Solo-ish Travel: How to Balance Group Time and Me Time
Join me on Substack
Traveling isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. For many, the idea of venturing off alone conjures “Eat, Pray, Love” visions of soul-searching adventure. For others, it’s the shared laughter of friends or family that makes the journey unforgettable. But what if you could have the best of both worlds? Enter what I call “solo-ish” travel—a blend of independence and connection that allows you to embrace the freedom of solo exploration while still enjoying the joys of shared experiences.
For someone like me, an outgoing introvert who rarely travels entirely alone, solo-ish travel strikes a perfect balance. I find it crucial to carve out moments to wander on my own while still cherishing the shared meals, adventures, and connections that can make travel so transformative.
Take my recent trip to Medellín, for example. I was there with family for a cousin’s wedding, but I made time to go on a group tour to Guatapé solo. And the following day, I explored theMuseo Casa de la Memoria andPlaza Minorista on my own. Those solo days allowed me to deeply engage with the city’s layered history and vibrant culture on my own terms, and also brought out my more outgoing side as I asked to sit with strangers for lunch and struck up conversations with fellow tourists on the bus.
Why Solo-ish Travel Works
Research backs up the benefits of both solo and group travel, and thus the need to strike a balance between the two. Traveling alone fosters independence, self-confidence, and resilience.Studies show that engaging in solo activities promotes self-care and mental well-being. On the other hand,group travel offers safety, convenience, and opportunities to build meaningful connections, enhancing the overall experience.
Solo-ish travel thrives in this intersection. I’ve found that joining a group tour can offer the best of both worlds—providing structure and camaraderie while allowing room for personal exploration and “me time.” It also eases the logistical burdens of planning while opening the door to new friendships and communal experiences.
How to Embrace Solo-ish Travel
Here are a few ideas and reminders for building more solo time into your travel plans.
- Blend Activities: Plan a mix of group and solo experiences. A day spent exploring alone can end with a group dinner, drinks, or dancing with friends.
- Take a Tour: Guided group tours are a fantastic way to meet people while gaining local insights. They create opportunities to connect without the pressure of constant socializing. If you’re better one on one, opt for a private tour.
- Welcome Connections: Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone. Be open to meeting fellow travelers or locals—they might just enrich your journey in ways you never expected.
- Stay Safe: For solo female travelers, group settings can provide an added layer of security.
Why It Matters
Solo-ish travel allows you to step out of your comfort zone and experience the world on your terms, while still maintaining the joy of connection. Whether it’s sharing laughter with newfound friends over street food or savoring a quiet moment of reflection in a museum, solo-ish travel offers a richer, more balanced approach to exploring the world.
The next time you plan a trip, consider going solo-ish. After all, the best journeys are the ones where you find yourself—both in the company of others and also in the stillness of your own thoughts.
Leave a Reply