Simple answer, no. Life is what you make of it and so are holidays. Solo travel does have its fair share of advantages and disadvantages; however, I believe the pros outweigh the cons. Sometimes I do like travelling with friends and family, but mostly I'd rather go solo! In this blog I’ll be exploring a few ways to make the most out of your solo trips.
1. Research
Before your departure, research your destination thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with the local area and streets by looking at online maps.
I find streetview particularly useful so when I arrive in a destination, I can easily recognise roads and landmarks.
Next on the list. Are there tourist attractions that look appealing? Are any fun activities available at this destination? Write them down. Have a look online for "hidden gems" in the country. You may be surprised at what you discover.
2. Create a travel itinerary
Collate your research and create a plan, it doesn't have to be too rigid or structured. I'll normally spend the first day of my trip exploring the local area on foot and have a rough idea of what I'd like to do on the sequential days. Try scribbling down one thing you'd like to see or do each morning and afternoon. Keep your plans flexible as something more exciting might pop up or you might make friends and hang around with them for the day. As long as you have an idea of what you want to do each day, it is virtually impossible to get bored. You'll be having too much fun.
3. Stay in a central location
Staying in a good location can make or break any trip. You don't want to be stuck in the middle of nowhere with nothing to look at but a boring beach. I always make sure that I stay somewhere with good transport links, so it's easy to get about and this also reduces the chance of getting stranded. Another added bonus is that if you feel that you've seen all the highlights of your local area, you can simply hop on a bus or train and venture out to a neighbouring city.
4. Visit the local tourist office
If you're stuck for something to do take a stroll down to a tourist office or excursion shop to get some ideas. On my last visit to Tenerife, I actually didn't pre-book any activities, I chose most of them once I had arrived. I literally just went to the office and said, "What can I do tomorrow?" Easy peasy.
I often book excursions online as lately this has been the cheaper option. Make sure you've had a look on sites such as trip advisor beforehand, when visiting tour companies so you have a rough outline of how much activities should cost.
Although I can be a last minute queen, Obviously, you're more likely to find a wider variety of tours available if you give the staff more notice. I managed to book, horse riding, quad biking and paragliding all in the same office when I visited Tenerife. Sometimes a bit of spontaneity makes things more exhilarating. Of course, do your research, make sure the company is legit. Please don't get kidnapped.
5. Keep an open mind
Try new things! Eat foreign food! Chat to the locals!
You'll never forget the memories you make.
The pessimist in me would say keep your expectations at rock bottom and that way you'll never be disappointed.😂😂
Planning, planning, planning!
Great post Liz. I always go to the local tourism center because the workers usually have more information about the place (they’re locals after all!). All one has to do is ask!
Isabella.
Planning a solo trip soon, so thank you for the tips!