Table for One: The Joys and Woes of Solo Travel

Brittany Proctor
Jan 10, 2018
5 min read

Solo travel is one of those things that people tend to have very firm, strong opinions about. They either love it, hate it, or are terrified to death of trying it. I'm often amused by some of the reactions I get from other travelers when I am solo. It's usually something like, "Oh, my goodness! Are you traveling by yourself? I could NEVER do that!" or "You're so brave for coming this far from home on your own." Alternatively, there are also cases where I meet other fellow solo travelers who totally get it and are always excited to swap adventure stories. Personally, I don't judge either way. Solo travel isn't necessarily for everyone, and I completely understand both sides. As with anything in life, there are pros and cons, but for me, the thrilling anticipation of a new destination far supersedes the fear of the unknown. So, for those of you who may be considering solo travel, but are still a little apprehensive, maybe my personal list of joys and woes can help you along.

Let's start with the "woes." It's usually preferable to start with the bad news, and get it out of the way.

Woes of Solo Travel

1. "B!$@#, Better Have My Money!"

Let's just be honest. One of the best things about traveling with family and friends is the ability to share the expenses, right? Okay, maybe not the best thing. There's quality time with loved ones, sharing new experiences, blah blah blah. But, we can't deny that splitting the check(s) is a major perk to group travel. However, when going solo, just be prepared to carry the weight of those travel costs on your own. This doesn't affect every aspect of your trip, because airfare and excursions are quoted per person anyway. Where you may feel it most is having no one with whom to split accommodations (Airbnb or hotel rate), taxi and Uber rides, 2 for 1 happy hour specials, etc. You get it. Don't let that stop you though! After your first few trips, you'll quickly learn how to cut those costs doing things like taking the subway when it's available or finding clean, yet cheap, hostels to rent for the night. There's always a way.

2. "Selfie Stick, Anyone?"

Unless you're a super fancy blogger or a model who travels with your own personal photographer (which I am not), capturing your memories can become a tad more difficult when going solo. This just means you'll have to get more creative. If you left your selfie stick at home, learn how to work your angles and maneuver your selfie arm. Or, prop your phone up on a stable surface, and put that camera timer to good use. It'll almost look like an actual person took it! The other option is to get comfortable with asking strangers to take your picture. I've never had anyone be mean enough to refuse or to run off with my phone. Not yet, anyway. LoL!

3. "Table for One"

Lastly, of course, it can be lonely at times, if I'm being frank. When you're super busy and on the move, you hardly even think about those of whom you left behind to take this trip. You're more worried about catching the next train or getting a good meal. But, then, you have that once in a lifetime, bucket list moment where you're staring out at Machu Picchu or climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and all you can think about is that person (or persons) who you wish was standing next to you to share this awe-inspiring experience. I can't lie. It happens all the time, but I just look at it as another reason to come to this place again. Next time, with the people I love.

Photo taken at Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia.

Now, on to what makes solo travel so damn exciting! Most of it is pretty self-explanatory, so I'll keep it short and sweet.

Joys of Solo Travel

1. "Do You"

There is an exhilarating freedom that comes with doing what you want, when you want, and how you want that is rarely experienced when traveling in groups or with family and friends. You choose the excursions. You choose the tours. You choose the restaurants. You choose the bars. You choose EVERYTHING, and without the input of anyone else.

2. "Don't Be Tardy for the Party"

Move at your own pace! With your freedom comes the ability to move as quickly or as slowly as you'd like. Take an extra hour of sleep in the morning, or skip that section of the museum you don't really care about. Leave super early for that pub crawl, and be the first one in line if you want. When you're on your own, everything happens when and how you decide. And, as much as we love our friends and travel buddies, there is always one in every group who makes the squad late. Avoid all of that with a solo trip.

3. "Me Time"

Even if they're not willing to admit it, every person has the occasional need to escape from day-to-day life to be alone, decompress, read a book, take a nap, get a massage, etc. Do it! And, enjoy it. Be in that moment because it belongs to you. If you don't enjoy your own company, why should anyone else?

4. "Stranger Things"

Making new friends along the journey is always a plus. Turn strangers into pals, especially your fellow solo travelers. People typically feel inclined to converse with solo travelers as they tend to think we're lonely or hungry for conversation and comradery. In many cases, we may be, but yes, there are times when you just want to sit alone at a bar unbothered. If you're traveling alone and looking for a good way to meet new friends and locals, I suggest: joining a tour group, going on a local pub crawl, booking a private excursion or activity with a local through Airbnb Experiences, and reaching out to travel organizations/social media groups who may have members living in or visiting your destination at the same time. One of the best solo experiences I've had with a local was my private cycling tour in Manly Beach, Australia with a man named Richard. He was extremely kind and very knowledgeable about the area's history. It was such a great day! I've only recently started using Airbnb Experiences, but I highly recommend them. Find a highly rated tour, and get to know the locals and other adventurers in your city.

Photos taken at Manly Beach, Australia.

5. "Immersion without Distraction"

This, in my opinion, is the most beautiful part of solo travel. Solo trips afford you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the culture and the experiences without worrying about the interests or concerns of others. Take advantage of this time! It will totally transform your journey and give it more meaning than you even knew was possible.