Solo travel isn't just for backpackers on gap years anymore. Whether you're retired, newly single, or happily married, the world has some incredible opportunities for solo adventurers.
To shed light on this exciting trend and help you take your first steps on your very own adventure, I sat down for a Q&A with a solo travel veteran Katie Burgess for some invaluable tips and advice on getting your solo journey in motion.
Q: Why travel solo?
A: Solo travel is booming and that's not just because people have to travel solo but want to!
Travelling by yourself is all about feeling a sense of liberation! It's a chance to boost your confidence in all aspects of your life (not just on holiday).
You embark on a journey of self-discovery and connect with fellow travellers and locals in ways you never imagined. Plus, you have the freedom to explore the world or simply relax on your timetable in your style.
Life's short and people are less willing to compromise on their own personal travel hit lists. If your partner or friends don't want to go, just do it yourself! Thousands of others are.
Q: How does solo travel differ from travelling with others?
A: When you travel solo, you're the captain of your ship. You decide where to go, when to go, and what to do without having to consider anyone else's preferences. If this sounds selfish or overindulgent, you don't give yourself enough me-time.
Solo travel offers you the ultimate form of freedom and flexibility, which we rarely experience in our day-to-day lives.
Q: Any practical tips for first-time solo travellers?
A: Start small with short breaks to ease into it. Maybe an easy trip to a UK city, then build up your confidence with a trip overseas.
I always recommend pre-booking tours and excursions before you arrive. This avoids being indecisive, which paves the way to doubting yourself and negative thought patterns. Get yourself on a tour, and you'll just go. Plus, you're going to meet like-minded travellers with similar interests.
Another good idea is to travel during low or shoulder seasons (i.e. not peak season) to get the best hotel and tour deals and avoid solo supplements.
Q: What exactly is a solo supplement?
A: Ah, the dreaded solo supplement! It's an additional fee charged by hotels for solo travellers occupying a room alone. But don't worry—many travel providers offer tours without solo supplements, so you can explore without breaking the bank.
Q: How about joining tours as a solo traveller?
A: Group tours are a fantastic way to see the world and step out of your comfort zone. Not only do they provide structure and safety, but they also offer opportunities to forge lifelong friendships and create unforgettable memories.
I have two clients that I booked separately for a tour in Bali. I was able to connect them pre-trip and arrange for them to share a room, and they totally hit it off. They have now become regular travel companions!
Q: Dining alone—any tips?
A: Dining solo is more common than you think. Bring a book or tablet for company, or sit at the bar and strike up a conversation with the bartender.
Take a jacket, scarf of sunglasses with you to claim the table. Again, a book is really handy for this!
Q: Safety tips for solo travellers?
A: This is a big worry for many of the solo travellers. Here are a few suggestions for reducing risk.
If you are concerned about someone's intentions when approached, don't admit you are alone, tell them you are on the way to meet your partner or friend, etc. This can help get rid of unwanted attention.
Consider carrying a personal alarm and pre-book transportation from the airport to your hotel for added peace of mind.
Plus, booking with a Not Just Travel Consultant means you're never alone as the are just a WhatsApp away.
Want to hear more about solo travel?
Join us for a personal journey as Cici Coleman, best known as a waitress on Channel 4's beloved series First Dates, joins us on The Travel Podcast to share her incredible solo travel adventures.
Cici unveils inspiring tales of transforming heartbreak into holiday heaven through solo adventures. So brace yourself for an intimate conversation filled with poignant moments and uplifting insights into the liberating power of solo travel.
Ready to embark on your solo adventure?
Whether you're itching to explore new horizons or reconnect with yourself, solo travel offers endless possibilities.
I'll be your dedicated guide for booking and travelling solo for the first time. I/we I can tailor the whole trip around you, your personal preferences and your confidence levels. From transport hotels (helping you avoid those pesky solo supplements) and pre-arranging excursions, just like Katie mentioned.
If you’re interested in tours and excursions, I'll can help you decide which is the right one for you. There are all sorts of tours to choose from, like ones where you’ll travel with other solos, ones dedicated to culture, history and the arts, or tours focused more on socialising. Whatever you’re looking for, I'll will find the right option for you.
So, contact Me, and let's start planning your next great adventure—solo style!
