If you've traveled on your own, you know it can be an incredible experience. Solo Travel allows you to travel at your own pace, experience new cultures and make friends with locals. But that could also be a challenge. When you travel alone, you can become a little lonely.
Riviera Travel expert Wiltherson has revealed six top tips to beat loneliness and make the most of your solo travel adventure. He states: “Whether you're a missing friend or family, it's important to know what to do to navigate these feelings to make the most of your trip.”
His first tip is to make sure you plan your activities, from a day at the beach to a guided tour.
Will said: “When enjoying a solo holiday, it's important to plan ahead, arrange fun activities to attract yourself and avoid feeling alone.
“Small tour groups are a better option for solo travelers. Many holiday packages are designed with this in mind to ensure that people traveling alone are not overwhelmed or lost in the crowd.”
It is also important not to be afraid to talk to locals or other travelers. Even if it's nerve wrapping, it's worth opening a conversation – you never know what you might learn.
Will said: “Take that first step and you're more likely to establish a strong connection and make lifelong friends.
“Conversing with people from different countries, backgrounds and cultures can broaden our understanding of the world. Solo holidays are intended to enrich, and meeting new people is one of the factors that influence this. Choosing specially made cruises and tours with solo travelers means traveling with other solo travelers.
The most challenging time for loneliness is night – if you were exploring all day, you might not have had the time to feel it. If you feel unwell when the sun sets, try dedication downtime. You might find good books and podcasts to lose yourself, or take a walk around your local area.
Will said: “I believe it is very important to plan downtime in the evening. To avoid long nights without anything to do – it naturally increases boredom and loneliness.”
If you've booked your first solo holiday and are a little nervous about it, we recommend booking it with a tour group exclusively for Solo Travelers.
He states: “These trips include thoughtfully planned itineraries designed to keep solo travelers engaged and connected with others. For example, the first night welcome dinner gives travelers the opportunity to meet fellow solo travelers.
“Solo trips no longer meant compromise on accommodation, as many operators offer spacious rooms or providing double cabins for participants on cruises and providing all the comfort of group and family holidays.”
If you book a busy schedule, take the time for yourself, try to join a tour group and make friends, but still try to feel those pains, don't be afraid to pick up the phone and call home. “Checking in overseas will help people feel comfortable. Social media is a great way to stay in touch during a solo trip, while also helping friends and family know you're safe.”
Will's final tip is simple – just accept it and enjoy it. “There's not much you can enjoy your own holiday, so my best advice is to accept it, learn from experience, and do your best to enjoy it!
