I started young. And my “habit” never stopped.
I had the chance to spend a university semester abroad, shared between London and Florence. It was my first trip to a big city and abroad (Western Canada didn't really count). Even though I was part of a group of 20 students from different schools, I was alone for a week as I traveled from England to Italy. Although I made many rookie mistakes on my train journey across Europe, this semester was a true education in learning by doing.
I am independent but not antisocial. The older I get, the more I prefer “my way” of doing things. But the routine becomes too routine. The antidote ? Travel, especially solo travel.
Being in the now or never stage helps me focus my plans. (I'm 70.) To get to the places you most want to see, you may no longer be willing to wait a year or two for someone else's schedule to matches yours. But you can go it alone, even if you've spent decades as a couple.
As with any type of trip, going alone has its advantages and disadvantages. Is it good for you? Read on for tips on this way of traveling.
By solo travelI'm not talking about walking the Camino de Santiago on your own.
With age comes wisdom and some constraints. A fall can now do more damage. This is why I stopped crossing a frozen creek in Colorado last winter.
Solo means going without a boyfriend, spouse or other companion. If you're used to being in a group, being a “one group” might seem a little strange. You may also find it liberating.
If you've never traveled alone before, don't hesitate.
For example, maybe you've never camped but would like to spend more time in nature. To try glamping for a night or two in various places; options range from basic to luxury. No need to make a large investment in time and materials to see if you like sleeping in a tent.
Likewise, if you're considering a solo cruise, opt for a long weekend rather than a three-week polar expedition to get a feel for it. Many cruise ships continue to charge sometimes high individual surcharges, but there are cruise lines that don't.
You don't have to do the whole trip alone.
A good way to try going alone is to join a small group. If you don't want to be surrounded by couples, discover the tours designed for single people or for women or men only. (On my various group trips, couples are the norm.) You won't be forgotten or without someone to talk to. Although I've found that it's harder to make friends as you get older, when you're in the company of like-minded travelers, it's very easy to get to know each other and discover common interests. Maybe some of your new “friends” will stay in touch after the trip.
Also consider the size of the group. During a week, 12 to 24 people work well. A group can be too small: I spent several days with just two older couples, which made us a “group” of five. They shared countless stories about their second homes, their grandchildren and their many trips abroad. It was like a “grandparent duel” and I was on the sidelines.
Better yet: combine group travel with solo travel.
Start with a group and add days later so you can focus on your interests. This works especially well for getting used to a big foreign city. I did the opposite on my first trip to Ireland. I knew I could handle an English-speaking city the size of Dublin on my own, but I joined a group of hikers to explore the countryside. I wasn't sure my feet could handle many miles, so I opted for a “casual” trip. Once you start looking, the number and diversity of small group trips make sure you find a solution that matches your interests and abilities.
As a student, I walked almost everywhere to save money and discovered that walking is the best way to explore a place. Now I can afford to take a taxi, but I still prefer to walk. For my aging feet, I carry a variety of shoes; yes, they can take up luggage space, but having a choice helps. Also bring some bath salts and peppermint foot cream to treat your feet after a long day. And a small, spiked rubber ball is a great way to massage tired feet.
Learning a little language makes a big difference.
Another unglamorous but practical tip: Learn a few phrases before going to a place where English is not the lingua franca. Employees, bus drivers, waiters and other people you greet will do so appreciate the effort. When you're alone, you're much more likely to talk with locals. And they can be good resources for quirky cafes, local bargains and sights. Locals love to make recommendations.
In essence, the great thing about solo travel is that you’re in the driver’s seat. The least? You are responsible. By going it alone, you'll learn more and have better stories to tell when you return.
