1. Don’t know where to go? What should you do?
Whether you want to go to the beach, experience a foreign culture, or explore a new city, you don’t have to limit yourself—because you’re a solo traveler. The only question is, how do you want to travel? If you prefer flying solo, look for hotels and travel agencies that offer no add-ons. If you’d like to travel with others, try joining a group tour or linking up with other solo adventurers. If you're heading somewhere off the beaten path, join a guided tour—that’s the safest option.
2. Feel unwelcome? What should you do?
Group tours don’t guarantee harmony with your travel companions, so a little research beforehand is essential. Consider the group size—smaller groups are easier to get to know, while larger ones mean more potential new friends. Also pay attention to who makes up the group—how many solo travelers are there, what’s the general age range, and other such factors.
3. Costs too high? What should you do?
Travel agency packages often come with a lot of extras, which can be a big expense for solo travelers. But from cruises to all-inclusive long-haul trips, there’s no extra charge for traveling alone. You can also save on hotel costs and put some of that money toward university dormitories off-campus.
4. Feeling bored alone? What should you do?
Being on your own means you can do whatever you want, free from other people’s differing opinions—and that’s way better than group travel. But sharing new experiences with someone can definitely add to the fun. Many travel agencies offer dedicated solo travel services—you can learn to snorkel in the Red Sea, surrounded by a lively social atmosphere, so you’ll never worry about being bored.
5. Worried about eating alone and being judged? What should you do?
Sitting alone at a restaurant table while overhearing waitstaff whispering and snickering is enough to ruin your appetite. The solution? Look for large resorts—whether it’s a spa in Koh Samui or an all-inclusive stay in St. Lucia. These places usually have fewer formal restaurants and shared dining spaces, so you won’t face those awkward moments.
6. Shy about meeting people? What should you do?
If you’re afraid of joining a group and chatting with strangers, technology can help. Plan ahead with travel websites, search for solo travel services, and you’ll find solo traveler clubs across the country. Resorts are also stepping up—the “Breathless Punta Cana” in the Dominican Republic has its own mobile app that offers chat rooms, so you can easily find someone with similar interests to chat with in the restaurant or bar.
7. Too many plans? What should you do?
What’s the biggest advantage of solo travel? Creating the perfect trip tailored just for you. This usually means organizing things yourself—but you can still choose not to plan, because you can let a travel agency handle the boring details. Just contact them and tell them you want to go bike riding across Europe—they’ll arrange the itinerary, unique hotels, a bicycle, maps, and luggage transfers for your daily accommodations. All you have to do is show up and go.
8. Concerned about safety? What should you do?
With a bit of common sense, a little research, and the right attitude, you don’t have to let fear dictate your actions. But for certain destinations, traveling in a group is the wisest choice—especially if you’re new to solo travel, think twice. For example, in Central America, while there are many popular spots, if you’re going to places like Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, or Guatemala, it’s best not to venture alone into remote areas.
9. Hate speed dating? What should you do?
When you just want to see the world, who needs romance? Solo travel is far from being a cheesy dating experience these days, but if you want to avoid all possibilities, female solo travelers can opt for women-only tours. Some agencies offer trips of varying difficulty levels around the globe—you can snap photos of scenic routes, sail along the Turkish coast, or trek across Nepal.
10. Can’t stand PDA (public displays of affection)? What should you do?
Travel packages with no extras are great, but if you don’t want to feel awkward around couples showing affection, you’d better join a trip designed specifically for solo travelers.