trip, there’s a lot to consider, including costs, diets, and sightseeing preferences. When I’m on my own, I set the itinerary and can adjust it on a whim.
If I’m exhausted from a long walk or a late night, no one can pressure me to explore more instead of relaxing in a café or taking a nap.
My ideas of a vacation don’t need to align with others’, either. For one, not many friends would’ve awoken at 4 a.m. to watch the sunrise from Borobudur, but it’s my favorite birthday memory.
Plus, when I’m alone, I’m more outgoing and likely to meet new people.
In Portugal, I met Brazilian tourists who wanted to buy me a beer after I told them it was my birthday. Someone even bought me sake in a small Tokyo restaurant without knowing I was celebrating — but it sure made my evening better.
Even so, traveling alone can have its drawbacks
I’ve gotten used to the awkwardness of eating alone when I travel, but it’s particularly tough when you’re the sole diner in a Michelin-rated restaurant in Portugal that only opened for you.
“Am I the only 7 o’clock reservation?” I asked. “You’re the only reservation,” the staff replied.
Despite being comically awkward for over two hours, this meal is one of the best I’ve ever had — and staff even added a candle to my dessert.
Weird dining experiences aside, solo travel can get expensive when you’ve got no one to share the costs of a trip with.
Some airlines have higher fares for solo passengers, and a hotel room for one can be pricey. There’s also no one to split a meal with, meaning you often either need a bigger appetite or will waste a little food when overordering.
Though I haven’t encountered issues on my trips, I know personal safety is also a huge concern for solo travelers, whether they’re celebrating a birthday or not.
When abroad alone, it’s as important as ever to stay aware of your surroundings and keep local GPS maps downloaded on your devices in case of an emergency.
All in all, these trips are a great way to make memories and reflect
Sure, solo birthday travel isn’t always easy — but it’s an opportunity to treat yourself and reflect on another year while making great memories.
Though I don’t go all out booking first-class flights and staying in five-star hotels, I do indulge a bit more than usual on my celebratory trips.
On my most recent birthday in Barcelona, I upgraded my hotel room to get a larger bed, a mini-fridge, and a balcony (though it was too cold to enjoy). I also ordered more dessert than usual.
Though my idea of indulging involves eating and drinking, others might prefer to take in a show, buy a unique souvenir, or get some quiet time at a spa. The advice is flexible, just like the birthday plans.
And you can still celebrate with friends before or after the trip.
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