Solo but Never Alone
Though daunting at first, going solo can quickly become your preferred way to travel.
"Do whatever you want then". With the words from my rapidly departing (former) travel companion, a whole world of independent travel opened up to me.
True, a fight probably wasn’t the best way to launch into solo mode, but without that push I may have never had the courage to strike out on my own. So really, I won that round.
Travelling on your own can be intimidating. But those who’ve taken the plunge will often continue to go it alone.
It’s exhilarating because every single day is yours to go where you want and do what you want. I find my senses are more heightened to experiences, perhaps because they have to be.
Koral Hrominchuk - Solo Travel Pro and Senior Tour Director at WestWorld Tours,
Thinking it’s time for your first solo trip?
Here’s some advice.
Do it your way
As a parent, your trips might revolve around kid-friendly activities. On your own? You’re nobody’s chaperone. Your partner has dietary restrictions... but by yourself? Eat whatever you want! Go solo and nobody else’s needs or preferences are your problem—and that can be a vacation in itself. It’s time to put you first.
Start small
First time out? Keep it simple.
Try a short trip, maybe to somewhere you’ve already been. Or try this: take a few days apart from your travel companion—go where you want, do what you want—before meeting up again.
Think Safety
Set up regular check-ins with someone at home or at your hotel and share your itinerary. Giving the impression that someone is waiting for you makes you seem less vulnerable to bad actors. Don’t be a conspicuous target for robbery—forget the flashy jewellery and be discreet with cash.
Alone but not lonely
A group tour can be a revelatory solution, balancing solo travel with social support.
Travelling solo in a group often appeals to people who do not normally travel alone, but still want to get out there. In a group, a solo traveller has the option to participate in extra activities on their own or with someone in the group, which can be particularly great during mealtime.
Lois Sarkisian -Group Tours Manager at Journeys by CAA Niagara
Get expert tips
AMA Travel Advisor Tammy Allen suggests speaking to one of their agents who specialize in solo travel.
We can find the best value for our solo travellers, and can make recommendations to help ease stress and anxiety.
Koral Hrominchuk - Solo Travel Pro and Senior Tour Director at WestWorld Tours,
For example, she suggests eating at the bar or counter, rather than a table, to encourage conversation with a local or a fellow traveller.
The number one tip for solo travel though, is just take the leap and go. You don’t even have to fight to do it.
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