Are you putting off travelling because you have no companion? There’s really no need. Today there are so many facilities that are available for anyone who chooses to travel alone. And there are, it seems, two types of solo travellers – those who prefer their privacy and solitude and, possibly more likely – those who are simply apprehensive about travelling the world on their own without companions.
Despite what we might sometimes imagine when watching TV news, travel is safer than ever. Today there is no reason why the single lone traveler needs to be concerned about travelling the world.
So many people delay their travel plans because they have no companion – such a shame. There are so many options these days for people who want to travel alone – for the introverts and the extroverts.
There are so many tour operators today that cater for the solo traveller. G Adventures is a great one. Their tours are designed for people who are travelling alone but who would like to be part of a small and select group. Feel like meeting people and socialising? Great. Want to spend time alone? Terrific. But their tours are a great way to meet like-minded people if you wish – at your own pace.
There are cycling tours, luxurious train journeys, sailing experiences, gourmet tours and plenty more so you can choose your trip according to your own hobbies and preferences. And these tours operate all over the world. For most of these you’ll be in groups of twenty people (or less) so there are many opportunities to meet new friends with interests similar to your own.
There are also some fabulous cooking vacations that the solo foodie traveller can enjoy. If you like to travel alone, but would like to spend just one day in the company of others, look for adventure and specialist days that are available in your destination – from ghost tours to wine tastings!
If you prefer to travel alone but would also like to know that you’ll not be alone in a strange place, consider a homestay using a service such as Airbnb – you’ll find several to choose from on this site. Staying in someone else’s home means that you can be alone whenever you wish but you have a helpful host on hand if you’re looking for company or local information.
Staying at hostels can be great fun too. And these are not just for the young! Today’s hostels are often wonderfully stylish and feature common areas where you can get to know other like-minded travellers. Bear in mind that in many, anyone over 39 is required to book a private room rather than a shared one. (There must be a good reason for this but it escapes me!)
In 2016, Airbnb introduced their ‘experiences’. These are offered in locations all over the world and consist of small groups (4 – 12 people usually) who are treated to an unusual day – sometimes three days – of fascinating local tours and classes. See more here. These are a great way for the solo traveller to spend time meeting other people.
For more ideas, see the related links further down the page or click here to see our growing collection of tours and destinations that are perfect for the solo traveller.
ARTICLE BY:
Jackie
JJ is originally from the UK and has lived in South Florida since 1994. She is the founder and editor of JAQUO Magazine. You can connect with her using the social media icons below.