While you might not be traveling now – it’s always a good time to plan – and for me, planning is half the fun! Did you know traveling solo doesn’t mean having to travel alone? So many people I meet tell me the same thing: They finally have the time and means to travel, but they don’t know anyone who is in the same situation or interested in the same destination. For many, the perfect solution is to travel solo on a guided vacation.
I’ve hosted numerous trips for AAA, including river cruises and land tours, and most of our members were traveling ‘solo’ within the group. Many have made lasting friendships and continue to travel together to new destinations to this day.
One of the best things about a guided vacation is most of the highlights are included – which means you won’t miss out on something important. And often, there are many extras included that you might not have done if traveling on you own.
For example, our Ireland tour included a visit to a working farm with a sheep dog demonstration followed by hot scones and tea – delicious – and a once-in-a lifetime stay in a luxury 17th century castle. And our Italy tour included a trip to a family-owned limoncello factory where we sampled local specialties – with plenty of limoncello – and a tour of the famous ruins of Pompeii where we spent the afternoon enjoying a Neapolitan lunch at a local winery. How fun does that sound?!
And the best part? Sharing experiences and meeting new friends that I’ve continued to travel with over the years.
Here are some additional benefits to traveling solo on a guided vacation or cruise:
- Travel is generally less expensive since group travel = groups savings.
- Many companies are making solo travel easier by eliminating the ‘solo supplement’ often found on guided trips and cruises – providing you with a private single room without an added cost.
- It increases your ability to meet new people with the added security of having a guide.
- Being solo within a group offers immense flexibility: some days you can go it alone or go with the group… it’s your choice.
- You’ll have the advantages of an organized trip without having to plan and reconfirm every detail yourself.
With all the changes in travel these days, it goes without saying that having a professional travel agent arrange and manage all your trip details – and traveling with an experienced guide to take care of things along the way – is invaluable.
When you’re ready to start planning, our AAA travel agents have plenty of ideas to inspire you. Start your journey at AAA.com/Travel.
Virtual Event: Tips to Traveling Solo
Join me Sept. 22 for our next virtual event: Tips to Traveling Solo. I’ll be sharing how to make solo travel fun and stress-free including safety tips, traveling solo in a group, dining alone tips and what to pack.
Wednesday September 22 at 10:00am
Wednesday September 22 at 2:00pm
Gear Up & Get Away Sale
Speaking of packing, don’t miss the Eagle Creek Sale going on now until Sept. 30th at your local AAA Travel Store – 30% off retail price of Eagle Creek luggage and travel accessories.
Eagle Creek Expanse AWD 22” Eagle Creek Packing Folder
Member Price $187.99 Member Price $31.50