Solo Travel: How to Venture Out On Your Own
The two statements I hear most often tether between the following. “I wish I could travel solo, I don’t think it's for me. I’m going to start traveling solo like you, I’m tired of waiting for others.” I contemplated both statements through my travel experience, which eventually led me here. I attribute taking the solo travel lifestyle initially to my career. What began as a 3-5 work trip to Atlanta, Las Vegas, or Houston eventually led to becoming more and more comfortable with solo dinners, navigating travel itineraries, striking up conversations with strangers, and basking in solitude. Solo travel is a rewarding part of the self-discovery journey.
Like many others, I only had 10 vacation days per year at the beginning of my career. I occasionally asked friends if they were interested in an impromptu weekday or weekend trip during my work travels. Frequently, this wasn’t an option due to the short notice and schedule conflicts. Our schedules often won’t always align with our inner circle, work commitments, or reserving vacation days for potentially sick kids is sometimes needed. At times, it’s a challenge to reserve time for oneself. Solo travel, whether for a few days or weeks, is a gift of time and energy back to you.
Perhaps travel is not required for your profession, or you haven’t traveled that often. Where do you start? My first recommendation to anyone interested in solo travel is to begin with intentional acts while continuously pushing your limits. I want you to become comfortable with yourself in social settings and not just a visit to the local coffee shop. Make a reservation and take yourself on a date to a nice restaurant. Enjoy a staycation in your favorite hotel in your city or visit a local festival. It may be a little awkward initially, but eventually, it becomes a little more familiar and comfortable. Solo travel isn’t a replacement for traveling with family & friends, which can be amazing. Nor do you have to prefer solo travel over traveling with others. It’s an option worth exploring because of the endless possibilities.
It’s understandable why someone may have reservations about solo travel abroad. Different cultural & societal norms, languages, religion, food, etc. it’s a lot of change in a relatively short time. For your first solo trip, let’s begin with a 3-5 day trip to an international destination. I also want you to consider what may align best with your comfort level and travel style. An all-inclusive spa resort or cruise may be a great first solo travel option if you seek familiarity or convenience options for your day-to-day activities. Conversely, a total immersion experience into another culture, language, cuisine, and people may be the solo trip of your dreams. Don’t forget to re-visit your favorite destinations even if you have previously visited with family & friends. The destination may not be new to you, but you’re guaranteed to make more discoveries and memories.
The solo travel spectrum is broad and not exclusive to hiking in a remote part of the world. Of course, your experience and exposure to another culture & people will vary greatly with an all-inclusive resort versus surfing in Peru. Whether it’s your 1st or 100th solo trip, you have many options to explore throughout your lifetime. If you are a naturally introverted person, like me, solo traveling may surprise you. You may discover new parts of yourself as you leave your comfort zone and become a little more vulnerable to the world and the people in it.
What are some practical tips for a more extended stay, international solo trip?
Safety is always the top priority. There is a delicate balance between sharing with strangers and remaining private for safety reasons. Have your story ready if you have an inquisitive taxi driver or flight passenger. Create an alias. You’re visiting family or traveling for work. Share what makes you comfortable, even if that’s nothing at all.
Learn common phrases and cultural norms of your destination. Never underestimate the power of this intentional act to create a more enjoyable experience and meaningful bonds with people.
If you want a little company for dinner, sign up for a walking tour, dinner tour, or activity the day you arrive or within 24 hours. There’s always a new opportunity to meet a traveler buddy for a few hours or days.
Social media is your best search engine. Many businesses, especially restaurants, will update hours of service or temporary closings on their social media accounts faster compared to their website.
Travel to another country for a play, concert, or art exhibit. It’s such a fantastic experience, and you are bound to cross paths with people with similar interests.
Explore your network. Ask friends or co-workers if they have visited the destination before. You may even have the chance to meet a mutual friend there for lunch or dinner.
Private Driver. This option can offer additional security and comfort if you arrive or depart exceptionally early in the morning or late at night. If your destination is far from the airport, hire a private driver. Whether it costs more or less, it’s worth it.