Why I left Singapore after 72 hours

By Cher Morente, Singapore Management University, Singapore

A tale of a solo-trip survivor who lived to tell you why it’s not as daunting as it looks and why you should do it at least once in your 20s.

Despite my continuous battle with jet-lag, I decided to put my Singaporean adventure to a halt and explore somewhere new after only being there for 3 days. Many of you may think, well Singapore is new, so why leave? Well, I still had a few days before the semester started and thought ‘why not?’, I should make the most of being in one of Southeast Asia’s hubs while I’m here. Plus, being on exchange for a year meant I had all the time in the world to explore one of the world’s safest countries.

After a long but comfortable coach ride, I finally arrived in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. However, I must’ve brought the British delight with me as heavy downpour began as soon as I stepped off the coach to collect my bag. Regardless, I remained optimistic and headed to my accommodation before I exploring the city.

The rain had stopped upon my arrival to the hotel and I had never felt more grateful to be where I was when I entered my room because look at the view I had.

And no, I didn’t sell a kidney to afford this – it was £50 for my 3-day stay in KL.

As I stood in awe of the view, the feeling of a new life had finally sunk in. I was no longer a drive away from home or at arm’s length of my friends and family but, while scary, it made it all the more exciting. To be in a new place, where no one knew me and I knew no one, it felt refreshing and freeing.

However, I did happen meet another solo traveller, later on my trip, where I was staying even though it wasn’t a hostel full of other budding solo-ers. It was a nice change of pace where we saw the Paloma bridge as it transcended into the evening – mainly because we were stuck there as they were filming a commercial for Malaysia’s independence day. 

During my short stay I actually managed to see a lot of Kuala Lumpur, more than the average I’d say. Whether that was the result of the typical asian tourist that resides within me coming to life as I relentlessly try to see every sight; or the adrenaline rush from experiencing solo travelling for the first time but, I had the privilege to see the River of life, Thean Hou Temple and Merdeka Square alongside the main popular attractions: the Petronas towers and the Batu Caves.

Don’t get me wrong, I managed to see and do a lot more than what I have mentioned as surprisingly, you get a lot more things done by yourself – that’s what I found anyway.

If you happen to go to Kuala Lumpur, which I’m sure you will do if you’re on exchange in Singapore, I would recommend going to ‘Central Market’. An indoor market full of different independent stalls, it is the perfect place to find souvenirs and trinkets to take back home.

Speaking of home, in search of local Malaysian snacks in the market I was suddenly distracted by a voice from one stall, speaking in my native language – Tagalog. Usually, I would keep walking but, out of curiosity I went in. As I perused around the snack filled shop, a lovely lady came to help me find what I was looking for and even let me try them before I decided all while speaking Tagalog. But in this case, when I mean speaking I mean she just kept saying different phrases in Tagalog and wasn’t actually full sentences. Nonetheless, it was nice to find familiarity in an unfamiliar environment.

One thing about me, I am a massive foodie and will always try local food. And that I did. I had the likes of Roti Canai, Teh Tarik, Nasi Lemak, Kaya Toast, and more during my trip. I think food is one of the best ways to learn about culture as it reflects the history and tradition that have been developed overtime, alongside cultural exchange and influence, bundled into something you can devour. 

Although this might not have been the kind of solo trip many expect or see, as it’s not full of crazy stories and wild moments, I would say it’s just as fun and fulfilling if not, more. I finally realised why so many people solo travel – I learnt so much about myself. To truly spend quality time with myself and my thoughts, fully learning what it means to be alone but not lonely. It brought me more confidence than what I already had as it made me feel more comfortable within myself – it even made me approach strangers to take a picture of me – despite being humbly rejected one time. 

Travelling alone is scary, only if you let it scare you. Solo travelling is safer than you think, especially if you’re prepared, and there will always be someone to help you if you’re in need. Once you push through this fear, the growth you are about to go through will be the most rewarding as you divulge outside of your comfort zone.

So, if you’re thinking of traveling but have no one to go with, what are you waiting for? Go by yourself! Why waste time waiting for others when you can see for yourself and at your own pace.