Have you thought about taking a trip alone? I’ve talked with too many people who put off their travel dreams because they don’t want to go by themselves. The prospect of going alone sounds too daunting or just not that much fun. For all sorts of reasons, you might be faced with the choice of traveling alone or not traveling at all. Your family, partner or friends may not be available to take the same time off work, or maybe they do not have the same interest in your destination.
I’ve noticed solo travels increase in the last few years since the pandemic has passed. Solo travelers and single travelers are enthusiastically venturing out to fulfill their own travel dreams.
One of the main draws of solo travel is being able to enjoy a destination on one’s on terms. Without friends or family to entertain, solo travelers can delve more deeply into the type of destinations and types of tours that intrigue them. There are many benefits to solo travel. Solo travelers have the freedom to do and go wherever they want and make travel planning decisions easier and faster, being able to explore new places at your own pace without having to wait for or catch up to travel companions. Plus, you get time to yourself to enjoy beautiful scenery, peaceful meals and an opportunity to see attractions or landmarks that interest you the most.
It’s normal to feel some apprehension or discomfort about the prospect of traveling alone, especially if you’re planning a trip to a different country where you may not know anyone. Solo travel can offer a unique chance to challenge yourself, gain independence and have an incredible adventure.
How do you start traveling alone? First decide on a destination. Have an open mind. Give it some honest thought about where you’ve always wanted to visit, discover and explore. Research and read about locations. Find a globe and give it a good spin!
More travel providers are catering to the needs and wants of single travelers. A guided tour as a solo traveler comes with great perks, including private rooms in hand-picked hotels, local experts and a tour director to handle all the details — and the company of equally curious travelers to share your journey.
There are small group guided tours designed specifically for the culturally curious and modern traveler. These tours are ideal for savvy, confident sightseers who want to connect more actively with locals abroad while building camaraderie with expert guides and fellow travelers.
Many of the European river cruises have accommodations for solo travelers and offer additional single discounts at different times during the year.
The possibilities are endless. How about a bicycle trip through a French vineyard or leisurely along the local river front? Hiking and walking tours are much better at the destination of your dreams than the treadmill at your local gym. Are you interested in history or life-learning? Are your passions along the culinary line? Maybe exploring recipes during a cooking and market tour.
Enjoy adventures beyond your comfort zone. You may find yourself learning and trying new adventures from hands-on activities to the road less traveled. All you need to get started is an open mind, a good pair of walking shoes and a passion for taking the side streets. Contact your local travel professional to help you get started on some of the travel wishes that have floated through your dreams and turn them into a new reality for you.
