Solo traveling has always been my escape from the monotony of daily life. My recent trip from Texas to Oaxaca, Mexico, was an unforgettable journey filled with unique experiences, unexpected friendships, and valuable lessons.
As I planned my trip, I envisioned peaceful days exploring Oaxaca’s vibrant culture, colorful streets, and historical sites. However, the reality was far more thrilling, sprinkled with moments of challenges and serendipity.
The Arrival and Initial Challenges
Touching down in Oaxaca, I was instantly struck by the city’s charm. The streets were lined with colonial-style buildings painted in vibrant hues, and the air buzzed with the energy of locals and travelers alike. My excitement, however, was short-lived as I faced my first hurdle—finding a decent hotel within my budget.
The hotel rates were far higher than I had anticipated. Many of the centrally located accommodations were fully booked or outrageously expensive. After a tiring search, I found a modest place on the city’s outskirts. It wasn’t perfect, but it was clean and offered a comfortable bed for the night.
Food was another mixed bag. Oaxaca is a haven for foodies, and the aroma of freshly made tamales and mole dishes wafted through the streets. While some local eateries offered delicious meals at surprisingly low prices, certain restaurants catering to tourists were overpriced. It became a game of trial and error to find spots that served authentic food without breaking the bank.
Exploring Oaxaca’s Beauty
Public transport in Oaxaca was an experience in itself. From colorful colectivos (shared taxis) to the lively buses, it was affordable and a great way to interact with locals. However, public transport was limited when it came to visiting remote areas like Hierve el Agua or the Monte Albán ruins. Hiring a car became a necessity, albeit an expensive one. Driving through the countryside, though, was worth every peso. The views of rolling hills dotted with agave fields were breathtaking.
A Serendipitous Encounter
While exploring the city center one afternoon, I bumped into two travelers, Carlos and Mateo. They were friends from Spain on a backpacking trip across Mexico. Our conversation started casually, but within minutes, we realized we shared a common interest in exploring lesser-known places.
Carlos and Mateo’s carefree attitude and sense of adventure were contagious. They proposed we visit a few offbeat spots together, splitting transport and food costs. Although I cherish the independence of solo travel, I decided to join them, at least for a while.
Traveling with them turned out to be a blessing. Not only did we manage to save money, but their company added a different flavor to my journey. We laughed over silly jokes, navigated through small-town markets, and even got lost once while trying to find a hidden waterfall. It was a memorable detour, and the cascading water surrounded by lush greenery was worth the extra effort.
Going Solo Again
After a few days, I felt the familiar pull of solo travel. As much as I enjoyed Carlos and Mateo’s company, I missed the solitude and freedom of being alone on the road. Saying goodbye to them was bittersweet. They understood my need to venture out on my own and wished me well as I embarked on the next leg of my journey.
The Highs and Lows of Solo Travel
Traveling solo has its fair share of highs and lows; this trip was no exception. The moments of solitude allowed me to reflect on life, soak in the beauty around me, and truly connect with the local culture. However, there were also moments of frustration—like trying to communicate with a taxi driver who spoke rapid Spanish or struggling to find an ATM that worked with my card.
One of the highlights was visiting the traditional markets of Oaxaca. The Mercado de Benito Juárez was a sensory overload in the best way possible. The vibrant stalls overflowed with handmade crafts, fresh produce, and spices. I couldn’t resist buying a few souvenirs, including a beautifully woven rug and local chocolate.
On the flip side, navigating the city’s maze-like streets late at night was a bit daunting. Though Oaxaca is generally safe, I avoided poorly lit areas.
Tips for Traveling to Oaxaca
If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca, here are some personal tips based on my experience:
Best Season to Visit
The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season, from October to April. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F), perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. Avoid the rainy season (May to September) if you want to explore outdoor attractions without interruptions. However, the lush greenery during the rainy season has its own charm for nature lovers.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Consider booking in advance or exploring options outside the city center for cheap hotels. Hostels and guesthouses are popular among budget travelers, offering clean and affordable stays. Airbnb also has some excellent choices for solo travelers.
Food Recommendations
Oaxaca is a paradise for foodies, but not all spots are budget-friendly. Street food is where you’ll find authentic flavors without overspending. Try tlayudas, tamales, and mole at local markets like Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Avoid eating at touristy restaurants unless you’re ready to splurge.
Transportation Insights
Public transport like colectivos and buses is cost-effective for getting around. For remote areas like Hierve el Agua, renting a car or joining a tour group is more convenient. Plan your transport based on the places you want to visit.
Seasons to Avoid
Avoid visiting during major festivals like Day of the Dead or Guelaguetza if you’re on a tight budget. These are peak seasons, and everything from accommodations to food becomes more expensive. However, these festivals offer an incredible cultural experience if you don’t mind spending.
General Tips
- Learn basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.
- Carry cash, as many places don’t accept cards.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while exploring.
- Keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
Lessons Learned
This trip taught me several valuable lessons. First, flexibility is key. Despite my meticulous planning, things didn’t always go as expected, and learning to adapt made the journey smoother. Second, budgeting wisely is crucial. Balancing between splurging on experiences and saving on essentials like food and accommodation allowed me to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Finally, while solo travel is empowering, it doesn’t hurt to connect with fellow travelers along the way. Carlos and Mateo reminded me that shared experiences can enrich a trip.
Conclusion
My solo adventure from Texas to Oaxaca was a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. From navigating the challenges of high hotel rates, finding affordable food, exploring the stunning landscapes, and forging unexpected friendships, every moment added a new chapter to my journey.
As I boarded my flight back to Texas, I couldn’t help but smile at the memories I had created. Solo traveling might not always be easy, but it’s undoubtedly rewarding. Each trip teaches me more about the world and myself, and I can’t wait to see where my next adventure takes me.
