Hitting the Road on Your Own

Solo travel offers a needed vacation for many singles

Seeking independence, adventure and escape, the protagonist sets off alone on a lengthy, sometimes perilous and always rewarding journey. From "King Arthur" to "The Lion King," books and movies are replete with tales of solitary adventures of self-discovery. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or looking to try something new, solo travel is a way to reconnect with yourself.

Solo travel is sometimes regarded as the last option for those who cannot find travel companions, but single travelers are a growing demographic. In 2005, 11 percent of travelers vacationed alone. Of that number, 35 percent were between 18 and 34 years of age and the gender balance is essentially equal, according to the Travel Industry Association and TravelScope®.

In an era when people are over-committed and über-connected through a relentless network of wireless communication devices, solo travel holds the potential for the ultimate retreat from an onslaught of obligations and the monotony of routine. Whether you are tired of all-night booze-fests with pals or looking to create a new experience, solo trips offer the opportunity to experience a destination on your own terms at your pace -- without waiting for friends or family to sleep off a tequila hangover or peruse every corner shop for the perfect souvenir.

Traveling independently is a chance to try new activities, conquer fears and explore new interests apart from your daily routine and standard life. It takes two to tango, but most adventures can be tackled by the single adventurer. Belly-dancing, Thai massages, paragliding and countless solitary activities await. Thalia Zepatos, author of "A Journey of One's Own," found some of her most memorable experiences while participating in the daily routines of small villages, including an Indian rice paddy. "Those experiences were more rewarding than seeing the sights or visiting museums."

According to Rob Sangster, author of "Traveler's Tool Kit," unaccompanied travel is the ultimate freedom. "The responsibility is much greater, the choices are all your own, your state of mind is solely your responsibility," he said. "That's the big thing. If you're traveling with someone, part of your contract is you keep each other happy. When you're by yourself, you've got the ball."

A trip as a solo traveler does not mean that you will stay alone for the entire time. Travel networks connect like-minded travelers, offer popular locales at travel destinations and introduce travelers to hospitable hosts in foreign countries. Further, hostels, coffee houses and interest groups offer more ways to meet people. International service organiations like Habitat for Humanity, with locations around the world, encourage single volunteers to apply for spots at locations

Solo travel has been a popular trend throughout Europe where students often have a year off before attending university. Destinations like Interlaken, Switzerland and Cinque Terre, Italy are legendary solo travel destinations. Sangster has found that traveling alone invites more conversations and meetings than group travel. "I feel more spontaneously willing to stop and have a tea or a beer and just blend into wherever I am."

Of course, traveling alone generally requires more planning and safety precautions. It is always important to be cognizant of current travel warnings and safety concerns. Zepatos recommends that solo travelers "stay low-key and off the beaten path" by avoiding major cities and tourist-hubs. She reasons that smaller villages allow travelers to more quickly assimilate, meet people and discover the local culture.

According to travel agent Giorgio Berrin, it is important to be honest about your desires and ability. Berrin recommends that single travelers only visit countries in which they are language-proficient. Even with language proficiency, it is important to research each destination and take precautions with solo travel. "For women, it is important to avoid known dangerous places, but it is increasingly difficult to find those places," Berrin notes. His list of recommended destinations includes Australia, Canada, China, India, New Zealand and Western Europe. Internet cafes and international cell phones make it possible to stay in touch with family and friends at home, keeping them apprised of updates and travel status.

The State Department publishes a list of tips for women traveling alone. The list includes leaving detailed travel documents and itineraries with friends at home, choosing safe and centrally located lodging and modest attire. It is important to study the culture in order to minimize avoidable risks.

Though solo travel is liberating, singles' fees and charges can add up. Hostels are a popular option for the individual traveling alone. Often construed as the backpackers' resort, hostels are a popular, affordable and social alternative to hotels. Shared rooms and bathrooms and perks like free breakfast can minimize costs, while social areas, communal tables and open spaces allow guests to interact. Hostels.com, which enables travelers to find hostels around the world, booked nearly four million reservations last year. They are a prime method for meeting like-minded travelers.

Within this growing industry, more resources are becoming available. Companies cater to the single traveler with group trips, clubs and travel networks, connecting interests and minimizing risks for the individual. Through such contacts, it is possible to find travel groups, recommendations and ideas to suit the needs and interests of almost every traveler.

Connecting: Solo Travel Network caters to single travelers with a bi-monthly newsletter, list of recommended lodgings and member advertising for travel companions. Travel company Contiki organizes packages for 18-to-35 year old travelers with trips throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and Australia. Eighteen percent of the travelers book trips alone, so the company offers same-sex roommate-pairings to avoid the singles supplement to room charges.

Solo-traveler Kari Simpson -- who went abroad with Contiki -- welcomed the experience of traveling alone. "Being by myself almost forced me to meet more people than I would have had I been with friends who influenced me or dictated who I was."

Solo travelers in search of a mate also have options too: Windjammer Barefoot Cruises operates a cruise for lovelorn singles with an equal number of men and women and many spas, typically more popular for women, offer singles packages. Rancho La Puerta spa in Baja California touts special interest weeks that include fitness dance week and music and soul week.

Zepatos feels that people hesitate when deciding to go it alone. "We tend to wait to find someone to go with us. Don't wait for someone else to help you make your travel dreams come true. Just go on and travel on your own." With so many opportunities available for solo travel, now is the time to write a prominent chapter in your travel story.