It’s been a couple of years since I began solo traveling, and in that time I’ve taken numerous adventurous trips around the world. My journeys are usually packed with sightseeing and tours and - to be honest - aren’t very relaxing, but that’s part of what makes going solo feel less lonely and more purposeful. Or so I thought.

Until recently, I had never considered going on a true solo vacation: the kind where you lay by the pool and order room service and just hang out. In my mind, the term vacation implies relaxation (I usually think of my adventurous journeys as “travels” - does anyone else think this way?) and I always assumed that a vacation-style trip would be lonely for the solo traveler. But when Grand Velas Los Cabos invited me to spend a few days at their luxury all inclusive resort in Mexico, one quick look at their website had me responding with an enthusiastic, “yes, please!” It was time to see if a beach vacation alone was something I would enjoy.

The biggest surprise was how different the pace of a relaxing solo vacation felt compared to an adventurous solo trip. There was no stress. No worrying about how I was going to get across town to sightsee or where I would find dinner. I was staying at one place that had it all, and the whole purpose of the experience was to just chill. I never realized that when traveling alone on more adventurous itineraries, my mind is so preoccupied with navigating new cities and making sure I’m not forgetting anything (luggage, passport, tickets, etc.) that there really isn’t any downtime for my brain to just unplug and recharge. I usually arrive home feeling pretty exhausted.

But in Cabo, I enjoyed drinks and tacos by the pool, a fantastic hydrotherapy and massage experience at the spa, exquisite dining (there were five gourmet restaurants on site - one with a two star Michelin chef), and of course, those dreamy pink Cabo sunsets from the beach. The downtime soothed the soul and recharged me. I got to do whatever I wanted, when I wanted. There were no alarms to be set or places to be on time. And without having someone there to preoccupy me with conversation, the silence became an opportunity to reflect and check in with myself… or close my eyes by the pool and check out for a little while.

I’m now a fan of the solo vacation. I think everyone has something to gain from some alone time in a stress-free zone. And if you’re looking for a fantastic Los Cabos all inclusive resort, I couldn’t recommend Grand Velas enough. Everything was spectacular, from the champagne and mini-massage in the lobby on arrival to the spacious room (I had a plunge pool on my balcony!) and attentive poolside service. If you’re looking for a an especially upgraded experience (calling all honeymooners!), it’s the perfect spot. And if you’re really looking to splash out, the resort offers a $25,000 taco at one of the restaurants. Yes, you read that right. No, it’s not a giant taco. The tortilla is infused with gold flakes. CRAZY.

Have you ever been on vacation by yourself? Would you go?