It is intimidating at first. What to do when there is no conversation, no one to make eye contact with? A feeling comes over me, like being that kid who is sitting at the lunchroom table alone, head cast down in shame.
But if one can look past all this, and simply start to observe the situation, we can start to notice some patterns: 1) The couple who are not much quieter than yourself 2) Girls (or guys) lost in deep conversation 3) Parents trying to contain the food mess which their kids are rapidly creating Are any of these people staring, or feeling sorry for me? At the end of the day, we are the ones who feel sorry for ourselves, for some unknown reason. So, the perks of eating alone: 1) People treat you nicer: So maybe they do feel sorry, but use this to your advantage! When was the last time the server smiled and asked you more than just how you were? 2) Food comes faster, and overall service is faster: Aside from the obvious reason that your friends' food is not holding up yours, and vice versa, you make up your mind quickly about menu choice (or take your time to make it seem like you are there to stay awhile!) 3) You can think more clear, and plan: This is a good time during traveling to find things to do, book hostels (granted there is Wifi), catch up with friends, emails, ect. Things that are typically not possible, nor polite, during conversation with someone. I personally like to reflect in a travel journal, jot down cool things and places I have seen, and shoot off a few emails so people know I am okay) 4) You are the master of your universe, and others can see that you are not scared to eat alone: Be fearless, people watch, and order something you have never tried before! Having said all this...Here are some tips: -Chose restaurants that are busy, this helping you to blend into the crowd -Bar seats are ideal for lone diners, giving you private space and if you are lucky, a good direction in which to people watch -Start up a conversation with another lone diner... Who knows, you could be soul mates, or friends for life! Overall, if you haven't tried it, try it! And if you have been taking food "To Go" back to your hotel or dorm, then brave the restaurant or public kitchen! Feel comfortable in your own skin, and your own mind.
1 Comment
SS
10/12/2015 11:12:07 am
Glad you are experiencing it! I have been doing that for a while now, haha! I have even braved up enough to dress up nice (dress shirt, dress pants and dress shoes) and go to a restaurant like Teatro in Calgary by myself! Sometimes I have been asked weird questions, but, overall, it has been good.
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