Those Who Wander Magazine April 2016 | Page 32

One of the hardest parts about being a solo traveller is building up the courage to eat out? alone. The fear of being bored, of people looking at you and thinking you are friendless, of not knowing what to order or worse having no one to share with. All very valid reasons for being afraid of eating on your own, right? head out into the big bad world. Capitalising on the buzz I received from finding my accommodation I let my feet go in search of somewhere to eat.It?s a great way to steady yourself, build up your confidence and celebrate being in new and exciting location. I remember doing it for the first time, I was 18 and in London on my own. I sat down at a table with my book clutched closely to my chest, my face was bright red from embarrassment causing me to order quickly. The waitress tried to smile and say something to me,but my mumbled answers sent her on her way with a bored eye-roll. When my food came out I practically inhaled it ? to this day I can?t remember what I ate or if it was any good. AVOIDPEAKMEALTIMES?GOJUST BEFORETHEDINNERRUSHORJUSTAFTER THELUNCHRUSH. Ten years later, I am now a veteran backpacker and eating out no longer scares or embarrasses me. In fact, it?s the complete opposi K