March 12, 2025 • 19 mins
Ever considered traveling solo? Whether you're craving adventure, self-discovery, or just want to experience a destination at your own pace, solo travel offers incredible benefits! In this episode, we’ll discuss:
✅ Why Solo Travel? The perks of freedom, flexibility & personal growth.
✅ Top Solo Travel Destinations – U.S. & international spots perfect for solo explorers.
✅ Solo Travel Tips – Safety, budgeting, and making the most of your journey.
✅ Navigating Accommodations & Tours – Finding the best solo-friendly experiences.
📍 Listener Spotlight: A special shoutout to Perth, Australia—home to the adorable Quokka and beautiful Rottnest Island! 🦘
💡 Thinking of planning your own solo adventure? We can help! Visit AllThingsTravelPodcast.com to start planning your dream trip.
🎧 Tune in now & embrace the adventure of solo travel!
#SoloTravel #TravelTips #AdventureAwaits #AllThingsTravel
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:00):
Hello and welcome to all things
travel.
While we often discuss travelfor couples, families, and
groups on this show, solo travelis on the rise and for a good
reason.
There are so many options forsolo travelers and today we'll
discuss considerations,locations, and tips for your
next solo travel vacation.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:20):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts Ryan andJulie.
is your travel professorteaching you everything you need
to know to have a magicalvacation I am a Disney loving
Maryland mom of three and aspecialist in family travel.
Whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:42):
all things travel.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_19164 (00:45):
Alright Julie, let's talk about solo
travel.
Have you ever done it?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:51):
I've left my family by myself, but I'm
usually meeting up with afriend.
So not, completely by myself.
No.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:58):
I have done a bit of solo travel.
In fact, in a month or so i'mgoing to be traveling to europe
by myself I will be meeting upwith folks when i'm there But a
lot of my trip is going to besolo even though i'm going to be
on a river cruise.
I am not traveling with anybodySo that'll be my next solo
experience.
growing up as an only child, I'mkind of used to alone time.
(01:20):
That doesn't really bother me.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (01:21):
I mean, alone time sounds really lovely,
but I am like, I'm like a littlebit of like a nervous traveler,
so I don't know that I wouldlove flying and all the
logistics by myself.
I don't know that I could dothat.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (01:37):
Well, we're going to talk about some
benefits here in a second that Ithink may sway you a little bit.
But first, I want to remindfolks, if you did not listen to
last week's show, speaking offlying, we talked all about the
different entry requirements andID requirements and passport
renewals.
So all that nitty gritty thatyou need to know to make sure
that your next trip to Europe oryour next flight is all taken
(02:01):
care of.
Julie, you talk about.
Traveling by yourself, but oneof the benefits of solo travel.
First and foremost is you havecomplete freedom so you can
travel at your own pace.
There's no compromises.
yes, you may be a nervoustraveler, but you can do it
however you want.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:20):
I can eat whatever I want at the airport.
I can do whatever I want on theplane.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:25):
The second benefit is personal
growth, right?
you're doing something that'skind of stretching you a little
bit.
You're building confidence andindependence.
Again, maybe there's someproblem solving skills with
trying to figure out what to do.
As long as you're safe, I thinkthat's an awesome benefit for
solo travel.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:42):
Yeah, that's a good point.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:44):
I think this also allows you to
have deeper cultural immersionbecause it is easier to connect
with locals and embrace newexperiences if you're the one
calling the shots, right?
If you're really interested in acertain type of thing or a
certain, type of food or maybeseeing a certain type of the
city, you can allow yourself thetime and energy to be able to do
(03:06):
that.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:07):
True, if you're by yourself and you want
to have an experience, it's upto you to have the experience,
you have to immerse yourself
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:15):
Yep, absolutely.
So, the last benefit for solotravel, and what do we talk
about a problem with multigenerational travel or group
travel being?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:27):
Planning?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191 (03:29):
Planning.
Everybody's gotta say,everybody's got an opinion, but
what's the benefit of solotravel?
Whose opinion matters?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:37):
Just yours.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:39):
Just yours,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:40):
any different from when you
regularly travel, Ryan?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:43):
not when I regularly travel, but
when others regularly travel,you can have brunch on the day
that you want to have brunch.
You can stay out late thisnight.
You can go to bed early if youwant to, when it comes to
planning and budgeting, youreally decide where you want to
put the money, where you want toput the time and resources and
focus on what you want to getout of the vacation.
(04:03):
I love that aspect of solotravel.
however, we do want to thinkabout some considerations,
Julie, when we're planning thistype of trip.
What is the first one?
And I bet it's going to be anobvious one.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:18):
Safety.
And honestly, this is one that Iwas hoping we were going to
mention So a couple of keythings.
First, as always, stay aware ofyour surroundings.
Keep your eyes open.
don't have your nose down inyour phone or a book be cautious
if you're in an unfamiliar area,especially at night.
So, like, to me, it's 1 thing tosay, I'm going to travel solo to
(04:39):
Disney because I know whereeverything is like the back of
my hands, but it's another tosay, I'm going to travel solo to
Jamaica where I'm, not as welltraveled
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:49):
you're going to have to know where you
can be, where you can't be.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:52):
Right.
Another is to share youritinerary, which is something we
do anyways when we travel, letsomeone close to you know your
plans and have a plan in placeof when you're going to check in
with each other In a veryunfortunate event that you miss
a check in, they may know, tofind another way to reach you.
trust your instincts.
If something feels off, removeyourself from that situation.
(05:16):
There's a lot of safetyequipment and devices that you
can carry on you, and a lot ofthese things have been You know,
a little more popular,especially in the female
population
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:29):
Yep.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:29):
that you can carry with you, even just
something as simple as adoorstop to keep in your room
and things like that.
I've seen a lot of new techGadgets pop up that can keep you
safe
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:41):
Yeah, absolutely.
And I think that's a great ideafor anybody, but definitely be
aware of what you need to keepyourself safe.
The second consideration isbudgeting.
So maybe look for solo friendlyaccommodations, maybe hostels
with private rooms, smallerboutique hotels.
Airbnb's can be budget friendly.
(06:03):
You just want to keep in mindthose extra fees, but you're
looking for stuff that doesn'thave that single supplement i'm
even working with a group ofwomen right now that want to do
a river cruise but they all wanttheir own cabins.
They want to travel As solopassengers even though they're
group of friends and so findingthe right river cruise line for
them has become really important
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:24):
Let's just back up a second and
explain single supplement Sosingle supplement, which this
was something that was confusingto me when I first got into the
travel industry as well that'swhy I think a lot of people
might not know what that is alot of times we price out a trip
for clients, think of like acruise or an all inclusive
vacation and you think, well, ifI just have one person, it'll be
(06:46):
cheaper,
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:46):
Yes
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:47):
Sometimes it's honestly more expensive.
You're paying at least the priceof two guests.
the reason for that is that thecruise line is counting on
having two people in that roomwhere the resort is counting on
having two people in that room.
So you're having to pay a singlesupplement, which means that
your room is not going to behalf the price of somebody who's
(07:09):
paying for two.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (07:10):
I will tell you from working with
single travelers, that can be achallenge to find the right fit.
The next one is using publictransportation.
taxis, ride shares can add upquickly.
So instead, maybe learn thelocal metro, bus, or bike rental
options.
I love using the subway incities.
(07:33):
Obviously, we want to have thatsafety mindset but those can be
really budget friendly for solotravelers.
And then this last one I reallylike, Dine Smart.
opting for local markets, foodhalls, or dining at lunch.
you tend to have cheaperoptions, when it comes to
budgeting.
But also two, maybe if you havethat stigma or nervousness to
(07:54):
dine by yourself in arestaurant, lunch tends to be a
friendlier time to do that, ifyou will.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (08:01):
so the next thing to consider is the
social aspects of it.
consider joining a group tour orclasses while you're on the
trip.
It could be something like awalking tour, cooking classes,
or any adventurous excursion Butan easy way to be in a group
with other travelers, to allowyou to interact with others on
your trip.
You can also consider staying ina social accommodation,
(08:22):
something like a hostel, a coliving space, or a hotel that
has a communal area.
That could be a great way tomeet some people while you're
traveling in your destination.
There's also some travelfriendly apps that can help
connect you with other travelersor locals.
like Meetup, Eat With, or SoloTraveler.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (08:43):
And the last area is packing and
logistics.
when you think about how you'regoing to pack and what you're
going to take with you, knowthat since you're going by
yourself, you're in charge ofeverything.
maybe packing light with a carryon or a backpack, making sure
that you have everything thatyou need as far as a power bank
and all that kind of stuffyou're in charge of.
yourself when you travel, whichis really good because you're
(09:05):
not having to take things forother people, but you're also
don't have anybody else to relyon during that travel time.
So Julie, next we're going totalk about some good solo
traveler locations around theworld.
I'm really excited to talk aboutsome of these.
But first, I want to talk aboutwhere in the world does all
(09:26):
things travel.
And a really cool one popped upthis week when I looked at new
locations.
And that was Perth, Australia.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (09:35):
Ooh, that's a fun one.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (09:36):
And so what I found in Perth was
Rottnest Island.
Rottnest Island is a must visitdestination when in Perth.
Located just a short ferry tripfrom Perth, the island is home
to some of the most beautifulbeaches in Australia, as well as
the famous, adorable Quokka.
Do you know what a quokka is?
(09:57):
So this marsupial, so, so a fewyears ago, there was this
Instagram craze of this smilinganimal.
Do you remember what I'm talkingabout?
And they would say it was thehappiest animal in the world
because it had this big grin onits face.
That's a quokka.
And I would be so excited to gohang out with the quokkas.
(10:18):
They are not scared of humans.
They like to hang out with you.
I think that'd be a lot of fun.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:23):
Can you spell this animal?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:24):
it is Q U O K K A, Quokka.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:29):
then.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1916 (10:30):
Alright, so hey, Perth, we are so excited
that you are listening to us allthe way from Australia.
I would love to send you alittle thank you gift that you
can show off to your Quokkafriends for being featured on
today's show.
So do us a favor, you can emailJulie or myself, or you can, go
to allthingstravelpodcast.
com and click on the contact usbecause I want to send you a
(10:53):
little thank you gift
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:54):
That was a fun one.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:56):
All right, julie So best solo travel
destinations first I want totalk about u.
s destinations And then you'regoing to share some
international destinations withus.
So looking at the united statesfirst is asheville North
Carolina.
It is great for nature lovers.
It has an artsy culture and italso has a lot of breweries and
(11:17):
public places where solotravelers would really be able
to connect if they'd want to dothat with other folks.
You've got Portland, Oregon.
quirky, foodie friendly.
It's very easy to navigate.
It's a fun city to explore.
This next one has been on mylist for a while and I can't
really explain why.
(11:37):
Every time I see pictures of it,it just looks amazing.
that's Santa Fe, New Mexico.
If you are an art lover, it hassuch a unique culture and it has
a really relaxed vibe that Ithink solo travelers could
really dig in and see a lot.
and be able to plan the tripexactly how they want.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (11:56):
Alright, next up.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1916 (11:57):
Alright, this next one you know is close
to my heart.
I absolutely love this city, andthat is Chicago, Illinois.
And why do we talk about thisfor solo travelers?
One, it's very economical for alarge city.
It's walkable.
It has tons of museums and ithas really good public
transportation.
So I think Chicago is a goodfit.
(12:19):
And then lastly is San Diego,California.
It's laid back.
There's beachy vibes.
There's plenty of activities foras active and relaxed as you
want to be.
I think A solo traveler wouldreally dig San Diego.
All right, but internationally,there's some good choices here,
Julie.
What are some of them?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:39):
Okay, so I don't know how many of these I
would be comfortable going solo
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:43):
Oh my gosh, all these sound amazing to
me.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:46):
Okay, well, I mean, I'd like to go, I
just don't think I'd like to gosolo.
But if
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:51):
it.
Okay.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:52):
let's go through them.
The first one is Kyoto, Japan.
it is safe.
It is solo friendly.
It has great publictransportation and a lot of
cultural experiences.
I do think that this would be agreat destination for traveling
solo.
I just think I'd want to shareit with someone.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:10):
All right.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:10):
The next up is Lisbon over in Portugal.
It's really welcoming.
It's a little more affordablethan other destinations, and
it's also really walkable.
This could also be, a great wayto go and see a couple other
places in Europe just becauseit's easy to get around from
there.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:27):
Why not add it to a Doro river
cruise?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:30):
That's what I was thinking of cruise.
we're going to have Ryan pop inand pronounce this one for me.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:35):
Oh, come on, Julie.
It's Reykjavik, Iceland.
j_1_02-23-2025_19164 (13:38):
Reykjavik.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:39):
Yes,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:39):
So it's one of the safest places and
it's really great for outdooradventures.
I also think that when you see alot of pictures come out of
Iceland, there's always a crowdof people doing those fun
outdoor adventures.
it could be a great place tomeet people.
Then we have Amsterdam over inthe Netherlands.
It's really bike friendly, it'seasy to do solo exploration, and
(14:02):
it's another great kickoff pointfor those river cruises.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:05):
it is an absolutely beautiful city and
saying that it's bike friendlyis like the most underwhelming
statement of the year.
It is bike insane, and if youare not watching yourself in the
bike lanes, you will get runover and.
They love their bikes All right,what's the last one, Julie?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:24):
Bangkok, Thailand.
the great thing about going hereis that it is more budget
friendly.
It's really vibrant.
it just makes it a greatdestination.
But there's also a lot of solotravelers.
as you're exploring around thecity, you're not the only one
traveling solo.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:40):
All right, so to sum up the ideas
here today, top five solo traveltips.
One, start small.
If you're new to solo travel,try a weekend trip first.
Don't feel like you have to dothat, multi city trip or that
international trip.
Stay connected.
Have an international phone planand use Wi Fi apps to check in
(15:01):
with folks and also know whereyou are when it comes to maps,
confirmations, all that goodstuff.
Number three, join group toursand activities.
It's a great way to meet people,but also maintain independence.
If you meet people you want tocontinue having some time with,
that's great.
If not, when the tour is over,you can be on your way.
(15:22):
Number four, trust your gut.
If something feels off, it'stime to leave the situation.
And number five, embrace theexperience.
Solo travel can be rewarding.
You can lean into the freedomand the spontaneity to really do
what you want to do.
And one thing I will add, Julie,with that trust your gut is, I
(15:44):
have been to a lot of places inNorth America and Europe, and I
have not been to a place wherepeople are not willing to help.
If they can tell that you'reconcerned, if they can tell that
you are unsure as a tourist,There are very few places where
people will not step in and helpyou out, whether it's somebody
(16:07):
from a shop, whether it'ssomebody even on the street, if
you're asking directions, we'reall in this together.
And I think that's a real senseof, comfort when it comes to
being a solo traveler.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:18):
Well, and two, I think that goes so much
with just being aware of yoursurroundings, right?
Just staying in public areas,you won't even get into that
situation
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:26):
So, to wrap this up, have I convinced
you?
Would you like to do a solotrip?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:30):
I just like, because we're just in such
different
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:34):
Times in our lives,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:36):
Yes.
Like I would just miss myfamily, but I got it.
I get, I get it.
And, but I do want to like, justclarify one thing about solo
travel.
Doesn't mean you have to becompletely by yourself the whole
time.
It just means you arepotentially getting there by
yourself, right?
It could be you're going on atour.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:55):
Yes.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:56):
you didn't go there with people.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1 (16:57):
Absolutely.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:58):
to wander a city by
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:00):
No.
No.
No.
Absolutely.
Absolutely.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:03):
want to plan a trip to an amazing
destination, but don't know howto get started as your travel
advisors We work with you tocreate a customized itinerary
For your vacation and take thestress of planning away so you
can focus on the fun andcreating memories can reach out
to us at all things travelpodcast comm and click contact
us or plan your next trip
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:24):
We look forward to talking to you
next week on All Things Travelwhen we talk about choosing the
right ship and stateroom forthat next cruise vacation.
Hello and welcome to all things
travel.
While we often discuss travelfor couples, families, and
groups on this show, solo travelis on the rise and for a good
reason.
There are so many options forsolo travelers and today we'll
discuss considerations,locations, and tips for your
next solo travel vacation.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:20):
Listen in with travel advisors and
destination experts Ryan andJulie.
is your travel professorteaching you everything you need
to know to have a magicalvacation I am a Disney loving
Maryland mom of three and aspecialist in family travel.
Whether we're discussingincredible destinations, top
vacation tips, or sharingpersonal stories, it's always
(00:42):
all things travel.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_19164 (00:45):
Alright Julie, let's talk about solo
travel.
Have you ever done it?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:51):
I've left my family by myself, but I'm
usually meeting up with afriend.
So not, completely by myself.
No.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (00:58):
I have done a bit of solo travel.
In fact, in a month or so i'mgoing to be traveling to europe
by myself I will be meeting upwith folks when i'm there But a
lot of my trip is going to besolo even though i'm going to be
on a river cruise.
I am not traveling with anybodySo that'll be my next solo
experience.
growing up as an only child, I'mkind of used to alone time.
(01:20):
That doesn't really bother me.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (01:21):
I mean, alone time sounds really lovely,
but I am like, I'm like a littlebit of like a nervous traveler,
so I don't know that I wouldlove flying and all the
logistics by myself.
I don't know that I could dothat.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (01:37):
Well, we're going to talk about some
benefits here in a second that Ithink may sway you a little bit.
But first, I want to remindfolks, if you did not listen to
last week's show, speaking offlying, we talked all about the
different entry requirements andID requirements and passport
renewals.
So all that nitty gritty thatyou need to know to make sure
that your next trip to Europe oryour next flight is all taken
(02:01):
care of.
Julie, you talk about.
Traveling by yourself, but oneof the benefits of solo travel.
First and foremost is you havecomplete freedom so you can
travel at your own pace.
There's no compromises.
yes, you may be a nervoustraveler, but you can do it
however you want.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:20):
I can eat whatever I want at the airport.
I can do whatever I want on theplane.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:25):
The second benefit is personal
growth, right?
you're doing something that'skind of stretching you a little
bit.
You're building confidence andindependence.
Again, maybe there's someproblem solving skills with
trying to figure out what to do.
As long as you're safe, I thinkthat's an awesome benefit for
solo travel.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:42):
Yeah, that's a good point.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (02:44):
I think this also allows you to
have deeper cultural immersionbecause it is easier to connect
with locals and embrace newexperiences if you're the one
calling the shots, right?
If you're really interested in acertain type of thing or a
certain, type of food or maybeseeing a certain type of the
city, you can allow yourself thetime and energy to be able to do
(03:06):
that.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:07):
True, if you're by yourself and you want
to have an experience, it's upto you to have the experience,
you have to immerse yourself
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:15):
Yep, absolutely.
So, the last benefit for solotravel, and what do we talk
about a problem with multigenerational travel or group
travel being?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:27):
Planning?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191 (03:29):
Planning.
Everybody's gotta say,everybody's got an opinion, but
what's the benefit of solotravel?
Whose opinion matters?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:37):
Just yours.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:39):
Just yours,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:40):
any different from when you
regularly travel, Ryan?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (03:43):
not when I regularly travel, but
when others regularly travel,you can have brunch on the day
that you want to have brunch.
You can stay out late thisnight.
You can go to bed early if youwant to, when it comes to
planning and budgeting, youreally decide where you want to
put the money, where you want toput the time and resources and
focus on what you want to getout of the vacation.
(04:03):
I love that aspect of solotravel.
however, we do want to thinkabout some considerations,
Julie, when we're planning thistype of trip.
What is the first one?
And I bet it's going to be anobvious one.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:18):
Safety.
And honestly, this is one that Iwas hoping we were going to
mention So a couple of keythings.
First, as always, stay aware ofyour surroundings.
Keep your eyes open.
don't have your nose down inyour phone or a book be cautious
if you're in an unfamiliar area,especially at night.
So, like, to me, it's 1 thing tosay, I'm going to travel solo to
(04:39):
Disney because I know whereeverything is like the back of
my hands, but it's another tosay, I'm going to travel solo to
Jamaica where I'm, not as welltraveled
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:49):
you're going to have to know where you
can be, where you can't be.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (04:52):
Right.
Another is to share youritinerary, which is something we
do anyways when we travel, letsomeone close to you know your
plans and have a plan in placeof when you're going to check in
with each other In a veryunfortunate event that you miss
a check in, they may know, tofind another way to reach you.
trust your instincts.
If something feels off, removeyourself from that situation.
(05:16):
There's a lot of safetyequipment and devices that you
can carry on you, and a lot ofthese things have been You know,
a little more popular,especially in the female
population
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:29):
Yep.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:29):
that you can carry with you, even just
something as simple as adoorstop to keep in your room
and things like that.
I've seen a lot of new techGadgets pop up that can keep you
safe
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (05:41):
Yeah, absolutely.
And I think that's a great ideafor anybody, but definitely be
aware of what you need to keepyourself safe.
The second consideration isbudgeting.
So maybe look for solo friendlyaccommodations, maybe hostels
with private rooms, smallerboutique hotels.
Airbnb's can be budget friendly.
(06:03):
You just want to keep in mindthose extra fees, but you're
looking for stuff that doesn'thave that single supplement i'm
even working with a group ofwomen right now that want to do
a river cruise but they all wanttheir own cabins.
They want to travel As solopassengers even though they're
group of friends and so findingthe right river cruise line for
them has become really important
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:24):
Let's just back up a second and
explain single supplement Sosingle supplement, which this
was something that was confusingto me when I first got into the
travel industry as well that'swhy I think a lot of people
might not know what that is alot of times we price out a trip
for clients, think of like acruise or an all inclusive
vacation and you think, well, ifI just have one person, it'll be
(06:46):
cheaper,
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:46):
Yes
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (06:47):
Sometimes it's honestly more expensive.
You're paying at least the priceof two guests.
the reason for that is that thecruise line is counting on
having two people in that roomwhere the resort is counting on
having two people in that room.
So you're having to pay a singlesupplement, which means that
your room is not going to behalf the price of somebody who's
(07:09):
paying for two.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (07:10):
I will tell you from working with
single travelers, that can be achallenge to find the right fit.
The next one is using publictransportation.
taxis, ride shares can add upquickly.
So instead, maybe learn thelocal metro, bus, or bike rental
options.
I love using the subway incities.
(07:33):
Obviously, we want to have thatsafety mindset but those can be
really budget friendly for solotravelers.
And then this last one I reallylike, Dine Smart.
opting for local markets, foodhalls, or dining at lunch.
you tend to have cheaperoptions, when it comes to
budgeting.
But also two, maybe if you havethat stigma or nervousness to
(07:54):
dine by yourself in arestaurant, lunch tends to be a
friendlier time to do that, ifyou will.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (08:01):
so the next thing to consider is the
social aspects of it.
consider joining a group tour orclasses while you're on the
trip.
It could be something like awalking tour, cooking classes,
or any adventurous excursion Butan easy way to be in a group
with other travelers, to allowyou to interact with others on
your trip.
You can also consider staying ina social accommodation,
(08:22):
something like a hostel, a coliving space, or a hotel that
has a communal area.
That could be a great way tomeet some people while you're
traveling in your destination.
There's also some travelfriendly apps that can help
connect you with other travelersor locals.
like Meetup, Eat With, or SoloTraveler.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (08:43):
And the last area is packing and
logistics.
when you think about how you'regoing to pack and what you're
going to take with you, knowthat since you're going by
yourself, you're in charge ofeverything.
maybe packing light with a carryon or a backpack, making sure
that you have everything thatyou need as far as a power bank
and all that kind of stuffyou're in charge of.
yourself when you travel, whichis really good because you're
(09:05):
not having to take things forother people, but you're also
don't have anybody else to relyon during that travel time.
So Julie, next we're going totalk about some good solo
traveler locations around theworld.
I'm really excited to talk aboutsome of these.
But first, I want to talk aboutwhere in the world does all
(09:26):
things travel.
And a really cool one popped upthis week when I looked at new
locations.
And that was Perth, Australia.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (09:35):
Ooh, that's a fun one.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (09:36):
And so what I found in Perth was
Rottnest Island.
Rottnest Island is a must visitdestination when in Perth.
Located just a short ferry tripfrom Perth, the island is home
to some of the most beautifulbeaches in Australia, as well as
the famous, adorable Quokka.
Do you know what a quokka is?
(09:57):
So this marsupial, so, so a fewyears ago, there was this
Instagram craze of this smilinganimal.
Do you remember what I'm talkingabout?
And they would say it was thehappiest animal in the world
because it had this big grin onits face.
That's a quokka.
And I would be so excited to gohang out with the quokkas.
(10:18):
They are not scared of humans.
They like to hang out with you.
I think that'd be a lot of fun.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:23):
Can you spell this animal?
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:24):
it is Q U O K K A, Quokka.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:29):
then.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1916 (10:30):
Alright, so hey, Perth, we are so excited
that you are listening to us allthe way from Australia.
I would love to send you alittle thank you gift that you
can show off to your Quokkafriends for being featured on
today's show.
So do us a favor, you can emailJulie or myself, or you can, go
to allthingstravelpodcast.
com and click on the contact usbecause I want to send you a
(10:53):
little thank you gift
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:54):
That was a fun one.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (10:56):
All right, julie So best solo travel
destinations first I want totalk about u.
s destinations And then you'regoing to share some
international destinations withus.
So looking at the united statesfirst is asheville North
Carolina.
It is great for nature lovers.
It has an artsy culture and italso has a lot of breweries and
(11:17):
public places where solotravelers would really be able
to connect if they'd want to dothat with other folks.
You've got Portland, Oregon.
quirky, foodie friendly.
It's very easy to navigate.
It's a fun city to explore.
This next one has been on mylist for a while and I can't
really explain why.
(11:37):
Every time I see pictures of it,it just looks amazing.
that's Santa Fe, New Mexico.
If you are an art lover, it hassuch a unique culture and it has
a really relaxed vibe that Ithink solo travelers could
really dig in and see a lot.
and be able to plan the tripexactly how they want.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (11:56):
Alright, next up.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1916 (11:57):
Alright, this next one you know is close
to my heart.
I absolutely love this city, andthat is Chicago, Illinois.
And why do we talk about thisfor solo travelers?
One, it's very economical for alarge city.
It's walkable.
It has tons of museums and ithas really good public
transportation.
So I think Chicago is a goodfit.
(12:19):
And then lastly is San Diego,California.
It's laid back.
There's beachy vibes.
There's plenty of activities foras active and relaxed as you
want to be.
I think A solo traveler wouldreally dig San Diego.
All right, but internationally,there's some good choices here,
Julie.
What are some of them?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:39):
Okay, so I don't know how many of these I
would be comfortable going solo
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:43):
Oh my gosh, all these sound amazing to
me.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:46):
Okay, well, I mean, I'd like to go, I
just don't think I'd like to gosolo.
But if
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:51):
it.
Okay.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (12:52):
let's go through them.
The first one is Kyoto, Japan.
it is safe.
It is solo friendly.
It has great publictransportation and a lot of
cultural experiences.
I do think that this would be agreat destination for traveling
solo.
I just think I'd want to shareit with someone.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:10):
All right.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:10):
The next up is Lisbon over in Portugal.
It's really welcoming.
It's a little more affordablethan other destinations, and
it's also really walkable.
This could also be, a great wayto go and see a couple other
places in Europe just becauseit's easy to get around from
there.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:27):
Why not add it to a Doro river
cruise?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:30):
That's what I was thinking of cruise.
we're going to have Ryan pop inand pronounce this one for me.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:35):
Oh, come on, Julie.
It's Reykjavik, Iceland.
j_1_02-23-2025_19164 (13:38):
Reykjavik.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:39):
Yes,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (13:39):
So it's one of the safest places and
it's really great for outdooradventures.
I also think that when you see alot of pictures come out of
Iceland, there's always a crowdof people doing those fun
outdoor adventures.
it could be a great place tomeet people.
Then we have Amsterdam over inthe Netherlands.
It's really bike friendly, it'seasy to do solo exploration, and
(14:02):
it's another great kickoff pointfor those river cruises.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:05):
it is an absolutely beautiful city and
saying that it's bike friendlyis like the most underwhelming
statement of the year.
It is bike insane, and if youare not watching yourself in the
bike lanes, you will get runover and.
They love their bikes All right,what's the last one, Julie?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:24):
Bangkok, Thailand.
the great thing about going hereis that it is more budget
friendly.
It's really vibrant.
it just makes it a greatdestination.
But there's also a lot of solotravelers.
as you're exploring around thecity, you're not the only one
traveling solo.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (14:40):
All right, so to sum up the ideas
here today, top five solo traveltips.
One, start small.
If you're new to solo travel,try a weekend trip first.
Don't feel like you have to dothat, multi city trip or that
international trip.
Stay connected.
Have an international phone planand use Wi Fi apps to check in
(15:01):
with folks and also know whereyou are when it comes to maps,
confirmations, all that goodstuff.
Number three, join group toursand activities.
It's a great way to meet people,but also maintain independence.
If you meet people you want tocontinue having some time with,
that's great.
If not, when the tour is over,you can be on your way.
(15:22):
Number four, trust your gut.
If something feels off, it'stime to leave the situation.
And number five, embrace theexperience.
Solo travel can be rewarding.
You can lean into the freedomand the spontaneity to really do
what you want to do.
And one thing I will add, Julie,with that trust your gut is, I
(15:44):
have been to a lot of places inNorth America and Europe, and I
have not been to a place wherepeople are not willing to help.
If they can tell that you'reconcerned, if they can tell that
you are unsure as a tourist,There are very few places where
people will not step in and helpyou out, whether it's somebody
(16:07):
from a shop, whether it'ssomebody even on the street, if
you're asking directions, we'reall in this together.
And I think that's a real senseof, comfort when it comes to
being a solo traveler.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:18):
Well, and two, I think that goes so much
with just being aware of yoursurroundings, right?
Just staying in public areas,you won't even get into that
situation
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:26):
So, to wrap this up, have I convinced
you?
Would you like to do a solotrip?
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:30):
I just like, because we're just in such
different
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:34):
Times in our lives,
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:36):
Yes.
Like I would just miss myfamily, but I got it.
I get, I get it.
And, but I do want to like, justclarify one thing about solo
travel.
Doesn't mean you have to becompletely by yourself the whole
time.
It just means you arepotentially getting there by
yourself, right?
It could be you're going on atour.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:55):
Yes.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:56):
you didn't go there with people.
ryan_1_02-23-2025_1 (16:57):
Absolutely.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (16:58):
to wander a city by
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:00):
No.
No.
No.
Absolutely.
Absolutely.
j_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:03):
want to plan a trip to an amazing
destination, but don't know howto get started as your travel
advisors We work with you tocreate a customized itinerary
For your vacation and take thestress of planning away so you
can focus on the fun andcreating memories can reach out
to us at all things travelpodcast comm and click contact
us or plan your next trip
ryan_1_02-23-2025_191646 (17:24):
We look forward to talking to you
next week on All Things Travelwhen we talk about choosing the
right ship and stateroom forthat next cruise vacation.
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