Complex Numbers

Plan Solo

As I normally travel alone, today's article seemed relevant to my interests. (Source is Condé Nast Traveller, if it matters.)

    The golden rules of solo travel  
We ask our editors and favourite solo travellers for their savviest tips and tricks

Apparently, there's a US and UK version of that outlet. The spelling gives away that it's from the latter. But as it's about travel, I don't think the country of origin matters much.

The joys of travelling solo are endless.

I wouldn't say "endless." Just "ending later than if you have someone with you to eventually argue with."

There is something truly freeing about exploring new places alone – you can go where you please, eat when you want, and have uninterrupted quality time with yourself.

No sleep-shaming, no pressure to fit too many things into one day, no bargaining about "If we do X today, I want to do Y tomorrow," etc.

The interest in solo travel has been slowly rising for a while, but new data from UK-based travel organisation ABTA shows that 16 per cent of travellers went on holiday by themselves in 2023, a five per cent increase from the previous 12-month period.

I wonder if there had been a global problem that made people tired of always seeing the same other people all the time.

But, if you’re not a seasoned solo traveller, it can be a daunting prospect. In an age of constant connectivity, the idea of being alone for an extended period of time is a convoluted one.

The only way I'd be "alone for an extended period of time" would be if I went hiking by myself in the wilderness, which is not only a bad idea to begin with (though I've done it), but it would involve being *shudder* outdoors.

Below, we spoke to travellers who frequently book solo trips about their golden rules for travelling alone.

"Rules?" Hey, I travel alone so no one gives me "rules."

Dining alone isn’t weird
For most people, the thought of dining alone is one of the biggest barriers to travelling solo.

Yeah, I just can't relate to that. If I'm alone, I can focus on the things that really matter: the dining and drinking experience. Besides, no one is there to tell me they just can't stand whatever cuisine I've decided to try.

Fake it til you make it
Most people feel nervous about meeting new people, and introverts especially can struggle to make the first move when arriving in a new place.

I'm more introverted than extroverted, but my only apprehension involves language and cultural barriers.

Book counter dining at restaurants
If you are someone who does feel uncomfortable about dining alone, opt for a bar or counter seat.

While I don't travel internationally as much as I'd like, here in the US at least, the bar usually doesn't require reservations or other planning ahead, apart from maybe figuring out a time to go when it's not too crowded.

Plan around cultural events
Arriving at a destination just as the locals are gearing up for an important cultural event can be an incredible way to immerse yourself straight away.

It's also an incredible way to have everything crowded and sold out. Hell no. Give me off-peak travel any day.

Exception: my desire to visit Scotland during the Islay Festival for the best whiskey in the world.

Build in group activities
Booking tours and group events is a great way to meet other travellers. Most hostels have a list of activities available for guests to sign up for, and if not, then there are walking tours or live music events at local bars.

Honestly, I'm torn about this bit, personally. First of all, I'm not interested in hostels, but let's leave that aside for now. And while I love music and bars, I despise music events at bars, because I can't hear the bartender.

My passport expires in 2026. I've never used this incarnation of it, because, well, you know. I want to use it at least once, and I don't mean crossing the border into Canada. As the person I was planning to go to Belgium with has other priorities now, I'll be going alone, which is fine. Maybe France, first, though... but not until after the Olympics (see above re: crowds).

Now I just have to get on my ass and make the plans.