TRAVELING ALONE, “ME, MYSELF AND I”
BY CLAY LARROY
Traveling
can be a great way to meet new people and experience other cultures. New
friends are waiting to meet you in places you have only dreamed of traveling. It
can be a wonderful way to see all that the world has to offer. Travel can be a
hobby and an adventure that will lead you to unexpected places. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!
Maybe
you want to get away from your normal life for a while - to rediscover who you
are, or just get some much-needed alone time. Maybe your relationship has
ended, wreaking havoc on your plans for that dream trip to Africa. Maybe your
best friend backed out of accompanying you to Asia, or perhaps for any number
of reasons you’ve found yourself suddenly solo.
You
can see the world anyway. Not only can you see it alone - you probably should,
at least once in your life. Encounter moments and places and people with your
undivided attention: snap shots of a skyline, a midnight drink in a basement
bar, a haggle in a market - no feedback, no diversions, just the experience.
The
truth is, most people find themselves without a travel partner at some point,
whether by accident or choice. The prospect of going it alone can be daunting,
but guides and help are always there when you need them, and the freedom of
making your own decisions without having to consider a companion can outweigh
any disadvantages.
This being the case, solo travel is a fast-growing trend.
Both single and partnered people of all ages are more independent than ever,
and they are reluctant to let the lack of a significant other or scheduling
conflicts keep them from seeing the world.
Planning
is the key to an unforgettable trip. Wherever you’re headed, do as much advance
preparation as possible. Research your destination, and be aware of its culture
and traditions; for instance, in many Middle Eastern countries it’s mandatory
to wear appropriate clothing, and women are strongly discouraged from traveling
alone. Knowing in advance how you’ll get from place to place will help make
your journey safe and enjoyable.
For
an independent trip, a travel agent can be your best friend. They are very
familiar with single travelers, as now an estimated 1 in 4 travelers goes
alone, according to the Travel Industry Association of America. Agents offer
helpful suggestions, get you the best deals and values, and connect you with
reputable guides.
Many
tour companies that your agent works with now cater to singles and specific age
groups, often employing staff of similar ages. Tours offer more flexibility
than you may realize, too - you can join a tour that assists you with every
aspect of your vacation, or one designed for completely independent travelers;
again, you are joining a large and important part of the travel market, and
your agent will know how to make sure you have the kind of experience you’re
counting on.
Not
sure what to do on your trip? Investigate Eco tours, spa vacations, and
adventure travel like hiking, kayaking, or rafting. Learn to scuba dive or
cook, bathe in a hot spring in Iceland, or go on safari in Tanzania. Even if
you just want to relax on a beach - its 100% your decision, so work with your
travel agent to create a trip you can really get excited about.
Cruising
is also a great way for singles to travel. The range of activities is so
extensive that there’s no avoiding making friends while you participate, you can’t
get lost, and you can relax knowing you’re safe at all times. A variety of
companies offer singles cruises - just ask your travel agent.
At
first, travel can seem expensive for the singles, because many rates are based
on double occupancy. The good news is that most companies can place single
people of the same gender, or other criteria you find acceptable, in
accommodations together, so you save on single supplements. And if you don’t
want to share, you may be able to avoid paying a single supplement altogether
by traveling during low tourist seasons, when companies are more flexible with
their rates. Talk to your agent to uncover your options.
For
budget travelers, hostels are great places to meet people. They provide clean
and cheap accommodations, and there’s a good chance you’ll meet a fellow
traveler with whom you can share grocery and laundry costs.
Also
consider buying a travel guide geared toward single travelers. Restaurants and
activities listed in these guides are typically frequented by other independent
travelers, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet people, if you’d
like. While you are traveling, read the local paper to find lesser-known
activities and events, which are usually one-of-a-kind, authentic opportunities
to learn more about a culture.
REFERENCE SITES:
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/
I wanted to be alone.
Like contact with water and constructive relationships... I consider it
essential to my life, to my well-being.
--Dan Fogelberg
--Dan Fogelberg
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