Getting your first car, moving into your first apartment, and going solo on vacation are just a few of the marks of an independent adult. Each of these milestones is both scary and exciting. The freedom to drive where ever you want, whenever you want, is the dream of every teenager and bane to every parent. The first night in your own place, maybe a little scary, but the sun rises, and you learn to love being alone.
Going on your own vacation is the ultimate step to being an independent adult. It is something everyone should experience at least once in their life. Solo travel means you can do what you want when you want to do it. You don't need to worry about sacrificing your needs to ensure your travel companion has a good time.
Here are a few tips to help a first-time solo traveler prepare for the trip of your lifetime...
1. First and foremost, you need to be comfortable being alone. This means eating at restaurants, seeing movies, going to the beach, or any other activity that would typically be done with friends or a partner. If you're an extrovert, this is particularly difficult to master. Traveling solo means you'll be doing most activities on your own, at least until you make new friends...
2. Which brings me to number two, be ready to make new friends! A solo trip doesn't mean that you'll be a drunk monk the entire time, basking in your solitude and silence. A solo getaway is a perfect way to meet new friends and maybe even future travel buddies. If you're an introvert, an easy way to make new friends is to go to a meal that requires social interaction...like at a hibachi grill.
3. Pick your favorite activities, and do them! Always wanted to swim with the dolphins or zip-line across a Caribbean island? Now is the time to do it without being vetoed by someone less adventurous. If you'd rather stay put, schedule time in the spa for the ultimate day of relaxation. Create your own memories to boast around the office when you get home.
4. Work with a travel advisor who has gone on their own solo trips. Solo travel is unique and requires different knowledge than travel for couples, family, or friends. Whether it's to help prepare your itinerary, find accommodations that don't have a single occupant surcharge, or just to help prepare you mentally for a new way to travel.
With destinations around the globe, going on a solo trip means you can do what you want. Start ticking those dream trips off your bucket list and start planning today!
Rainbow Getaways is a full-service travel agency that specializes in travel for the LGBTQ community and our allies. Schedule your free consultation to get started planning today; plus, all new bookings deposited in 2020 receive a special gift!