Lulu Authentica

Solo travel has its pros and cons for sure. Major pros include opportunity for serendipity and adventure- it’s just part of the charm. It has enhanced my sense of self reliance and trust in my intuition.

That being said, the biggest potential “con” items on most people’s minds are the following: 1) Safety 2) Loneliness

Safety is a valid and separate issue. Today I’m going to share why loneliness isn’t on my con list.

In fact, traveling alone has made it exponentially easier to connect with others. It’s precisely because I’m alone that I’ve been open to the unique experiences and connections I could never have planned for in an itinerary.

Whether it leads to a casual conversation, a travel friend, or a date- these are some of my favorite ways to meet people while on the road.

1. Taking a tour

I used to shy away from them. I always felt like it was “cheating” somehow. Too “touristy.”

Now it’s one of my favorite ways to acclimate, get my bearings…and meet people.

It’s important to pick what you are interested in. It can be any kind of tour- food tours, ghost tours, sailing excursions, pub crawls, adventure tours etc. – it doesn’t matter. As long as it’s what you’re curious about, you’ll have an interest in common with everyone else you’ll be touring with. Sharing new experiences with others both breaks the ice and creates a unique bond, even if it’s only for a moment.

2. Sitting at the bar

You don’t even have to drink . (Sometimes I’ll just order a beverage that looks suspiciously like a cocktail.) But it’s a low pressure, low stakes opportunity to create conversation (and gather information)

People just get chatty at bars. It’s a fact of life. So ask them- are they local or just visiting? What’s their favorite thing they’ve done so far? Best food they’ve tried? How long are they in the area? What haven’t they done yet? (but want to)

People love the feeling of their opinion being valued, so you’ll often easily get suggestions on what to do and where to go (or where not to go.) Its not always the person next to you that you’ll connect with. Servers, bartenders, the lady in line for the bathroom- it’s all fair game if it feels right. I’ve gotten great trip insights this way, found a guide for the day and made travel friends.

(Disclaimer- keep your wits about you, be cautious and listen to your gut. If it feels off, just bail. You never have to see them again anyway)

3. Talking to the person in 28-D

I have gleaned so much information by talking to the person next to me on the plane.

It’s not the same as talking to someone at the bar.

I’ve gotten some incredible advice, recommendations (and even a few more dates here and there)

If the person is local to the destination, you can get advice. If they’re just visiting, get some ideas based off their plans.

For me, if there is decent chemistry and good vibes, I might suggest meeting up at some point during the stay. If not, we just part ways at the gate.

As with any interpersonal interaction, please don’t try to force it. Sometimes we all just need to stare out the window and contemplate our life choices. Brooding on a plane is a valid pastime.

4. Staying in a hostel

I know this option isn’t for everyone. It’s an adjustment in travel style for a lot of Americans. But it’s ALWAYS led to some of my most memorable travel experiences. Hostel stays have allowed me to meet travelers from all over the world, and have facilitated the most unexpected adventures.

Usually there are a lot of other solo travelers, many of them well seasoned. It’s not difficult or unusual to find yourself in a group of new situational friends- karaoke, dancing, bar hopping, bitching about the water pressure etc.

Added bonus- learn from other more experienced travelers, and share inspiration for future trips. (And maybe find a few dates, here and there;)

As always, listen to your gut, let the connections be organic, and allow for serendipity to take its course.