Why You Should Travel Solo At Least Once: A NYC Story

Community-written: Pam, Singapore

3 years ago, fresh out of university, I found myself at a crossroads. I had just wrapped up years of studying, deadlines, and juggling responsibilities, but instead of feeling ready for the next chapter, I felt stuck. I needed clarity. I needed space. I needed to breathe.  

So, I did something I’d always wanted to do - I booked a solo trip to New York City. Just two weeks later, I was on a flight halfway across the world, chasing the version of NYC I’d only seen in movies and TV shows.

And let me tell you, it was healing.

Brooklyn Bridge

There’s something about walking the streets of New York that really does make you feel brand new. From the buzzing energy of Times Square to the calm of Central Park, the city pulses with life in a way that makes you feel part of something bigger.   

At the Edge

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The food culture? Unreal. I was eating my way through the city - bagels in the morning, tacos by afternoon, pizza at night, and little hidden gems tucked in random corners. Each bite told a story.   

I wandered into museums and soaked in art I’d only seen in textbooks. I people-watched from park benches and got swept into conversations with strangers who quickly turned into friends, people I still keep in touch with to this day.

One of the most beautiful moments happened during a walk through Central Park. I saw the leaves beginning to change from vibrant green to shades of gold, amber, and deep crimson. It felt symbolic. I was watching the city transition into a new season, and in a way, I was doing the same. The shift in colours mirrored how I was slowly letting go of old routines, fears, and uncertainty and embracing change with a little more courage than I had before.  

 Originally planned as a two-week escape, the trip ended up stretching into three weeks and that spontaneous extension became the highlight of my adventure. The freedom to change plans on a whim, follow curiosity, and say “yes” to unexpected opportunities felt incredibly empowering. Because I stayed longer, I got to experience things I would’ve otherwise missed.

Wollman Rink in Central Park

Central Park’s Wollman Ice Skating Rink had just opened for the season, and I got to lace up and glide across the ice, surrounded by fall trees and that unmistakable New York energy. It felt like something out of a movie.

I also ventured beyond Manhattan, exploring other green pockets of the city like Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. Quieter, but just as charming. It gave me a new appreciation for NYC’s diversity and how much it has to offer beyond the touristy spots.

At Prospect Park, Brooklyn

And then came the moment I never saw coming. While I was just strolling aimlessly one afternoon, soaking in the city vibe, I ran into Ross from Friends. Yes, David Schwimmer himself, casually walking down the street like it was the most normal thing in the world. Upon realizing it was him, I did a quick u-turn and ran after him. He was so nice. He smiled, asked if I was having a great time, and was kind enough to let me snap a picture with him. One of those “only in New York” moments I’ll never forget.

Photo with David Schwimmer aka Ross from Friends

Was it different from home? Absolutely. NYC isn’t as safe or clean as Singapore, but that’s part of its charm. It’s raw, real, and full of character, and though I went alone, I was never lonely.  

Solo travel pushes you in all the right ways. It strips away the noise and gives you time to reflect, to reset, to discover. It reminded me of who I was and what I wanted and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take that solo trip, this is it.  

You won’t regret it.