The “Loneliness Pandemic” has been reported lately, with research showing that younger Brits are experiencing high levels of loneliness, and are over two times more likely to report feeling lonely ‘often’ or ‘always’, than those living their later years (aged 70+). Furthermore, the feeling of loneliness has been reported to continue to be at higher levels since the Covid-19 pandemic. Eeek.
After this forced us all to form habits in confinement, and with the rise of increasingly isolated social interactions – think Call of Duty instead of coffee dates, DMs instead of dinners for two – it’s hard to feel surprised by an explosion of loneliness.
Solo travel and epic weekend adventures
Solo travel is a positive route to meaningful and lasting peer-to-peer relationships, in an attempt to help address the current loneliness pandemic tearing through younger Brits.
We know it takes only 34 hours to form a meaningful relationship with a like-minded person, and Much Better Adventures’ active trips, including their Epic Weekend adventures (such as sea kayaking in Sardinia, trekking in Iceland, and wild camping in the wilds of Scotland), seem like a drug-free prescription we can all use.
You don’t have to work in the travel industry to know that solo travel can be daunting,” says Much Better Adventures founder, Sam Bruce.“But anyone who’s plucked up the courage to go it alone – myself included – will tell you it’s one of the best life experiences. By joining a Much Better Adventures trip and throwing yourself into a new and exciting destination, you’re surrounding yourself with like-minded people. You’ve already got your daring and adventurous spirit in common. That’s your conversation starter, the hard bit done. And with the incredible experiences you’ll share together, the rest follows naturally. Does it surprise me that so many lasting friendships have come out of Much Better Adventure trips? Absolutely not.”
Solo travel offers numerous benefits that can enhance personal growth, self-discovery, and the overall travel experience.
Here are some benefits of embarking on a solo journey:
Freedom and Flexibility: Traveling alone grants you complete control over your itinerary. You can choose where to go, when to go, and how long to stay without needing to compromise with others. This flexibility allows you to adapt your plans on the fly, explore hidden gems, and indulge in spontaneous adventures.
Self-Discovery: Solo travel provides an opportunity for profound self-reflection and self-discovery. Being away from familiar surroundings and routines allows you to step out of your comfort zone, confront challenges, and learn more about yourself. It promotes personal growth, boosts self-confidence, and encourages independence.
Empowerment and Problem-Solving Skills: When you’re traveling alone, you become solely responsible for navigating through unfamiliar territories, making decisions, and solving problems that arise along the way. This self-reliance fosters resilience, adaptability, and enhances your problem-solving skills.
Cultural Immersion: Traveling alone encourages interaction with locals and immersing yourself in the local culture. Without the safety net of companions, you may be more likely to strike up conversations, try new foods, and participate in local customs and traditions. This deepens your understanding of different cultures and broadens your perspective.
Increased Social Connections: Paradoxically, solo travel often leads to more social interactions. You become more approachable to fellow travellers and locals, making it easier to form new friendships and connections. Shared experiences with people from diverse backgrounds can be enriching and create lasting memories.
Enhanced Self-Reliance: Solo travel compels you to rely on yourself, fostering a sense of independence and self-sufficiency. As you navigate unfamiliar places, overcome challenges, and manage your own logistics, you become more self-reliant, which can have a positive impact on other areas of your life.
Personalised Experiences: Traveling alone allows you to prioritise your own interests and preferences. You can engage in activities that truly resonate with you, whether it’s visiting museums, hiking, attending local events, or simply spending a day at a café. The ability to customise your experiences according to your own desires leads to a more fulfilling journey.
Time for Reflection and Relaxation: Solo travel provides ample opportunities for solitude and introspection. It allows you to detach from the demands of daily life, unwind, and recharge. Whether it’s finding a peaceful spot in nature or enjoying a moment of quiet contemplation in a bustling city, solo travel allows for rejuvenation and self-care.
Remember that while solo travel offers incredible advantages, it’s essential to prioritise safety, plan accordingly, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s also advisable to inform someone trustworthy about your travel plans and stay connected with loved ones during your journey.
The post Overcoming the Loneliness Pandemic with solo travel appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.
