I used to be so scared of going unknown places by myself! The first day of school each year was the worst. As I got older, I experienced some solo travel experiences, and grew to love traveling on my own. In this episode, I interview Joyce, an amazing client of mine who cruises solo 2-3 times per year. She shares some great insight and advice for traveling solo.
My conversation with Joyce
Q: Why do you like traveling as a single?
Joyce: I like the fact that I have the room to myself, and I do what I want when I want.
You guys! This is so fun! You can sleep on whatever side of the bed you want, or right in the middle. You can watch whatever you want on TV. Sleep in or wake up early. Setting your own schedule is amazing.
Q: Do you have anything you do to make it fun?
Joyce: I meet and talk to people. I socialize and then go get lots of sleep, and start over again.
Joyce is so good at making friends everywhere she goes. She just starts talking to the people around her, and before you know it, they’re talking about future cruises and the possibility of meeting up on the next one!
Whether you’re naturally social or not, it’s fun to get to know other travelers, find out where they’re from, and connect a little bit.
Q: Do you have any tips or advice for someone traveling solo?
Joyce: Just be themselves and socialize with other people.
That’s great advice! Enjoy being by yourself, and when others are around, enjoy being with them.
Q: Is it fun to cruise as a single?
Joyce: Absolutely, I actually prefer it.
Like I mentioned, Joyce has traveled with others in the past, but especially now that she’s cruised solo, she prefers it. For her, it’s just the right combination of independence and socializing.
Q: Anything else you can think of?
Joyce: It costs more, but it's worth the peace of mind, and having the whole cabin to yourself to unwind and relax after a shore excursion and also on the sea.
Joyce is such a great example to me of someone who loves life! She’s not afraid to explore and find destinations she loves. She’s been to some incredible places all over the world, and even in previously-visited locations, she loves discovering new itineraries.
What types of trips are best for solo traveling?
While any trip can be fun as a single, I highly recommend those with a planned itinerary. This is why cruising works so well for Joyce. She decides which cruises she wants to take based on destinations, itineraries, and days at sea.
Guided land tours are also fabulous for singles. You can be with and enjoy fellow travelers, while still maintaining your own independence when you want. You have the security of being in a group, combined with the freedom to explore and experience the destination however feels best for you. Some trips are designed specifically for groups of single travelers, which adds an extra element of fun!