Can’t anyone around you go on a trip with you? Exploring the world solo may be more realistic than you think!
After all, there are many different ways to set sail alone. Going with your backpack is one of them. Joining a coach tour is another. But between the two, there are a host of possibilities! Here are some ideas for those who want a trip with some supervision, and who don’t want to be alone all the time.
Also read: 11 destinations for solo female travelers
1. Gentle adventure in a small group
Sailing trip in Thailand, trip to the heart of the Moroccan Sahara, exploration of the ancient cities of Uzbekistan: we often think of Western capitals for a first solo stay, but there are other options. Several companies offer accompanied soft adventure trips in small groups to the four corners of the world. Intrepid , whose solo clientele exceeds 50%, is one international example among several others. The company focuses on responsible tourism and groups of 15 people or less, and pairs single adventurers for the “accommodation” part (services in English).
In Quebec, Voyage Grand V is an example of an agency organizing original trips in small groups to fabulous corners of the world (a little trip to the Faroe Islands, anyone?). When it comes to women’s travel, the brand new agency Voyageuses du Québec is dedicated exclusively to getaways organized between women. Other companies, like Traditours , offer stays specially designed for singles or single people.
All of these options reduce the stress of organizing your stay to zero, regardless of the destination, and allow you to meet other travelers.
2. Courses, internships and retreats abroad
Taking courses abroad is a great way to meet people, get a change of scenery and not be completely left to your own devices while maintaining a passion. Yoga retreat in Bali, Spanish lessons in Cuba, surf and yoga camp in Costa Rica, German immersion in Munich… the choices are numerous. And since classes don’t usually last all day, you’ll also have time for yourself. Ways to start researching: Yoga.com Retreats or VTE Language Stays .
Also read: 6 yoga retreats to escape this winter
3. The accompanied sports trip
Traveling Vietnam by bike? Go hiking in Corsica? Climb Indonesian volcanoes? No need to wait for someone close to you to want to get active with you! Guided hiking trips are a specialty for several travel agencies. Terre d’aventures , which has been organizing walking holidays for more than 45 years, is one of the sure values in the French-speaking landscape. Doing business with this type of agency allows you to achieve your own personal feat while being supervised and surrounded by other enthusiasts.
4. All inclusive solo
Want a one-on-one time with yourself in the sun? The price of all-inclusive packages is based on “double occupancy”, which means that you have to pay extra when traveling alone. But there are exceptions. Some Club Meds welcome solitary birds at no additional cost. The hotels in Transat’s Solo collection also do this, and they generally offer bonuses: free room service for dining on your balcony, access to a shared table at the buffet if you’re feeling more sociable, etc.
- Also read: 7 quality all-inclusive places to take it easy in Cuba
- Also read: 5 all-inclusive destinations for a tropical trip that makes a difference
- Also read: 10 all-inclusive options for a dream romantic trip to the Caribbean
- Also read: 8 Caribbean hotels with overwater villas like in Bora Bora
5. The sea in complete independence
Cruises are a great option for those afraid of getting bored, as the stops and on-board entertainment are varied. As with all-inclusives, prices are higher when booking for a single person, but there are exceptions. Cruise Critic has compiled a list of the best companies for solo cruisers. Leading the way is Norwegian Cruise Line, which was the first to create “simple” suites on some of its ships. Holland American and Royal Caribbean also stand out, since they offer prices and cabins adapted to solo customers, as well as special lounges or activities on certain ships. Cruise Critic’s full list is here . A travel agent can give you up-to-date information on this subject.