In The News: Very true, very broad generalizations about solo travel
j/k, I wouldn't go there - but mainstream media is
Dear reader,
This week’s newsletter is inspired by a report from Pinterest detailing recent search trends in travel. And while I don’t absolutely agree with their takeaways, let’s start there.
Whether basking in the tranquility of a secluded beach or meandering through serene countryside landscapes, [solo] experiences contribute to self-care and overall well-being.
Solo experiences contribute to self-care and overall well-being - check!
I’ve written a lot about this before:
How to have fun while traveling solo
Dear reader, If you’ve Googled anything related to solo travel recently, you’ve probably been presented with a list of articles about how to stay safe while traveling alone. I’m annoyed by this. I assume that most of women, non-binary, agender, and other LGBTQIA+/not straight-cis-white-male individuals are already aware from their daily lives that there …
Secluded beaches and serene countryside landscapes - not necessarily!
As someone who’s taken solo trips to a variety of locations, a myopic portrayal of solo travel as being inherently tranquil limits creativity around what solo travel can be. While this retreat style of travel is clearly increasing in popularity, it’s not all that solo travel can be. I love traveling by myself to cities, immersing myself in the business that I miss now that I live in the burbs. I travel to conventions, where me and tens of thousands of my closest friends take over a convention center to game and shop. I thrive in the company of other people - yes, even while traveling solo. I thrive on this energy and on shared experiences with people around me, whether they’re at a nearby seat at the bar or also navigating the crowded expo floor. I’m feeling a buzz of energy as I just write about these experiences and anticipate my next adventure!
And surely, these trips are hugely important to my self-care and well-being. They ultimately drive the same outcomes for me as nature vacations do to the Pinterest people.
Solo travel can be whatever you want it to be!
What I do like about this report
People are interested in solo travel
Despite my distain for the specific portrayal of solo travel in the Pinterest report, at least it means that there is an interest in it! And the more resources that solo travelers make available, whether it be newsletters (hi), social media posts, videos, etc., the more that people who are just starting to explore solo travel will have to broaden their horizons.
What’s your favorite solo travel memory? Let me know in the comments!
And, as it turns out, Pinterest is a great search engine for travel-related topics. Personally, I use it for capsule wardrobe inspiration, to plan my airport/plane outfits, and to learn about food from different countries. So I’m not surprised that people .look for other travel topics on there as well! (BTW, you can find solo travel inspiration from Unlonely World on Pinterest!)
Unique forms of travel are taking the spotlight
Solo travel isn’t yet mainstream; “quiet life travel” is a new trend; adventure travel is making a comeback after the pandemic. The Pinterest report highlights all three. And seeing a mainstream company like Pinterest highlight the changing landscape of travel means that people who aren't immersed in travel media have the opportunity to learn about experiences that differ from traditional vacations like the beach or Disney.
As someone who went on her first solo trip in 2013, I've observed over the past almost 11 years that conversations about taking solo trips still surprise people. It still surprises me to see it talked about in the media! But I'd love to see more people embrace solo travel by finding out that it doesn't have to be scary and can indeed be empowering.
And for that, I’m grateful.
P.S.: Did you know I am available to plan your next trip? I specialize in travel planning for busy young professionals. Learn more!