Direction (Qs.1 to 10): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below it. Certain words are given in bold to help you locate them while answering some of the questions.

Some people shy away from travelling alone, a few embrace it. So, what is it that makes it an attractive option? What are the advantages of going it alone? Well first things first, travelling solo can be very liberating. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are yours and yours alone. You don’t need to worry about any other person or group. In other words, there’s no need to compromise, there are no arguments, and no need to second-guess what other people want or need. Actually, you can be completely selfish. Travelling alone is also a great confidence builder. Yes, at times it can feel a bit lonely, but that is just one of many problems you will have to solve yourself, along with making your own arrangements, and setting your own goals.

Have you noticed that when you’re on your own, people are more willing to start a conversation with you? You’re more likely to take the initiative as well, and before you know it, up pops an invitation for a meal, a side trip, a stay at someone’s home. For some odd reason people keep a slight distance from couples and groups, probably because they seem so self-contained and exclusive. Whereas the lone traveller looks ready to connect with their fellow human beings, and more likely to engage in pleasant conversation and simple exchanges about their travels. Putting it simply, lone travellers look interesting.

Here are two more exciting reasons why you should consider travelling solo: You will find you learn language faster when you don’t have someone else talking to you in your own language all the time.  It’s funny, but we interact, are forced to interact much more frequently when we travel alone in a country that doesn’t speak our native tongue. If that doesn’t convince you, there is the chance for adventure and even romance. When you’re on your own you’re free to meet someone who might turn out to be very important in your life. The most important factor to consider in your decision to make a trip alone is your own sense of independence. If you find that you have little tolerance for the idiosyncrasies of others, or you don’t get how group dynamics work, you might be happier travelling alone. Of course, there may be things holding you back: Fear of the unknown, or maybe you have a spouse, relative or friend who may be upset by your decision to take off by yourself, you will have to convince them of the value of travelling alone and allay any fears they might have, but with the technology at our fingertips, you can include them in the adventure.