Of course I feel nerves sometimes! But fear and excitement often travel together. Solo travel has taught me that courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s moving forward with it. I prepare, I trust my instincts, and I remind myself that growth lives on the other side of comfort zones.

Safety is always my top priority. I research destinations, share my plans with loved ones, and stay aware of my surroundings. Solo doesn’t mean careless — it means intentional. In many ways, I’m more alert traveling solo than when I’m with others, and that awareness keeps me safe.

Sometimes, yes — and that’s okay. Solo travel gives me space to sit with myself, and in that quiet, I discover strength I didn’t know I had. Plus, I meet more people traveling solo than I ever did in groups (or sitting alone at home)! A smile or a simple “hello” can open doors to connection anywhere in the world.

Rarely! There’s always so much to see and do when you travel to new destinations. With the internet at our fingertips, it's easy to find things to do and places to visit. And if all else fails, there's always a street to wander, a journal to fill, or cruise line activities to engage in. Solo travel shifts the question from “what will I do?” to “what do I want to do right now?” That freedom is anything but boring.

At first, I did, and I never thought I would enjoy it. But now? Dining solo feels empowering. I bring a journal, a book, or simply people-watch. A table for one isn’t lonely — it’s freedom to savor both the meal and the moment.

I love traveling with other people, but as with solo travel, there are pros and cons. It really depends on what you call fun. With others, the joy is shared. Alone, the joy is yours to shape. You get to decide where to eat, when to sleep, and what adventures to take — no compromises, no negotiations. Fun looks different, but it’s no less real.

I love how concerned people are about this! Tripods, timers, kind strangers, and a whole lot of practice! Sometimes the best photos aren’t the ones with me in them at all — they’re the ones where I pause to take in the view, just for myself.

It’s all about being strategic. At a café or restaurant, I take my valuables with me in a small bag. At the beach or pool, I use waterproof pouches, ask a neighbor to keep an eye out, or keep swims short. I also use a small travel lock box that attaches to chairs or tables to keep things safe. Solo travelers get creative — and cautious — but it quickly becomes second nature.

Sometimes, yes — many hotels and cruises charge what’s called a “single supplement.” The good news? More and more companies are offering solo-friendly pricing, and you can also find boutique stays, hostels, or room rentals that don’t charge extra. Some cruise lines offers solo cabins at a better price than double occupancy . They can sell out quick so it's important to plan early. There are also several group tour companies that cater to solo travelers that can help reduce costs. Solo travel is becoming common enough that deals exist if you look.

Personally, I’ve found that solo travel lets me control my budget. I splurge on what matters to me and skip what doesn’t. And honestly, the freedom to choose is priceless.

This is a tough one for me. I can be social when I get to know people, but I'm very shy about talking to strangers. However, I join group tours and sit at the bar instead of a table to make it easier to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers.Norwegian Cruise Line also has an amazing solos program with daily meetups and group dinners that have led to some great friendships all over the world. Solo travel doesn’t mean alone travel — it just means I choose who, when, and how I connect.

Both! Sometimes a guided day trip is the perfect way to see a highlight and meet new people. Other times, crafting a personal itinerary feels more rewarding. Solo travel is flexible — you can mix and match to fit your comfort level.

By planning ahead and staying open. That might mean downloading local transit apps, arranging airport transfers, or simply asking locals for advice. Ride-shares, trains, subways, buses — once you do it a few times, navigating new places feels like part of the adventure.

Originally, I would have just said, "Because I love to travel and I don't want to miss out becasue I don't have a travel partner." But now, it's because solo travel is freedom. It’s healing. It’s a way to get to know yourself without the noise of other people’s schedules and opinions. Going alone isn’t about rejecting others — it’s about embracing your own company.

A few key items: portable chargers, locks for bags, lock box, and a small crossbody or daypack I can carry everywhere. Comfort items matter too — a journal, a book, or something that makes a hotel room feel like home. Solo packing is about practicality and peace of mind.

Every traveler, solo or not, runs into stressful moments — a missed train, a sketchy street, a flight delay. But true “scary” situations are rare with preparation. Most challenges become funny stories later. The key is knowing when to walk away, ask for help, or pivot your plans.

The hardest part is often taking the first step — booking that ticket, walking into that restaurant, or boarding that plane without a familiar hand beside me. But every time I push through, I find myself stronger, braver, and more at peace... and very happy that I took that step!

The freedom. The healing. The way I come home with not just photos, but pieces of myself I thought were lost. Solo travel is more than seeing the world — it’s rediscovering me.

Some start with worry — safety, loneliness, the “what ifs.” But most end with admiration. Seeing me step out with courage often inspires them, and sometimes, they even start planning their own solo trips.

My kids are my biggest cheerleaders though. Seeing the way travel helps me heal and grow has inspired them too. My son enjoys his own solo adventures, which have helped him navigate his own grief journey, and my daughter is excited to venture out on her own as well. For us, solo travel isn’t just about independence; it’s about courage, discovery, and growth. I love that when I travel solo, I’m not just healing — I’m showing my kids that independence and adventure are gifts worth keeping.

Absolutely. Solo travel isn’t for everyone all the time, but everyone can benefit from it at least once. It builds confidence, independence, and clarity. You come home not just with photos, but with proof you can rely on yourself — and that’s a gift no one can take away.

At first, yes — but that fades fast. Most people are too busy living their own adventures to notice who’s solo. Confidence grows with every trip, and soon, eating alone or exploring on your own feels empowering, not awkward.

I smile and remind myself: everyone’s comfort zone looks different. Some people need company to feel secure; I find strength in solitude. The best way to answer doubt is to keep living your adventure.

It depends on what I need most — rest, renewal, or inspiration. Sometimes I chase sunshine, sometimes quiet, sometimes the next stamp in my passport. Every trip reflects the season I’m in, emotionally and spiritually.