Go Your Own Way: How to Travel Solo

Choose Your Destination Wisely

The list of places to see seems endless. And when you’re alone, you can go wherever you want. One of the most important factors to keep in mind is safety; you want to be able to relax and enjoy your trip. Research the country’s travel infrastructure and language before you go. Consider travelling somewhere that is used to receiving tourists, which usually makes it easier to get around, find accommodations and meet other travellers. Assess how comfortable you’ll be in a place where you don’t know the language and find out if the locals are known for being friendly and helpful. Take advantage of resources—an experienced CAA Travel Consultant can provide valuable advice. First-time solo travellers might consider joining a guided trip: all arrangements, like hotels and transit, are taken care of and it’s a great way to meet people.

Connect with Fellow Travellers

Making friends isn’t always easy. While you’re away, get involved in activities that you enjoy to meet people with the same interests. As the saying goes, birds of a feather flock together. If exercise is your thing, join a running group or drop into a local yoga studio. Love art? Check out a gallery opening. Walking tours, pub-crawls and language classes make it easy to strike up a conversation with other travellers. Staying at a bed and breakfast or in a hostel means you can interact with others in common rooms and over meals. If you’re not comfortable meeting strangers while abroad, try connecting with travellers before you leave: join a solo travel group or an online forum.

Beware of Single Supplements

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to pay more to travel on your own with a travel service. Many of the bargain vacation packages that you see advertised online are exclusive to double occupancies. Before you book a solo trip, ensure that you read the fine print. Look for travel companies that don’t charge extra to those travelling by themselves, especially if you’re willing to share a room with another traveller.

When you travel by yourself, it’s even more important to keep yourself entertained on long flights, bus rides and down time. Make sure you have the right gadgets for music, movies and books for your next adventure.