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They say that travelling is best enjoyed with a friend. The casual banter, sharing of food opinions and the shopping seemed like loads of fun. The shared travel experience can make holidaying overseas enjoyable and in many ways, a social affair. However, according to Forbes, 2024 has seen a significant rise in solo travel, with 27% in 2017 and 50% in 2024. The American Express 2024 Global Travel Trends Report highlights solo travel as a major trend among young travellers, with 66% of respondents planning on travelling solo are planning a trip centred around self-love and treating themselves well on vacation. 

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Is solo travel right for you? Also, what does it mean to be travelling alone? Read on to find out if travelling solo is the right fit for your needs. 

Solo Travelling and Eating Alone – Is It Really That Bad?

Solo travelling is the act of travelling alone, without companions. It’s about exploring the world on your own terms, whether that means visiting a bustling city, hiking remote trails, or lounging on a beach. It’s an opportunity to focus on your interests, make spontaneous decisions, and connect with yourself and the world around you. It would also mean lots of me-time, and solo meal times can even be surprisingly gratifying. The Japanese have a term for this – Mokushoku: 黙食 – the act of silent eating, and perhaps attracted mainstream attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some countries are at the forefront of this phenomenon, as evidenced by numerous restaurants’ setting up a dedicated Mokushoku corner for all lone diners to sort of sit in a cluster together so they feel less embarrassed by eating alone. 

Differences Between Solo Travel and Silent Travel

For starters, solo travel is not quite the same as silent travel, although they can sometimes overlap depending on the traveller’s preferences. The major difference lies in the focus of travel – solo travel focuses on independence, while silent travel emphasises tranquillity and mindfulness. Also, solo travellers may actively engage with others, while silent travel often minimises interaction and communication. Both forms can be deeply fulfilling, and some solo travellers may incorporate aspects of silent travel into their journeys to enhance self-reflection. 

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Tips For Solo Travel Success

• Start small: Take a short trip or visit a nearby destination you are more familiar with to reduce travel anxiety 
• Choose safe, solo-friendly locations – www.travelandleisure.com ranks Thailand as the Best Tourist Destination for solo travellers in 2024 
• Stay connected: Keep friends or family and even your hotel concierge informed of your plans for peace of mind
• Don’t participate in dangerous or extreme sports alone as you don’t have anyone looking out for you 
• Embrace downtime: Bring books, journals, or hobbies for quiet moments
• Be open: Talk to locals, join group tours, or attend events to combat loneliness 

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