Will 2024 be the year of solo travel?
In a post-pandemic world, many travellers simply don’t want to waste any more time. According to a recent survey, over 40% of travellers have travelled solo at least once. Another survey by Solo Traveler found that 68% of people see themselves as independent travellers, proving that if nobody wants to travel with them, they’re happy to go solo.Why are more people choosing to travel alone?
Solo travellers can become drawn to the overwhelming sense of independence that comes with exploring the unknown. One type of solo travel that is becoming popular is ocean cruising. Cruise lines offer the perfect opportunity for adventurers to find freedom, craft their own itinerary and immerse themselves in the experience without worrying about what others want to do. From leisurely days at sea to exciting shore excursions, solo cruisers can chart their own course and create memories that are uniquely their own.
Are people drawn to the solitude?
On the vast expanse of the ocean, solo travellers can find solace and serenity. They are in the perfect place for introspection and self-reflection. Cruises offer moments of tranquillity and solitude for travellers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and tune into their inner thoughts and emotions. Whether gazing out at the endless horizon or stargazing under the night sky, the peaceful ambiance of the open sea often brings a sense of clarity and perspective that can be both rejuvenating and transformative.Is it time for socialising yet?
Travelling alone is all about the ‘me time’, but cruises also offer lots of opportunities for socialising. Travellers get the chance to meet people with the same interests and dreams from around the globe, making new friendships and bonds along the way. The intimate setting of a cruise ship creates a sense of friendship among passengers, which is the perfect welcoming and inclusive environment for solo adventurers. Whether you’re embarking on a themed cruise, joining an expedition cruise,, or participating in onboard entertainment, solo travellers can choose when and how they want to spend their time, which makes the cruise all the more exciting.
Where is your sense of adventure?
Solo travel, including solo ocean cruises & river cruises, encourages people to take a leap and embrace the joy of being spontaneous, to step outside their comfort zones to revel in new experiences. When there is no worry about pleasing the group, it is so much easier to make a split decision and try something totally unexpected. Travelling alone frees people up to seize the moment, take risks, and embrace the unknown.
On an ocean or river cruise, every day holds the promise of discovery. Perhaps it’s exploring a hidden cove, trying a new cuisine, or taking part in exhilarating water sports. Solo travellers have the flexibility to tailor their cruise experience to suit how they’re feeling at the moment, choosing the excitement of never knowing what the next moment could bring.
Are you ready to travel alone and love every minute of it?
Planning a solo trip takes a bit of time and thought. Those ready to travel alone should take some time to get used to the idea. Here are some 3 tips that might help:
- Visualise the trip you want. It’s all about you.
Start thinking about the opportunities that are present when you travel alone long before you leave. Is it down time you really want? Find a cruise that offers pampering and relaxation. Are you after a creative travel experience? Maybe go for a cruise that is a little bit more of an adventure. Research the cruise options before you go and then dream on them until you get there. - Learn to chat with strangers.
Starting up a conversation with strangers can be a challenge. However, these conversations can be trip-changing, and perhaps even life-changing. There are many skills that can be developed for this and one is never too old to learn them. - Be flexible with your plans. Opportunities arise!
When suggestions or opportunities arise as you cruise, be flexible enough to act on them. If there is a fun dinner planned, join in! Or even an exciting shore excursion. There are times when flexibility must reign and the schedule should be more of a guide than a must-do.
