Solo travel can be one of the most exciting ways to discover a place, an eye-opening and rewarding adventure that will surely transform you. The statistics of increase in solo travel speak volumes about the growing popularity of this phenomenon. Yet, it can also be lonely and challenging at times, which is why it’s a good idea to plan ahead and choose the destination well. If you’ve ever had the eagerness to get out of your comfort zone and travel solo, 2023 might just be the year to do it, and we share some tips for you to keep in mind to make it an unforgettable experience.

 

Planning a trip alone can be both exciting and intimidating, and the key to an enjoyable one is planning ahead. Make sure you consider all aspects of your travels, as this will help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable journey. Deciding where to go is the first step when planning a solo trip. With so many options available, you might want to start by picking one from your bucket list (we know you have one!). Research the destination and read up on the political situation, any important tips, or warnings that may be issued for your safety, as well as the required budget.

 

Social media and blog posts are great for posting questions and comments, as well as connect with other people who may have done it before. A tip for picking a destination, especially for your first solo travel, is to pick a place that is familiar enough for you to feel at ease but still challenging enough to be an awe-inspiring experience, for example a country where locals speak the same language, a city within your same home-country, a wellness retreat (increasing in popularity with solo women travelers) or even a one day tour to a nearby town is a good idea.

 

One of the perks of traveling alone is that you have total freedom to customize your itinerary and thus explore your unique personality. You can make plans directly related to your interests, likes, timings and budget which will in turn result in an enjoyable experience. Taking this into account, when it comes to deciding on a destination make sure to pick one that suits your needs and where there are in fact activities relevant to you available.

 

If you still need some ideas, some countries that have been praised by solo travelers (yes, we did the research for you) are: Iceland, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Spain, Japan, Ireland, Vietnam, Thailand, Greece, Portugal, Guatemala and Mexico. What these places have in common are the great food, lots of culture and sightseeing opportunities, great nightlife, other tourists you can meet and hang out with and friendly locals. Within each country there are better and safer cities than others, so research accordingly (For example in Mexico San Miguel de Allende is a great spot).

 

Once you choose the city or cities you plan to visit, book your accommodation. Ensure that it meets a good standard of quality, as this is a prime ingredient for an enjoyable trip! Since you’ll be alone most of the time, don’t forget to read reviews about the safety of the location, especially at night, and check if the hotel has a bar, restaurant or any organized activities that might make it easier to meet people.

 

A fear of going on a trip with no company is the possibility of feeling lonely and bored, but that need not be the case. One of the best reasons to plan that solo trip is to meet new people, as cliché as that might sound. Being a solo traveler can be intimidating, but there are so many other travelers just like you who will be looking for a chance to blend in with other solo travelers, plus don’t forget the locals. You can book a day tour for places that are a little harder to reach on your own and meet people there, connect with others in Facebook expat groups for the city you’re in, or even chat up someone at a café. Many times, someone you know from back home might know a local, so ask that friend to connect you before you arrive so that you can organize plans for the dates of your visit. It might sound easier for extroverts, but introverts can do it, too. If you don’t feel like chatting up people all the time, carrying a book or a journal is always a great idea to read or write during a solo lunch or coffee shop break, or even just browsing through your phone.

 

Remember that one of the perks for going solo is that you can change plans anytime without having to consult with anyone else, so even though you might be tempted to have absolutely all activities planned out (whether because you’re used to it or simply because you’re nervous about going solo) remember to leave a little room for surprises. Going off itinerary (always safely, of course) will allow you to involve yourself in the culture and customs of the place in a much deeper way.

 

As a solo traveler, especially if you’re a woman, always keep safety in mind. Research the local laws and customs before embarking on your journey, from photography permissions to interactions with the opposite sex. Also make sure someone back home knows your itinerary, plans and accommodation details. If possible, get a local sim card so you have a connection at all times in case you need to call someone in an emergency and carry a portable battery to avoid running out of battery. As a plus, it’s also nice to be able to check maps and opening hours, find restaurants and boutiques, check currency conversion or simply explore attractions around you. A travel insurance policy is always worth considering, as well, because it provides financial protection against unforeseen circumstances while traveling. Lastly, have the embassy or consulate’s contact information handy, as they will help you if needed.

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