travelling solo after 50

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Solo Travel Over 50: Embrace New Adventures on Your Terms

July 18, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Solo travel over 50 and you will find new interests, gain new confidence, and discover new ways to manage a major life transition.

More people over 50 are traveling solo than ever before.

More than a quarter of the respondents to our annual reader survey are over 50. The percentage is similar on Facebook where we host the Solo Travel Society with over 270,000 participants. Dozens, sometimes thousands of people engage with other solo travelers there every day.

Whether you're in a relationship or are fabulously single, solo travel delivers so much more than the typical travel experience. And whether you are traveling independently or with a group, solo travel does not necessarily mean that you are alone. Taking a cooking class, a walking tour, or attending a meetup on a subject you are passionate about are all great activities for solo travelers. They can connect you to people of all ages from all over the world.

But before we get into the best reasons to travel solo over 50, let's look at the major life transition you may be facing, some of the questions that are arising now, and why this might be the perfect time of your life to head out on your own.

Table of Contents

Travel Solo to Navigate a Major Life Transition

If you're over 50, you are likely facing a major life transition. As a 50+ you may:

• be content with your career and no longer looking for challenges there.
• have adult children who are no longer at home.
• be part of the sandwich generation with parents and children requiring your attention.
• have a relationship status that is complicated.

In the many-faceted world of those over 50, life is changing. You are facing a major life transition and it may not be clear what you're transitioning to.

Where will you redirect your energy?

Perhaps you're experiencing one or a number of the situations below. See how solo travel can help.

• Have you been in the same relationship for decades? Is it getting a little tired? Take separate vacations and return with lots to say to each other.
• Is your spouse or partner uninterested in travel? Going solo is your answer. See the world and return refreshed to your relationship.
• Have your kids just left the nest? Then it’s time to find out who you are again. You can’t really do this with a companion who knows you and expects you to act in certain ways. Get away. Travel alone and rediscover yourself.
• Are you suddenly single, either by divorce or loss? Solo travel is a real confidence builder , a great way to make a comeback.
• Are you concerned that people at work see you as old? Head out on a solo adventure and people will quickly adjust their attitudes.
• Is work dull with little hope of things changing? Solo travel over 50 will inject some challenge into life.
• Is money tight? Solo travel can be inexpensive. It’s much easier to save on hostels, hospitality stays, great deals, and cheap flights when you travel alone.
• Do you have health problems? Stress is a major contributor to most health problems. Plan a solo holiday where you set the schedule and take a break from the stress in your life.
• Did you retire early? Do you have time to travel but family and friends don’t? No need to sit around and wait for them. Go solo and enjoy.
• Is it time for change? Travel alone, reflect, analyze, and explore your possibilities without the influence of others.

Best Reasons to Travel Solo Over 50

Maybe we all need a little time to ourselves, to make decisions, discover our strengths, and experience more autonomy. Maybe we all need to travel solo.

• Enjoy your freedom.  If you have spent most of your life surrounded by and responsible to others this is your chance to be responsible to no one but yourself. Go to bed when you like. Get up when you like. Eat, drink, wander, explore what you like. It's all up to you.
• Gain confidence from that independence . Whether you're traveling solo on a tour or independently, there is a confidence-building element to solo travel for having jumped into a somewhat unknown situation on your own.
• Discover who you are when you’re not meeting the demands of a spouse or children . When responding to everyone else, who has time to get to know oneself? Solo travel over 50 gives you that opportunity. Do what you couldn’t afford or didn’t have time to do when younger.
• Explore new interests.  Solo travel can be a gateway to new interests. Whether it's music or hiking or discovering like I did last month that I like champagne, try something new. Maybe you wouldn't go to a bar by yourself at home but on the road in a town like Nashville , how could you possibly stay in with all that music around you? Perhaps  hiking is not part of your lifestyle but if you find yourself in the Lake District of England you may just find a new love. Solo travel is a chance to try something new.
• Model a different kind of aging. I find that many people in their twenties and thirties are really curious about me. They seem to look at me as the kind of person they want to be when they get to my age – which, in their mind is very, very old. They see me as bold and welcome me into their conversations. And they often tell me that I am not like their parents at all. It seems I'm an alternative model for their future.
• Expand your world with cross-generational conversations . Talking with people younger and older than me breaks me out of my limited world and gives me a better understanding of the issues faced by others. And they amuse me. I remember walking down a street in Italy with an American man in his twenties. He turned to look back at a beautiful young woman who had passed us and said to me, “I love Italian women. They have great junk in the trunk.” Really! Whatever I think about his comment, to have such access to young attitudes is wonderful, if not curious and sometimes disturbing.
• Enjoy the respect age receives in other countries . My hair is grey. Given the courtesy I receive in some countries I have thought that I present as older than I am. Then I realized that it's actually about age being respected more in other cultures. Traveling on a train in India a young man wouldn't dream of moving me from my seat even though I was willing (insisting) and had, by means of a seat shift, taken his. No, his response was, “but you are our guest.” I suspect someone younger may not have been treated quite so well.
• Reboot your life that may otherwise be on autopilot . Feeling a bit bored? Need to shake things up a bit? Need new stimulation? Solo travel can give you this. Fulfill lifelong dreams that may not be shared with a partner. Many partners take separate vacations to pursue their personal dreams. Go for it.

Different Options for Traveling Alone

There are two basic ways to travel solo.

• Independent solo travel
• Solo travel on a tour

Independent Solo Travel

Independent solo travel is when you plan, navigate, and negotiate everything yourself. The downside is all that work and responsibility if you don't enjoy it. The upside is freedom and independence. It's exhilarating! Most of what we write here is about independent solo travel. Here's a guide to over 500 posts on Solo Traveler.

Solo Travel on a Tour or Cruise

This is solo travel in a group where the planning and organizing is all taken care of for you. Every day you have a guide and the group heads out to another activity. No fear of being lonely, eating alone, or your safety. The tour takes care of everything.

Most companies organize tours and have a few solos on them. There are a few companies that just cater to solo travelers. Check out our  Deals  page for our exclusive list of solo-friendly tours with no or very low single supplements from multiple companies. You can also receive our monthly Newsletter and Advisory of Deals by email. Just click here and sign up for the Solo Traveler Newsletter.

Also read: How to Choose a Tour for Solo Travelers: Top Tips for Savings and Fun

Solo Travel Safety Considerations

Every week, people reach this blog by using the search term “solo travel after 50.” These words are frequently paired with concern for safety. There seems to be some concern about age and solo travel. From my perspective, there shouldn’t be.

Being 65, I think I'm qualified to address this issue. And, as you might imagine, I believe that it is not only safe to travel solo after fifty but also, for all the reasons above, important.

That said, at a certain age we become more aware of safety issues. When we were young, optimism prevailed. Concerns were tossed into the wind. Not so much now. So, here I have a few safety tips specifically for older solo travelers.

• Get travel insurance . If you're over 65 this can be a problem. It gets more expensive the older you are but it can also save your bacon. Read how travel insurance has saved me a number of times in  A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers.
• Put medications in your carry-on luggage . Eliminate the possibility of being separated from your daily medications should your baggage go astray. Pack all medications in your carry-on. It's always recommended to keep all meications in their original containers from the pharmacy. Read  How to Get Through an Airport by Yourself with Ease
• Request special services in advance . I've walked more than a kilometer from my plane to the airport exit. For some, this may be too long a trek. Consider your abilities and request any special support you need a few days in advance of your flight.
• Travel light . There's nothing worse than being in a position where you can't get help and you can't manage your bags on your own. Read  Bare Minimum Packing: Here’s Your Packing List .
• Wear quality shoes . Balance starts to go after a certain age. It's a subtle process. Not obvious at first but, under the right (or should I say, wrong) circumstances, a twisted ankle, or worse, can easily happen. I gave up my beloved Merrell sandals for my more stable Eccos a couple of years ago.
• Have back-up glasses . I lost a pair hiking once. It's simple to do. Best to have a backup pair.
• Keep the bling at home . At this stage of life you may have some beautiful jewelry but that doesn't mean you have to take it traveling. Keep it at home where it's safe and you won't attract attention to yourself.
• Don't promote the fact that you're away on social media . It may be exciting to be going on a solo adventure but don't announce it to the world. You want your home to be safe as you travel as well.

Also read  Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Tips for Those Who Travel Alone .

Great Destination Ideas for 50+ Travelers

In reality, the best destination for any solo traveling boomer (the baby boomer generation is generally defined as people born from 1946 to 1964) is up to them. You might want to climb Mount Everest and if you're up to the challenge, it's a great destination for you. So what can I offer in terms of destinations? How can I generalize? Here are trips that just about anyone can enjoy and they don't involve learning another language.

• Spectacular Western Canada.  I traveled Western Canada by plane, train, and car a few years ago. The grandeur of the mountains, the friendliness of the people, great hikes, and small towns made it a great trip. It was simple to plan and affordable. You can read about it here:  Western Canada Itinerary: Top Things to See and Do  and  British Columbia by Train: Budget or Luxury. It’s Your Choice.
• The United Kingdom.  The UK has so much to offer. The culture is different but the language is the same, making it interesting and easy. London is a top destination for most of us. I find the center of the city to be very safe. I've walked at night and had no problem. Read  Solo Travel London on a Budget: Top Tips for Free and Cheap and  Best Places to Stay in London: Accommodation for Solo Travelers . I'll never tire of Northern Ireland's glens and its dramatic Causeway Coastal Route. Read  Solo Travel Northern Ireland: Tips for Belfast and Beyond .
• Road trip!  I love a road trip. I especially love a road trip along the coast and through a rugged landscape and one that drops me into small towns and villages to meet locals. I've taken two such road trips in Canada, one in New Brunswick and the other in Nova Scotia. Both provinces are very accessible by car for those who live on the eastern seaboard of the United States. Read  15 Great Solo Road Trips: All Solo Traveler Tested .
• An educational holiday.  I set a goal for myself to become fluent in French. I have improved greatly by using holiday time for French immersion classes in Quebec City and Lyon, France.
• A river cruise.  A river cruise covers many destinations in one trip with only one unpacking and repacking involved. That makes it easy. Read 12 River Cruise Tips for Solo Travelers: How to Make the Most of Your Journey .
• Walking trips . I really enjoyed my walking trip on the Isle of Skye . On the path, I would stop, take in the view, and find a huge smile stretching across my face. I smile a lot but smiling just because the air and view and exertion are so wonderful is not part of my regular day. I really suggest walking trips. You can be as adventurous as you like. I encourage you to read this post by Susanne, a reader from Austria:  Solo Travel Destination: The West Highland Way, Scotland .
• Creative travel . Creative travel is travel for the express purpose of learning something new. It may be cooking or a language, dance or painting. Creative travel helps you enter your destination through the local culture and by meeting locals and learning from them. Read  Creative Travel Tips: Discover More of a Destination and Yourself.

Some Additional Solo Travel Tips

Traveling solo late in your second act (or maybe in your third) is a wonderful experience. Whether you go for luxury or budget travel, it's all available to you. I'd like you to remember a couple of things.

• Others will welcome the excitement of you . You are, by the mere fact that you're traveling solo, adventurous to many. You liven up an evening for people. I have enjoyed many a coffee or meal with travelers and locals who welcomed me into their conversation. I enrich them as they enrich me.
• Hostels are not just for the young . Once referred to as youth hostels, today they are just hostels. Some, like the YHA hostels, are still non-profit but others are part of hostel chains. Yes, just like boomers, hostels have grown up. As the hostel clientele of the 60s and 70s has matured, so have hostels. To get a sense of staying at hostels as a boomer, read  The Hostel Experience for Solo Travelers: What to Expect. How to Stay Safe .

And one final comment:  don't hesitate to return to places you visited when you were younger . One of the great benefits of solo travel over 50 is that the knowledge gained and life lived over the years will take you to a deeper understanding of a destination than you could possibly have had before.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel for Women over 50  

Whether you find yourself to be well-acquainted with solo travel or are gearing up for that very first independent journey, going on a solo trip opens up a scope of unique experiences. It’s a venture that comes with its very own set of highs and lows.

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sail. Explore. Dream. Discover. — Mark Twain

While solo travel may not be for everyone, those who go on adventures alone often find it to be a transformative and empowering experience.

Pros of Traveling Solo

Traveling solo comes with a lot of advantages that cater to personal growth, independence, and genuinely unique experiences.

Freedom and Flexibility

You have complete control over your itinerary, allowing you to change plans spontaneously, explore hidden gems, and take detours without having to consider the preferences of a travel companion.

Self-Discovery

Solo travel offers an opportunity for introspection, self-reflection, and a deeper understanding of your own preferences, strengths, and challenges.

Personal Empowerment

Tackling challenges and navigating new environments on your own can significantly boost your self-confidence and resilience, leaving you with a lasting sense of achievement.

Customized Experiences

Tailor your trip to your interests without compromising on anyone else’s preferences, ensuring a fully personalized adventure.

Cultural Immersion

Solo travelers often find it easier to engage with locals and immerse themselves in the local culture, fostering a more authentic travel experience.

Increased Social Opportunities

Solo travelers are often more approachable, leading to more interactions with fellow travelers and locals. This can result in meaningful connections and friendships.

Greater Budget Control

You have the ability to manage your own budget without the need for compromises, allowing you to allocate resources based on your priorities.

Flexibility in Accommodation

Choosing accommodations that suit your preferences and budget becomes simpler when you’re the sole decision-maker.

Watch Margaret Manning, founder of Sixty & Me, tell us why hostels are a great option for women over 50.

Skill Development

Solo travel hones valuable life skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability, contributing to personal and professional growth.

Embracing Solitude

Solo travel provides an opportunity for solitude, allowing you to recharge, reflect, and appreciate the world at your own pace.

Increased Focus on Interests

Pursue your passions and interests without compromise, whether it’s art, history, adventure sports, or simply relaxing by the beach.

Paula Harer, a Sixty & Me contributor, shares her reasons why she enjoys traveling solo.

Traveling Alone Is Great for Shopping

For me, shopping is number one. I don’t think I need to say any more about this topic except that it is so great not to have to justify purchases.

I felt no need to ask anyone if my bottom looked big in these pants. I bought four pairs of shoes, three of which I would have left behind had I not been solo, and I did not have to go to a golf store in fairness to anyone. It was all me, me, me.

My Time Is My Own

When I travel solo, I do what I want. If I want to sleep in, I can. If I want to stay up into the wee hours of the night to finish a book or binge-watch a series, I can do that. I can even schedule something super early, come back and nap if necessary, then head out again. I am on my time.

I can’t do any of it when I have to adjust to someone else’s schedule.

I Get All the Attention

My children live across the country. I visit them often, and when I do, I get 100% of their attention. I don’t have to share them with anyone. We do what they want to do and nothing else.

If they want to see a movie or go to a play or shop for stuff for their house, we do it. I get one-on-one time while we run errands and pal around together. I can’t put a price on that. I just love being with them in their daily lives.

Not a Sport in Sight

No matter where I am, no matter what teams are in town, I do not have to go to a sporting event! If you are like me, you have had your share of sports with your children and your spouse or friends. I am as big a fan as the next girl, but I do not travel for sports any longer – and I love that.

For me, this means no rain gear unless I am going to a rainforest! While this may sound like my own pet-peeve, everyone has their thing that they have to do when vacationing with their crowd.

When I am with my children, we will often go for a run: you can bet when I am alone I don’t pack running shoes! And play tickets are easy to come by when the number is one.

Eating Alone

Some women feel very bothered when they need to eat alone. Not everyone likes the idea, and I agree that when it happens day after day, it can get a little rough.

But I went to a lovely resort where you must have a reservation well in advance for brunch. I walked up and asked the hostess if I could get a table and when I added, “for one” she brightened up and said she could accommodate me.

Both of us couldn’t believe it! Not only did I get a table, I got one on the window that was a little tight for two. How lucky was I?

This brunch was the best, and I didn’t waste one inch of my plate on protein at this beautiful buffet: bread pudding, waffle, biscuits, bananas foster, strawberry shortcake. Would I do that with others watching? The answer is “Heck no!” But let me just say that I did not eat anything else the rest of the day.

If I am having dinner by myself, I always eat at the bar. Usually, I can get a conversation going with someone, and it’s great when that person is a local. This way I can get some tips and suggestions on local attractions – dinner and a virtual tour, all in one!

Challenges of Traveling Solo

While solo travel can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with its set of challenges. Here are some potential cons of traveling solo:

The absence of companionship can lead to feelings of loneliness, especially during meals or when exploring new places.

Safety Concerns

Solo travelers may be perceived as more vulnerable, potentially making them targets for scams or unsafe situations.

Higher Costs

Some expenses, like accommodation and transportation, may be higher for solo travelers as they don’t benefit from sharing costs with a companion.

Decision Fatigue

Having to make all the decisions on your own, from choosing where to eat to planning the day’s activities, can lead to decision fatigue.

Limited Help in Emergencies

During emergencies or unexpected situations, having a travel companion can provide valuable assistance and support.

Solo Supplement Fees

Some accommodations and tours charge extra fees for solo travelers, further increasing the overall cost of the trip.

Security Concerns at Night

Safety can be a more significant concern when walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

Limited Shared Experiences

Shared experiences contribute to lasting memories. Solo travelers may miss the shared joy of discovery that comes with exploring a new place with a companion.

Responsibility Overload

Shouldering all responsibilities, including planning, navigation, and problem-solving, can lead to a sense of overwhelm and exhaustion.

Less Deterrence Against Harassment

Solo travelers, especially women, may be more susceptible to unwanted attention or harassment without the deterrence of a group.

Less Security in Isolation

In isolated or remote areas, having a travel companion can provide an additional layer of security.

Lack of Emotional Support

During challenging times or unexpected events, having a travel companion can offer emotional support and shared problem-solving.

While the cons of solo travel exist, many solo travelers find that the benefits far outweigh the challenges, and with careful planning and awareness, these drawbacks can be mitigated.

Planning Your First Solo Journey

Planning a solo trip requires careful consideration and organization to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Define Your Purpose and Preferences

Determine the purpose of your trip. Are you seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural exploration, or personal growth? Understand your preferences and interests to tailor your itinerary accordingly.

Choose Your Destination

Research potential destinations based on your interests, budget, and safety considerations. Consider factors such as weather, language, and local customs.

Stay Informed about Local Customs

Familiarize yourself with the local customs, traditions, and etiquette of your destination. This cultural awareness will benefit your experience, help you respect local norms, and also potentially keep you safe.

Ensure Safety Measures

Keep copies of important documents, such as your passport and insurance, and stay informed about the safety of the areas you plan to visit.

Research your country’s travel advisories for the regions you plan on visiting:

• For US citizens
• For Canadians
• For UK citizens
• For EU countries
• For Australians
• For all other countries, search “[country name] travel advisory” to find all information.

Stay Connected

Keep communication devices charged and consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for your phone. Stay connected with friends and family regularly.

Embrace Solo-Friendly Activities

Plan activities that are well-suited for solo travelers, such as walking tours, workshops, or group activities where you can meet fellow travelers.

Stay Flexible

Embrace spontaneity and stay flexible during your trip. Be open to unexpected opportunities and changes in plans.

Lynn Clare, a Sixty & Me contributor and founder of Women’s Independent Travel , shares with us her tips for successful solo traveling.

Plan, Plan, Plan

The first step is to think of something you enjoy doing. Do you like visiting gardens or parks, museums, outdoor activities, or sporting events?

Whatever you like to do at home you will enjoy even more when you are away. I love to hike in the mountains so that is what I decided to do for my first trip. Having a sense of purpose helped to calm my nerves.

I recommend staying close to home at first; this will ease the stress of feeling like you are too far away. My first trip was only an hour from home and I knew if I didn’t like it or if anything happened I could easily leave; it was very reassuring.

Next, decide where you want to go, how far away, and for how long. I began with just a weekend – drive on Saturday morning, go hiking, stay overnight, and drive home on Sunday. It seems so easy now but at the time this was a very big deal for me.

Managing Your Bookings

Whether you are driving, flying, or taking a bus, you will need to make arrangements for how you will get there and where you will stay. The Internet has made this process so much easier so you can research and book everything online.

I always check multiple sites before I make any travel arrangements. I start with Expedia and Travelocity and then check the specific hotel or airline websites for more detailed information and the best rates.

Many airlines offer vacation packages that include airfare, hotel, and car so it is easy to book all of them together. Before I book anything I check Tripadvisor.com to see the reviews from other solo travelers. I am very careful to make sure that where I am going is safe and that I will be comfortable.

Also, I make refundable arrangements. It can cost a bit more but I want to make sure that I can cancel without penalty.

Depending on where I am going and what the costs are sometimes I purchase travel insurance. Also, I always have a contingency plan, just in case.

Looking for Tours and Excursions

Depending on what you plan to do, you can either book organized tours or go independently. Many of my early trips were to visit lovely botanic gardens in various states so I would check into my hotel and then go from there.

I very often take walks in the park or gardens here at home so it did not feel uncomfortable to do this on my own in a new city. The one thing I always do is plan my transportation before I leave the hotel – directions, bus schedule, taxi, etc.

Getting the Most from Dining Out

For some women traveling alone, this can be a big concern. It is one of the reasons that I always book a hotel with a restaurant onsite. If I am feeling uncomfortable for any reason or perhaps just don’t want to go out I can order room service and stay in.

Early on, when I went out, I took a book or my journal to occupy myself if I felt bored or uneasy. Now, with phones and tablets, most of us have something available all the time.

Try not to be too distracted. A lot of people will talk to you when they see you are on your own but won’t interrupt you if you seem too engrossed in your phone.

Honestly, it has become one of my greatest pleasures. I always plan at least one night when I dress up and treat myself to a nice dinner out. I’ve met wonderful people all over the world and always look forward to this part of any trip

Embrace a Little Self-indulgence

For me, this has become one of the best things about traveling on my own. I get to do what I want, when I want, and always do something special for myself. It doesn’t have to be expensive just anything that makes me happy.

It might be a nice meal, massage, cute pair of earrings or just a nice warm bath with a glass of wine at the end of a great day. No matter what it is, it helps me remember that I deserve to treat myself with love and kindness.

Prioritizing Security in Your Solo Travel Adventure –Tips and Techniques for a Secure Journey

Ensuring your safety is a top priority when traveling solo, especially as a woman over 50. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during your solo adventures:

Research Your Destination

Before your trip, research the safety of your destination. Understand local customs, cultural norms, and any potential safety concerns specific to the area.

Share Your Itinerary

Share your travel itinerary, including accommodation details and planned activities, with a trusted friend or family member. Check in regularly and inform them of any changes to your plans.

Choose Safe Accommodations

Opt for accommodations in safe and well-traveled areas. Read reviews from other solo travelers, and consider staying in reputable accommodations.

Stay Informed

Stay updated on local news and advisories. Be aware of any travel alerts or warnings for your destination and adjust your plans accordingly.

Use Reputable Transportation

Choose reliable and reputable transportation options. Use licensed taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation recommended by trustworthy sources.

Be Mindful of Your Belongings

Keep your belongings secure at all times. Use anti-theft bags , money belts, and be cautious when handling valuables in public spaces.

PacSafe Citysafe® CX Anti-Theft Convertible Crossbody

Trust Your Instincts

Trust your intuition. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself from it. Be assertive in saying no if someone makes you uncomfortable.

Learn Basic Phrases

If traveling internationally, familiarize yourself with basic phrases in the local language to seek help if needed. Know how to ask for assistance and directions.

Avoid Risky Areas

Stay away from poorly lit or isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-traveled routes and areas with a visible presence of locals and other tourists.

Keep Emergency Contact Information

Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, the nearest embassy or consulate, and the contact information for your country’s embassy.

Use Solo-Friendly Services

Choose activities and tours that cater to solo travelers, and consider joining group activities to enhance safety and social interactions.

Stay Informed About Local Scams

Be aware of common scams in the area and educate yourself on how to avoid falling victim to them.

Enroll in STEP

If you’re a U.S. citizen, consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State for updated travel information and assistance.

By combining preparedness, awareness, and trust in your instincts, you can significantly enhance your safety as a solo woman traveler over 50.

Connecting with Like-Minded Solo Travelers

Ann Marie Mershon, a Sixty & Me contributor, shares her experience of traveling solo and what she learned along the way about making connections.

When Dining, Ask for Company

Tell restaurateurs that you’re alone and would appreciate being seated with another party. If that’s not an option, seat yourself near someone else who is alone or close to people who look friendly. Why not?

A number of years ago, my husband suffered a back injury. As a result, I was waved off for two weeks in Norway without him. I would have canceled the trip if it hadn’t been for a huge family reunion in the fishing village where my grandfather grew up.

Determined to make the most of things, I decided to be proactive. On my first night in Bodø, I wheedled my way into a busy seafood restaurant and was seated beside a couple from Lilljehammer.

It took me a minute to engage them, but they turned out to be charming as well as informative, giving me numerous ideas for activities in the coming weeks.

Make Connections at Breakfast Time

If breakfast is provided at your hotel, strike up a conversation as you stand in line. If the person seems friendly and talkative, ask if they’d mind if you join them at their table. Few people would refuse.

Once your day begins, you have other options for making connections, or perhaps you’d prefer to tour on your own, which is great, too. I like going to museums by myself, but I prefer company at meals.

Stay in Facilities That Offer Time for Socializing

On my last night in Lofoten, Norway, I moved from my studio apartment to a hostel-type room, where I was pleased to chat with a young Australian woman.

She happily joined me on a trip to a glassblower’s shop the next day. The drive was spectacular, and I enjoyed her company immensely, especially after five days by myself.

Plan at Least One Interesting Activity Each Day

Jerry and I had planned a kayak trip in the Lofotens for our second week in Norway. The Lofotens are spectacularly beautiful, with mountains jutting from the sea between adjacent fjords.

At the beginning of my solo week, I perused the tourist information books and chose one or two activities for each day. I booked a studio apartment in Å (pronounced “Oh”), a town of about 50-60 residents.

Å featured two fishing museums, and I visited them on separate days, making sure I was included in guided English tours. It was fascinating to learn about the life my grandfather must have lived as a fisherman.

One day, I arranged a kayak trip to the Reine Fjord, and my young guide Kaspar was an absolute delight. The two of us spent a fascinating four hours chatting and paddling some of the most breathtaking water on the planet.

Join Group Tours at Museums and Tourist Sites

It’s always a good idea to tour museums and other sites with a group. This also gives you the opportunity to engage others in conversation throughout each tour.

It might cost a little more for a spot with a tour guide, but you’ll learn a lot more and have the opportunity to connect with other English speakers. Of course, most Norwegians speak English, but they don’t tend to reach out to strangers. That was my job.

Another option is traveling on a tour, which offers you automatic companionship. I’ve given a few tours of Turkey myself and was amazed each time at how close members of the group became after spending a few weeks touring and eating together.

Engage Shop Owners or Assistants in Conversation

When I traveled to Turkey and occasionally felt lonesome, I’d find a carpet shop to wander into. Carpet dealers always offer a cup of tea or bottle of cold water as well as friendly conversation.

Of course, I always looked at carpets, too, but I only bought one occasionally. I still treasure my relationships with Hussein Palyoğlu and Musa Başaran, who always seemed pleased to see me.

Western cultures might not be quite as welcoming, but most shop owners are eager to engage customers, and they can offer a wealth of information about the local area. Who knows? You might even find the perfect souvenir or gift to bring home.

Choose a Safe Bar/Pub and Enjoy a Chat Over a Glass of Wine or a Beer

Should you dare, you might also consider a stop into the hotel bar or a nearby pub, making sure you use good judgment and hang on to your purse. Though I’ve always found it difficult to step into a bar alone, it can be a good way to meet other solo travelers.

It’s important to keep your wits about you though and avoid being pulled into uncomfortable situations. But it’s also great fun to chat with other travelers or locals about activities they’ve enjoyed or recommend.

Take a Tour That Matches Your Age, Interest, and Activity Level

There’s a wide variety of tour organizations geared toward people of different interests and activity levels. Some arrange cruises, others do bus tours, and some offer high-energy active options.

The first time I took a group to Turkey, I arranged it through Go Ahead Tours , an adult affiliate of EF Tours (an international student tour organization). We were a group of 24, and everyone fell in love with our intelligent, fun, and informative guide, Mehmet.

There wasn’t enough physical activity on that tour for some of us, though that was the only complaint. The next year I organized an independent tour through Sojourn Turkey Tours . It was a similar tour, with fewer people and more activity. I also scored Mehmet as a guide again – lucky us!

Sixty & Me’s founder, Margaret Manning, wrote this amusing ex-rated guide to solo travel.

We are excited to be alive!

This perspective is like putting on glasses that immediately give 20/20 vision. The world is a multi-faceted crystal offering many dimensions of visual delight.

We are excited about experiencing new food, meeting local people, and learning about their culture and history.

This excitement is enchanting and dynamic. Excitement is the secret sauce we add to our travel adventures in making a new town, city or country glow with vibrant color.

EXperimental

After decades on the planet, older women have stories to tell.

They may be mothers, caregivers, grandmothers, and professional women, but they have adventure in their hearts.

Wanting to try new things, these extreme travelers are not afraid to step outside their comfort zone. They are ready to push the boundaries and experiment with their own endurance and sense of adventure!

Travel for most people of all ages is about exploration. Every time I arrive in a new city and sit down in a small local café with my map and guidebook in hand, I feel like a modern-day explorer full of curiosity and wonder.

There is a sense of possibility and potential. I wonder how the trip will unfold, what will I discover – about myself and about the place?

EXtraordinary

Life is not to be lived in the middle lane anymore. Most solo travelers I know are extraordinary women who have faced challenges, lived through loss, pain, and sadness.

They really are the most beautiful people who have confronted their fears and not allowed disappointment to hold them back. I have had so many conversations with fellow travelers that have brought tears to my eyes. The strength and resilience of older solo travelers is remarkable.

Older women are taking advantage of a little more free time to explore their passions for writing, painting, and crafts when they travel solo.

Read 6 BEST SENIOR TRAVEL GROUPS .

Also read 10 EUROPEAN BUS TRIPS FOR OLDER WOMEN .

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you travel solo? What do you like best about traveling solo? What do you find challenging? Share your solo travel stories with the community in the comments below.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This article spells out what I stumbled over trying to say myself. Well done!! For one of my solo travel stories, years ago I attended a performance of A Streetcar Named Desire at the Kennedy Center. As I was by myself, I was able to get a ticket dead-center in row 10 which had an odd number of seats. Another benefit of traveling solo.

This is a good article. I will have to re-read it a few times. Solo travel is just as intimidating for men as it is for women, believe me. Most of the points listed apply to both sexes.

Amazing article that covers most all of the bases. Has me very excited to get moving & planning my first solo trip. THANK YOU a thousand times over!!!

Great article with lots of tips and suggestions! I have no qualms about solo travel. I did quite a bit of it in my 20’s and recently took a solo genealogy trip on my own and loved the freedom of being on my own. I also have a small group of friends I have traveled with extensively and we all mesh well. Especially helpful to share the costs when staying in vacation rental homes. So both have their advantages but as I’ve gotten older I find myself wanting to do some more solo travel trips so thanks for your sharing your insights.

Tags Solo Travel

Sandra Roussy

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

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Traveling Solo Over 50: 7 Tips From The Experts

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I took my first solo trip when I was 51. During five years of solo travel, I have met numerous female solo travelers along the way: There was the woman sitting next to me on the train from New Orleans to Tuscaloosa, buried under blankets most of the day because she had stayed up late playing cards in the observation car, who regaled tales of traveling to Japan and Thailand by herself. Then there was the retired schoolteacher I met waiting for a train in Colorado. She told me she lived on her retirement plan and then worked part-time teaching online courses. The money from the online classes was saved for one long trip each year. To alleviate any fears of traveling to a foreign country solo, she would first join an organized group trip for 10 days, then, once acclimated to the area with the group, stay on solo for a couple more weeks after it ended.

The reasons these women share for solo traveling are numerous: divorce or the children are grown, so they have the freedom to travel, a desire to meet other travelers — which isn’t always easy when traveling with another or in a group — or a way to challenge themselves.

My story is similar. I was single and my children out of the house when I decided to travel the U.S. by train. It was frightening at first as I had never traveled solo before. My mantra, to get me through the fear, became “Take the next step.” I found that my fears were based on what might happen rather than what actually was happening. So along each step of the way, like when I heard just minutes before detraining in Winter Park that there was a blizzard, instead of worrying about What if? I took the next step and got off the train. The empowerment I’ve gained from solo travel is measurable and people frequently comment that I have a newly-acquired inner strength.

A common theme I hear from solo travelers is that they learn and are inspired by the stories of fellow travelers, so I spoke with seven expert solo travelers so I could share their tips.

1. Be Prepared (But Stay Open)

Tami Al-Hazza is a 59-year-old traveler who has traveled both solo and with her daughter. Al-Hazza says the first time she traveled solo, it was a shock. “I was lonely, I felt awkward in restaurants, and I missed having someone to share my experiences with. While eating in restaurants, I learned to take a book or magazine with me, but I don’t bury myself in it, I only use it as a backup. Sometimes I ask to eat at the bar so I can talk to others. I also book local group tours so that I can meet other travelers, and I search for experiences with locals. With time, traveling alone became less awkward, and I began to enjoy getting to know myself in new ways. With every trip, I felt more empowered to depend entirely on myself. Solo travel strengthened me.”

Her tip for solo travel: “I advise women to be prepared but always to be open to spontaneity. I suggest that they research the destination so that they know all the cultural activities that are available at that location and the unique foods and drink that they might like to try. Plan for too many activities each day and then be willing to completely depart from their plans if a new opportunity presents itself. Always be willing to try experiences with locals.”

2. Carry A Paper Map

Lynn Smargis is a travel podcast producer, editorial writer, and avid traveler, traveling 12 weeks of the year for vacation and conferences, who has traveled on long-term trips solo, too.

On a trip from Santa Fe to Chimayo, New Mexico, I decided to take the less-traveled path, depending on GPS for directions. I lost cell service and wound up lost for an hour or so before finally coming upon a postal worker who gave me directions. Because of this experience, I can personally relate to Smargis’s tip:

“The best tip I would give for traveling solo is to always carry a paper map of the area you are traveling. I travel solo for the freedom to create my own adventure, meet interesting local people, and to reinforce my ability to be a female independent do-it-yourself traveler. My favorite solo trip was an 18-day road trip from So Cal to Olympia National Park in Washington state. My love of travel and food has converged into the creation of my podcast, Travel Gluten Free .”

3. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely

Diane Lee is a 50-something Australian writer, editor, and blogger who prefers slow and solo travel. She’s currently based in Hanoi, Vietnam, with her Australian cat.

Lee said, “Choose your accommodation wisely. Even though I want to travel alone because of the freedom it gives me, I am sociable and like to chat with other travelers, so I tend to book smaller boutique hotels that have a swimming pool and restaurant or cafe. The pool takes care of the social aspect, and because I rarely go out to dinner on my own, the hotel restaurant takes care of the dining aspect. I rarely stay in Airbnbs because they generally don’t provide me with the facilities I need.”

Traveling solo means freedom to Lee. “You can go where you want, do what you want — when you want. No having to compromise. You can set your own schedule. I tend to mix things up when I travel. I often book myself into full- or half-day tours and cooking classes, but I’m also completely comfortable wandering around on my own with my camera, visiting museums and main attractions, and checking out local neighborhoods. I love local supermarkets — they are so interesting!”

4. Find A Way To Get Outside Of Your Comfort Zone

Lisa Dorenfest is 57 years old and has been traveling full-time since 2013. “While the predominance of my travel is circumnavigating the world under sail with my partner, there have been numerous times I’ve traveled solo when we’ve been in port. Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Sydney, Madagascar, and Colombia come immediately to mind. The tip I would give is ‘Push yourself out of your comfort zone one baby-step at a time.’”

Dorenfest’s favorite solo trip was 30 days she spent in North Vietnam in 2017. “At the beginning of the trip, circumstances found me being transported between hotels on the back of a motorcycle: a frightening yet exhilarating experience for me. I survived the ride, and through a series of follow-on baby steps and many local motorcycle rides later, I found myself touring Lao Cai and Lai Chau, Vietnam on the back of a motorcycle.”

She wrote an article telling about that trip.

5. Print Out All Important Papers

Dr. Cacinda Maloney worked as a chiropractic physician for 22 years prior to starting a travel website in 2012. She says, “Although I am married — 28 years — I think I have now officially traveled more solo than I have married: 47 countries in 2016!”

Her tip for a solo traveler is to have all your data printed out versus just looking it up on your smartphone. “I don’t know how many times I have not been able to find what I needed on my iPhone. I keep a file folder on every trip I take that has flight information, hotel information, and any other pertinent information I might need for that trip.”

6. Work With A Travel Doctor Before Departing

Melody Wren considers her age (over 60) a gift in her travels. She brings wisdom and experience and a major If not now, when? attitude with a heavy helping of humor, which she says is required in any kind of travel.

Wren’s number one tip for solo travelers comes from personal experience. She contracted Schistosoma while wading or swimming in freshwater in an island in the Caribbean. Wren suggests: “When you travel anywhere, get advice from a travel doctor before you go about the specific destination you are going to in order to prevent picking up parasites.”

She suggests taking particular caution in the Caribbean islands, India, Africa, and Thailand and shared that “30 percent of all travelers return with at least one parasite. Strongyloides and Schistosoma can be severe if not treated.” For more tips on how to avoid getting parasites, read Wren’s article in Fodor’s .

7. Be Indulgent

The month before Adrienne Hew , a certified nutritionist, turned 50, she traveled solo to Japan. She’s making plans to return again — solo — in the spring.

Hew’s tip is to be indulgent and do something just for you. She says to pick at least one activity that you would have trouble convincing others to do with you.

Hew’s reason for traveling solo? “I travel solo because I’m usually the one at home holding down the fort while my husband travels frequently for work. I need alone time to process where I am in life, what I want from the last half of my life, and to connect with others outside of my norm.” You can read more about her travels at Nourishing Journeys Japan .

Looking for a perfect place for solo trip number one? A day in Lake Como, Italy , will whet your appetite for elegant adventure.

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

Solo Travel Over 50: How to Travel at Fifty Plus

Michela Solo Female Travel 0

Over the past 25 years, we have witnessed a cultural change in how women travel . They have become aware of their need to step out of defining roles and make experiences on their own. The excellent news: Never before has solo travel over 50 been so easy.   Female solo travel has become widely accepted in our society, but it is also changing the industry’s parameters. With nearly 35% of women who have already experienced a single trip and around 65% showing interest in trying it, travel alone for fifty-plus has become more appealing and affordable than the travel scenario of 30 years ago.

Table of Contents

Why Travel Solo At 50 Plus?

When I started travelling alone, there were few opportunities for women. It was unusual to see a woman going places alone. And often, solo women travelling alone were regarded as “weird”. Over the years, it has become common for female travellers over 50 and younger to go solo.

Let’s be honest; you don’t need a companion to visit places . Why wait for friends and family to join you when you can go solo? If you wait for someone else to suit you, you may wait forever. Yet, many women have fears of travelling alone and give up in the first place. Why? Because they don’t feel good in their skin or don’t have the confidence to go alone, or simply because of false beliefs that solo travel is dull and they will not enjoy it.

You can change your mindset to Break Free To Travel Solo and Reinvent Your Life At 50+

Types of Solo Female Travel For Over 50

There are many ways to start going alone and choosing travel destinations. It depends on the type of travel you have in mind, the purpose of travel, and how you want to start travelling solo .

Solo Cultural Travel Explorations

Cultural tourism is a classic that works mainly for many women aged 50 plus who are keen to start travelling alone. It works great for first-time travellers because it’s easy, handy, and safe. If you fear feeling alone in your early adventures, travel to safe cities in your country or overseas.

• Build a city trip itinerary in one or more countries for a weekend or one or two weeks holiday.
• Train travel is great for travelling comfortably and safely in Europe, the US, and Australia.
• Choose local travel first . Travel within your state or continent to avoid long flights and ease of connections. This is how I started to travel solo: Germany, Austria, and the UK.

I loved crossing Germany by train and discovering its cultural landmarks. From Hamburg and Berlin to southern Germany, I fell in love with Munich, a fascinating German city that became my ex-pat home for 12 years.

Check out our 👉 Italy Small Group Tours For Solo Travellers 50 Plus

Cruising Solo For Female Travellers 50+

For many female travellers over 50, it is the stepping stone and easiest way of getting started with solo travel. If you think cruising solo 20 years ago was a no-go because of the high prices – unless you were travelling with a travel companion – going on a cruise for the single female traveller was not on the table.

In recent years, an increasing number of cruise companies have started to cater to this new market segment to suit the needs of many single travellers, especially retired and mature travellers, who are keen to go cruising.

If you are over 50 and want to travel solo as a woman , cruising can be a great way to combine cultural and international travel without the hassle of getting each single trip leg organised. Intercontinental and round-the-world cruising is also becoming very popular to cover long distances and see much of the world in one go.

How to solo travel the world long-term

Travel and teach.

If you are semi-retired or want to retire and become a digital nomad, adding extra income streams to fund your solo long-term travels may be a good idea. There are several opportunities to work online, ranging from virtual assistant jobs to translating and teaching English as a second language.

If travelling the world and teaching English appeals to you, there are online courses that offer training to internationally recognised certification for teaching English to non-native people.

Volunteering At 50+

If you are more adventurous and plan to travel solo long-term, volunteering may also be something for you. There are plenty of opportunities in South America, Africa and South-East Asia. And various kinds of volunteering, from children’s education to animal care, construction, land conservation, and many more.

Websites online, such as helpx , offer exciting volunteer opportunities. You can read this article about volunteering if you are interested in volunteering in other parts of the world. Years ago, I joined an Australian volunteer project on my solo trips; I became a wildlife warrior volunteer looking after injured and sick koalas at the Australia Wildlife Hospital in Queensland.

House Sitting For Women Over 50

If you plan to travel extensively and long-term travel is something you want to do, then housesitting is where it comes in handy for your long-term solo trips. I used house sits to save money on accommodation on my travels in Australia and loved it. It offers an excellent opportunity to blend the traveller’s life with the local life in a real community.

Check out my guide on 👉 becoming a house sitter and travelling the world long-term .

Tips on How to Get Started to Travel Solo at Fifty Plus

First, you shall make clear what you want to do with your first solo trip. If fear is holding you back from going solo ,  I suggest starting small, with city travel or anything easy along the way. You can see how you like it and where it takes you. After my European city travel in 1993, I went to New York, Chicago, and Toronto by bus and loved it.

Here are my best tips for over 50 solo travel adventures.

• Diversifying the types of solo experience I encourage you to expand your solo adventures as much as possible. If you want to join a tour, leave some time for yourself. It will help boost your confidence. Give yourself time to grow naturally into the next adventure and set a higher goal.
• Gradually extend your comfort zone. And step into something more adventurous. When I started travelling solo in Australia in 2004, I used safe public transport like buses, trains, and flights and joined tours for trips like the Great Ocean Road and Tasmania. After that, I felt ready to drive alone, and now I nearly go everywhere.
• Consider joining small group tours. For more challenging trip segments or destinations that aren’t safe for solo travellers, joining a tailor-made group can be a great choice. On top of that, it’s a great way of getting to know other solo female travellers in your age group and making friends on the go.

Check out our 👉 Italy Small Group Tours For Single Travellers Over 50

Where to stay on solo trips

If you choose city travel for your first solo escape, you don’t have to worry about getting around. Most cities offer an extensive and safe public transport network. Walking and biking are among the best options for public transport.

Airbnb For Solos

Using Airbnb for solo stays is an economical way to stay. I loved all my stays with Airbnb cause I stayed in beautiful homes and met the locals. I use it when possible to stay in expensive city centres with high hotel prices. I suggest staying with the home or apartment owners instead of renting a whole place for yourself.

Stay in Hostels

If you travel on a budget, staying in hostels is the way. However, it’s not easy to find single rooms in hostels, and sharing dorms is not for everyone, I know. If you book a double or twin room in most hostels, the prices are much lower than in a hotel. The only thing is that you need to book ahead since double and twins are booked out very quickly in good hostels.

Check out our 👉 hostel guide for Australia

While Airbnb is an excellent way of getting close to the locals for short stays, house sitting for the long-term traveller   in Australia is the perfect solution because it allows you to stay for free in exchange for looking after the house and taking care of pets while the owners are away.

Find Hotels With No Single Supplement

While it’s become difficult to find hotels with no single supplement, do your research cause there are quite a few who offer single rooms, and single hotel rooms have lower prices than twin or double rooms. Or google for hotels with single rooms for your destination, and results will pop up.

Join Organised Group Tour

Moreover, the growing demand for single trips and personalised tours has made the solo traveller’s options varied and affordable. I believe combining an organised tour for a day trip or multiple days with one or more solo trip legs is the best way to do it. That way, you don’t have to book accommodation; the group tour company covers all other parts of your solo travel.

Over 50 Solo Travel Tours

Solo trips vs organised guided tours.

What does group travel with solo travel do ? While some women prefer hitting the road and getting lost, some prefer the comfort of joining a tour. Even though solo travel isn’t about joining a group, an organised journey has benefits.

Organising your trip by a private tour operator, who takes the trip planning hassle off and does all the booking activities, can be a great way to ignite your enthusiasm for travelling and have peace of mind.

So I wouldn’t discard the idea of solo travel tours if this can be the first step towards a more independent way of travelling. For solo travel addicts – like myself – organised tours are an excellent way to rekindle the group spirit, which inevitably fades over the years.

My solo travels in Australia were eye-opening. After long-term travel alone, I realised that joining an organised tour was necessary to create a balance, improve my team spirit, and hone my social skills.

Many tour companies and online travel agencies specialise in group travel packages for female travellers fifty-plus.

Rocky Travel Group Tours For Women Over 50

Our Small Group Tours of Italy are for the senior woman 50+ travelling alone who is in her 50s and beyond, loves to be active, and gets out and about with like-minded female travellers. She also likes to explore places by meeting the locals and learning about the local culture responsibly and sustainably. Click the link below to learn more about our group tour offerings.

Best Solo Travel Destinations

Many countries offer a women-friendly environment and are safe for solo female travellers. I’ve been travelling solo for over 30 years, and these places are my picks. No matter whether you are a newbie or an experienced traveller. They are suitable for all kinds of experiences:

✅ Australia Solo Travel ✅ Rotorua New Zealand ✅ Penang George Town Solo Travel (Malaysia) ✅ Bali Offbeat For Solos ✅ Bangkok Solo Travel – Thailand ✅ India Solo Travel Tips ✅ Cape Town Solo Travel Tips – South Africa ✅ Italy For First-Time Travellers ✅ France For Women Travelling Solo

UK, Germany, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Portugal and more European countries are safe for women over 50. Check out the eight safe cities for solo travel 50+ .

Final Thoughts on Female Solo Travel Over 50

While your age of 50 plus or the lack of a travel buddy should not refrain you from travelling solo, you must also consider that going places solo is undoubtedly a fun and empowering way to go, but it is also challenging. The more you do it, the more you will like and hate it. If you want to travel solo and are a woman fifty-plus, this is probably the right time to consider it and take the plunge.

Get travel and Medical Insurance For Your Travels

Ensure that your solo travel is safe and covered if any inconvenience occurs while on the go. I never travel without travel and medical insurance when I go overseas. Insurance makes things easier and gives you extra peace of mind for solo travel bliss.

Check out this extensive guide about 👉 Travel & Med Insurance For Over 50

If you’re based in the US, check out the best travel insurance comparison site for those over 50 and seniors. And if you are female and 70 plus and want to travel solo, here is an excellent article about t ravelling with medical conditions and seeking travel insurance .

It’s a good thing to create the way – that best suits you – there is no right or wrong way of doing it. If everything in the equation has the right balance and makes you feel comfortable in your skin, go with it. Go and Travel solo at 50 plus , have fun, learn and repeat. And most importantly, do it your way!

Go Back to Rocky Travel – Solo Travel & Tours For Over 50

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This post was first published in 2015 and last updated in January 2024

Michela Fantinel

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Premium Morocco Highlights

8 days from 1943.

Explore Morocco on this all-encompassing Intrepid Premium small group adventure from...

Premium Sicily

10 days from 5348.

Discover Sicily in the heart of the Mediterranean on this 10-day Premium journey that...

Premium Morocco in Depth with Essaouira

18 days from 3795.

Fall in love with Morocco on this 18-day Premium journey through the country's...

Premium Peru with Ica Valley

12 days from 6093.

Discover the wonders of Peru’s history on a twelve-day Premium adventure through Lima,...

Premium Peru in Depth

15 days from 6660.

Spend two weeks exploring Arequipa, Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca...

Premium Peru in Depth with Ica Valley

18 days from 7197.

Spend 18 days exploring Ica, Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Lima and...

Premium Sweden and Norway

10 days from 7615.

Take a Premium trip through Scandinavia, with epic stays and activities in Sweden and...

Premium Morocco Explorer

12 days from 2678.

In 12 incredible days you’ll discover some of Morocco’s best sights on a Premium...

Premium Egypt in Depth

15 days from 5179.

Travel down the Nile from Cairo to Aswan, exploring Luxor, Alexandria and more along...

Premium Costa Rica

9 days from 4041.

Explore Costa Rica’s natural and cultural wonders on a nine-day Premium adventure...

Premium Turkey in Depth

15 days from 4632.

This 15-day Premium tour takes you into the ancient heart of Turkey. Begin and end in...

Premium Java and Bali

11 days from 3259.

Discover Java's heritage and Bali’s traditions on an exclusive Premium small group trip...

Premium Nepal

9 days from 2813.

Take a Premium adventure that encompasses much of what makes Nepal so beloved by...

Premium New Zealand South Island

10 days from 4581.

Explore New Zealand’s South Island on a 10-day small group tour which includes Franz...

Premium Vietnam & Cambodia

13 days from 4153.

Be immersed in the rich historic and cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia on this...

Premium Thailand and Vietnam

19 days from 5927.

Take a Premium trip exploring Thailand and Vietnam’s highlights, including Bangkok,...

Premium Egypt & Jordan in Depth

22 days from 8891.

Discover the contrasts of modern and ancient Egypt and Jordan on this in-depth Premium...

Premium Iceland

9 days from 6048.

Discover Iceland’s geological wonders and welcoming people on an all-encompassing...

Premium Argentina & Brazil

7 days from 4260.

Soak up Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, two of South America's liveliest cities, and...

Premium India in Depth

14 days from 4210.

Take in north India’s fabled cities and encounter the exotic wildlife of Ranthambhore...

Premium Nepal & Bhutan

17 days from 8850.

Embark on a 17-day Premium adventure through the mysterious mountain kingdoms of Bhutan...

Premium India

10 days from 3610.

Take a 10-day India Premium adventure with Intrepid through the country’s north,...

Premium Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

15 days from 4884.

Experience varied landscapes, customs and people as you journey from Baku to Yerevan...

Premium Cambodia

6 days from 1569.

Uncover the mysteries of incredible Angkor Wat on a Premium tour of Cambodia. Travel...

Premium Highlights of Japan

9 days from 4786.

Take a Premium trip through the highlights of Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura,...

Premium Northern Thailand

12 days from 3663.

Discover a land of mouth-watering food, stunning landscapes, history, and hospitable...

Premium Southern Africa

8 days from 6593.

Embark on an eight-day Premium adventure from Johannesburg to Chobe National Park, via...

Premium China

12 days from 4335.

Take a small group Premium adventure that weaves together some of China’s most famous...

Premium Sri Lanka

9 days from 2466.

Discover the best of a Sri Lanka on a 9-day Premium small group tour that includes...

Premium Patagonia

9 days from 8180.

Discover Patagonia on a 9-day Premium journey that takes in Santiago, Torres del Paine...

Premium Spain in Depth

20 days from 11450.

Premium Bhutan

9 days from 5345.

Experience a Premium adventure through the mysterious mountain kingdom of Bhutan. Take...

Premium Mexico City to Oaxaca

8 days from 3115.

Discover the dazzling diversity of Mexico as you embark on a Premium adventure with a...

Premium New Zealand North Island

8 days from 4290.

Uncover the natural wonders of New Zealand’s North Island on an eight-day Premium...

Premium Cuba

9 days from 2780.

Escape to Cuba on a Premium adventure and explore the old-world charm of Havana,...

Premium Highlights of South America

24 days from 15175.

Embark on a 24-day Premium journey from the Amazon to the Andes and discover South...

Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights

8 days from 3211.

Discover Maya ruins, colourful cultures, indigenous communities and colonial towns on...

Premium Southern Africa in Depth

14 days from 11495.

This 14-day Premium journey through southern Africa reveals the best wildlife and...

Premium New Zealand Encompassed

17 days from 10425.

Discover the best of New Zealand on a 17-day Premium adventure, taking in the most...

Premium Morocco Highlights with Essaouira

11 days from 2635, 18 days from 10425, premium cambodia & vietnam in depth, 20 days from 5772.

Discover the incredible diversity, delectable cuisines, dramatic histories and natural...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Premium Morocco Explorer with Essaouira

15 days from 3263.

A 15-day Premium journey through Morocco’s best sights, taking in Casablanca, Fes,...

Our Comfort tours

Morocco uncovered, 13 days from 1600.

Uncover the heart of Morocco on a journey from Casablanca to Marrakech, through Roman...

Egypt Experience

12 days from 2740.

From Cairo, Alexandria and Aswan to the Valley of the Kings at Luxor, see the pharaohs,...

9 Days From 1921

We are thrilled to offer a legal trip for US citizens that supports the Cuban people....

Classic Galapagos: Central Eastern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

10 days from 5634.

Travel to the Galapagos Islands and sail around the central eastern islands, witnessing...

Classic Borneo

10 days from 2244.

Journey through Borneo on a wild 10-day adventure from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan,...

Classic Morocco

8 days from 1320.

See the wonders of Morocco, including Ait Benhaddou, Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains,...

Jordan Discovery

8 days from 1582.

Experience the best of Jordan on this 8-day adventure. From Amman, 4WD through Wadi Rum...

Journey to the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)

14 days from 9990.

Set sail for the trip of a lifetime – a 14-day journey on board the Ocean Endeavour,...

Explore Egypt & Jordan

19 days from 4784.

This 19-day tour explores the best of Egypt and Jordan in Comfort, from Cairo to...

Classic Vietnam

15 days from 2112.

Uncover the proud, spirited heart of Vietnam on this classic 15-day adventure. Tour...

Italy Experience

10 days from 4123.

Travel to Italy on a journey from the canals of Venice to the cobblestone streets of...

Treasures of Vietnam

8 days from 1223.

Discover the spirit of Vietnam on a small group tour from south to north, visiting Ho...

Turkey Encompassed

15 days from 3222.

Travel through Turkey and see Istanbul's Blue Mosque, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, the...

Cambodia & Vietnam Discovery

13 days from 3074.

Uncover the dramatic histories of these two beautiful countries on a trip through the...

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

6 days from 3035.

Take a discovery tour of Wyoming’s highlights, with plenty of wildlife-spotting and...

Rajasthan Experience

15 days from 2590.

See the best of Rajasthan on this 15-day tour. Behold the delights of Agra, Jaipur,...

Classic Cambodia

6 days from 1152.

Unearth the essence of Cambodia on a leisurely journey that spends time seeing the...

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

11 days from 7863.

Experience the magic of the Antarctic Peninsula and its islands aboard the Ocean...

Classic Japan

11 days from 5481.

Journey from Kyoto to Tokyo with Intrepid and explore temples, post towns and lush...

Western Balkans Uncovered

12 days from 2685.

Combine the must-sees of the Balkan region and the lesser-known glories of North...

Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans

7 days from 2795.

Walk in famous footsteps on a 7-day musical journey from Nashville to Memphis and New...

Classic Egypt

8 days from 1803.

Travel Egypt on this adventure that visits Cairo, Aswan and Luxor. See pyramids, visit...

Iceland's Golden Circle in Depth

5 days from 2080.

Set off on a five-day circuit from Reykjavik, visit thundering waterfalls, steamy...

Classic Nepal

11 days from 2143.

Journey around Nepal from Kathmandu to Pokhara and Bandipur, meet the creatures of...

Morocco Family Holiday Comfort

10 days from 1260.

Take your family on a Moroccan adventure through Casablanca, Fes, Midelt, Merzouga, Ait...

Majestic Peru

15 days from 3915.

Tour through Lima, Puno, Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes and...

Best of Antarctica In Depth (Ocean Endeavour)

14 days from 10073.

Experience the rare opportunity to explore both the eastern and western sides of the...

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4276.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Hiking in Sedona and the Grand Canyon

4 days from 2620.

Discover the very best of Northern Arizona on this 4-day hiking adventure through...

South Dakota to Yellowstone Parks Explorer

6 days from 2376.

Explore South Dakota and Yellowstone National Park, Badlands National Park, Little...

Best of Mexico

15 days from 3974.

Experience the best of Mexico on a 15-day adventure from Mexico City to Playa del...

Best of the Top End & Kakadu

4 days from 1470.

Visit the natural wonders of Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park,...

Classic Egypt & Jordan

15 days from 3949.

Tick the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Nile, the Dead Sea and The Treasury in Petra...

Best of Perth, Margaret River & Rottnest Island

5 days from 1395.

See the best of Perth, including the Margaret River region and its wineries, Fremantle...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 3623.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Highlights of Thailand

10 days from 2090.

Experience Thailand’s greatest hits on a 10-day comfort adventure through Bangkok,...

Best of Costa Rica

10 days from 2795.

Take a Costa Rican adventure starting in San Jose, visiting Copey, Manuel Antonio...

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam

20 days from 4000.

Get to know Vietnam and Cambodia, each with their own uniquely enchanting culture and...

Best of South Australia & Red Centre

9 days from 4045.

See the best of South Australia and Red Centre on this comfortable journey through...

Classic Sri Lanka

8 days from 1481.

Explore wonders of nature and humanity – often both at once – on this 8-day adventure...

Best of Alaska

10 days from 5430.

Explore the rugged landscape of icy Alaska. From Anchorage, circle the Kenai Peninsula...

Classic Barcelona to Madrid

7 days from 2695.

Travel south along the coast of Spain, leaving Barcelona, travelling through Valencia...

Best of Argentina & Brazil

7 days from 3300.

Experience the best of everything Argentina and Brazil have to offer on this fantastic,...

Classic Galapagos: Central Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

10 days from 6790.

Sail the aquamarine waters of the Galapagos’s central southern islands taking in...

Classic Madrid to Lisbon

9 days from 3713.

Take a trip through Portugal, starting in Spain’s capital, Madrid and heading through...

Croatian Coastal Cruising: Dubrovnik to Split (Aurora)

8 days from 2976.

Join a small ship cruising adventure to Croatia. Voyage along the Dalmatian coast,...

Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree

5 days from 1908.

From Cairns, take a trip to explore Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, the Great...

Ultimate Galapagos: Central Islands (Grand Daphne)

10 days from 5579.

Spend 10 unforgettable days on board the Grand Daphne, discovering the central islands...

Best of Northern Territory

8 days from 4240.

Tour through the Australia’s Red Centre and Top End, visiting Uluru, Kings Canyon,...

Explore China

12 days from 3060.

Spend 12 days exploring northern China from Shanghai to Beijing, including Luoyang, the...

Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon

4 days from 1658.

Discover Australia’s Red Centre on an adventure to the spectacular sights of Tjoritja ...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8556.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans

14 days from 6055.

Explore the deep South on your way to New Orleans on a twelve-day small group tour...

Classic Canadian Rockies

7 days from 3272.

See all the highlights from the Canadian Rockies, including Lake Louise, Spirit Island,...

Best of Australia

12 days from 5661.

Experience the full range of Australia’s natural wonder, with visits to the Blue...

Best of South Australia

5 days from 1890.

Explore the famous wine region of South Australia including Barossa Valley and Clare...

Best of Tasmania's Tarkine & Cradle Mountain

6 days from 2119.

Discover the best of Australia’s Tasmania with a visit to the Tarkine rainforest and...

Croatian Coastal Cruising - Split to Dubrovnik (Aurora)

8 days from 2292.

Take a small-ship cruising adventure in Croatia from Split to Dubrovnik. Voyage along...

Egypt Family Holiday Comfort

8 days from 2210.

Step back in time on an 8-day family Egyptian adventure through Cairo, Aswan and Luxor....

Our Original tours 

Vietnam express southbound, 10 days from 1020.

Take a tour of Vietnam from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with stops to cruise the Mekong...

Sydney to Cairns Adventure

14 days from 4093.

See the natural wonders of Queensland and New South Wales on an adventure through the...

Classic Costa Rica

15 days from 2032.

Travel to Costa Rica and discover a tropical playground of immense natural beauty....

Beautiful Bali

9 days from 908.

Travel to Bali and experience this oasis off the coast of Indonesia. Bali's Ubud, Mt...

Best of Sri Lanka

15 days from 2408.

Discover the must-sees, must-eats, and must-meets of gorgeous Sri Lanka on this 15-day...

Inca Trail Express

7 days from 1407.

Travel to Peru to discover Peru's ancient civilisation. Trek or train to Machu Picchu,...

Vietnam Express Northbound

10 days from 1169.

Travel through Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi. Visit the Mekong Delta, cruise...

Rome to Amalfi

8 days from 2453.

Travel to Italy on a tour from Rome to Amalfi and explore the best of the region....

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

18 days from 1920.

Travel into the heart and soul of South East Asia on this tour of Vietnam and Cambodia....

Iceland Discovery

8 days from 3243.

See Iceland on this eight-day tour that travels to Reykjavik, the Golden Circle,...

Best of Morocco

15 days from 1212.

Discover the best of Morocco on an action-packed trip exploring Marrakech, Fes, the...

Athens to Santorini

8 days from 2543.

Travel from ancient Athens to the spectacular island of Santorini on this wonderful...

Sacred Land of the Incas

15 days from 2847.

Visit the Sacred Land of the Inca and delight in Peru's culture with two weeks through...

Everest Base Camp Trek

15 days from 1396.

Embark on the trek of a lifetime to Everest Base Camp on this tour. Fly into Lukla and...

Egypt Adventure

8 days from 1099.

Visit Egypt and adventure along the River Nile through the land of the pharaohs, from...

Explore Jordan

8 days from 1272.

Travel to Jordan and tour Amman, Madaba and the inspiring desert landscape of Wadi Rum....

Classic Rajasthan

15 days from 1428.

Travel to India and visit the Rajasthan region. Tour from Delhi to Pushkar through...

Guatemala to Belize

10 days from 1458.

Wander the cobblestone streets of Antigua, float along the waters of the Rio Dulce, and...

India's Golden Triangle

8 days from 891.

Take an action-packed eight-day tour through the essential sights and bites of India’s...

South Korea Highlights

9 days from 3141.

Take a dive into all that South Korea has to offer, from Seoul to Sokcho, Andong and...

Best of Italy

14 days from 4462.

Immerse yourself in classic culture, history and incredible sights on this Best of...

Cambodian Traveller

9 days from 896.

Travel from Vietnam to Thailand on a South East Asian adventure that explores Cambodia...

North Morocco Adventure

8 days from 704.

This tour of North Morocco from Casablanca to Marrakech will capture your heart....

Inca Trail Express from Lima

8 days from 1564.

Travel to Peru and retrace the steps of the Inca. Follow traditions from Lima to Cusco,...

Classic Hikes of Patagonia

15 days from 8900.

Embark on all the classic hikes of Patagonia – including the Torres del Paine base hike...

Thailand & Laos Adventure

13 days from 1832.

Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane on a tour through Thailand and Laos. Visit Thailand's...

Japan: Land of the Rising Sun

13 days from 5153.

Discover Japanese culture on this 13-day tour. Travel with a local from Tokyo to Kyoto...

Croatia Sailing Adventure: Dubrovnik to Split

8 days from 1620.

Explore Croatia's beautiful Adriatic coast on this aquatic adventure from Dubrovnik to...

Cycle Vietnam

15 days from 2003.

Jump in the saddle for a two-wheeled adventure tour of Vietnam. Take in cultural...

Morocco Encompassed

17 days from 1482.

Explore Morocco on this in-depth tour with Intrepid. Spend 17 days exploring Marrakech,...

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

12 days from 2580.

Travel from the heights of the Andes to the exotic Amazon rainforest on this best of...

South Korea Real Food Adventure

8 days from 3312.

Slurp, crunch and spoon your way into the heart of South Korean cuisine, snacking at...

Turkey Highlights

8 days from 1602.

See the highlights of Turkey on this eight-day adventure. Start in Istanbul and visit...

Costa Rica Experience

9 days from 1436.

Encounter the natural beauty of Costa Rica, from La Fortuna’s volcano and Monteverde’s...

South Morocco Discovery

10 days from 876.

Discover Morocco's southern highlights on this well paced adventure including Marrakech...

Best of Galapagos

10 days from 3726.

Discover amazing wildlife and natural beauty in the Galapagos Islands.

China Highlights

8 days from 1557.

Take a trip through epic China and see the Terracotta Warriors, the Great Wall,...

Central Asia: Five Stans Express

24 days from 5444.

Join a 24-day adventure through Central Asia from Ashgabat, to Tashkent, to Bishkek and...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 2755.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Discover Egypt & Jordan

15 days from 2629.

Take an adventure holiday through Egypt and Jordan. Visit Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza,...

Explore Colombia

10 days from 2200.

Travel to Colombia on a ten-day Intrepid. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Cartagena...

The Maritimes: Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick

6 days from 2380.

Experience the seaside charm of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick on this 6-day...

Sabah Adventure

11 days from 1965.

This Sabah Adventure tour through the Borneo wilderness will truly capture your...

Balkan Adventure

15 days from 2445.

Travel across historic Eastern Europe from Hungary to Croatia. Visit cultural sights...

Western USA National Parks Loop

5 days from 1605.

Set off on a five-day adventure through some of the USA’s most epic scenery, including...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2635.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on this upgraded adventure...

Scenic Vietnam

15 days from 1603.

Journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City on this Vietnam adventure. Trek in the quiet...

Best of Turkey

15 days from 2138.

From Istanbul to Ephesus, Pamukkale to the coast, and Cappadocia to the Anatolian...

Best of Spain

15 days from 3544.

Kick off a colourful Best of Spain tour in Madrid and visit some of Spain's highlights....

Madagascar Adventure

14 days from 3056.

Embark on a wildlife and jungle-filled adventure through Madagascar visiting...

Central Asia Explorer

17 days from 3332.

Soak up Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on this 17-day tour that begins in Bishkek and visits...

Walk the Camino de Santiago

7 days from 1336.

Over seven days, join a local leader and small group of likeminded travellers to walk...

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

10 days from 1815.

See the best of the Cyclades on this 10-day Greece sailing adventure. From Athens to...

Land of Belize

8 days from 1877.

Dive into Belize’s natural and cultural wonders on this slow-paced adventure through...

Classic Peru

9 days from 2608.

Visit South America and travel to Peru. Visit Lima, Cusco and Lake Titicaca, tour the...

Annapurna Circuit Trek

15 days from 1360.

Go trekking in Nepal on an adventure that takes you around the Annapurna Circuit. From...

Portuguese Camino

10 days from 2390.

Be challenged and be fulfilled on this coastal Camino, starting in Porto and walking...

Montenegro Sailing Adventure from Dubrovnik

8 days from 1701.

Sail into the sublime waters of Montenegro, departing from Dubrovnik and exploring...

Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest

8 days from 2460.

Experience the festive markets of Central Europe. Go Christmas crazy in the market...

Our Basix tours 

Hiking in the canadian rockies, 8 days from 2440.

Hike the Canadian Rockies, exploring Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Emerald Glacier...

Maya Encounter

17 days from 1444.

Find authentic adventure on this experience through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala....

Okavango Experience

10 days from 1647.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe, the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls on a ten...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3452.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

4 days from 900.

Discover the history, culture and incredible landscapes of Australia’s Red Centre on a...

Canadian Rockies

15 days from 3245.

Discover the Canadian Rockies on this 15-day adventure tour with Intrepid that hits...

Mexico Unplugged

15 days from 1722.

The incredible cultures and colours of Mexico await on this 15-day adventure through...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4515.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Explore Egypt

15 days from 1504.

Explore Egypt with a trip to Cairo, the Nile, Aswan, Luxor and Alexandria. Pyramids,...

Highlights of Italy

8 days from 1474.

See the best of Italy – Venice, La Spezia, Cinque Terre, Florence and Rome – in eight...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 3055.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1437.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

Central American Journey

17 days from 1362.

Travel from Guatemala to Costa Rica, through gorgeous Monteverde, La Fortuna, Leon,...

Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

22 days from 2744.

Explore Jordan and Egypt with a trip to Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, Cairo, the Nile, Aswan,...

Indian Getaway

11 days from 595.

Get the most out of 11 days in India on this trip exploring the best of Delhi, Varanasi...

Iceland Express

5 days from 1463.

Tour green Iceland on a five-day trip visiting Reykjavik, the Golden Circle, Vik,...

Japan Express

9 days from 1782.

See Japan in nine days on a trip visiting Tokyo, Nikko and Kyoto. Say konnichiwa to...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Explorer

4 days from 855.

Tour the best bits of Australia’s Top End, exploring Kakadu National Park, Litchfield...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2593.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

Patagonia: Torres del Paine Classic W Trek

6 days from 3050.

Hike the W Trek in Chilean Patagonia and discover the wild beauty of Torres del Paine...

Costa Rica & Panama Discovery

12 days from 1406.

Hit San Jose, Sarapiqui, Puerto Viejo, Bocas del Toro, Boquete and Panama City on this...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3596.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 1761.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1516.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

North China Getaway

12 days from 1076.

Discover China’s northern hotspots with Intrepid on a 12-day trip to Beijing, the Great...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 7240.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Essential South Korea

9 days from 1777.

Take a journey through South Korea, starting in Seoul and heading to Jeonju, Wanju,...

Best of Argentina, Uruguay & Brazil

10 days from 2155.

Travel from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro on a ten-day trip, including Iguazu Falls...

North India Revealed

22 days from 957.

See the essentials of India’s north on a 22-day trip through Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur,...

One Week In Costa Rica

8 days from 722.

Head to the Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica with a fun-filled adventure to San Jose,...

Turkey Explored

18 days from 2066.

Go deeper than Derinkuyu on an 18-day Turkey trip beginning and ending in Istanbul,...

Jordan & Egypt Express

9 days from 1234.

Follow in the footsteps of prophets on an adventure tour through Jordan and Egypt....

Simply Sri Lanka

8 days from 580.

Discover idyllic Sri Lanka from Negombo to Colombo on this eight-day Lonely Planet...

Best of Brazil

8 days from 909.

Experience Brazil’s coast on an eight-day adventure. From Rio to Ilha Grande, see jaw...

Galapagos Discovery

9 days from 2677.

See the Galapagos Islands on an eight-day adventure including Isla Isabela, Isla Santa...

Kruger, Coast & Cape

22 days from 3325.

Embark on a 22 day Southern African odyssey through wildlife-rich game parks, idyllic...

Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route

8 days from 3699.

Conquer Mt Kilimanjaro on the picturesque Marangu Route, hiking with porters on an...

Mount Toubkal Trek

7 days from 583.

Trek through Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains exploring Aroumd and Imlil and then climb...

Tanzania Family Safari

8 days from 2400.

Experience the people, culture and wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania on a small group...

Mount Toubkal Winter Trek

7 days from 915.

Set off on a seven-day adventure through the Atlas Mountains, joining an expert guide...

Central American Adventure

33 days from 3267.

Tour jungle ruins and Caribbean coastline on a 33-day adventure to Mexico, Belize,...

Galapagos Experience

7 days from 1534.

As far as face-to-face wildlife encounters go, the Galapagos wildlife experience rivals...

Essential Italy

10 days from 1774.

Visit Venice, Verona, Parma, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence and Rome with like-minded 18...

Kilimanjaro: Machame Route

9 days from 4425.

Travel to Tanzania on a nine-day trip taking in Kilimanjaro along the Machame Route....

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2595.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Turkey Uncovered

14 days from 1513.

Discover the best of Turkey on a 14-day trip exploring Istanbul, Gallipoli, Fethiye,...

Amazing Central America

28 days from 3130.

Spend 28 days visiting Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and...

Peru Essentials

21 days from 2970.

See Peru in-depth on a trip from Lima to La Paz. Trek the Inca Trail and marvel at...

Cambodia Adventure

12 days from 900.

Hit Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City then take a trip through Cambodia, visiting Angkor Wat...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

4 days from 1280.

Set out on a camping safari through captivating Kakadu National Park. Experience the...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1664.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 3983.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Vietnam Discovery

15 days from 1159.

Discover Vietnam’s east coast on this 15-day tour, uncovering the hidden delights of...

Vanuatu Expedition

8 days from 2669.

Embark on an expedition to the beautiful islands of Vanuatu where you can trek to the...

Delhi to Goa

15 days from 1050.

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The perks of solo travel with Intrepid

Authentic experiences with a local leader

Stuffy coaches, flag-touting tour guides and ‘seeing the sights’ isn’t our vibe. We prefer culturally-rich experiences – led by a local – that take you behind the scenes of a destination. Our itineraries are packed with unique insights into local life. We're talking hands-on pastry-making classes with local Macedonian women, watching a traditional dance performance on the sand dunes in Pushkar or sleeping in a lush eco-resort in the Amazon.

Small groups of ready-made friends

We’ve found that it’s not always about the places you go but the people you meet along the way. Our trips are designed for people of all ages and with all sorts of life stories. With an average group size of 10, you'll get to know each other beyond the pleasantries over long dinner conversations and shared experiences. With a little luck, the friendships you make on your trip may last long after you’ve unpacked your suitcase at home.

Safety, logistics and convenience

As exciting as traveling is, it often involves a fair bit of planning. While we're sure you're well equipped to handle any situation, the beauty of traveling with us means we'll do the heavy lifting and take care of the nitty-gritty details so you can focus on what you're here to do: travel! From navigating border crossings to booking bus tickets, bridging language barriers to cultural do's and don'ts, sit back and enjoy yourself while your leader takes care of everything.

Pick your own style of travel

We understand that people travel for different reasons. That’s why we’ve created a range of  travel themes and styles  to suit every Intrepid traveler. From our Basix style with simple accommodation and plenty of free time to our Premium trips featuring our best stays, experiences and leaders (with our Original and Comfort styles in between), choose what suits you and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Tour reviews

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip as a senior.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises). However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Learn more about Intrepid's COVID-19 policy

Who are Intrepid travelers?

Intrepid adventures are for travelers with a yearning to get off the beaten track. Whether you're traveling solo, with a group of friends, or are aged 18 or 70, there is an Intrepid adventure to suit your interests and comfort level. Each Intrepid adventure has a physical and cultural grading to help you decide if the trip is right for you. No special skills are required for most adventures, just a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world. Even on our camping adventures no previous experience is required; our tents are easy to set up, even for first-time campers. 

Are there age restrictions on your trips?

For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Our Overland Adventures have a minimum age of 18. Younger children can join us on our Family trips and Short Break Adventures, but check each trip for its minimum age, which is located on the trip’s overview page on the website. Most of our trips don’t have a maximum age limit, but a Self-Assessment Form is required for all passengers 70 years and over. 

How many people will be on my trip?

Good things come in small packages, which is why we keep our group sizes down. This means we’re small enough to remain flexible as we thread our way through communities without intimidating the locals. On most of our trips you’ll be part of an intimate group of 12-16 people, though our group sizes are on average 10 people. Our Overland trips are in purpose-built vehicles that can carry up to 24 travelers. Group sizes are displayed on each trip’s overview page on our website. 

I’m traveling alone – is that OK?

This is the beauty of the Intrepid style of travel: many of our travelers join because they are traveling solo and want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people.

Learn more about solo travel

I have a disability – can I join an Intrepid trip?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We ask that you carefully consider whether you are physically and mentally able to complete the itinerary you have chosen, recognizing that on many trips you will be required to carry your own bags and use public transport. 

Where we can we will make reasonable adjustments to the operation of our trips to facilitate the requirements of disabled travelers – such as booking ground floor accommodation, or having our leaders communicate important directions in writing as well as verbally. Many travelers with disabilities have been able to enjoy our trips by traveling with a friend or companion who can assist with specific needs. If joining a group trip is not practical we may be able to provide you with a private departure. Please contact our sales team for further information on any of our itineraries. 

Learn more about accessible travel with Intrepid

Do I need to buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips if you’re traveling internationally. Minimum coverage may differ from trip to trip, so make sure you check the Travel Insurance section in your Essential Trip Information. You will not be permitted to join the group until your leader has sighted your insurance policy number and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number – it’s really important there are no barriers to getting emergency assistance for you. 

Will I have my own room?

It's your call. Rooming on our trips is organized on a twin-share basis, but most of our trips also have the option to pay an extra fee for your own room. Just let us know at the time of booking and we'll arrange it for you. 

For twin-share rooms, we pair up solo travelers with another traveler of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what's indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. 

On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open-gender, multi-share basis. In those instances it will clearly be stated in your Essential Trip Information. 

How does group time work?

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). Depending on how you're feeling, you may want to have some downtime, ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you. 

What makes a small group tour better than a coach tour?

The main difference between a small group tour and a coach tour is the size of the group; our tours have 10 travelers each (on average) while coaches can hold up to 60 people. This means that you'll never have to vie for your leader's attention on a small group tour because you'll automatically have it.

Learn more about the differences between a small group tour and a coach tour

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How Women Over 50 Can Get Started in Solo Travel

by Carolyn Ray | Aug 4, 2022

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Last updated on November 30th, 2023

Featured image: There’s no “right way” to solo travel – do it on your own terms! / Photo by Teodor Lazarev on Shutterstock

Experienced solo travellers share their advice on taking the first step

by Carolyn Ray, JourneyWoman

When it comes to embracing the unknown, there’s no time like midlife to get started in solo travel.  Every July, another birthday slips by and I am, by society’s standards, well into my ‘midlife’. A time when I should be winding down. Instead, I’m winding up.   

Never before have I believed in the transformative power of solo travel as I do now. In a time when many of our rights as women are being diminished, travel is the antidote. Travel reminds us to fight for what we believe and for the things we cherish most — self-expression, freedom, independence and fun. How can we find out what we truly believe in without first understanding what we, as women, are capable of?  This is the power of solo travel.  

It’s never too late to get started in solo travel. The magic of discovering a new place, of connecting with women, or learning something new about myself. Without solo travel, we risk losing our spirit of adventure and sense of wonder. We risk abandoning the opportunity to discover our true selves and learn the truth about our world. I feel most alive when I am in an unknown place — one that stimulates all my senses and heightens my gratitude, courage and curiosity.    

Inspiration from solo travellers 

“You don’t need to start big. Try a few day trips on your own , join a hiking group, volunteer (as I did a few times). Volunteering in a foreign country is a safe way to experience the culture of the place you choose to visit and a wonderful way to make long-term friends. There’s no right or wrong way of doing this – the great thing about solo travel is that  you  make the choices that  you feel comfortable with. Start out slow or jump into deep waters – either way, you will always have an amazing and worthwhile experience.” – Sandra H. 

“It really comes down to the woman and her comfort zones. A journey that stretches that comfort zone just a little is a good start and it should be one that instills a good dose of excitement, a dash of nervousness and a boat load of anticipation and curiosity. It doesn’t matter if the destination is 100 miles (or kilometers!) away or on the other side of the world. Just follow that travel dream in your own way.”  — Niina N.

“Many years ago, my first solo trip was to Antarctica. I got a lot of push back. People asked:  Why would you go there? How could you go alone?  They were trying to kill my dream. They didn’t have to, because there was a giant oil spill, and the Smithsonian cancelled the trip. I got a message from my travel agent who said:  The Chilean government is organizing a trip with all of the people who  wanted to go on this trip and will take 50 people, so do you want to go?  I worked through my fears and went. That trip changed my life, and I have never looked back.” —  Debbie P.

Women’s recommendations to get started in solo travel

The thought of taking that first step into solo travel can create a lot of anxiety, particularly if you haven’t travelled a lot or without a partner.  Losing your co-pilot is a blow that leaves you reeling and wondering who you are now that ‘we’ has become ‘me.’ You might be on a solo journey that wasn’t your choice or was a difficult one. 

Once the seed has been planted, however, only you can feed or starve it. When you think about venturing off on your own, what emotions come up? Where do you feel them? Fear lives in the chest. Fear is a constricting feeling. Excitement lives in the gut. It’s an expansive feeling. Ask yourself why you want to do this, and what it will give you. Ask yourself what’s holding you back, and how you’ll feel if you allow it to.

With more women wanting to get started in solo travel, a recurring question we often see is what type of travel is best for a first-timer. Fortunately, we have some of the most experienced solo travellers in the world in our private JourneyWoman Solo Travel Wisdom group , so we invited them to share their best advice. These women are ruthlessly honest and candid – a quality we embrace!

More than half of the women who responded recommended taking a woman-friendly group tour (51!%), followed by ‘just do it’ at 25%. An all-inclusive, something we often see recommended in other solo travel groups, ranked lowest at 2%. Even a river or expedition cruise ranked higher at 6%. While this wasn’t an analytical study, it does give us a place to get started in solo travel, on our own terms.  Thank you to all the women who responded to this prompt and for your sage advice.   

Recommendation 1: Travel with a women-friendly group – 51%

Women recommended group travel as the best way to get started in solo travel, particularly if you’re feeling anxious or aren’t sure where to start. 

There are many women-owned and women-led group tours that create safe travel experiences for women and create environments that push and challenge a woman’s sense for adventure, with less ego and less competitiveness. (After all, we don’t need a man to show us how much fun travel can be, am I right?!)

As women, we often are caring for everyone else and setting aside what we want to make other people happy. A women-friendly group prioritizes the perspectives of women travellers and guides alike. Traveling in a women-only group means we can choose an itinerary that suits us, not our partners.

  As a solo traveler, feeling safe is important. Many men will never truly appreciate the potential dangers we face, and women feel safer with other women. When we feel safe, we can push our boundaries and fuel our freedom and independence. Surrounding yourself with women can be empowering and educational.

Considering a group tour? Check out the women-only tours on Trafalgar here !

What women say about group tours

  “First time on a trip without my husband, who passed away three years ago. I decided to do a small, all-women group in a 10-day trip to Ireland and it was just perfect for me. 11 women with a private driver. I felt safe, not a “loner” and it was a comfortable beginning to what I hope will be many more trips. (I will stick to small groups just as a matter of preference). — Christine D.  

“ First time solo traveler: if you are not comfortable or adventurous to jump in and travel on your own, I recommend group solo travel experiences with “Just You Tour company”- small group touring. Specialize in solo travel. A division of G Adventures. NO room sharing or single supplement.” — D Jay C.

“I recommend a woman-friendly small group tour extended before and/or after for at least a few days on your own. A really nice mix of adventures.” — Nancy T.

“I went with a group of strangers for my first solo trip seven years ago. I have taken 12 more group trips – a few alone and most with travel friends I’ve met. Pick a place and decide on solo or group travel. Then find what you can afford and pack those bags!” —  Barb H.

“My first solo trip I signed up for a small group tour to Jordan. Upon arriving I discovered everyone else on tour cancelled. Private tour guide and driver for the entire trip. Yes, please!! Best trip experience. Still talk to my “tour guide” every day just to tell him good morning. You never know what adventures you’ll find or the amazing people you will meet.” — April N.

  “I have travelled several times on the basis of private tour guide and driver, organised by specialist tour operators. One of the best ways of getting to know a country, its people, its way of life . . .” — Danae P.

“I’m a fan of small group tours for challenging situations like places with languages that I can’t read, extreme weather (Morocco, UAE), dense population (India), and challenging cultural or political situations (Tibet, Nepal). Sometimes a short tour for part of the trip is enough.” — Diane E.

How to choose a group tour

The best way to find a group tour isn’t to ask Google, it’s to ask other women for recommendations. There are five main criteria to consider: Value for money; Destination/Itinerary; Safety; Cleanliness and Health; and Reputation.   

  There are other considerations we should look at too, like engagement with local communities, emphasis on sustainable travel practices and even leadership. If you haven’t looked at the ownership and leadership structure of a group tour company, perhaps it’s time. What percentage of leaders are women? Do they use female guides? How do you know your safety needs are being taken into consideration?

Our Women’s Travel Directory lists hundreds of women-only tours that need your support and who better to help them recover from the pandemic than the top decision makers in travel? (YOU!)

Recommendation 2: Just get out there! – 25%

Recommendation 3: travel at home — 10%.

While it might seem easy to say ‘just do it’, fear of the unknown can often hold us back. 

Why not start at home first?  Many women I’ve spoken to feel anxious even thinking about eating alone or taking a flight alone. Let me tell you – we’ve all been there. There’s no question it feels awkward at first, but with practice, you can overcome that and boost your confidence.

My first ‘solo’ trips were extensions of my business trips in the US and Europe. I still remember the first time I lugged my unwieldy suitcase through Milan to the train station, and then ate alone at Lake Como. I remember getting some strange looks but after a while, I stopped caring and enjoyed my solitude. From then on, it was carry-on only!  

What women say about going solo

“My first time solo travel (apart from solo travel for work reasons) was a week in a train in northern Spain . Very comfortable, very interesting and very friendly. I realised that I could do group travel for the first time because I was with like-minded people (37 Spanish and Mexican passengers plus a Peruvian guide) in an area which I already knew slightly, and a more comfortable way of train travel than I had ever done before. Therefore, choose something a bit different from what you have done before non-solo, but to a place you wanted to go to anyway, a bit organised (but not too much) and fairly comfortable.” — Danae P.

“ I’d suggest going with what interests you personally and the travel style that represents your interests best then you’re more likely to be with like-minded travellers. No two first time travellers will be the same.” — Paula C.

“Travel with anyone else is a challenge for me. There are parts of the world where I definitely would only go again with a local guide for parts of the area. Before I married my late husband I grilled him on solo travel. He came up with a compromise that as long as we had one holiday a year together, then he was fine with me going off on my own (obviously I was okay with him going off on his own).  But I come from a hospitality background and I am living in my 3rd country. Being awash in tourists all year soured me on being stuck with people on my very precious time off. I really, really hate being trapped (i.e. anyone else with me) and having MY experience and schedule dictated by others. I am a raging extrovert but I get far too much contact with people in my workaday world. I really really really need to not have others encroach on my private time too. Having said all that, one of my best friends is a great travel buddy. He lets me do the organising and never complains, we’re both super easygoing and don’t believe we should be stressed on holidays. ” — Debra K.

“I started with petsitting. Check out Trusted Housesitters .” — Lynne Foley

“For a beginner, a solo trip to a new region of your own country, all researched and planned by yourself. It’s normally ok to use a travel agent , but I’m only booking directly with the airlines until the staffing crisis, lost luggage and widespread cancellations are in play.  After building the skills and experience from a domestic adventure, traveling to a new country where your own primary language is widely spoken and written is a great building block.   Learning the local language opens doors . Hiring a guide for special sites or a driver can expand the experience in the new country. Adventure activities can help to meet travelers. Making connections with distant family, expats, or new friends is easier when the language barrier is less significant.” — Diane E.

What women say about places to go solo

While there’s no perfect destination to try solo travel for the first time, women often recommend starting in your own city. Being a tourist in your own city can not only refresh your mindset, but it allows you feel comfortable in a place where you have a built-in support system. Why not book a hotel room for a staycation , or a VRBO/Airbnb in a different neighbourhood? Housesitting and petsitting are also good options.  

If you feel ready to travel outside your home town, consider alternative ways to travel like train travel . This spring, I travelled from San Francisco to Portland on the Amtrak Coast Starlight Train instead of flying. Most women agree that doing your first solo trip where you can speak the language is a good idea too.

What our last survey said

In April 2021, we invited women to share their experiences on personal safety in a global survey. Completed by over 350 women, almost 90% of respondents were age 55 and over.

In our survey, most women agreed that safety is more about a mindset, and less about the destination. “As females, we are vulnerable anywhere.” 

Recognizing that safety is subjective, women did recommend the countries below as more or less ‘safe’, based on their own personal experience. Read more here.

Recommendation 4: Try a river cruise or expedition ship – 6%

From previous discussions on our private Facebook group, it’s fair to say that JourneyWomen readers are river cruise and expedition ship enthusiasts.  Less so ocean cruising, which typically carry thousands of people and discharge millions of gallons of chemicals and pollutants into our water. (Incidentally, you might notice that we don’t cover large-scale cruises in our editorial for this very reason). 

What could be more memorable than a river cruise along the Danube at Christmas or tulip time in Holland? Among the top experiences, women recommend the Panama Canal, and the Amazon, Mekong, Rhine and Nile Rivers. a once-in-a-lifetime excursions. River cruises and expedition ships offer the benefit of staying in one place but it’s important to remember not all offer solo travellers affordable pricing. In addition consider whether tips, drinks and excursions are included.  If you’re working with a budget, finding a travel partner is one solution instead of allowing the cruise line to place you with someone.

What women say about river cruises or expedition ships

“I recommend a river or expedition cruise, however I would choose expedition over river because river can be a little more formal and mainly couples while expedition is casual and you are traveling with like-minded individuals. The focus is on the scenery, wildlife and not you.” — Donna M. 

  “I river cruise alone often. I am very outgoing and can carry on a conversation with just about anyone…Pick an itinerary that interests you and book it …you won’t regret it.” — Wendy C

“River cruises rarely have single rooms. Mayflower lets you get an unknown roommate. That was a mistake.” —  Sarah G. 

“I have gone solo on two French River Cruises with   Uniworld . They have several single cabins, and have waived single supplement offers. Both the crew members and fellow passengers were very inclusive , so very comfortable being one of the few singles onboard. Went on cruises in 2018 and 2019. Planning another river cruise in 2022.”  — Louise

“One thing I did notice about anyone with mobility issues – sometimes the boats park side by side, so in order to get ashore, one has to get off our boat, cross the boat next to the dock, to get ashore – difficult for people with a mobility issue. Overall river cruising is better than ocean cruising, as you always see land and it is a smoother ride, good food and entertainment from each country you visit .” — Joy F.

“Two pieces of advice – Look at water levels. When you least expect it, due to drought and climate change, many routes become part river, part land trips! Also, if you’ve been on ocean liners before, don’t think a river cruise is anything like a typical ocean faring cruise.” — Nancy S. 

Recommended River Cruises and Ships for Solo Travellers

River cruises and expedition ships offer the benefit of staying in one place but it’s important to remember not all offer solo travellers affordable pricing. In addition consider whether tips, drinks and excursions are included.  If you’re concerned with a budget, finding a travel partner is one solution.

River Cruises

Readers recommend these lines to start with. Keep an eye out for our upcoming feature on River Cruises which will provide more guidance, particularly on pricing for solo travellers. 

• Emerald Waterways
• Grand Circle
• AMA Waterways
• Gate 1 Travel

Expedition Ships

An expedition trip to the Northern Lights, Antarctica or the Arctic Circle can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that usually requires advance booking of up to one year, if not more. For Antarctica, read our tips on Antarctica .   

For the Northern Lights, many of our readers recommend Hurtigruten.   Joy went solo on an eco-friendly   Hurtigruten   expedition ferry from Bergen to Kilkenny in the Arctic Circle for her birthday. She says being on a ship allowed her to experience the fjords and majestic scenery, with shore excursions to learn about local history in the towns along the route. Hurtigruten has no single supplement and a Northern Lights guarantee for certain months.

“It made me feel as if I was in heaven,” she says. “I started to cry because it was so absolutely beautiful. It was a fact of nature and it happens all the time, but to just see it, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven. I cried my eyes out.”

Read more about the Northern Lights here.

Solo Travel Inspiration

Confessions of a Wannabe Aurora Chaser: The Myths and Magic of the Northern Lights in Norway

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Meet Joy Fox, 89, the First Recipient of the JourneyWoman Evelyn Hannon Solo Travel Award

Featured image: Joy Fox is the winner of the first annual Evelyn Hannon award | Photo by Adrienne Guinn, Vital Image PhotographyWith decades of solo travel experience, Fox says if she can do it, so can you by Carolyn Ray It's an honour to announce Joy Fox as the first...

Carolyn Ray

As the CEO and Editor of JourneyWoman, Carolyn is a passionate advocate for women's travel and living the life of your dreams. She leads JourneyWoman's team of writers and chairs the JourneyWoman Women's Advisory Council and Women's Speaker's Bureau. She has been featured in the New York Times, Toronto Star and Zoomer as a solo travel expert, and speaks at women's travel conferences around the world. In March 2023, she was named one of the most influential women in travel by TravelPulse and was the recipient of a SATW travel writing award in September 2023. She is the chair of the Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), a member Women's Travel Leaders and a Herald for the Transformational Travel Council (TTC). Sometimes she sleeps. A bit.

How we advocate for women over 50 in travel

New Annual JourneyWoman Travel Awards Honour the Wisdom, Purpose and Innovation of Women Over 50

For our 30th anniversary, JourneyWoman is announcing four new awards for women over 50, including the Evelyn Hannon Solo Travel Award.

Five Ways Women Can Make a Difference in 2024, According to Travel Leaders

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Celebrating Evelyn Hannon and 30 Years of Solo Travel For Women

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I am very interested in hearing about any single senior women over the age of 75 who are desiring to travel alone for the first time. This is my situation, as none of my friends are interested in travelling now. I am so antsy to get out there but very nervous about going alone at this age.

My husband was in the Canadian navy for 25 years and travelled the world. When we got together, just as he was retiring, he was looking forward to NOT traveling. Uh oh. I had travelled alone both for work and pleasure throughout my adult life but suddenly it stopped. Then I got a journalist/photo assignment to cover the World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany in 2006. I grabbed it and headed away for an amazing 3-week experience. A little scary at times, but ultimately very satisfying. In 2013 I joined a group of equestrian writers/photographers from around the globe on an expedition in the NE state of Bahia in Brazil. We travelled from ranch to ranch photographing herds of the national horse, the Mangalarga Marchardor, to promote the breed world wide. In 2017 I did a two-week excursion with fellow writers through Ireland, having travelled there alone to meet up with the group. Now, at 73, I still have the itch to grab my camera and laptop and head out again. As someone said above, like the Nike commercial – Just Do It! You won’t regret it.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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A Guide for Solo Travel for the Over 50

 take a solo trip with a theme - a guide for solo travel over 50.

 Solo travel over 50 with a theme can encourage you to try something different. Are you interested in history? Pick your favorite historical event and plan a vacation around it. Vacations for singles are more exciting when you add a theme and attend events or join tours that are related to it.

Photo by Marguerite Megalithic Burial near Marvão, Portugal

A trip with a mythological theme can be a journey and not just a simple vacation. Travel through Greece or Italy in search of their majestical gods, or discover the knights of the United Kingdom.

If you are interested in art, you may want to create a solo trip around painting in different villages. If photography is your passion, go to Scotland in search of gorgeous landscapes, or how about learning to cook traditional Spanish cuisine? If textiles and embroidery are your hobbies, then head to Peru.

My Trip to Bristol, UK. In Search of Banski and other great street artists

Vacations for singles with a theme will ensure that you stay motivated to explore during your solo journey. Solo travel over 50 is a delight when we get to see the places we read about, and to learn new things on location. Some people love to volunteer, and you can learn a lot from locals by connecting with them on a personal level.

What to do on vacations for singles

Tours are a quick way to warm up to a new culture. You can get tips from experienced guides and other travelers about where to visit on your own, and where to eat like a local.

 I have just added street art tours to my list of travel must-dos, along with walking and foodie tours. The walking and the street art tours allow me to see areas that I might miss if I was alone, and the foodie tours allow me to discover the local cuisine.

 Learn how to cook with a local

Paella cooking class in Malaga

Many city markets offer cooking classes, which can be found through Airbnb’s Experiences tab. The Time Out Market in Lisbon provides cooking classes, and many private chefs offer courses in their homes or at restaurants. Reserve your spot before your departure date, and have fun immersing yourself in the culture.

 When I went to Malaga, I signed up for a paella class and chatted with wonderful fellow travelers during dinner. I joined a French food cooking class in Edinburgh, where I met many locals. I have yet to plan a trip around cooking classes, and I have my heart set on a cooking school in Ireland where I hope to spend a week learning new techniques.

 Pack your hobbies

Photo by Marguerite. Paint your trip!

Solo travel over 50 means more room to fill your trip with your favourite pastimes! Is painting your thing? Join a class or find a group that meets regularly. When I go to Edinburgh, I join the weekly Reconfigure drawing sessions at Summer Hall. If you’re a photographer, join photo walks, or if you’re more interested in exercise, look for walking groups that cater to vacations for singles.

Plan and research before you go

Spend time researching before you travel so that you will have many options available to you. You may find that you want to wander on your own and not join anything, but it’s always good to have some ideas if you have a change of plans. Don’t forget to look up meet-ups and Facebook groups to find interesting gatherings in the area. Solo travel over 50 has lots of options to connect with other travelers.

 Make your solo trips fun and full of mini-adventures by planning ahead of time.

Here’s an example of a two week travel schedule:

●      Day 1: Walking tour in the morning, rest at the hotel, visit a park nearby, and dinner (reservation before traveling).

●      Day 2: Foodie tour, ask your guide for restaurant tips but have dinner at a place you reserved before traveling. You can entertain yourself at dinner by reading the reviews of your new restaurant list and decide which ones you want to try.

●      Day 3: Museum and walk around the neighborhood. Dinner in a place recommended by a local.

●      Day 4: Day trip to a town nearby, and by now, you may have a few more names or restaurants that you want to try, so make dinner reservations.

●      Day 5: Photo Walk and picnic at the park

●      Day 6: Bus tour to a special location, music concert in the evening and dinner at a unique local place.

●      Day 7: Morning walk, lunch at the street market, movies

●      Day 8: Create your last minute plan

●      Day 9: No plans during the day, cooking class in the evening

Remember to be flexible; don’t be afraid to cancel and rearrange things to your liking during your trip.

Take a break from sightseeing

  Have you come home from a trip only to find that you need a vacation from your vacation? Go to a movie, play, or concert. Take a break and spend a day relaxing at a park. Too much sightseeing can be exhausting!

Solo dining on your trip

If you have never eaten out alone and are wary of doing so, I suggest practicing a few times before you travel.

Make lunch reservations in nicer restaurants, a place where you would typically go with friends, and go on your own. Whenever you feel self-conscious or bored, pull out your phone and read an article or scroll online. The idea is to feel comfortable alone in a restaurant full of people.

As soon as you feel comfortable eating lunch on your own, graduate to dinner! Plan to eat an early dinner a few times and then make a reservation to eat during your usual dinner time. Some people prefer to eat at a counter when they are on their own. This is a fun way to meet other people, and it feels like casual dining.

When you call to make a reservation, ask if the restaurant has a communal table and if they do, book a seat. I don’t see communal tables much, but I sit there when I know that a restaurant has one.

Some people hate to dine out alone, which is fine- but don’t miss out on unique restaurants and book for lunch instead. Eating out is part of getting to know a culture authentically.

Drinking while exploring

  This is so important: You need to ensure that you can safely return to your hotel, so don’t drink too much. I only drink one glass of wine when I am on my own. Stay safe!

Dress like a local

Have you read articles about traveling, blending in with the local culture, or “How Not to Look Like a Tourist”?

 It’s almost impossible to look like a local when traveling out of a small suitcase, and all your clothes come from a different country where people dress differently, so go for a discreet look. Wear clothes that don’t stand out. Pack neutral colors to mix and match easily, and you just might blend in- but don’t worry if you don’t.

 I choose one primary color for most of my clothes, and I pack colorful accessories (scarves). Wearing one color makes it easy to do laundry because you will only use one machine! I choose darker colors like charcoal gray or black and work around them. When I get bored with my monochrome look, I may buy something locally.

Packing made simple

Pack light. You can always have your clothes cleaned during your trip, or buy clothes should the weather change. Not only does keeping your suitcase light help you travel with ease, you might want the extra space if you buy souvenirs.

Document your trip

Keep a journal of everything that you did and saw. You can use the calendar or note app on your phone to write down the names of the restaurants and galleries you visited, and any activities you did. Don’t forget to write names, emails, or social media of people you met so you can stay in contact.

Pro Tip: When you take a photo on the iPhone, you can swipe it up and write down where you were and a few notes about the location.

Step outside your comfort zone

What if you are terrified of traveling alone but want to try it out for a few nights? Why don’t you join a guided tour for ten days, get a feel for your environment, and stay on your own for three days after it ends?

You will love your mini-adventure! The tour will take you to all the key places, introduce you to the culture so that by the end of the trip, you will feel more comfortable with the location, and your extra days will be stress-free. Try it out. Once you start to travel solo, you won’t stop.

Always consider your safety when traveling alone. Don’t do daring things just because someone else does them, and listen to your gut at all times. It’s your trip. You don’t have to tick off any boxes. Your solo trip is for your pure enjoyment and no one else’s.

Don’t announce where you are going nor where you are staying on social media. Make it a personal rule to only post about a place after you have left the location.

Research the area where you will stay. Choose hotels, Airbnb’s, or hostels that are in a safe location. Read the lousy hotel reviews first, and then read the good reviews. Only then should you decide what is best for you. I always book hotels in a good area – even if it means paying a bit more.

Don’t forget comprehensive travel insurance, and make sure that it covers medical issues, cancellations, and anything else you need.

Keep everything safe when you leave your accommodations. If there is a safe, use it and if not, lock valuables in your suitcase. Don’t travel with anything valuable that you don’t need, and don’t leave jewelry in the room, even if it’s a pair of inexpensive earrings. People love shiny things! Unfortunately, I know this only too well. I couldn’t believe it when I noticed that a cheap pair of earrings and a wooden bracelet disappeared after the hotel serviced my room.

Getting around a new location

Walking is the best way to get to know a city. Section off areas or neighborhoods to get to know the city well and do a section a day. Research restaurants, galleries, parks, and other places of interest in each area so that you will get a taste of local life. I love to walk and take public transportation, but I book Ubers and taxis when I go out alone in the evening.

Are you traveling solo for the first time? Choose a city that’s easy to get around. Edinburgh, Lisbon, Berlin, and Amsterdam come to mind. Edinburgh is a fantastic city for a first solo trip because it’s not huge; it’s a walking city with many trains and buses everywhere; great for day trips, good food, and friendly people.

Once you have done your research and have a plan, don’t overthink things and have a wonderful time!

Bon Voyage!

Travel with a Theme

Travel with a Purpose

Marguerite Beaty, Blogger, Photographer & Artist

Welcome to the sunny side of life for women over 50! We aim to create a space where women feel empowered, supported, and inspired to lead their best lives after 50. Join our  Instagram !

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2 responses.

Hi Marguerite, this is like the ultimate guide for solo travel over 50! A few of my favourite ways of travelling in there, from travelling with a theme to travelling like a local! Loving the site!

Hi Lara, Thank you! My trips have changed so much. I like the slower trips that allow me to get to know a culture while I do the things that I love!

Best, Marguerite

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Tips for Embracing Solo Travel Over 50

In Partnership with Road Scholar

No matter your age, solo travel can be a great learning experience that allows you to look deeper within yourself, forge strong relationships with people you encounter, and discover the world on your terms. However, in recent years, solo travel tours for those over 50 have become increasingly popular.

Solo travel over 50, which is part of the “ grey nomad ” movement, offers a plethora of benefits, from self-discovery and personal growth to freedom and empowerment. Taking the leap of travelling solo as you grow older can seem intimidating.

However, this doesn’t have to be the case, and shifting your mindset can open up a whole new world of possibilities and adventure. If you’re itching to explore new areas across the globe, read our guide on the importance of solo travel in your 50s and beyond.

Shifting Your Mindset

It’s human nature to prefer consistency, especially as you age and become comfortable in your daily routines. This can make it challenging to get the courage to embrace courage and break out of your shell. It’s often thought that solo travel is for young travellers. 

However, shifting your mindset and telling yourself that solo travel is meant for everyone can help you step out of your comfort zone and start a journey of personal growth. Shifting your mindset about who solo travel is for and that travelling alone over 50 is possible can bring many benefits. Here are some ways changing your perspective can benefit you:

• Embracing independence: As you enter the later stages of life, embracing independence is important, especially if you spent most of your adulthood with a partner. Viewing solo travel as an opportunity to assess your autonomy can help you make decisions based on your preferences while enjoying the many freedoms that come with it. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in new experiences without relying on others for companionship or validation.
• Personal growth: With newfound independence for solo travellers comes the opportunity for personal growth. When travelling solo in your 50s, you can embrace a growth mindset that allows you to expand your horizons, challenge your comfort zones, and discover new things. Having a growth mindset with each new experience will allow you to enrich your life.
• Overcoming fears and uncertainties: It can be daunting packing up your bags to travel to a new country alone. While this can be scary, taking the leap can help you overcome any fears or uncertainties that come with it. Through solo travel, you can find that you’re self-sufficient and can handle a detailed adventure independently. Through self-discovery, you’ll be able to put fears behind you and find confidence in yourself that you might not have realized.
• Rediscovering passions: Solo travel allows you to rediscover passions and interests. As you navigate a new area you’ve never explored, you can draw inspiration from the people you meet, the food you eat and the sights you see. Upon return, you can bring your passions to life, whether adding new flavours to your kitchen when cooking or picking up a hobby like painting or photography.
• Celebrating achievements and memorable experiences: Another way shifting your mindset is beneficial is by allowing you to celebrate achievements and unforgettable experiences along the way, whether cresting the top of a mountain or meeting a host family.

Researching the Best Destination Options for Solo Travelers

When it comes to solo travel tours over 50, a key part of planning is finding the best destination. There are a variety of factors to consider when travelling solo, such as transportation, language barriers and finances.

Researching options for solo travel tours can provide peace of mind that you’re travelling to a new destination that meets your preferences. Some considerations to keep in mind include:

• Safety: Above all else, it’s important to keep safety top of mind when travelling alone. As you research destinations, consider the safety reputation of the area by looking at factors like crime rates, healthcare facilities and political instability. You can also try connecting with travellers who’ve visited the potential destination recently to get their input.
• Solo-friendly infrastructure: Sometimes, solo travel can be more expensive because certain costs, such as transportation and lodging, aren’t shared. With that in mind, look into destinations with solo-friendly infrastructure, such as their transportation system, tourism infrastructure and accommodations, such as hotels, B&Bs and hostels.
• Accessibility: It’s crucial to keep accessibility top of mind as a solo traveller over 50, such as flight availability, visa requirements and the overall ease of getting around.
• Activities and interests: The area you’re travelling to should match your interests. For example, are you looking for outdoor adventures, including hiking and biking, or are you more interested in art or cuisine? Taking the time to assess what you’re interested in seeing and doing can help you find an ideal travel destination.

Connecting With Fellow Travelers

Travelling solo as someone 50 or older doesn’t mean you have to be alone. A helpful solo travel tip is embracing discomfort and connecting with fellow travellers you meet. There are various ways you can meet new people, including joining a travel group or club that allows you to adventure on your own with the safety net of a group.

Or, you can connect with fellow solo travellers in online communities and travel forums where you can join before meeting in person. Another option is signing up for organized tours and activities, such as a walking tour of a city or a boat tour along a coastline or river.

Embracing Solo Travel as a Lifestyle

Whether you’re taking an extended vacation or spending your golden years globetrotting, certain tips can help you embrace solo travel as a lifestyle. Some tips include:

• Planning an itinerary: When it comes to long-term travel, make sure to plan an itinerary that outlines the destinations you will visit. However, ensure your itinerary is loose and allows for adaptations, as spur-of-the-moment activities are often the most memorable.
• Pack smart: It can be easy to overpack, especially when travelling for an extended period. Make sure to choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and only pack the essentials, as you’ll most likely want room for a souvenir or two.
• Stay flexible: When travelling solo, challenges can arise. Maintaining an adaptable mindset can help you when things don’t go as planned.
• Trust your instincts: There’s a reason why people say to trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to trust your instincts and remove yourself from a situation.

Final Thoughts on the Transformative Power of Solo Travel

Travelling solo beyond 50 can be an extremely rewarding experience. Through solo travel, you can learn more about yourself by embarking on a journey of personal growth and development.

By travelling alone, you’ll connect with locals and fellow travellers, participate in activities you decide to pursue, and learn more about the world without relying on a companion or outside opinions. If you’re looking for a sign to travel solo as you grow older, let this be it.

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7 Tips for Women Over 50 Traveling Solo

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Recognizing solo travel for the woman over 50 is a unique experience. Solo travel is on the rise, 70 percent of women in the U.S will travel solo.

Don’t think that just because you haven’t logged thousands of miles in hundreds of countries by the time you’re 50 that you’re late to the party. It is never too late.

As the new woman over 50, we redefine aging and travel and all that goes along with it. We all are on our path, and our pace is unique to each of us.

With that in mind, more and more of us have situations that don’t allow us to have a ready travel partner, but we still want to travel solo.

There are many changes taking place in our lives, some planned, others unplanned. If you are facing any of these, you may be a good prospect for being a solo traveler:

• Took early retirement
• Are suddenly single, either divorce or loss
• You have an empty nest; kids are finally gone!
• Tired of asking friends to join you
• You like to travel, but your partner does not

Traveling solo can be very rewarding, but there are unique considerations for a woman over 50. Please read my article: Women Over 50 Find Joy in Travel; 7 Good Reasons. I know how important it is to identify activities that I feel are suited to my age and personality.

After 50, the local nightclub will not be the first place I want to go on vacation. That doesn’t suit my taste at home or abroad.

Even though solo travel is rewarding, women want to feel a sense of safety and freedom. Here are a few safety and well-being tips to share from AARP Magazine .

1. Stay Connected

Those days of being without cellphone, smartphone and Skype seem almost quaint. Before you leave home, find out whether your mobile phone has roaming capabilities at your destination.

If not, or if the roaming cost is prohibitive, rent a phone once you arrive (or buy international SIM cards if you have an unlocked GSM phone) so you have a lifeline. Smartphones outfitted with GPS or online maps are good options for drivers.

2. Keep Others Apprised of Your Daily Itinerary

Solo travel for the woman over 50 it is important to regularly let people know where you’re going — including friends and family back home and your innkeeper or hotel concierge.

When traveling alone into parkland or wilderness, always let someone know when you expect to return as well as your exact route — and then stick to it.

3. Stash Money, Credit Cards and Passport in Separate Places

Keep some money and credit cards in your wallet or purse, and additional money and cards in a pocket or money pouch.

When sightseeing, carry only a copy of your passport’s data page, keeping your passport locked in your hotel safe. (It’s also good to leave a copy of the data page with someone at home).

On travel days, carry your passport separately from your money and credit cards. Here’s a great Travel Gift to keep all of your important items secured.

4. Study Up On Your Destination

Be aware of safety concerns as well as of local customs and etiquette, especially with regard to dress. When in doubt, opt for conservative.

Women travelers should know in advance if harassment is an issue — and both men and women should get the safety lowdown on public transportation.

Talk to locals about neighborhoods to avoid, especially after dark. Know the local number to call for emergencies. To prepare for your trip, consider books on the destination. You can find books HERE .

5. Ensure Your Lodgings Are Safe

Keep your door locked, with the security chain fastened. Try to snag a room close to where the action is — near the concierge desk, say, or near elevators. Stay away from ground floors where window entry is possible. Don’t answer the door if you’re not expecting anyone.

6. Stay Healthy

Is the water safe to drink? Are poisonous snakes or spiders a problem? Are mosquitoes a health issue?

Does your dive operator have a stellar safety record? Bring an extra supply of prescription medications and an extra script (with the generic drug name rather than the brand name). And don’t forget hand sanitizer.

7. Keep Your Wits About You

Traveling alone doesn’t mean cowering in a hotel room. Venturing into unknown territory is one of the thrills of travel. But don’t let yourself get so distracted by sights and sounds (or recording every moment on camera or cellphone) that you let your guard down.

You can find some planning tips for your trip in this article, Going Solo Keep Travel Plans Simple . Of all the travel-alone safety tips, this is the most important: Don’t leave common sense at home.

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Hi, I'm Betty! I'm here to spread the joy of traveling to other corporate refugees. Follow along for travel tips and guides. After all, Life is a Journey of Escapes ;)

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It's Not Too Late to Travel Solo After Retirement — but Don't Make These 14 Mistakes

“Sometimes as you’re getting older, you might start feeling less capable. You go out there and you navigate the world by yourself? Yeah, you come back feeling pretty darn strong.”

Embarking on a solo trip as a senior comes with its own set of challenges — and perks. Travel + Leisure turned to senior solo travel expert Janice Waugh of Solo Traveler World for insight into what not to do as a senior traveling solo.

Thinking You’re Younger Than You Are

Don’t overestimate your abilities — or underestimate your age. “It’s pretty common,” Waugh laughs. “When you hit about 40 or 50, you really think you’re about 10, 20 years younger than you actually are. It’s really important that you take an assessment and know your physical abilities so that you don’t get yourself into an awkward situation. Know how far you can walk, how far you can ride, how far you can hike, what stairs are like for you, what it’s like on uneven surfaces — just take account of this, because it can really affect your enjoyment of the trip once you go.”

Choosing the Wrong Destination for Your Situation

Plan trips according to what’s best for you at this stage in life. “You really need to choose the trip, the tour, or the destination that’s right for you — and that, again, is going to be affected by your abilities,” Waugh says. “Maybe you’ve been a great hiker in the past, but it’s just not in the cards, but you also love cooking, so you go to Italy and take a cooking course. Sometimes you have to adapt according to the times within your life.”

Flying Solo When a Group Trip Would Be Better

Based on your desired destination and activities, determine whether a visit is best tackled solo or within the embrace of a group tour. “It’s really important to assess the destination and how challenging it might be and whether it might be best on a tour,” Waugh says. “Or you might be looking at yourself and saying, ‘You know what, I’m now at the stage where I need more backup so that if something goes wrong, I’ve got a tour guide to turn to.’ Making that decision as to the nature of your trip — independent or with a tour or on a river cruise or something of that nature — I think is really an important thing to do.”

Not Buying Travel Insurance

In many circles, travel insurance is up for debate , but Waugh won’t travel without it.

“I have bought travel insurance my entire life — and I’ve won the game on some years,” she says. “You have to have travel insurance. It’s so important. It gets much more expensive as you get older, so that can be a challenge, but more things can go wrong, which is why it gets more expensive.” She recommends simply counting travel insurance as part of the cost of your trip.

How do you choose which travel insurance package or level of coverage is right for you? “Everyone has their own level of risk, even as a senior,” Waugh says. “If you don’t care whether you lose your luggage, then don’t get it covered. Have a look at it in terms of what you actually want to buy.”

Assuming You Won’t Meet Other Seniors Traveling Solo for the First Time

Trying something new is often intimidating because you fear that others are seasoned experts who have been at it for years. But when it comes to travel, you’re not alone; many seniors are also traveling solo for the first time in their lives.

According to Waugh, “Very often, [seniors are] traveling by themselves for the first time, and this might be because they are now a widow or widower . Or divorced — a lot of people divorce in their 50s and early 60s, once the kids are gone. Or it might be that one party does not want to travel; maybe they traveled for work their entire life and they’ve had it with airports, and the other is just really keen on getting out and exploring the world. There are many, many reasons that people will come to solo travel later in life.”

To seniors considering traveling alone for the first time and finding the prospect daunting, Waugh recommends a group setting. “A lot of seniors go on tours or escorted travel, and that takes the worry out of it for you,” she says. “You know you’re going to be sitting with someone to have dinner; you know someone’s going to navigate the whole destination. So that’s a really valid and useful way to travel for seniors.”

She estimates that probably 75 percent of solo-traveling seniors opt for a tour, but there are certainly some who choose to explore completely independently. “I think that as long as you’re fit and healthy and adventurous, then it works well,” Waugh says. “Those who go independently, it’s very interesting to see the response of the world to them. It’s very welcoming.”

Not Starting Small

Another surefire way to get comfortable traveling on your own as a senior is to start small and stay local. “Go to a city not far from you, where it’s really familiar,” Waugh advises.

If you have a lot of travel experience already and it’s not the travel that’s baffling you but the being alone, then choose a place that’s different yet familiar. “If you want to be more adventurous than just going down the road, so to speak, then go to the UK or go across the country or go somewhere where English is spoken and it’s pretty familiar how the world works,” Waugh recommends. “You get your feet wet that way.”

Overlooking the Single Supplement

Traveling solo can become surprisingly pricey when you run into the dreaded single supplement. Because most hotel rooms and cruise ship cabins are built to accommodate two occupants, solo travelers often encounter an extra charge that exists to compensate for the lack of full capacity.

“The single supplement, historically, has been up to 100 percent, and it still is in some places,” Waugh warns. Solo Traveler World advertises tour companies with no single supplement or a low single supplement. “We have a 20 percent threshold, otherwise they can’t advertise on our page,” Waugh says. “I think it’s the only resource online for solo travelers to find trips that are truly designed for solo travelers.”

Not Sorting Out Your Communication Strategy Before You Depart

Don’t leave home without knowing how you’ll contact home in case of emergency.

“What can happen, if you’re under stress and the things you have to do to communicate with home or with your travel agent or whomever is not clear to you — if you’re using the phone and you’ve just bought the phone, that kind of thing — the stress can make it impossible, almost,” Waugh says. “So make sure that you’re leaving really confident about how you’re communicating with home.”

Not Using Technology to Make Travel Easier

Don’t bog yourself down with devices you won’t use, but be open to learning and utilizing the sundry travel tools available in the modern age. Traveling with technology is not necessary, though it can be helpful, Waugh says.

“Stick with what you’re comfortable with. If you’re going to a country that’s not a language you speak, then definitely get comfortable with a translation app.” She also recommends using Google Street View to take a look around the area before booking accommodations.

Overpacking

Overpacking makes travel both cumbersome and expensive. “I recommend one carry-on bag and I really urge people to just go with that because you are so much more mobile that way,” Waugh says. She suggests choosing two base colors for your wardrobe and accessorizing with non-flashy, cheap jewelry and scarves.

“I’ve gone on business trips that have hiking side trips and it’s all in one carry-on; I’ve been out for a month with one carry-on,” Waugh says. “It can always be done.”

Overall, keep your bags light by keeping your packing list simple and versatile.

Scheduling Your Arrival After Nightfall

As a senior, you should plan to arrive at your destination in the daytime — the world does not look as safe and easy to navigate in the dark, Waugh warns.

“I went to Havana one time and arrived after dark,” she said. “I was dropped off at the edge of Old Havana, where there were no cars, and I had to drag my roller bag over cobblestones in what was virtually the dark, ’cause there was not a lot of street lighting, to find my hotel, which had the doors closed. And you can imagine: my bag is making these rackety sounds over the cobblestones; it’s echoing on the buildings and I’m feeling incredibly vulnerable. So that was when I learned: make sure you arrive during daylight. Life will be easier.”

Ignoring Your Instincts and Neglecting to Be Cautious

Part of orienting yourself with your surroundings — beyond reading maps and putting together a geographically sound itinerary — is trusting your gut. “If something feels uncomfortable, get out of there,” Waugh says. “You don’t want to be too polite. If someone’s making you uncomfortable, be noisy about it.”

In that vein, Waugh’s No. 1 rule as a senior traveling solo is to remain in public with the people she meets. “To go into a private space, whether it’s a taxi or you’re invited to someone’s home or something of this nature — don’t do that,” she advises. “It’s difficult to evaluate someone outside of your own culture and when you’re on holidays, you’re all bright-eyed and excited. If you stay in a public space with someone that you find interesting or fun or whatever, it’s going to be safer, so always stay in the public sphere.”

Assuming All of Travel Is How It Used to Be

As a senior, you may have decades of travel experience, but don’t let that cloud your awareness of the many ways travel has progressed — and become more accessible than ever.

For example: because hostels used to be called “youth hostels,” many seniors write them off or overlook the opportunity they present for an affordable stay in an approachable setting. But hostels aren’t just for young people anymore (though being young at heart is probably a plus). “You get families at hostels; you get seniors at hostels — not as many, but there’s usually one other senior at a hostel, and of course they’re such a wonderful way to stay somewhere and be in a social environment,” Waugh says.

Another positive change is the increased ease of communication. “If you were traveling in the '70s — or '80s, even — your only option in terms of communication was basically postcard or an incredibly expensive phone call on a phone that made no sense because every country had its own phone,” Waugh says.

With a smart phone in your pocket — even if you barely use it — you can be connected at a moment’s notice, should you so desire. Gone are the days of picking up your mail at the American Express office.

Underestimating How Rewarding Solo Travel Can Be

The solo travel trend of recent years has led to its benefits being recognized widely — but the gifts that solo travel offers to seniors differ from those of any other demographic. While traveling alone might offer a young person the opportunity to discover him- or herself, for seniors, the experience is gratifying in other ways.

For Waugh, it’s about the people you meet on the road. “Because you’re alone, people step into the space; people step in and they’ll talk to you,” she says. “Whether it’s other travelers or whether it’s locals, it’s really a wonderful experience.”

However, she adds, many seniors extol the main virtue of solo travel as the chance to do what you want, when you want, however you want to do it. When you’re traveling on your own, there’s no attending to other people’s needs or accommodating their schedules. “If they’re a 6:00 riser, if they’re a 10:30 riser — whatever, it’s all up to them,” Waugh remarks. “They don’t have to go to museums if they hate museums. They can go to museums all day if they love museums. It’s all up to them.”

Plus, she says, the experience is incredibly empowering. “Sometimes as you’re getting older, you might start feeling less capable. You go out there and you navigate the world by yourself? Yeah, you come back feeling pretty darn strong.”

Hear more from Janice Waugh about the beauty in solo travel on Let’s Go Together , available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify , Megaphone , and Stitcher .

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5 reasons to solo travel after 50

See how small group travel is the way to go for (slightly) seasoned travellers.

Age is just a number, but adventure knows no bounds. If you’ve reached that stage of life when you know all of the places you do (or don’t) want to go next, have time to really immerse yourself in a destination, and your desire to connect with others grows stronger — we’ve got great news! Here are five solid reasons why you should join us on some of our top tours for solo travellers over 50.

1: Make new friends

Why you’ll love being with a group: Naturally, this is numero uno on our list. Making new friends is often challenging, so there’s nothing better than meeting people you just click with. Small group tours are the perfect way to find like-minded pals of all ages, who enjoy travelling the way you do. You might even find a new favourite travel buddy for the next trip and the trip after that.

From our 50+ community: “We are in our 60s and every tour has had single ladies of all ages including in their 80s! G Adventures is exceptionally good at helping travelling singles.”

Where to go: If seeing Machu Picchu is on your wishlist, but hiking isn’t your cup of tea, fear not. You can bypass the sweaty climb and get to these stunning ancient ruins by train. Sit back and watch the lush Andean scenery as you wind your way through the Sacred Valley. Plus, there’s no FOMO from skipping the Inca Trail trek because your fellow adventurers are right there with you.

Our tour suggestion: Explore Machu Picchu

2: Feel safe the whole time

Why you’ll love being with a group: No matter your age, one of the biggest concerns around solo travel is safety. With us, not only do you get the security of the group but we guarantee you won’t turn up at a questionable hotel that gives you the heebie jeebies. Plus, you’re not tethered to your fellow travellers. With plenty of built-in free time, you can strike out on your own and return to share your discoveries with the group later.

From our 50+ community: “I am in my early 60s and did my first G Adventures trip last year solo and loved it. This year I have already booked 2 tours back to back travelling solo.”

Where to go: Explore South Africa with peace of mind as you wine taste in Cape Town, cycle Soweto in Johannesburg, and search for the “big five” in Kruger National Park. If you do want to explore solo, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) has plenty of tips on which areas are safe, how to get around, and ways to keep in touch if needed.

Our tour suggestion: Cape Town, Kruger & Zimbabwe

3: Your CEO is here to help

Why you’ll love being with a group: Having a CEO with you every step of the way means they can pitch in on any issues that may come up. (Or even just snap that lasting memory of you taking in the sights.) They can help you replace lost items and handle special requests whether it be mobility issues, dietary issues, or help seeking medical attention. Plus, they are super good at pep talks when you need a little push to reach a vista point.

From our 50+ community: “[G Adventures] adapts well to individuals’ needs. I had mobility issues before I got both knees replaced and they made things work for me.”

Where to go: The islands of Bali and Lombok can only be described as super dreamy. Luckily, with your CEO leading the way, you can embrace adventure in all its forms knowing they have your back. You’re in the ideal location for cycling around the islands, snorkelling, and hiking — so bring it all on with gusto!

Our tour suggestion: Classic Bali & Lombok

4: A trusted local guide

Why you’ll love being with a group: Your CEO is not only there to help, but also to show you the very best time in their home country. While they get you from point A to point B and all the stops in between, they’ll regale you with stories, facts, and insights you won’t get from a guidebook. The best part of a local guide is their local knowledge — and you'll have the best of the best at your side.

From our 50+ community: “I am a mature woman who has done 12 trips mostly on my own, with G Adventures. The CEOs make it easy and I have always made friends with my fellow travellers! Go with confidence and have fun.”

Where to go: Just because you can travel around Italy on your own, doesn’t mean you should. As you move from Catania to Palermo, you’ll learn more about Southern Sicilian culture, traditions, history, and food than you thought possible. Top it off with a hands-on arancini cooking class or a soak in a hidden cove pointed out by your CEO.

Our tour suggestion: Explore Southern Sicily

5: Stress-free travel

Why you’ll love being with a group: Are there three sweeter words in the English language than “stress-free travel”? At home, the responsibilities are endless but the beauty of small group travel is that once you meet up with your group, you don’t need to think about anything else. Tickets to must-see sights? We can help. Transport strikes? We deal with it. Language barriers? We speak it. Your job is to put all of your energy into having the time of your life.

From our 50+ community: “I’m 67 and have been on 4 solo G Adventures trips and planning another this summer. I’ve been among the oldest, but certainly not the least capable! Just go… no regrets!”

Where to go: With a culture that highly respects their elders, Thailand is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers. There’s more to this beautiful country than the full-moon parties, so get busy learning about local customs, exploring the bustling streets, and feeling completely at peace.

Our tour suggestion: Classic Thailand - West Coast

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Solo travel after 50: Everything you need to know

Thinking about planning a solo trip but don't know where to start? It can be a bit daunting, especially if you’ve not travelled alone before. But this handy guide to solo travel will tell you everything you need to know about travelling alone when you’re over 50.

• Solo travel is an excellent way to see the world when you're over 50
• Travelling alone means you can travel wherever, whenever and however you like
• Taking a solo trip is a great way to make new friends and meet like-minded people
• Booking a trip just for you will get you out of your comfort zone and open your mind to new ideas

Travelling solo: FAQs

Is solo travelling worth it.

Absolutely! Travelling alone can bring many benefits . Not only will you be able to travel exactly when and where you want, but you'll also open yourself up to new experiences. In addition, travelling by yourself is a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone and meet new people. It can be scary at first, but it’s well worth it in the long run. 

How can I meet people while travelling solo?

Solo travel doesn't have to mean travelling  alone . There are a few easy ways to meet people while you're travelling alone. For example, you could travel as part of a singles holiday  package or book yourself a spot on small group tours. You might also meet people while you're out and about. Be friendly and open, and you're bound to make plenty of friends!

Is solo travel safe?

Like any type of trip away, there are safety risks involved with solo travel. Taking steps to travel safely, especially  travelling as a woman alone , should always be at the forefront of your mind. Take the proper precautions and always let friends and family back home know where you're going and when.

When we hear the phrase "solo travel", most of us probably conjure up images of young people heading out on a gap year or having a backpacking adventure around Southeast Asia. But solo travel is becoming more and more popular among people of all ages – and that includes over 50s.

Whether you want to know why people travel solo, where you can travel by yourself or how to keep safe while travelling alone, you've come to the right place.

Whether you're looking for a solo holiday, an adults-only getaway, or an all-inclusive package for the whole family, our selection of holiday providers has you covered. Click below to start your holiday search!

The benefits of solo travel

Travelling alone can be pretty daunting, particularly if it's not something you've done before. You might even be wondering  if it's a bit weird to travel alone  – it's not! In fact, solo travel is a fantastic way to explore the world on your own terms. The truth of the matter is that travelling solo has numerous benefits.

A trip on your terms

Picture this. You're trying to plan a holiday with your partner or spouse, but you just can't agree on where to go. Your other half wants to go to a resort for a relaxing week of sun, sea and sand. But you are more in the mood for something different – a city break somewhere new or maybe a cross-country road trip.

You run through the pros and cons of each and realise you're never going to agree. 

Instead of deciding to take a trip you aren't really in the mood for, consider taking trips separately instead. A few days apart will hardly bring about the difficulties sometimes associated with long-distance relationships . In fact, it's quite the opposite. Time away from a spouse or partner could actually  strengthen  your relationship in the long run – think about how much you'll have to catch up on when you get back! 

Planning a trip that's just for you means you can be a bit selfish. You can go exactly where you want without any guilt.

Activities just for you

Once you're actually  on  your trip, travelling alone also means you'll have the freedom to spend your time just how you want to. 

If you're an early riser, you can get up with the larks and beat the crowds at major tourist attractions. If you're more of a night owl, you won't have to feel guilty about sleeping in. If you want to try something new and adventurous, there'll be no one to stop you.

Whatever you like to do on your holidays, you'll be free to do it. With nobody else to answer to, you can enjoy yourself on your own terms.

A chance to meet people…

Another benefit of solo travel is that you'll be able to meet new and different people. When we travel with others, it's easy to keep to ourselves. As a result, we often miss out on the opportunity to chat with locals or engage with like-minded travellers.

When we travel solo, though, we're more likely to push ourselves out of our personal bubbles and strike up a conversation with a friendly-looking stranger. Even if you're travelling totally by yourself (i.e. not as part of a tour group), you'll still be coming across new people every day. It's easy enough to get chatting – especially while experiencing something new. 

Travelling alone is a fantastic way to expand your circle and make friends with people you might never have met otherwise. You might even find romance – it's certainly easier than online dating !

…Or time to be alone!

Some of us are looking to meet new people and expand our horizons. Others, though, are looking for a bit of peace and quiet.

A solo trip could be a great solution if you feel you need a bit of time away from it all. Taking a holiday by yourself is an easy way to have some quality time alone.

Stretch out in a double bed with nobody tossing and turning next to you, or stay up late reading your favourite book without worrying that you're disturbing someone with the light on. 

How to meet people

If you're thinking about travelling alone for the first time, you might be wondering how easy it is to meet other people. Will it be lonely? How will I find someone to have dinner with?

These concerns are only natural. But in reality, travelling solo is a great way to meet new people - if that's what you want to do.

Wherever you go, you're likely to encounter fellow travellers, whether at your hotel, on public transport or out at tourist sights. It's easy enough to start chatting when you do bump into people. Strike up a conversation at a museum or in a café, or say hello to people you meet in the hotel lounge. 

If you're shy, it's easier to meet people as part of an existing group. Book yourself onto a travel tour excursion or a free walking tour of the city you're in. In this type of situation, you'll be on equal footing with other members of the group, so it's not too hard to take the next step of asking a fellow solo traveller out for dinner or a drink.

If you're an adventurous type, you might also meet new people while participating in a kayaking excursion or an organised hike. 

All you need to do is be open and engaging, and you're sure to make friends.

Types of solo trip

Solo travel can really encompass any type of trip away. It doesn't have to be a backpacking adventure (but it can be!). 

For one thing, a solo trip doesn't actually have to mean a journey that you take entirely by yourself. If you're a bit nervous about travelling alone, you might prefer to join a group holiday. Numerous companies offer group trips aimed explicitly at over 50s. Still, nothing is stopping you from joining an all-ages group trip if you want. 

It's worth noting that some companies running group tours charge an extra fee for singles. This is because it's often more expensive for companies to pay for a hotel room for one person than it is to pay for a twin room for two to share. This extra money might pass over to the customer in the form of single supplements. To avoid this, it might be more sensible to opt for group-trip operators that specifically cater to singles and solo travellers.

Travelling alone but as a part of a bigger group means it's easy to make friends. Still, you might feel like you lose some of the flexibility that makes solo travel so unique. So if you'd prefer to really experience a holiday by yourself, we recommend simply heading out on your own. Of course, you can always join group excursions for the day if you want, but the bulk of your holiday will be solo, giving you plenty of freedom!

The world is your oyster

Once you've decided whether you want to venture out on your own or join up with a travel group, the next step is to determine what type of trip you want to take.

Many solo travellers love backpacking and staying in hostels. Of course, accommodation in dorm rooms isn't for everyone, but it definitely makes it easier to meet new people!

Another excellent type of solo trip is a city break. A getaway to a city you've always wanted to visit is a fantastic option for solo travel because you can see the city the way  you  want to. If you're interested in art, you can take your time in museums without worrying about your partner getting bored or hungry.

Or, if you fancy yourself as a bit of a foodie, you could take a solo food tour of a country of your choice. Then, you can simply roam from restaurant to restaurant, snacking or feasting as you go.

Want to visit many cities or countries but don't love sitting on public transport? Plan a road trip around your favourite country or continent to see more of the world in one go. Road trips are ideal for solo travel as you can go at your own pace and enjoy the flexibility that car travel brings.

Adventurous types can book a solo adventure or a trekking experience. Head to the hills and sign up for a pilgrimage walk in Europe – the Santiago de Compostela in Spain is very popular – or go mountaineering.

Fans of winter sports don't have to feel left out, either. Check out this  list of the best ski holidays for singles over 50 .

Whatever type of holiday you like, you can undertake as a solo traveller. There's really no limit to what you can do…or where you can go!

Where to go as a solo traveller

When you've figured out what type of trip you want to take, it's time to start thinking of  where  you want to travel. Remember - one of the main benefits of solo travel is that you get to decide what you  want.You make the rules!

Starting reasonably close to home, there are some fantastic destinations in Europe that are ideal choices for solo trips. Italy, Croatia and Portugal are good options if you want a mix of good weather and fun things to do. Iceland is an excellent choice if you're feeling a little more adventurous or want to take a road trip. The country has one main road that can take you nearly anywhere you want to go.

Don't forget that the United Kingdom also has some excellent towns and cities, as well as gorgeous countryside. So plan a solo staycation and start exploring more of good old Blighty!

Further afield, there are several appealing destinations in Central and South America. Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Ecuador…all these and more make great solo travel destinations.

If you want to plan a trip to North America, remember that public transport can be slow and expensive compared to car travel. It's the perfect destination for a road trip, though! Wind your way around the USA's numerous national parks – just don't forget your walking boots!

Other options include Thailand, Vietnam (both great for backpackers and hostel stays), and Morocco (good for foodies!).

There really are so many destinations available to solo travellers. Anywhere you can go with a friend or a partner, you can go by yourself. It's just worth bearing in mind some extra safety considerations, especially if you're a woman.  Travelling as a woman alone  can be dangerous, so you'll want to choose your destination wisely.

Travel tips: Keeping safe while travelling alone

All types of travel involve risk – that's just a fact of life. But when you're travelling alone, there are more things to consider, and you have to be fully aware of what's going on around you when there's no friend or partner to help you out.

With that in mind, here are a few top tips for keeping safe while you're travelling solo.

• Always lock up your valuables when you aren't using them. Most hotels have a safe – use it!
• Don't be flashy when you're out and about. It's a good idea to leave the expensive watch you got as a retirement gift at home! Keep your money out of sight, too.
• Buy an  anti-theft backpack  or wear a  money belt  under your clothes. This will reduce your risk of being targeted by pickpockets.
• If you find yourself in a sketchy part of town and you don't know where you're going, avoid pulling your phone out. Walk with purpose until you find a café or bench where you can sit down,  then  consult Google maps.
• Invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy. You never know what might happen while you're away, and this will save you from unexpected expenses or disasters!
• Write down a list of phone numbers on a piece of paper. This is useful to have in case your phone is lost or stolen.
• Keep a note of any allergies you have or medications you take in the local language. That way, you can quickly inform doctors or restaurant staff of anything they need to know about.

Travel safety as a female traveller

Travelling as a woman alone comes with additional risks, and it's essential to take that into account when you're planning your trip. Here are a few extra travel tips for keeping safe as a female traveller . 

• Keep in touch with your friends and family back home with regular check-ins. Just a quick message to let them know you're okay will do. Set up a system so that if they haven't heard from you in a certain amount of time, they should contact the emergency services where you are.
• Let friends and family know where you're staying and when. That way, they can keep a virtual eye on your movements.
• Invest in safety devices like a  personal alarm  or a  portable door lock . These are great tools for ensuring your safety while you're in a foreign country.

Travel solo and see the world

Travelling alone is a great way to see more of the world on your own terms. If you don't have a travel buddy lined up – a spouse, a friend, a partner – that doesn't mean you can't enjoy trips away. 

Travelling solo will increase your confidence and get you out of your comfort zone. You'll be able to meet new people and experience new things – and with no age limit in sight, there's no stopping you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning!

How to Travel Solo After 50 and Beyond Empowering Your Life

Empower your solo travel journey after 50. let's address the benefits and common concerns to take into consideration while you embark on this adventure., empower your solo travel journey after 50. let’s address the benefits and common concerns to take into consideration while you embark on this adventure..

Planning an easy trip, budgeting for solo adventures, and creating meaningful connections on the road are the perks of this solo travel attitude.

Reaching 50s, we find ourselves at the intersection of wisdom, resilience, and boundless possibility. This journey has been a celebration of the ageless spirit—a testament to the extraordinary power that comes with embracing solo travel in the second half of life.

Navigating the World on Your Terms, 50 and Beyond

In the tapestry of experience, we’ve witnessed the beauty of a life well-lived, where each lesson learned has added depth to the canvas of existence. The reflective moments, the spontaneous thrill of adventure, and the courage found in solitude gave us the power to transcend age. We’ve navigated challenges, celebrated triumphs, and discovered the strength that resides within the resilient human spirit. In this article, I am discussing the benefits and concerns of travelling solo after 50.

Benefits of Solo Travel

Travelling solo after the age of 50 offers a myriad of benefits that contribute to personal growth, enrichment, and a unique sense of fulfilment. Here are several advantages to embarking on solo adventures in the second half of life:

Self-Discovery: Solo travel provides a space for self-reflection and self-discovery. Away from familiar surroundings, individuals have the opportunity to reconnect with themselves, uncovering new interests, passions, and aspects of their identity.

Independence and Autonomy: Solo travellers have the freedom to set their own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and shape their journey according to personal preferences. This independence fosters a sense of empowerment and self-reliance.

Cultural Immersion: Travelling alone encourages deeper engagement with the local culture. Solo travellers are more likely to interact with locals, participate in cultural activities, and gain a genuine understanding of the places they visit.

Flexibility in Itinerary: Without the need to accommodate others’ preferences, solo travellers can be more flexible in their itineraries. They have the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, change plans on a whim, and fully embrace the spirit of adventure.

Personal Growth and Resilience: Navigating new environments, overcoming challenges, and adapting to unfamiliar situations contribute to personal growth and resilience. Solo travel after 50 becomes a transformative experience that builds confidence and inner strength.

Connection with Fellow Travelers: Travelling alone often facilitates more meaningful connections with fellow travellers and locals. Solo travellers are more approachable, making it easier to form friendships and share experiences with a diverse range of people.

Tailored Experiences: Solo travellers can craft a journey that aligns precisely with their interests. Whether it’s exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights, or engaging in outdoor activities, the experience is entirely personalized.

Mindfulness and Reflection: Solo travel provides moments of solitude for mindfulness and reflection. It allows individuals to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings, reflects on life’s journey, and cultivate a sense of gratitude.

Boost to Mental Well-Being: The freedom and autonomy associated with solo travel can have positive effects on mental well-being. It offers a break from routine, reduces stress, and provides a fresh perspective on life.

Embracing Change and Uncertainty: Solo travel fosters adaptability and a willingness to embrace change. It challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, face uncertainties, and become more open to new experiences.

Quality “Me Time”: Travelling alone allows for quality “me time.” It’s an opportunity to indulge in personal interests, hobbies, and moments of relaxation without compromise, leading to a rejuvenated sense of well-being.

Empowerment and Confidence: Successfully navigating the complexities of solo travel enhances a sense of empowerment and confidence. Overcoming challenges and making decisions independently contribute to a lasting sense of achievement.

Solo travel after 50 is not just a journey to new destinations; it’s a transformative experience that offers a unique set of benefits, fostering personal development, cultural understanding, and a profound connection with the world.

Concerns of Solo Travelling

Embarking on solo travel after the age of 50 is a transformative adventure, yet it’s not without its concerns. Let’s address and dispel common worries, empowering individuals to embrace the enriching experiences that solo exploration brings in the second half of life.

Health and Safety: Health and safety become more prominent considerations as we age. Resolution: Prioritize pre-travel health check-ups, carry necessary medications, and choose destinations with reliable healthcare systems. Vigilance, staying informed about local safety, and using technology for emergency assistance provide added layers of security.

Loneliness and Isolation: The fear of feeling isolated during solo travel. Resolution: Engage in group activities, connect with fellow travellers, and explore social platforms to meet like-minded individuals. Embrace the opportunity to cultivate new connections, proving that solo doesn’t mean solitary.

Planning and Logistics: The perceived complexity of planning solo trips. Resolution: Break down planning into manageable steps, utilize travel apps for navigation, and consider guided tours for added convenience. Planning becomes part of the adventure, empowering individuals to shape their journey according to personal preferences.

Financial Considerations: Solo travel may seem more expensive without cost-sharing. Resolution: Budget carefully, take advantage of senior discounts, and explore affordable accommodation options. With strategic planning, solo travel can be cost-effective, allowing for a tailored and budget-friendly experience.

Fear of the Unknown: Apprehension about navigating unfamiliar environments alone. Resolution: Embrace the unknown as a source of excitement. Start with familiar destinations and gradually venture into new territories. Each step into the unknown becomes a triumph, building confidence with every experience.

Cultural Differences: Navigating diverse cultures may feel challenging. Resolution: Prioritize cultural research, be open-minded, and engage with locals. Cultural immersion becomes an integral part of the journey, fostering a deeper understanding of global diversity.

Physical Limitations: Physical limitations may restrict certain activities. Resolution: Tailor the journey to personal physical capabilities, opting for destinations with accessible infrastructure. Solo travel becomes an opportunity for self-discovery, with the flexibility to enjoy activities at one’s own pace.

Nowadays, there are plenty of websites that take care of seniors’ solo travelling, offering advice, guides and support providing also opportunities to learn and explore.

Here are a couple of great websites for senior solo travel:

Solo Traveler: Solo Traveler is a comprehensive resource dedicated to solo travellers. It offers advice, destination guides, and a supportive community for those exploring the world on their own.

Road Scholar : Road Scholar offers educational travel experiences for seniors. Their programs cover a wide range of topics and destinations, providing opportunities for solo travellers to learn and explore.

You can also read some of my posts about the best travel destinations if you choose to travel alone.

7 Destinations to Travel Solo.

10 Tips for Over 50’s Daring “Travel Solo”

Conclusion:

Solo travel after 50 is not about escaping concerns but addressing and conquering them. By proactively tackling health, safety, and logistical considerations, individuals can embark on a journey that transcends worries, unlocking a world of personal growth, cultural enrichment, and unparalleled adventure. Solo travel is an invitation to redefine boundaries, proving that the second half of life is an opportune time for discovering the world and oneself.

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15 Solo Travel Safety Tips for Fearless Travel Over 50

Whether you’re an experienced solo traveler or traveling alone for the first time, traveling alone as a woman or man, or traveling alone internationally or domestically, here are 15 essential solo travel safety tips for all solo travelers to travel by. They can make or break your travel experience.

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Solo Travel Safety Importance

Solo travel is on the rise, but not just for the young.  Solo travel over 50 is one of the highest rising travel demographics , especially for women.

Traveling alone already comes with extra challenges. If you’re over 50, you may also be dealing with more medical or physical issues. I should know. In my mid-50’s, travel can hurt my body in ways unexperienced when I first started traveling solo almost three decades ago.

Therefore, it’s important to stay abreast of the best solo travel safety and health tips to ensure I have the best solo trip possible. The more I do to prepare and travel safely, the more I am likely to look forward to planning another solo trip!

This is why I am providing my 15 essential solo travel safety tips with you so you, too, can secure and worry-free solo travel over 50 experience.

15 Essential Solo Travel Safety Tips

Pre-trip safety preparation, 1 – research the safety reputation of your destination.

• Access travel advisories, but also find resources (friends, travel bloggers, etc.) who have recently been there and get their feedback. Sometimes travel advisories and the news outlets sensationalize events (think “If it bleeds, it leads” attention-getting and money making tactics that may be overkill) to scare people. Do your full research to be assured it meets your comfort level before making any bookings.
• Know the location of the nearest embassies and consulates in all destinations.
• Establish an emergency plan should you need to evacuate for any reason (e.g., weather or force majeure).

2 – Inform trusted persons with your travel plans

• Whether by an app, email, or texting, share a copy of your passport, travel itinerary and all reservations (plane, train, accommodations, tours, etc.), travel insurance , and any other pertinent itinerary items to at least one person before you leave so he/she has your complete solo travel schedule. If you have no one to share with, share it with your employer, attorney or other professional you can trust.
• Likewise, ensure all of the above documents and emergency contacts are downloaded to your mobile device(s) before leaving on your solo trip and stored in a backup location should you lose your device(s).  Emergency contacts should include at least the nearest embassy or consulate office, your accommodations, credit card companies, banks, and health and travel insurance company .

3 – Make copies of important documents

• Like number 2 above, keep a copy of your passport, important legal and financial documents, etc. in more than one secure in more location you can access while traveling in case of an emergency at home.
• In addition to managing mail, pets, watering plants or other, designate someone to have access your personal and/or legal records should you need assistance managing home and personal items in case of an emergency like an evacuation, illness, or go into the hospital during your solo travel.

4 – Buy health and travel insurance

• Obtain comprehensive health and travel insurance coverage for all countries you will be visiting and make sure it covers any specific medical conditions you may have and expatriation services.
• Pack necessary medications and a first aid kit, and pack enough prescriptions to cover more than your trip itinerary in case your return is delayed.
• If your prescriptions are in unlabeled travel containers, bring the prescription details in writing (name, dosage, etc.), and bring extra written prescriptions from your doctor with you, if possible.
• Research medical facilities and emergency services at your destination. Consult your accommodations for any assistance.

5 – Book the right accommodations

• Choose only reputable and secure accommodations. Read the reviews and use Google street views to observe the outside and surroundings to get a better feel for the accommodations.
• Don’t be afraid to touch base with the establishment and ask questions in advance.
• Request rooms on the highest possible floor with good security measures and away from elevators and major foot traffic.
• Always keep your door locked, and do not feel obligated to open the door to anyone. Call the front desk, if need be, before opening your door.

6 – Increase mobility and transportation safety

• Research the right items and clothing to pack for each destination and anticipated activities. For example, bring comfortable walking shoes if you’ll be walking a lot. 
• Pack light. If you can’t manage your luggage yourself, your bringing too much. Traveling carry-on only is best to prevent unwanted injuries as well as saving time in airports and money on baggage fees.
• Always carry travel essentials , like medications and glasses, in your carry-on so they are always with you. Likewise, keep essentials in your day bag when you’re out and about daily.
• Plan your trip with day time arrivals at all locations.
• Research safe transportation options at your destination, including reading reviews and asking for recommendations. If you need special services, book them in advance for no last minute surprises.
• Use licensed and reputable transportation services . Again, your hotel may be able to provide assistance.
• Be cautious when using public transportation, particularly during heavy travel times and at night. If unsure, call a rideshare or taxi.

More Solo Travel Tips

• Top 20 Tips to Travel Carry-On Only
• Expert Tips on Planning a Solo Road Trip
• What to Know When Going to the Beach Alone
• 10 Benefits of Solo Travel Over 50

Safety While Traveling Solo

7 – stay connected.

• Regularly check in with family and/or friends back home. Have pre-arranged check-in times so they may know if something may be wrong if they don’t hear from you as scheduled.
• Share any changes you make to your previously shared itinerary.
• Notify them immediately should you encounter an emergency situation.

8 – Secure your personal belongings

• Keep your valuables and important documents locked in your hotel or hostel room safe.
• Use a money belt, neck wallet , or hidden pouch for cash and cards.
• Carry a hands-free, mono-sling bag that can be adjusted to face front or back on your body for crowded areas.
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or gadgets, and use gadgets and technology only as needed (e.g., don’t talk needlessly on your mobile phone).

9 – Know your surroundings

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Don’t get carried away taking photos or videos that may put yourself in danger.
• Avoid deserted or poorly lit areas, especially at night.
• Trust your instincts and avoid areas that may seem unsafe, even if they are highly populated.

10 – Blend in with the locals

• Dress appropriately to respect local customs and norms.
• Don’t wear flashy jewelry or display expensive gadgets. The more expensive belongings you show, the more you draw attention to yourself.
• Learn at least the basic phrases in the local language in addition to using a translation app. These not only improve your travel experience but also increase safety.
• Observe and mimic local behaviors for added safety.

11 – Use technology for safety

• Install safety and navigation apps on your smartphone.
• Share your travel plans with a tracking app or friends and family.
• Stay connected with reliable Wi-Fi or mobile data options like a SIM or eSIM card .
• Always keep your devices charged, and bring an external mobile charger and travel adapter(s) (on international travel) with you to ensure your mobile devices don’t die when out and about.

12 – Be cautious with personal information

• Limit the amount of personal information you share online, on social media, and with strangers no matter how friendly or familiar they may seem.
• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are best only for accessing maps, information, or other non-personal information.
• Always use a VPN service when accessing private information or accounts, no matter where you are.

13 – Use trustworthy local advice

• Seek recommendations and advice from trusted sources, which can include your hotel or tour guide(s), local tourism office and tourist information centers.
• Hotels, tourism offices and centers should also be able to provide a good walking map with local tourist information for easier navigation.
• Use reputable tour operators with good reviews, like those found on CORR Travel , for guided activities or tours.

14 – Practice smart money handling

• Keep an emergency stash of cash and extra credit card separate from your daily wallet. Use the safe in your hotel room, if available, to store your extra funds and credit cards.
• Carry only the necessary cash, credit card and ATM card for daily expenses and emergencies.
• Use ATMs in secure, well-lit areas only. Cover the ATM keypad when inputting your debit PIN.

15 – Trust your instincts and stay mindful

• Listen to your intuition and gut feelings to make safe and informed decisions.
• Don’t be pressured by others to push yourself beyond your comfort limit.
• Know your personal alcohol consumption limits and never leave your drinks unattended.
• Know your physical and emotional limits. If you feel you are pushing yourself too hard, slow down and change your itinerary, if need be.
• Stay rested. As older travelers, we don’t have that ‘bounce back’ we used to after a long travel day or night out. Make sure your body has time to recoup during your travel as well as after your return home.

Final thoughts…

The more you travel solo over 50, the more the above solo travel safety tips will feel automatic and familiar.

Never let anyone talk you out of not using any of your safety tips. It’s your safety, and there’s nothing more important than that during travel.

With your travel experience growing, you may find yourself adding a new safety tip or two to the list.

Let Me Hear From You

If you have a tip on how to be safe traveling alone that I have not covered above, please share your safety tips for solo travelers in the comments section below so we all can benefit and keep traveling solo.  Thank you!

More Solo Travel You’ll Like

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Why Learn a Language for Travel: One Travel Story

Advantages of Traveling Alone During Pandemic Times

Top 20 Tips on How to Travel Carry-On Only

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Solo Travel Over 50

In the past, the older solo traveller used to be outnumbered by the younger ones who were cramming in a whirlwind adventure before they settle down. Nowadays travelling solo in your 50s is the latest trend. Fellow solo travellers, Jane and Deborah share their personal experience of solo travel over 50 and why you should do it too. 

Before setting out on my year-long adventure, I had plenty of doubts about what it would be like to travel solo, especially long term on the backpackers circuit but I needn't have worried. In the main, travellers tend to be open minded, interested and interesting people with a healthy outlook on life.

I have been told on many occasions that they don't see an older woman when they are talking to me but simply another person who has the drive to get herself out there and experience life on the road, just like them.

Occasionally I have arrived at a party hostel during ‘happy hour' – and to be honest that can be a bit daunting – but there are many people in their 50s and older who are out here and who do not let their age slow them down.
 Personally I prefer staying in dormitories because I love to interact with others but you can always find quieter, small hotels if you want some privacy and a single room.

The internet comes into its own here enabling you to vet all aspects of your accommodation before you book so that you are not caught out by surprise, but many hostels offer trips and visits so that you don’t have to go sightseeing on your own.

You can hook up with other travellers too and obtain priceless information from them about what to visit or what to miss. In my opinion the pros for travelling solo in your 50s far outweigh the cons.

The Pros of Travelling Solo in Your Fifties

• With many life experiences behind us we may not be so affected by some of the worst things that we see – such as extreme poverty – taking them in our stride.
• We are often approached by other travellers for advice and a chat. I have never been lonely while travelling.
• We can generally cook which can make us indispensable in hostels and attracts company.
• We – the older travellers – are generally quite comfortable eating and drinking alone. Personally I love street food but I have no qualms asking for a table for one if I fancy the look of a particular place or its menu.
• People, especially mothers with children, often want to chat and are very interested in why somebody older is travelling and not settling down in one place.
• More often than not, somebody will offer to help me with my backpack if I am struggling on and off buses.
• It is easier to become invisible during those times when we don't want to attract any attention leaving us free to people watch or to avoid some potential trouble
.

The Cons of Travelling Solo in Your Fifties

And the cons? I can only think of one – and that is the trend to offer the top bunk with no means of climbing up. I need a ladder these days!

About The Author

This article is written by Jane Clements. Jane is a freelance travel writer and she also has her own blog where you can follow her globetrotting adventures at Scarlet Jones Travels .  

* Ready to travel? You may also like the Solo Travel Tours Over 50 article for inspiration on where to go and recommended tour companies.

Solo Female Travel Over 50

Does My Bum Bag Look Big in This? How that first, scary solo trip can turn into the time of your life

I’m not quite sure why I decided that I absolutely had to have a bum bag for my first ever solo trip. Not just any old bum bag and certainly nothing like the stylish, classy ones that are all over the high street at the moment. No, this was enormous, boringly brown and very practical. It had hundreds of slots and partitions into which I stashed all my travel documents, money, cards, passport, and lists of places to see; you name it, it was in there.

Certainly, when I travelled with my ex I didn’t see the need to have one but then this was my first holiday alone; no group just me, and as I sat nervously at Heathrow T3 waiting to board my flight I spent my time opening, checking and rechecking the contents hoping that it would in some way make me feel less anxious. It didn’t.

Prior to my divorce, I had booked a ‘must do’ trip for two to Borneo including a hop over to Sipadan Island, which is on every divers hot list. As there was no way that I was going to lose my deposit, I suddenly decided sod everything! I was absolutely going to go on the trip that I’d already planned, and I’d go by myself even though I was staring 50 in the face!

I remember sitting at the airport feeling absolutely petrified, looking and feeling like a nervous wreck with my great, big bum bag, wondering why the hell I had thought it was such a good idea. I called a couple of friends and my sister and then I was off.

It was such a long journey, changing planes twice and ending up on some small regional flight to Sandakan – I was starting out in Sepilok to see the orangoutangs – and as I waited for my luggage to show I remember thinking if I walk out of this airport and there’s no one waiting for me with my name on a card then I’m in serious trouble! Luckily there was and from then on I could relax and start to really enjoy the experience.

It’s not all highs on your first solo trip; expect some lows too.

There were so many highs and plenty of lows on that first solo trip. The wildlife was amazing, I stayed in some fabulous places tucked away in the jungle and I met some wonderful people. I also became strangely comfortable getting into Toyota vans and trucks and being driven for miles and miles by complete strangers, some of whom spoke no English. I was amazed at how quickly that became absolutely routine.

At this point, I would normally share some incredible photos of the proboscis monkeys, orangoutangs and the other stunning wildlife that I’d seen along the way but unfortunately, I dropped my camera over the side of the boat on the ride to Sipidan island, not only losing my camera but all my photos as well. That was a major low!

Turning any lows into special memories – the key to loving your solo trip 

Other difficult moments included travelling for hours through the most stunning jungle scenery and ending up in a fabulous resort in the middle of nowhere only to find that I was the only guest! It was like The Shining!

I wept for hours on the first night there but then the staff were incredible and after bonding with the safari guide over an unfortunate incident with a leech (let’s leave it there!) the 3 safari drives and walks that I did each day/evening were just me and the guide and I ended up having a very personal and special experience which will stay with me forever. How totally different it all would have been had the resort been full!

When I finally arrived at Sipadan, bereft after having dropped my camera in the sea, it was so beautiful and so special that I couldn’t help having a moment of thinking how I should have been there with my ex. That was especially difficult but then I started diving and it was all so unbelievably wonderful and a group of divers from Melbourne turned up who was so much fun that I ended up having the best time ever.

This holiday stays with me for so many reasons. It was extremely special and afterwards, I was completely bitten by the solo travel bug.  The world was my oyster. I had the confidence to choose whatever holiday I wanted (although I met 2 ladies along the way who told me how amazing Argentina was and so that was my next trip – not so successful for lots of reasons and many lessons learnt from that holiday that have helped me since, but that’s another story!)

I have long since ditched the bum bag but I still remember the feeling of excitement I had on that first ever independent solo trip. Even now, many years on, I get a huge buzz from my travels and if I’m ever in need of cheering up I think back to that holiday and remember how important it was to me then, and still is today, to make my own travel memories.

I look at the only 4 photos I have from my time in Sipadan – yes, a nice couple I met there took pity on me and sent me a few snaps – just in case I need reminding!

About the Author

Deborah is a 50 something solo traveller. That wasn’t always the case. She came to it later in life after a very unexpected divorce. Finding herself left with a booking for 2 on a trip of a lifetime to Borneo, Deborah decided, sod it, she wasn’t going to lose the deposit, she would go alone. That first solo trip turned out to be one of the most inspirational and fabulous adventures of Deborah’s life and she's been travelling solo ever since.

Deborah started Solo In Style , as the voice of the over 50 independent solo female traveller, where she writes about her travels and shares experiences which she hopes will inspire women who, for whatever reason, may be looking to travel solo for the first time later in life. Deborah also contributes content for other luxury and travel online publications. Follow Deborah on Facebook .

* Ready to travel? You may also like the Solo Travel Tours Over 50 article for inspiration on where to go and recommended tour companies

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10 Tips for Traveling Solo After Retirement

Here are my top tips for senior travelers exploring the world on their own.

As a travel journalist, baby boomer, and an enthusiastic fan of seeing as much of the world as I can, I’ve flown, cruised, and driven a few million miles over the past 50 years or so. I’ve traveled with couples, friends, journalist groups, my husband, and most recently, I’ve taken a few trips on my own. 

While at some point in my life, I may have eschewed the idea of solo travel, I now find it a very pleasant way to go. For others like me who still have the energy to schlep through airports, the strength to carry a packed suitcase, the patience to spend 12 hours strapped into an airplane seat, and the curiosity to see new places, solo travel can be an exciting experience. 

I understand that others of my generation, and even younger folks, prefer to satisfy their urge to see the world by signing up with group travel companies that plan their itineraries, book their flights, reserve their hotel rooms, and arrange their meals and sightseeing tours. And I do recognize that certain trips, like adventure travels, are best managed in groups. You can even travel solo and join a group for a taste of both.

But I suggest taking a truly solo trip for the exhilarating experience of feeling independent, free to wander, and open to seeing for yourself what’s around the next corner. Here are some suggestions for making the most of your solo trips after retirement.

Do your research.

After deciding on my destination, I make the basic arrangements for flights and hotels. Some solo travelers like to play it by ear without making room reservations in advance — part of the adventure for them — but I suggest at least booking a room for the first night. We all arrive a bit tired, and it’s pleasant and safe to have a destination to start with. As far as flights, airfares vary by day of the week, airline, and connections, so it’s worth spending some time researching to save a few dollars on the flights. The same goes for hotels. Check booking sites and compare their deals by contacting the hotel directly.

Choose the right tour for you.

Picking the right tour for your needs can make seeing the top sights easy and stress-free. On a trip to Rome, I naturally wanted to see the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums. So do thousands of others every day, especially during the peak travel months. I signed up with City Wonders for their morning tour when I learned that the company’s official Vatican Museums partnership enables their groups to use a special no-wait entrance. (Even skip-the-line groups often wait up to an hour.)

I recently spent a week in London on my own, and I booked a walking tour of London’s West End with Lookup London . A private tour fit my schedule, and we visited the theater district, Oxford Street, and St. James’s Church (a Bridgerton filming location) where an afternoon piano recital was taking place. I loved having my own tour guide, but I also enjoy small groups where there’s interaction among the guests and a chance to meet other travelers. 

Related: 14 Best Senior-friendly Travel Groups

Seek out new experiences.

By new experiences, I’m not suggesting bungee jumping or ziplining across a rainforest canopy, although I know many senior travelers who would strap in without hesitation. And while I admire them for it, I’m thinking along the lines of a cooking class that includes visiting a market, shopping for ingredients, and then cooking with an entertaining chef, as I once did in Florence.

In London, I visited the posh Burlington Arcade, one of London’s most historic shopping destinations. A Beadle in a delightfully British uniform greeted me with a bit of information about the arcade. From there, I went to cosmetics boutique Code 8 , where a personalized lipstick shade was designed and created for me. Then, my next new experience was having my boots polished by a charming gentleman as I sat on a vintage shoeshine stand and watched shoppers walk by. I know — it’s not exactly skydiving, but they were a few of my novel experiences. You can choose your own.

Make a to-do list.

In wonderful destinations like Rome, Paris, or London, it’s easy to make a long list of places you want to see. Sometimes, it’s just not possible to do everything, so you may need to prioritize to be practical. “Save something for the next time,” is what I always say. 

If you’re a foodie whose “to-do” list involves restaurants, it’s advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially if you’re after Michelin-starred dining spots or those receiving lots of attention. Your list will also help you decide where and when to go based on location. In London, I combined a matinee at a West End theater with dinner at Sketch , a unique restaurant I wanted to experience.  

Keep an eye on your cell phone’s battery.

I relied on GPS to guide me around London on my recent trip, and I strolled around with the confidence of a local — until that low battery warning appeared. After a day of taking photos, texting, and using Google Maps, I had just about drained my phone. Fortunately, it was time to hop into one of those adorable black cabs, have a chat with the driver, and return to my hotel.

Now, I charge up and carry a battery, knowing that a day of sightseeing is about all my phone can handle. When you want to call an Uber or find directions back to your hotel, you don’t want to be stuck with no phone service.

Let someone at home know your travel plans.

For your security and for peace of mind for the folks at home, let someone know your itinerary. You don’t have to compromise your independence, but it’s advisable to let a friend or relative know what you’re up to. I leave my husband with a printed copy of my itinerary for my trips, whether I’m on a group trip with other travel writers or traveling on my own. And, of course, I text or call every day, although I admit once in a while I’m having such a good time that I forget. 

If your home will be empty while you’re traveling, hold off on posting Instagram photos that let the world know you’re out of town. Better to be safe and share your experiences when you get home.

Related: 15 Trips You Need to Take as Soon as You Retire

Be polite, but don’t be a pushover.

For your safety, always be aware of your surroundings and alert to what’s happening around you. If you’re uncomfortable in a place or with someone who approaches you, go with your instinct and get away. Sometimes travelers feel pressured to take a tour, go to a club, or accept a handout from someone on the street who then strikes up a conversation. If it doesn’t feel right, just move on. I know we don’t want to be rude or offend someone, but your personal safety is foremost, and you’ve had enough experience by this time to trust your gut.

And beware of pickpockets and scams.

AARP warns of the creative ways criminals take advantage of travelers. We’re distracted or perhaps overly trusting of strangers, so being prepared will help you avoid becoming a victim of theft.

On my first small group trip as a journalist, my wallet was stolen from my purse at a major tourist site in a European city. I won’t say exactly where because this can happen anywhere, even at your local shopping mall. I was unwise to carry my cash, credit cards, and wallet in a purse on my arm, but at least my passport was in the hotel safe at the time. Now I carry only what I need for the day in a secure crossbody bag or a hidden wallet which I use occasionally. Others prefer to use money belts for cash.

Be prepared.

I’m sure you’ve heard this before, but it’s good advice. Before you travel overseas, obtain some of the local currency, including small denominations. You might encounter places that only accept cash, like a small shop or place where you just want coffee and a snack. Also, you’ll want to tip hotel staff who help with your bags or provide other services. 

While you’re traveling to experience new places, it helps to know a bit about them before you go. I recently went to a small town in Italy — so small, in fact, that there were no taxis, no Uber, and no way to get to the nearby beach. Fortunately, the hotel found a driver to take us (and also fortunately, he came back to pick us up later). Naturally, that was a cash transaction, and I was glad to be prepared.

Consider buying travel insurance . Flight cancellations, baggage losses, accidents, and illnesses happen, and you’ll appreciate the comfort of knowing you’re covered. 

Travel light.

As a confirmed carry-on traveler, I consider myself a pretty good packer, but sometimes that 22” suitcase can get very heavy. That’s my sign to edit — do I really need those dress shoes? Or all those cosmetics? Probably not. Boarding a train, bus, or plane at a small airport without jet bridges requires carrying our own bags, so I make sure they’re manageable. While I appreciate it when another passenger helps me heave my bag into the overhead bin, I don’t count on that happening. (And it’s not the flight attendant’s job.)

Also, I always limit myself to two items. Then there’s no problem boarding a crowded flight where they check how much you’re carrying. Just as important, it’s easier to keep track of two things so nothing gets left behind. I do often start out with a purse, but I make sure there’s enough space to cram it into my personal item.

With these preparations, suggestions, and warnings, you can now proceed to plan your solo trip — hopefully, the first of many. 

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7 Tips for Solo Travel in your 50’s

September 22, 2014 //  by  Jo Castro 22 Comments

Not everyone wants to travel alone, but sometimes circumstances dictate that we need to. At other times it might be a conscious decision to leave the rut of routine and responsibility and head off with no more than a backpack or suitcase on your own without anyone else to think about.

Whichever camp you fall into to, I think you’ll enjoy this guest post by Michela Fantinel who’s been travelling alone for 25 years, as she discusses the whys and the wherefores and offers tips so that you can – Just Do It!

Solo Travel after 50 by Michela Fantinel

Solo Travel is the best life experience! I believe that every woman should try at least once in her life. I’ve been travelling for 25 years and I can say I’ve become addicted to it 🙂

Are you feeling called to travel? But is fear of going alone holding you back?

In reality solo travel is easier and more fun than you may imagine! When you step out and hit the road fear will quickly dissipate. And you will start loving your company more than ever!

 “It’s beautiful to be alone. To be alone does not mean to be lonely. It means the mind is not influenced and condemned by society.” Jiddu Krishnamurti.

Why travel solo?

Solo travel is empowering . When you travel alone, everything is up to you.

When you need something done, you just do it and follow through. You become more accountable and self-confident. You are aware of your environment and this makes you strong. Most importantly you decide how to do things. You naturally attract attention for help, information, advice or just a chat. This is definitely the best part of solo travel. You will see how easy it is to strike up a conversation with strangers, to create connections and make new friends.

People will be kind and generous to you! People will love you!

If you are thinking of going solo, here are a few tips to get you started with your first solo adventure.

1 First time solo?  Start small

Don’t put too much on your plate. You don’t have to start with a challenging Round The World trip.

Start with something small. Choose a place you feel called to, with activities you love. For some, it may be a city trip, for other sport lessons, a hiking trail or an outdoor adventure, a photography workshop, an exotic spa-wellness retreat or maybe volunteer work.

You might also like: 10 Reasons to book a cycle cruise holiday

2 Avoid un-supportive criticism

“I think it’s very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not be defined by another person.” – Oscar Wilde

 3 Create a supportive network

If I look back to when I started travelling solo, I’m amazed at how things have changed. The number of female solo travellers is increasing enormously and that’s great. Do connect with other women, who share the same enthusiasm for solo adventures. Solo Travel is all about freedom and networking. Find a group or a solo travel forum on the internet. I can recommend the Australian based BroadsAbroad, a new international travel network for women, above 50 who love to travel on their own. You can sign up for free to share thoughts, ideas, projects and meet up and also stay with like-minded women.

4 Where to Stay – Meet the locals

I remember how lost I felt lost in a huge hotel room, in New York. It was my first solo trip abroad in the 90s. Nowadays there are more accommodation options: From budget hostels to rooms in private homes, to home-stay in farms.

Hostels and private rooms are good for cities, a home stay can be a good choice in rural areas. Hostels offer kitchen facilities, and communal areas, ideal to meet fellow solo travellers. In the last years I have discovered private accommodation as a more intimate way of meeting the locals and I really enjoyed it. If you don’t mind looking after someone else’s house and pets, then house-sitting could be your thing. Happy House Sitters and Aussie House sitters are good membership sites for Australia.

5 How to stay safe – Trust your instincts

When you are alone you must feel comfortable. If, for any reason, you don’ feel comfortable, then leave the place. Use common sense. Trust your instincts. They always show you the right way. Before leaving to a foreign country research your area and make sure the place is safe. Be respectful, stay with the locals and ask about the do’s and dont’s. Adjust to the local environment, as much as you can. If the place has a strong cultural and religious background, blend in by wearing their clothes and eating their food.

Tip : Back-up your safety tactics. Don’t forget travel insurance .

6 How to find the best deals – Be well organised

Travelling solo does not have to cost a fortune. Hotels are the most expensive way to stay as a solo woman, but you can ask whether the single supplement can be waived. Make bookings at least 2-3 months ahead to get the best deals. For car rentals, book the smallest car available, you may be lucky and get a free upgrade to a higher class. I can recommend Sky Scanner for the best flights deals and Drive Now for cars deals.

For hotel price comparisons and to find the best hotel deals around the world click Here.

“Loneliness adds beauty to life, it puts a special burn o n sunsets and makes night air smell better.” Henry Rollins

7 Solo Travel Blues – welcome the “Feeling lonely” syndrome

No matter how much you love travelling alone, chances are you are going to feel lonely, sooner or later. It’s all part of it and you should treasure those moments! You can look for the buzz and hang-outs. In cities, go to a shopping mall, a walking area, a trendy cafe. Visit a museum or an exhibition. Exercise: Jog, hire a bike, go to a fitness centre. Strike up a conversation with a stranger. Get in touch with your women travel network and arrange to catch up for a coffee.

Solo travel can be daunting, scary, challenging and fascinating at the same time, I know.And that’s why I love it so much. No matter how and when in your life you decide to start travelling alone, take the challenge! You will be amazed how your solo travel adventures can open up infinite opportunities.

Want to know more?

Read more tips and advice about solo travel on ZigaZag .

About the Author : Michela Fantinel is a Solo Traveller, Author of Rocky Travel, a Blog for women who love to explore Australia solo. She has recently published a book: “Your Australia Itinerary” – The Ultimate Guide For Female Solo Travellers To Australia. Follow Michela on her adventures at Facebook and Twitter

This post contains affiliate links whereby a small commission is earned on purchases made from them, but at no cost to you. Read the full disclaimer .

Now it’s your turn!

So Lifestylers – do tell us: Have you ever travelled alone? How was your experience?

About Jo Castro

My name is Jo Castro and I've been a freelance writer for over 35 years. Ten years ago I committed to blogging, documenting my finds about fashion and travel for women, like me, over 50. On Lifestyle Fifty I share style and fashion tips, along with travel inspiration and packing guides. It's all about The Art of Ageing, Living the Good Life and Looking Fashionable everyday. Everything I write about comes from the desire to help as many women as possible live their best lives and look great after the age of 50. Check out more on my About Page.

Reader Interactions

April 26, 2023 at 3:01 am

Thanks for this post. I Love travlleing with freinds. but sometime, I have to travl alone.

September 30, 2021 at 9:07 pm

love to travel solo

December 21, 2017 at 12:23 am

I’m in black hole at the minute. I keep th8nking I want to travel alone to “find myself” ive spent years being a mum, gf, granma, daughter. Im so unhappy right now but how do I start? I’ve turned 50 this year, had my fair share of illness for the past 2 years and I’m not.the fittest. I’m in turmoil thinking I really really want to see some of the world but frightened I’m not fit enough. Where would be good to start? I was looking at a trip to an elephant sanctuary in Thailand (one of my dreams from being v young) but it seems quite expensive but on the other hand it’s organised and lots of great reviews from past solo travellers.

January 8, 2018 at 1:44 pm

Hello Karin, thank you for your thoughts and comments. If you want to travel alone I think it’s easier than it’s ever been before to travel without a partner/friend. Yes, I’d encourage that you join an organised tour, speak to the organisers about your health concerns prior to booking, and all being well get out there and enjoy. If the elephant sanctuary is on your bucket list I’d say, just do it. Sounds like you’ve done the sensible thing and looked at the reviews too. Good luck! And congratulations on turning 50 🙂 x

October 12, 2014 at 12:27 pm

I love traveling alone. I get a lot of raised eyebrows from friends about why I like to do this, but I usually am OK with my own company. Your tips are great especially the one about trusting your instincts 🙂

October 12, 2014 at 12:49 pm

Thanks for visiting Michelle. Yes, trusting your own instincts is so important.

September 26, 2014 at 4:51 pm

I travelled solo all Australia/NZ in 2012 from my home in Ireland, Im fifty something and wanted to travel The Indian Pacific Sydney to Perth to conquer my crippling fear of train travel so it had to be the longest journey and the furthest away from home i could find, it wasnt easy but i did it and went on then to travel The Ghan and in NZ it was mainly train travel also. I only yesterday re read my travel journal from that time and i had forgotton how sometimes it was difficult going and some decisions i made on the way were not the right ones i.e. accommodation, areas etc and sometimes i was downright lonely but it i have always got on well with myself and do enjoy my own company so i just got myself up and moved on to the next day, I can honestly say it was a life changing experience and i learned so much not only about other places and people i met along the way but also about myself and how when we push ourselves outside our comfort zone we can face any or all challenges put before us. my hubby and kids gave me massive support and that was invaluable so im off out again to Aus in dec so will definately have a look at broads abroad before then. I love Michaelas posts and follow her blogs like religion 🙂 Loving this new page now x

September 27, 2014 at 3:41 pm

Hi Carmel, Thanks for your inspiring comment! Yay for you getting out there and facing your fears, but learning how to enjoy train travel and doing something for yourself, by yourself. I loved your story. Thanks for following Lifestyle Fifty.

September 25, 2014 at 3:55 pm

I love the freedom of pleasing myself when I travel on my own. It’s perfectly OK to get up at a silly o’clock and see places empty of others and then having a little nanna nap at lunchtime. I love writing home on coffee stained postcards or disposable menus and sitting for hours people watching or wandering through galleries. Yeh I do love pleasing myself.

September 25, 2014 at 4:33 pm

I love the way you’ve made it all sound Sue. Quite agree.

September 24, 2014 at 8:01 am

Second attempt to comment… hope I haven’t mucked it up this time. I have a friend who would absolutely relate to and love this post so I shall pass it on 🙂

September 24, 2014 at 1:11 pm

No worries Pinky, nothing mucked up! Thank you so much for passing on. By the way, don’t forget to check the Comment Luv box so other readers can see what you’ve been writing too 🙂

September 23, 2014 at 2:46 pm

No I am too much of a people person to travel solo but I did meet several young women travelling solo when I was travelling around Australia recently. One was a young Japanese girl, with limited English, who was travelling around Australia on a motorbike. I thought “now that really takes balls to do that”!

September 23, 2014 at 3:43 pm

Interesting Kathy! It’s so interesting meeting people on the road. Great story! I can just see you watching her zoom off into the sunset thinking that!

September 23, 2014 at 9:09 am

I travelled alone a lot before I had kids and loved it. I used to say: ‘You’re never alone when you’re on your own.’ I met so many wonderful people and that’s what I look forward to most for whenever I manage to escape alone again. Not that it’s bad to be with the kids, but I feel so free when alone.

September 23, 2014 at 1:15 pm

I get that Seana – and you definitely talk to more people when you’re travelling alone and do more things on the spur of the moment. Holidays are different with kids – but they don’t last for long when it comes to years in our lives – enjoy them while you can and then just Let Free without guilt!

September 23, 2014 at 5:24 am

It has been a pleasure to write this article for your Jo. Australia is such a magnificient country for women travelling on their own. I’ve recently found out about the BroadsAbroads Network and cannot wait to meet up with a few of them in the next weeks. 🙂

September 23, 2014 at 8:11 am

Thank you Michela – It was a lovely post. Yes Australia is such a fab country to travel around and can’t wait to hear more about the women you meet through BroadsAbroad – seems like Lifestyle Fifty readers are interested too.

September 22, 2014 at 10:52 pm

I must say that solo travel is a daunting idea – though I can see it can have its benefits too – you can do whatever whenever you please! I must go and check out Broads Abroad. Thanks for the great tips for solo travel Mechela, and another great post on Lifestyle Fifty.

September 22, 2014 at 11:45 pm

Thanks Jill – yes indeed, daunting but with benefits if you set off with a pinch of courage and a check out of Broads Abroad 😉 perhaps!

September 22, 2014 at 5:24 pm

I was very interested to hear about the Broads Abroad organization. If I ever travel solo I will definitely join.

September 22, 2014 at 9:12 pm

I was also intrigued to hear about them, Jan. Thanks for your comment 🙂

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Invisible After 50? How to travel solo with attitude

Many women complain about “feeling invisible” after 50, both in their everyday lives and when they travel. What follows is a look at this invisibility, and strategies to avoid it.

You hear it often.

“I feel invisible.”

“No one is taking my order.”

“I have to repeat myself all the time.”

For women over 50, invisibility is an all-too-common reality, and while we may have our coping mechanisms at home, going under-noticed may be a bit more challenging when we travel.

This invisibility can manifest itself in a number of ways.

One of my lovely readers, JL, is 71 and traveling around Vietnam with her daughter. “I find it really frustrating when we are in a restaurant  and I pay the bill, and they insist on giving the change to my daughter. It’s as if they think I’m not sane enough to deal with money.”

My personal experiences tend to revolve around dining solo . Eating alone is not the norm in many places, and I’m never surprised when I’m guided to the back of the restaurant, usually next to a plant or to the rest room – even if the restaurant is still empty.

I used to grit my teeth and bear it, but birthdays often bring either self-assuredness, or simply a lack of concern about what others think.

Last time this happened, I called the waiter over: “Why are you placing me in the back, behind the plant? Do you think I’m going to scare your other customers?” Poor guy – I felt for him. He mumbled an apology or an explanation – I’m not sure which – and swiftly moved me to a nice table near the window. He spent the rest of the meal being overly courteous.

I know this isn’t always the result, but had I not spoken up, it would definitely not have been the result.

And I know I’m not unique.

“I agree that in restaurants as a single older woman I’m often seated at the small table near the kitchen or other unattractive area. I even walked out of a restaurant after having already ordered in Seattle after the server reseated me in an even worse area,” another traveler, Gisela, told me.

Seriously? An even worse table?

And what if you are less able or ill? L.J. feels staff often don’t understand her special needs. “Often, I will simply tell the hostess not to seat me in the “back 80”, and I haven’t been told yet that I can’t sit at the closer empty table.” Sometimes, being proactive works best.

There are those who can deal with these situations with aplomb, like Lesley R.

“Being invisible is sometimes welcome – dining alone, you can read, think, people watch or just savour your food. However on one occasion, dining alone in a fairly posh Italian restaurant I accidentally started a small fire, having dropped my napkin on a lit candle. Three waiters rushed to my table to douse the flames and replace the cloth. With all eyes on me, I stood up and took a bow and said ‘For my next trick…’”

Where does this feeling come from?

I’m no psychologist so I won’t try to explain the roots of these feelings. But I have done some reading and most of these feelings seem to stem, not surprisingly, from “not being young anymore”.

For some women, this is a disaster, especially if they’ve been accustomed to turning heads in their youth.

For others, as it was for Lesley, it’s a relief. Excess male attention is something many of us are happy to avoid.

Another reason for this feeling of invisibility tends to be loneliness. You may be widowed, divorced, an empty-nester, recently retired – any one of these can provoke that sense of being alone, especially if you spent many years in partnership or surrounded by people. Isolation can be a powerful enemy.

If this isn’t an issue for you, wonderful! But if it is, what to do when you’re made to feel invisible and you’re traveling solo? Are there workarounds or ways to get beyond these feelings?

How to avoid feeling invisible after 50 on the road

None of these suggestions will eliminate a deep-rooted feeling that has to do with how you see yourself. What these tips can do is, when used with purpose, is to diminish or divert some of those feelings, allowing them to fade into the background so that you can get on and enjoy your trip.

You’re traveling to see the world, not to hide away so it won’t see you! 

1. Embrace a positive outlook

This goes for pretty much everything you do when you travel. Things happen, reservations get cancelled, connections are missed, plans fall apart. This is life.

In fact, in retrospect, some of our most memorable travel stories are born of these mishaps, which often lead to serendipity.

Trying to put a positive spin on things will go a long way towards making you feel empowered and positive. That energy will affect you internally – it’s hard to feel invisible when you’re raring to go – and externally, because a woman with energy and purpose is anything but invisible. You will be noticed.

2. Get to know yourself

To a certain extent, this follows on from #1.

Many of us feel “invisible after 50” because we don’t know who we are. We may have spent years being someone’s partner or parent or employee, and all of a sudden, that crutch is gone. We can no longer look at ourselves through someone else’s eyes, and that can be disconcerting.

We have changed through the years. At 70, I’m not the same person I was at 30, and getting to know this “new me” is a complete challenge, but a fun one. I use a variety of tools, from meditating to journaling. It’s not one of those clear-cut tasks, but you have to start digging somewhere.

For many women, being invisible comes from not not knowing who they are anymore.  Those bits of myself I become more familiar or comfortable with will be the first to break through the invisibility.

3. Push your boundaries

This is one of my favorites. Risk isn’t just for the young. On the contrary, I find my courage has grown with age, and I dare to do things today I might not have done a few decades ago.

A bit like reading about that centenarian great-grandmother who received a paragliding session as a birthday gift, there are wonders out there that we may not have considered. You’ll never get me to jump off a mountain, but I have done other things involving travel to dangerous places or heading off on my own to distant lands.

Just as an aside, I don’t advocate taking mindless risks – plenty of pre-research goes into my choices, and my gut feelings play a big part in my decisions about where to travel next.

One of my biggest boundaries has been to speak up when I feel “dismissed” – as I did in that restaurant. That did not come naturally, but quaking or not, I pushed the words out. I might not have had that courage when I was younger, but experience has taught me that seething within feels worse than speaking out! And doing so with humor or diplomacy, not rudeness or aggression…

4. Get out and see the world

Whatever your travel fears, try to confront them and push past them just a little. If you’re scared of traveling solo , stay close to home for your first trip.

Or join a small women-only group tour to get your feet wet.

Or choose a destination where you know someone, or where the language is familiar, or where you know you’ll feel at ease.

It’s not about major jumps, but about taking baby steps. There’s nothing like travel to make you feel empowered, and feeling that energy inside will be reflected outside.

5. Shake up the brain

This is another of my favorites. If my mind is occupied, I won’t have time for concern, worry, or self-pity. I don’t have to remember everything I learn (that would be an impossibility since I usually can’t remember where I parked my car) but the act of learning stretches my brain, builds those cells, and makes me feel intelligent, capable, and wise.

Just this afternoon I found myself looking at courses on heritage and history, the kinds of courses people take to become travel guides. I have no intention of becoming one, but I wouldn’t mind a few art and history courses…

Or perhaps learning another language. Whatever you choose, learning or reading will boost your power and your self-esteem, and that, in turn, will provide you with that self-confidence which is so visible .

6. Reinvent yourself and affirm your personal style

What could be more fun?

I plan on changing the way I look… my haircut doesn’t suit me anymore and my clothes don’t fit. This is my chance to “change my look”. I don’t know what it will eventually be, but I can promise you there will be nothing invisible about it.

This is also about rethinking who you are. For years, I was a journalist… that was my identity. Then I joined the United Nations and became an “international civil servant”. After retirement, I became a “travel blogger” and occasional travel writer.

I’ve changed directions before, I can do it again. Who do I want to be for the next few years? There’s no one peering over my shoulder and nudging me towards an answer.

If in the past you’ve relied on others to shape your choices, this may be the right time to reevaluate who the “authentic you” really is.

7. Own it !

No cream or magic powder is going to relieve me of my hard-earned wrinkles. No makeup is going to hide my years of experience. And no outside judgment is going to get in my way.

I own my age, sometimes proudly, at other times less so, but I don’t dislike who I am and I certainly don’t feel diminished in any way by increasingly frequent birthdays.

I take life one day at a time, but oh, what a day! I try to make it meaningful or magical (sometimes it can be both at the same time!) but I won’t let anyone cheat me of the joy I feel I’ve earned. Not even a surly waiter.

Not everyone feels “invisible after 50” when they travel!

“I am 65 years old,” says K.,  “and I am exactly the the type of woman who is supposed to feel invisible: fat, white-haired, not particularly well-groomed, unstylishly dressed. Yet my experience is very different.

“There are two types of attention that I reliably get wherever I go, and which I don’t dislike:  compliments on my hat, and requests for directions.  

I always wear a stylish hat outside, for warmth or sunshade as the season dictates; it’s the one aspect of my dress that looks like a play for attention, though it’s entirely a practical choice on my part.  

I find that when I travel solo, I attract more attention than when I am with others.  I have had many memorable (and welcome) conversations with strangers in restaurants, museums, concert halls, shops, and the like.  I don’t initiate these conversations; they seem to grow organically out of small interactions.

So although I don’t like attracting attention generally, somehow I seem to be able to get attention when I do want it for a specific reason or when I am open to it, without making any special effort.”

Ignore us at your peril

So this is it, our reality. Over 50, on the sliding side of life, but still well away from the bottom. The thought that life isn’t eternal may occasionally pop into our heads, and there’s no better reason to live life to its fullest.

According to a recent global study by Journeywoman, women over 50 are empowered, prefer to travel alone, and are seeking adventurous experiences in bucket list destinations.

At the same time, we have this huge spending power, but we are undervalued by the travel industry, often having to hand over the dreaded single supplement for the privilege of having decided to travel on our own. To make things worse, the study revealed that most of us don’t feel understood by the travel industry.

The travel industry, too, thinks we are invisible, although things are beginning to change.

In the words of another one of our delightful readers, whom I’ll call M, “Let’s just all get out there, travel and make ourselves fully known and at ease to refuse to be seated next to the palm tree table in the restaurant!”

Our attitudes can contribute to the way the world sees us, and by acting confidently and refusing to be invisible after 50, we are sending a signal that it is not OK for us to be treated with anything less than total respect.

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Breaking news, fearful women traveling in packs after nyc sucker-punch scourge injured 14 women.

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The women of Gotham have found a new way to deal with the surge in random punching cases in New York City — walking the streets with an escort.

Self-defense instructor Tsahi Shemesh said the fear of imminent danger has been so palpable that six of his students have buddied up with each other or other pals to get to class, if they come at all.

The Post caught up with one of the women, Sophie, 24.

She said she asks her husband to attend Krav Maga classes with her at 250 West 100th St. or else simply accompany her to the studio.

“I’m definitely feeling afraid to go on my own [to self-defense classes] or anywhere on my own,” said Sophie, who moved to East Harlem from Indianapolis in May.

Fear has gripped the city as women have been reporting getting sucker-punched by strangers on the street.

There have been at least 14 reported cases in the city since March 20.

In one case, Stephanie Weng, 33, was walking on Union Square East near East 16th Street around 4:30 p.m. March 20 when she said she was approached from behind and struck in the face.

That incident came hours after another woman, Ashley Cruz, 23, was struck without warning while walking on Sixth Avenue near West 14th Street.

Halley Kate, an influencer with 1.2 million followers on TikTok, was among other victims.

She posted a video March 25 in the aftermath saying she was punched in the face and fell to the ground.

More women are inquiring about self-defense classes at Krav Maga Experts since October, according to Shemesh.

He has seen a 400% increase in emails and calls in the last two weeks alone.

For some, self-defense classes alone are enough to turn the tide on attackers.

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Jenny Jiang was headed to the 7 train at Court Square around 11 a.m. last summer when a drunk man speaking a foreign language approached her.

“He tried to grab me on the sidewalk,” the Long Island, Queens, resident, told The Post. “I said, ‘no.’ He tried to grab me again. I crossed the street trying to get away from him and he was following me. There were people around but they weren’t helping me. I knew I had to turn around and confront the man, confront the problem. And I told him, ‘if you touch me again, I’ll fight back.'”

With that, the man yelled at her and “backed away,” Jiang, 42, said.

She credits her two years of Krav Maga classes with helping her fend him off.

“I feel more assertive,” she said. “Krav Maga has changed my body and the way I carry myself.”

Additional reporting by Tina Moore.

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Texas mother arrested after allegedly leaving young children alone to take a cruise

A Texas woman was arrested after allegedly leaving her children at home alone to take a cruise.

Lakesha Woods Williams, 29, left her 8-year-old son and 6-year-old daughter by themselves in their Houston apartment to go on vacation on April 4, according to a criminal complaint.

She is charged with abandoning a child with intent to return.

Deputies with the Harris County Constable’s Office made a wellness check on Tuesday following a call for service. A witness told them that neighbors in the complex were concerned about the safety of two kids left on their own in one of the units. The witness said other residents had seen Williams leaving with bags and luggage and did not see her come back.

“The apartment was in complete disarray and had trash and left-over food all over the unit,” the document said. There was a “very potent smell of urine” inside as well.

“No adults were present supervising the juveniles, and none appeared to have been present since the Defendant’s departure,” the document continued. Deputies also found a camera in the apartment that Williams used to watch and talk to the kids during her trip, and her son had a phone he used to text her.

The document did not specify which cruise line Williams sailed with or where she went. “Deputies tried contacting the Defendant to make the scene, but she was not cooperating and was switching up her story on her whereabouts,” the document said.

The Houston Fire Department was called to ensure the children “were in good health and not malnourished,” and Child Protective Services reported to the scene before releasing the children to their aunt.

An attorney for Williams was not listed.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Watch CBS News

U.S. issues travel warning for Israel with Iran attack believed to be imminent and fear Gaza war could spread

By Debora Patta , Tucker Reals

Updated on: April 13, 2024 / 5:25 PM EDT / CBS News

Update: Iran launched drone attacks against Israel on Saturday. Read CBS News'  latest coverage here .

Tel Aviv  — Israel is bracing for a worst-case scenario that U.S. officials believe could materialize within just hours — the possibility of a direct attack on Israeli soil by Iran in retaliation for a strike almost two weeks ago that killed seven Iranian military officers. Iran has vowed to take revenge for Israel killing its commanders, who were hit by an April 1 strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria's capital.

Two U.S. officials told CBS News that a major Iranian attack against Israel was expected as soon as Friday, possibly to include more than 100 drones and dozens of missiles aimed at military targets inside the country. Sources have told CBS News the retaliation could include attacks carried out both by Iranian forces, and proxy groups around the region that it has been funneling additional arms to for weeks.  

The officials said it would be challenging for the Israelis to defend against an attack of that magnitude, and while they held out the possibility that the Iranians could opt for a smaller-scale attack to avoid a dramatic escalation, their retaliation was believed to be imminent. 

Asked Friday how imminent he believes an attack is, President Biden responded, "I don't want to get into secure information, but my expectation is sooner than later." The president urged Iran not to move forward, saying his message to Tehran was: "Don't."

Tehran has not indicated publicly how or when it will return fire, so it's unclear how far Iran's leaders will go. If they decide to carry out a direct attack on Israel, there's fear it could blow Israel's ongoing war against Iranian ally Hamas up into a much wider regional conflict.

With the Iranian retaliation expected at any time, the U.S. State Department on Thursday warned Americans in Israel not to travel outside major cities, which are better protected from incoming rocket fire by the country's Iron Dome missile defense system. The latest guidance noted that travel by U.S. government employees in Israel could be further restricted with little notice as things develop in the tinderbox region.

"Whoever harms us, we will harm them," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Thursday as he visited troops at an Israel Defense Forces airbase. "We are prepared … both defensively and offensively."

On Saturday, all U.S. embassies in the Middle East were put on high alert and required to hold emergency action committee meetings. Diplomats in Lebanon and Israel were specifically told not to travel to certain areas within those countries.

Sima Shine, a security expert and former official with Israel's national intelligence agency Mossad, told CBS News it was a dangerous moment for the region, and the "most worried" she has been. She said anxiety over an all-out war was likely just as high "on both sides, in Israel and in Iran."

If Iran does choose to strike Israel directly, it could involve a complex missile and drone attack similar to the one Iranian forces launched against a Saudi oil facility in 2019 .

"They will try to do it on the military or some military asset," Shine predicted. "But the question will be the damage. If there would be many injured people, killed or injured … I think it has the potential for a huge escalation."

Shine stressed, however, that she still believes neither side actually wants a regional conflict.

U.S. "really trying to avoid war"

The U.S. sent a senior general to Israel this week to coordinate with the close American ally on any response it might make to an Iranian attack. Speaking Friday on "CBS Mornings," America's top military officer said, "we're really trying to avoid war."

"This is part of the dialogue that I have with my counterparts within the region, to include the Israeli chief of defense, who I talked to yesterday," said Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr., adding that the U.S. military was "doing things not only to prevent a war, but at the same time, one of my primary things is to make sure all the forces in the region are protected."

"My role, as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, is to plan and prepare," Brown said. "That's one thing we do very well."

Brown's Israeli counterpart, Chief of the General Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, "completed a comprehensive situational assessment on the readiness of the IDF for all scenarios," Israel's military said Friday. 

"The IDF is very strongly prepared, both offensively and defensively, against any threat," Halevi was quoted as saying in the statement. "The IDF continues to monitor closely what is happening in Iran and different arenas, constantly preparing to deal with existing and potential threats in coordination with the United States Armed Forces." 

The IDF said the visiting U.S. general, Central Command chief Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, was taking part in the IDF's situational assessment.

The dilemma for Iran, said Israeli expert Shine, is to figure out how to deliver its promised response to Israel's attack in Syria, but in a way that does not lead to further escalation. Likewise, Shine said Israel could choose to show restraint when it responds to whatever Iran eventually does.

If either side gets the balance wrong, the consequences for the region, and even the world, could be dire.

Weijia Jiang, David Martin, Margaret Brennan and Olivia Gazis contributed reporting.

• Middle East
• Benjamin Neta​nyahu

Debora Patta is a CBS News foreign correspondent based in Johannesburg. Since joining CBS News in 2013, she has reported on major stories across Africa, the Middle East and Europe. Edward R. Murrow and Scripps Howard awards are among the many accolades Patta has received for her work.

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