Embarking on Solo Adventures Post-Divorce: 21 Countries Later

After the end of my two-decade-long marriage, I embarked on a solo journey to Brussels during Thanksgiving.

The idea of spending the holidays without my family was too painful, prompting me to take my first solo flight.

That trip changed everything for me. It sparked a passion for solitary travel, leading me to explore 21 countries on my own, each journey empowering me further.

Traveling solo has become a favored way of exploring, granting me the freedom to make my own choices about destinations, experiences, meals, and accommodations.

Begin with Familiar Territory

If you're inexperienced with travel, consider starting with a nearby destination. The familiarity can alleviate anxiety and make the experience more approachable.

One of my early solo ventures was to Prince Edward Island in Canada. From New Jersey, I drove and later crossed from Nova Scotia back to Maine.

Exploring Anne of Green Gables' settings on the island was delightful, and having my vehicle meant I could dictate the pace of my travels.

Balance Social and Alone Time with Small Group Tours

If solo travel feels daunting or you seek a break from solitude, small group tours can be a perfect bridge. They offer a structured travel plan and like-minded companions.

Rather than vast, generic tours, opt for small groups focused on specific interests like photography or wellness.

These tours relieve you of planning hassles and provide instant company, with the flexibility to retreat into your own space when needed.

Throughout Vietnam, Cambodia, Bolivia, Romania, and Laos, I enjoyed such tours, ensuring personal space with a modest surcharge for my own room.

Let Local Guides Reveal Hidden Gems

Local guides can offer unique, enriching experiences far removed from typical tourist paths.

In Cappadocia, Turkey, a guide tailored the itinerary to suit my interests, such as nature and history, leading to unforgettable hikes and visits to little-known ruins.

He even showcased his childhood cave home, which he was transforming into a hotel, cementing a friendship by the journey's end.

Savor Culinary Cultures Through Food Tours and Cooking Classes

Wherever I travel, delving into the local culinary scene is a must, often through food tours or cooking classes.

Favorites include exploring markets to choose ingredients while learning about the area's food traditions.

Such tours also help familiarize me with the city layout and are perfect for keeping jet lag at bay after overnight flights.

One standout was in Krakow, Poland, where a food tour wove through traditional delights from happy hour to a festive meal reminiscent of a family celebration.

Seek Solitude on Nature Adventures with Safety in Numbers

Craving solo nature explorations but concerned about safety? Consider options that provide transport to hiking sites, ensuring others are nearby should anything go amiss.

I once took on Crete's Samaria Gorge, a challenging solo trek, thanks to such arrangements. Knowing fellow hikers were around offered peace of mind.

The hike allowed leisurely enjoyment — taking photos, pausing for a snack, and discovering natural pools at my own pace.

Ease the Isolation of Dining Alone with a Book or Journal

Initially, eating alone was daunting, but now it’s a moment to enjoy journaling and savoring meals of my choice.

Servers often pay special attention to solo diners, providing excellent suggestions, leading to engaging conversations and sometimes more connections than those dining in company.

Capture Memories and Make Connections by Sharing Photos

Position yourself in your travel photos. Building connections by offering to photograph others often leads to reciprocal favors, resulting in some of my best travel shots.