Lessons from My Solo Travels in 2024 as a Nigerian Mom living in Spain

Solo travel has always been my reset button. As a Nigerian mom living in Spain, balancing motherhood, self-care, and my love for adventure isn’t always easy. Back home, I had help at my beck and call, making it easier to move around. But living abroad, I don’t have that same immediate support system.

Instead of taking long trips, I’ve adjusted my travel style. Most times, I go on weekend solo trips—Thursday to Sunday—because I know my partner can help with the kids during that time. A few times a year, I get to take a longer trip for about five days. It’s not always easy, but I make it work, and for that, I’m grateful.

Looking back at my 2024 travels, I’ve had incredible experiences, faced challenges, and picked up valuable lessons that have reshaped the way I see travel, life, and even myself.

1. The Freedom in Traveling at My Own Pace

• Traveling solo means I get to decide my itinerary. No waiting, no compromises, just moving at my own rhythm.

• Some of my best travel memories happened when I wandered aimlessly—finding hidden gems instead of following a strict schedule.

Lesson learned: It’s okay to slow down and take in the moment instead of rushing to tick places off a list.

2. The Challenges of Being a Nigerian Solo Traveler in Europe

• Let’s be real—being a Black woman traveling solo in some parts of the world comes with stares and curiosity. Sometimes it’s harmless, sometimes it’s uncomfortable.

• I’ve had moments where people asked where I was from in a way that made me feel like I didn’t belong.

• But instead of feeling out of place, I’ve learned to own my identity with confidence and use those moments as opportunities to educate and connect.

Lesson learned: Representation matters, and every trip I take helps break stereotypes about who gets to travel the world.

3. How Travel Has Taught Me to Be More Present

• This year, I made a conscious effort to disconnect more—less scrolling, more observing, more journaling.

• Sitting in a café in Riga, watching people go about their day, reminded me that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about feeling them.

Lesson learned: Sometimes, the best part of a trip isn’t the destination but the little moments we allow ourselves to truly experience.

4. The Guilt of Leaving My Kids & How I’ve Overcome It

• Every trip comes with a little guilt. Should I be here, or should I be at home?

• But I’ve come to realise that taking time for myself makes me a better mom.

• My solo travels allow me to return home more energised, more patient, and more present for my family.

Lesson learned: You can love your kids deeply and still take time for yourself.

5. Choosing Experiences Over Things: How I Save for Travel

• Instead of splurging on material things, I prioritise experiences over stuff.

• I have a separate travel savings account where I put aside a certain amount regularly.

Lesson learned: Prioritising experiences over material things brings long-term joy.

6. Staying Safe & Being Conscious While Traveling

• I always keep my bag in front of me, never leave my drink unattended, and trust my instincts if something feels off.

• I map out my routes before heading out, especially at night.

Lesson learned: Enjoying travel is important, but staying safe is just as crucial.

Looking back, every trip I took in 2024 has taught me something—about myself, about the world, and about what truly matters. Traveling solo as a Nigerian woman and a mom isn’t always easy, but it’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done for myself.

📌 What’s a lesson you’ve learned from traveling? Let’s chat in the comments!