Why now is the best time to travel solo

There’s never been a better moment to embrace solo travel. Going alone might sound intimidating at first, but just take it from us (and these intrepid solo travelers) and see why now is best time to travel solo.

There’s a community of travelers just like you

More people than ever before are choosing to travel alone—and sharing their adventures. Join our own Solo Travelers Facebook group to meet our community of like-minded solo adventurers. You can also become a part of other popular online forums for swapping advice and stories or just follow along for a little inspiration.

Plus, when you go with a group, you’ll enjoy the company of like-minded adventurers who you can share meals (and make memories) with. “I went [to Ireland] in November and traveled solo,” said traveler Jamie. “The tour group was the most amazing group of people. Everyone was so friendly and such fun. I felt like they had all been my friends for years.”

You’ll travel solo, but not alone

In addition to connecting with a community of travelers while you’re out exploring the world, our EF experts are here to help you travel with confidence. Our global team is on the ground across the globe 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, just in case you need their support during your travels.

“It’s normal to be nervous. I was nervous too when I signed up for my first group trip, but as soon as I returned home I was already searching for the next trip that I was going to sign up for,” said traveler Elise. “If you worry before going on a trip for any reason, the Go Ahead customer service representatives will be there to talk to you about it. They will assist you and ease your mind if you have concerns. My advice would be to STOP OVERTHINKING IT AND JUST SIGN UP FOR THE TRIP! You won’t regret it!”

It’s empowering

Getting out of your ordinary can be scary. But once you’re standing in front of the Eiffel Tower or gathering around the dinner table at a local’s home in Hanoi, you’re going to be glad you did. After you set your worries aside and see how amazing travel can be, you’ll feel like you can do anything. Just ask Shonitra, who took the leap and traveled solo to Barcelona.

“This was an absolutely fabulous trip,” she said. “I felt empowered to venture out and experience the city on my own or sign up for the escorted excursions. The city is so beautiful. Thank you Go Ahead Tours for helping me get out of my comfort zone!”

There are lots of solo-friendly locations

Whether you’re sharing a pint with the famously chatty locals in Ireland or admiring the scenery of Patagonia, there are so many places where it’s easy—and fun!—to travel alone. Worries about safety abroad keep a lot of would-be solo travelers at home. That’s just another reason why going with a group is so great. “As a solo traveler I was worried about going to Thailand by myself. I couldn’t have been more wrong!,” said traveler Cathie. “I felt totally included and one of the group right away. And I felt very safe.”

As for favorite places to travel solo? Thailand topped our team’s list, too—along with Japan, Paris, Portugal, and Germany.

You can do as much (or as little) as you want

Want to sign up for that cooking class or spend your free afternoon sipping spritzes poolside? One of the best parts about solo travel is that you have the freedom to choose—no negotiations necessary. “This was my first group tour ever. And it was perfect,” said traveler Marisa about her tour in Scandinavia. “I loved the balance between organized activities and free time. If you select this tour… eat ALL the seafood in Bergen—and Tivoli Gardens at night is a must!”

It’ll be life-changing

Our traveler Stacey said it best: “This trip was what Hallmark movies are made of. Words cannot express the magic and passion behind this adventure. The group and director instantly connected and bonded from day one. I started this journey as a solo traveler and gained friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Are you inspired to travel solo? Tell us about it on Facebook!