Hawaii

Posted by Marci on Dec 2, 2010 in | 0 comments

The light ocean breeze fluttered my hair as I sat on the catamaran staring at the lush, rugged Na Pali Coastline of Kauai. Dolphins flipped through the air and swam under the boat as I leaned over the edge attracted to their playful nature. All around me, lovers and families laughed and ate together. I was traveling solo, and though at times I missed my partner, I was content to be on my own.

The captain motioned for me to join him, and he placed my hands in control of the vessel. The catamaran turned and he guided it back teaching me how to maneuver the boat. If I’d been traveling with companions I don’t think I would’ve gotten the opportunity.

Over the next week, I explored the Na Pali coast by foot, helicopter, and in the waters snorkeling. I stood at the top of Waimea canyon, hiked jungles, and swam at the base of waterfalls. At night, I sat on the beach, listening to the waves crash against the sand as the stars lit the dark, night sky.

Hawaii is thought to be a place for lovers and the year before I’d gone to Maui with my partner. He and I did the long road to Hana, staying in a small hotel and making love on a deserted beach. We hiked into Haleakala Crater feeling as if we walked on the sands of Mars. Together we paddled an out-rigger, snorkeled in Lahaina, played volleyball on the beach, and ate scrumptious dinners while watching the sunset. We went scuba diving, petting a bright-red octopus, and chasing harmless sharks. We hiked into the Iao Needle and along the Wailea shore. It was a wonderful vacation, but my solo trip to Kauai was no less impressive.

Many people dream of seeing the world, but they never explore the idea of traveling solo. When you’re with a friend or a partner you have a joint experience. Alone, you see more vividly, take time for yourself, and do what is right for you. You also meet more people who are willing to invite you to share in their experiences.

Solo travel is a tremendous gift: a time to fall in love with the world and myself. It allows my brain to cycle out the chatter and to calm.

Hawaii may be a place for honeymooners, but it’s also a place to reconnect with nature and yourself.