Travelling solo is a trend that has grown in popularity in recent years. According to Google Trend data, travelling solo has increased by 761% since 2021.
More people are exploring the world independently for various reasons and benefits.
However, travelling solo also comes with challenges and risks, such as isolation and loneliness.
This article will offer tips and resources to help you make the most of your solo travel experience and overcome its challenges.
Read on:
1. Accept that Loneliness is Normal and Temporary
This is a good tip for overcoming loneliness, especially if it is caused by situational factors, such as moving to a new place, going through a breakup, or facing a pandemic.
Loneliness is not a fact but a feeling that can change depending on your circumstances and attitude.
Acknowledging and embracing your feelings of loneliness rather than ignoring or avoiding them is important.
Doing so lets you learn more about yourself and your needs and find ways to cope and grow from the experience.
You can also adopt a more positive mindset and see loneliness as an opportunity for solitude, peace, and self-discovery rather than as a threat or a failure.
Remember that loneliness is not permanent, and you can always find ways to connect with others and yourself.
2. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
Choosing your accommodation wisely is an important decision that can affect your university experience.
You can choose from different types of accommodation, such as university-managed halls, private rented flats, or homestays.
Each option has advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences, budget, and lifestyle.
Here are some factors that you should consider when choosing your accommodation:
1. Location
It would be best to consider how far your accommodation is from the university campus, the city centre, and other places you need or want to visit.
You should also check the availability and cost of public transport, parking, and cycling facilities.
Ideally, it would help if you looked for accommodation that is convenient, safe, and accessible.
2. Facilities
It would help to consider your accommodation’s facilities, such as internet access, laundry, kitchen, bathroom, storage, security, and social spaces.
You should also check if the accommodation is furnished, unfurnished, or partly furnished, and what items you need to bring or buy.
Additionally, you should consider the environmental impact of your accommodation, such as its energy efficiency, waste management, and recycling options.
3. Cost
You should consider how much your accommodation costs, and how it fits your budget.
You should also check what is included and excluded in the rent, such as bills, deposits, fees, and insurance.
Moreover, you should compare the value and quality of different accommodation options and look for any discounts, scholarships, or bursaries you may be eligible for.
4. Community
You should consider what kind of community your accommodation provides and how it matches your personality, interests, and needs.
You should also check the rules and regulations of your accommodation, such as noise, visitors, pets, and smoking.
Furthermore, it would help if you considered the opportunities and challenges of living with others, such as making friends, sharing responsibilities, and resolving conflicts.
Also see our guide on: How to Handle Facing Discrimination or Racism
3. Join a Day Tour or a Group Activity
Joining a day tour or a group activity is a great way to overcome loneliness or isolation when travelling solo.
You can meet new people who share your interests, learn from local guides, and enjoy exploring new places.
Depending on your destination, budget, and preferences, many options exist for day tours or group activities.
Here are some examples:
- If you want to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the Philippines, you can join a group activity.
You can see the famous Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and river cruises in Bohol or Palawan’s stunning islands, lagoons, and beaches. - If you want to immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Philippines, you can join a [day tour to Intramuros] or a [group tour to Cebu].
You can visit the historic walled city of Manila, where you can see Spanish colonial architecture, museums, and churches, or the oldest city in the Philippines, where you can see the Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica del Santo Niño. - If you want to have some adventure and adrenaline in the Philippines, you can join a [day tour to Taal Volcano] or a [group tour to Boracay].
You can hike or ride a horse to the active volcano’s crater lake or enjoy the island paradise’s water sports, nightlife, and white sand beaches.
4. Use Technology to Stay Connected with Your Loved Ones
Technology can be a great way to keep in touch with your loved ones, especially when you cannot meet them in person.
There are many options for virtual communication, such as video calls, group chats, online games, and more.
Here are some suggestions on how to use technology to stay connected with your loved ones:
1. Video calls
You can use apps like Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype to have face-to-face conversations with your loved ones.
You can schedule regular video calls or have spontaneous ones whenever you feel like it.
You can also use video calls to share special moments, such as birthdays, holidays, or milestones.
Video calls can help you feel closer to your loved ones and see their expressions and emotions.
2. Group chats
You can use apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Telegram to create group chats with your family and friends.
You can send text messages, photos, videos, voice notes, and stickers to your group chat.
You can also use group chats to plan events, share news, or have fun conversations.
Group chats can help you stay updated and involved with your loved ones’ lives.
3. Online games
You can use apps like Houseparty, Jackbox, or Kahoot to play online games with your loved ones.
You can choose from different types of games, such as trivia, quizzes, puzzles, or party games.
You can also use video or voice chat to talk to your loved ones while playing.
Online games can help you have fun and bond with loved ones over shared interests and hobbies.
4. Online workouts
You can use apps like Peloton, Fitbit, or YouTube to join online workouts with your loved ones.
You can choose from different types of workouts, such as yoga, pilates, cardio, or strength training.
You can also use video or voice chat to motivate and encourage each other while exercising.
Online workouts can help you stay healthy and active with your loved ones.
5. Letters and cards
You can use apps like Touchnote, Ink, or Postagram to send letters and cards to your loved ones.
You can customize your letters and cards with photos, stickers, and messages.
You can also use apps like Moonpig, Funky Pigeon, or Snapfish to order personalized gifts, such as mugs, calendars, or cushions.
Letters and cards can help you express your feelings and appreciation to your loved ones.
5. Meet Other Travelers and Locals Through Online Platforms or Apps
Many online platforms or apps can help you meet travellers and locals while you are exploring a new place. Some of them are:
1. Skout
An app that boasts millions of users, Skout helps you connect with people who just happen to be in the same place at the same time.
Their Passport feature can help you get in touch with people travelling in over 100 countries across the world.
2. Tripr
An app that lets you update your profile with where and when you’ll be so you can organize to meet up with people before you arrive.
You can also host visitors in your home city.
3. Couchsurfing
A website and app that helps you travel cheaply and stay at an actual person’s place rather than shacking up in a hostel.
You can also use their local forums to attend and plan local meetups to hang out with locals and other travellers.
4. TravBuddy
A website that helps you find your travel buddy abroad.
You can scroll through your chosen destination, see who’s heading there soon, and looking for a friend.
5. Airbnb
A website and app that lets you book unique accommodations from local hosts. You can also use their
Experiences feature to find and join activities led by locals, such as cooking classes, hiking tours, or cultural events.
6. Distract yourself with Hobbies or Entertainment
That’s a good tip for coping with loneliness and isolation on travel.
Hobbies and entertainment can help you relax, have fun, and focus on the positive aspects of your solo travel experience.
What are some of the hobbies or entertainment that you enjoy while travelling?
Here are some examples:
1. Reading
Reading can be a great way to relax, learn, and escape into different worlds.
You can read books, magazines, blogs, or articles about your travel destination, interest, or genre.
You can also join online book clubs or communities to share your thoughts and opinions with other readers.
2. Writing
Writing can be a creative and expressive way to document travel experiences, feelings, and insights.
You can write a journal, a blog, a poem, a story, or an essay about your travel adventures.
You can also use apps or websites that help you generate writing prompts, ideas, or feedback.
3. Photography
Photography can be a fun and rewarding way to capture the beauty, culture, and diversity of the places you visit.
You can use your camera, phone, or tablet to take photos of the landscapes, people, or events that catch your eye.
You can also use apps or websites that help you edit, organize, or share your photos with others.
4. Music
Music can be a soothing and uplifting way to enjoy your travel moments.
You can listen to music that matches your mood, taste, or destination.
You can also use apps or websites that help you discover new music, create playlists, or join online concerts or festivals.
5. Games
Games can be a fun and engaging way to challenge yourself, have fun, and meet new people.
You can play games that are related to your travel destination, interest, or genre.
You can also use apps or websites that help you find and join online games, quizzes, or puzzles with other travellers or locals.
7. Travel Virtually to Other Places or Cultures
Travelling virtually is a great way to explore the world from the comfort of your home.
You can visit famous landmarks, museums, national parks, and more without leaving your couch.
There are many ways to travel virtually, such as:
1. Virtual tours and 360-degree experiences
You can view panoramic images or videos of various places and attractions using your computer, phone, or tablet.
Some examples are the Grand Canyon, the Sistine Chapel, Machu Picchu, and the Eiffel Tower.
2. Live webcams and streaming
You can watch live footage of different locations and events around the world.
Some examples are the Northern Lights, Times Square, the Great Barrier Reef, and the African Safari.
Also see: How to Deal with Being Rejected or Deported
3. Virtual reality (VR) travel experiences
You can use a VR headset or device to immerse yourself in realistic simulations of different destinations and activities.
Some examples are flying over Paris, diving with sharks, hiking in the Himalayas, and walking on Mars.
4. Documentary films and travel series
You can watch informative and entertaining shows that showcase the world’s beauty, culture, and diversity.
Some examples are Planet Earth, Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Street Food, and Our Planet.
5. Online language and cooking classes
You can learn new skills and interact with people from different countries and backgrounds.
Some examples are Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, Airbnb Online Experiences, and Udemy.
Conclusion
Overcoming feelings of isolation and loneliness is a journey that requires self-awareness, courage, and the willingness to reach out.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and seek connections.
You’re not alone in your feelings, and there are resources and people ready to support you.
Embrace the power of small steps, and celebrate each victory, no matter how small.
With time, patience, and persistence, you can scale through this challenging phase and emerge stronger.
We’re rooting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do people feel isolated or lonely?
People may feel isolated or lonely due to various reasons such as geographic distance from loved ones, lack of social connections, major life changes like moving to a new city or retirement, mental health issues, or experiencing social stigma or discrimination.
2. What are the potential effects of prolonged isolation or loneliness on mental health?
Prolonged isolation or loneliness can have detrimental effects on mental health, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, substance abuse, and decreased overall well-being.
3. How can I recognize if I am experiencing loneliness or isolation?
Signs of loneliness or isolation may include feelings of emptiness or sadness, withdrawal from social interactions, difficulty forming or maintaining relationships, changes in sleep or eating patterns, and a sense of disconnectedness from others.
4. What are some practical ways to overcome loneliness or isolation?
Practical ways to overcome loneliness or isolation include reaching out to friends or family members, joining social groups or clubs, volunteering in the community, pursuing hobbies or interests, seeking professional help or therapy, and utilizing technology to stay connected virtually.
5. How can I build meaningful connections with others if I’m feeling isolated?
Building meaningful connections involves initiating conversations, actively listening to others, showing genuine interest, attending social gatherings or events, joining online forums or support groups, and participating in activities that align with your interests and values.
6. Are there any benefits to spending time alone?
Yes, spending time alone can have benefits such as self-reflection, increased creativity, enhanced problem-solving skills, improved self-awareness, and a greater sense of independence and self-reliance.
7. What role does self-care play in combating loneliness or isolation?
Self-care is essential in combating loneliness or isolation as it involves prioritizing one’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Engaging in activities such as exercise, meditation, journaling, healthy eating, and getting adequate rest can boost mood and resilience.
8. How can I overcome the fear of reaching out to others for support?
Overcoming the fear of reaching out involves challenging negative thoughts, practicing self-compassion, setting realistic expectations, starting with small steps, and reminding oneself that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
9. What strategies can I use to cope with loneliness during major life transitions?
Strategies for coping with loneliness during major life transitions include staying connected with loved ones through communication channels, seeking support from professionals or support groups, embracing new opportunities for socialization, and focusing on self-care and personal growth.
10. Where can I find additional resources or support for overcoming loneliness or isolation?
Additional resources for overcoming loneliness or isolation include mental health hotlines, online therapy platforms, community centers, religious or spiritual organizations, counseling services, and self-help books or podcasts focused on building social connections and improving mental health.