Revelations from My First Solo Vacation

One of my “Say Yes’ items for 2017 and beyond is to do more travelling. I love a good road trip, but I don’t take advantage of my weekends nearly as much as I should and could.  During the winter months, I get a little down and from what I’ve read sunlight helps with depression and anxiety. I had taken some days for a trip with a few people, but the plans fell through. Old Chantel would have cancelled the time off and saved the days, but New Chantel said where can we go for those days. I decided on Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.  Before I could blink, I had booked my flight and stay at an all-inclusive resort…. for one.

I was taking my first solo vacation. Not only was this my first solo vacation, but my first international flight, and my first stay at an all-inclusive resort. I was a little nervous, but very excited to being doing something so spontaneous. I needed time away from my regular life to rest, pray, meditate, and write.  I was craving these things like I never had before. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. The peace of mind I gained can never be fully explained. As a result of this amazing journey, I’ve decided that I will go on a solo vacation every year. While sitting on the beach during my last day, I started thinking about the things I learned from this adventure and I will share them with you.

1. I like my own company. I wasn’t self-conscious at all about being at an adults-only resort with a lot of couples. I’m fairly certain that I was the only single person at the resort.
2. A spa date is a must have for any resort. I’m not fond of massages as I don’t like to be touched. I thought I was playing it safe with the reflexology massage. Hands and feet, pretty safe, right? Nope, it’s just like a regular massage without your back. It was heavenly and I even got a couple of snores in.  The steam room gave me life and relief from my allergies.
3. Two swimsuits are a requirement. No one wants to put on a wet one.
4. You won’t drink as much alcohol as you think. I had grand plans of tasting a slew of different drinks. In reality, I drank Pina Coladas the entire time.
5. Bring summer dresses that I would wear to work for dinner. I avoided certain restaurants because of their dress policy. I really wanted Tapas.
6. You won’t eat as much as you planned. I didn’t eat any more than I would if I was home. In all actuality, I ate more fresh fruit than anything else.
7. Turning in early does not make you a loser. If you’re tired, you’re tired. No explanation required.
8. I’m a service snob. Nothing makes me happier than excellent customer service. From check in to check out, I was treated like a queen.
9. Flying solo means you are free to sleep in, skip breakfast, sleep on the beach, or do nothing at all.
10. I’m in love with the all-inclusive resort life. Cruising will never be the same for me.