The art of solo travel

Solo travel can be one of the greatest vehicles for self-reflection. Many of us romanticize the idea of sitting on a train, writing in a journal and feeling blissfully content as we gaze out at the sunset. We might also expect to find a new sense of clarity, a lover or a career change along the way. And for that stylized take on solo travel, we have Eat, Pray, Love to thank.

With that disclaimer out of the way, we haven’t found a better way to reconnect with ourselves than solo travel. In our experience, you have to get quiet to get loud – and when you’re traveling alone, that inner voice is turned right up. Thoughts become more focused, decisions more confident.

Our best advice is twofold. First, carefully consider the solo travel experience that’s best for you – it could be really remote, or a city break surrounded by people; a month’s retreat with a group you don’t know or a short weekend spent alone.

Secondly, manage your expectations. There will be nights dancing with beautiful strangers, and best meals you’ve ever had, with just a good book for company. But, you might also get completely lost, and spend a few early nights in the hotel with Netflix, feeling a little lonely. Allow it all to unfold, because that’s where the best experiences are found.

If you’re still reading this, you’re probably a few clicks away from booking a solo trip. Our final piece of advice? Do it. And, read on for our suggestions of good places to start.

The solo travel starter for ten

Lisbon, Portugal 

If Europe is easily accessible from where you’re based, Lisbon is a great city for your initial solo travel trip. It’s walkable, but big enough that you can get purposefully lost. The food and architecture is outstanding. There’s a friendly community of creatives, freelancers and expats. Plus, high-speed trains to Porto or Faro, if you want to explore further – and maybe jump in the sea. All the key ingredients for a fulfilling solo travel experience.

Stay at Santiago de Alfama

Treat yourself to a room at this 5-star boutique hotel. The 15th-century building has been perfectly restored, while interiors feature clean-lines, and contemporary design. Views over the Alfama neighborhood are picture-perfect Lisbon. And, the hotel bar is a good place for that initial drink to ease you into the solo travel mindset.

Taking the solo weekend to the next level

Sacred Valley, Peru

For the solo traveler who’s had a few successful weekends away and is ready to up the sense of adventure, we are going to recommend Peru’s Sacred Valley. Welcoming millions of tourists each year, Cusco is a safe and convenient hub to fly into. From there, instead of going straight to Machu Picchu, spend some time exploring Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba – you’ll find beautiful hikes, yoga studios, great cafes and friendly crowds. Tip: the best way to get from place to place is in a collectivo, a shared ride that picks people up around town. It’s a trip that strikes the perfect balance between finding new connection and getting away from it all.

Stay at El Albergue Ollantaytambo Hotel & Restaurant

This lodge is the most beautiful in the area. Inside it’s all dark woods and white details; outside, you’ll find an organic farm, a coffee collective and and a school for local children. Make sure to take advantage of the traditional lunch, which the chef cooks in a volcanic stone oven buried in the garden. It’s delicious.

Solo traveling further afield

Mae Hong Son, Thailand 

Close to the town of Pai in norther Thailand, Mae Hong Son is nestled amid the mountains on the border of Burma. The setting is completely serene – so, if you’re serious about getting away from it all, start packing. Don’t count on cell service or wifi, because you most likely won’t have it. Instead, you’ve got breathtaking hikes, waterfalls, hot springs, and remote caves. From Mae Hong Son, you’re well placed to explore Salawin National Park; Pang Ung, a tiny village with a lake; or Baan Ruam, know for its coffee. If a “new you” is out there, this may well be the place to find them.  

Stay at Fern Resort

This eco-friendly resort is simple, but perfect for your time in northern Thailand. The resort is made up of 30 wooden bungalows, built on former rice paddies, overlooking the mountains. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in all that nature has to offer.