People always ask if I get lonely traveling by myself. Honestly? Rarely.
I enjoy traveling with people, but there’s something about being on my own that I really appreciate. I can get up, decide what I feel like doing, and go. No checking whether everyone is ready. No trying to agree on where to eat or how long to stay.
And if I change my mind halfway through the day, that’s fine too.
Sometimes I just want to stay at the beach
I don’t need every trip to have a packed itinerary. If I’m enjoying myself somewhere, I want to stay a little longer.
In Tobago, that could mean more time at the Nylon Pool or sitting at Store Bay with bake and shark, watching the waves. I don’t always want to leave a place I’m enjoying just to get to the next thing.
Sometimes a beach, something good to eat, and nowhere I need to rush off to is enough for me.
That’s one of the things I like most about traveling alone. I get to decide what a good day looks like.
I actually get to take it all in
On my trip to Tobago, I went on a bamboo raft through the mangroves of Bon Accord Lagoon. There were the birds, the light on the water, and that quiet you don’t always notice when you’re busy talking.
I could just sit there and enjoy it.
I love a good conversation, but I also like having moments when I don’t have to say anything. I’m not trying to keep anyone entertained or wondering if they’re ready to leave.
I’m just there, taking it in.
Book the tours with @allthingstobago
That raft trip was with @allthingstobago on Instagram. If you look closely at the photos, their name is right there on the raft.
They run tours around the island, so it isn’t only the raft. If you’re planning a trip, send them a DM and tell them what you’re interested in.
That’s part of why I like booking with local operators. You’re dealing with people who actually know the island, and your money stays with a local business.
I still meet people
Traveling alone doesn’t mean I spend the whole trip by myself. There’s the guide on an excursion, someone at the bar, or another traveler you end up talking to.
Some of my best travel conversations have happened that way. Nothing planned, just people talking.
And I like that I can enjoy someone’s company without needing to coordinate the rest of my trip with them. We can have a good conversation, wish each other well, and carry on with our day.
I’ve learned what I actually like
When you travel with a group, it’s easy to go along with the plan. Sometimes you don’t even stop to think about what you would have chosen.
Being on my own has helped me figure that out.
I know I’d rather enjoy an afternoon on the beach than rush through five attractions. I also know I like going out in the evening. A quiet afternoon doesn’t mean I want to spend the whole night in my room.
I can do both. That’s the beauty of making my own plans.
A few things I’d keep in mind
If you’re thinking about taking a solo trip, you don’t have to plan every minute. But I’d still sort out a few things before going:
- Where you’re staying: Think about what you want to be close to and how you’ll get around, especially at night.
- An excursion or two: A group activity can give you some company without turning the whole vacation into a group trip. Check the operator’s current reviews and arrangements before booking.
- Someone who knows your plans: Share your accommodation details and check in with someone you trust.
- Time to do nothing: Leave some room in the schedule. You might find a place you don’t want to rush away from.
And don’t feel you have to say yes to everything just because you’re trying to be open to new experiences. If you’re uncomfortable, you can leave or change your plans.
I’m not waiting for company every time
I’m not saying every trip needs to be a solo trip. I’m saying I don’t want to miss out on something I’d enjoy just because no one else is available.
Sometimes I want company. Sometimes I want a few days where I can move at my own pace and make my own decisions.
Both are okay.
If you’ve been thinking about taking a trip on your own, start by looking at what would make you comfortable. You don’t have to prove anything or do everything. You’re allowed to go somewhere and simply enjoy being there.
Thinking about your next trip?
For tours and excursions, from rafting the mangroves to island sightseeing, here's where I book mine:
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Have you traveled solo? I’d love to know where you went and whether you’d do it again.
Leslieann
