A solo trip for my 29th birthday taught me to prioritize joy

Friends were unavailable for my 29th birthday, so I booked my first solo trip to an all-inclusive in Cancún. I didn't want to pause my happiness just because other people were busy, and the decision ended up being exactly what I needed. The first day felt awkward.

It was my first time traveling outside the US in 24 years, and small tasks like going through immigration and speaking limited Spanish felt new. A fellow guest and a hostess noticed I was alone and I felt self-conscious, but by the time my chicken fajitas and tres leches cake arrived I was happy to eat and listen to the waterfall in the courtyard.

Being at an all-inclusive meant I could set my own itinerary: sleep until noon, order room service late, join a morning sip-and-paint, or take a spontaneous swim after doing my hair and makeup. Those choices felt guilt-free because I wasn't responsible for anyone else.

solo trip, 29th birthday, cancún, all-inclusive, immigration, spanish, chicken fajitas, tres leches, room service, sip-and-paint