Travel Tips

Travel Tip: How to Find Friends When Traveling Solo

friendsThere are lots of great things about traveling solo but, let’s face it, loneliness is inevitable. However, there are easy ways to meet people just based on where you stay.

The obvious solution, of course, is to join a tour group. That’s fine, but they may charge you a single supplement fee, and it defeats the purpose of traveling alone, right?

Or, skip the traditional hotel and look for an upscale hostel: you can stay in your own room, and still have a communal space to meet other people.

B&Bs also have group meals and shared spaces, but keep in mind they tend to attract a lot of couples.

Here’s a wild one…how about a dude ranch? They’re designed for solo-friendly activities, like hiking and horseback riding, but you also have shared meals and gatherings.

If a traditional hotel is more your style, stick with the ones that have free activities.

Kimpton Hotels have wine hours every night. In St. Maarten, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort has cocktail parties for single parents every Monday.

Heck, there are even places like Hotel del Coronado in California that have “yappy hours” so, if you’re traveling with your canine companion, it’s the ultimate ice breaker.

Bottom line, you don’t have to be alone, even if you’re traveling solo.

For more information, visit the Solo Travel archives.

Keep reading for more travel tips.