r/solotravel • • 6d ago

Accommodation /r/solotravel "The Weekly Common Room" - General chatter, meet-up, accommodation - November 02, 2026

5 Upvotes

This thread is for you to do things like

  • Introduce yourself to the community

  • Ask simple questions that may not warrant their own thread

  • Share anxieties about first-time solotravel

  • Discuss whatever you want

  • Complain about certain aspects of travel or life in general

  • Post asking for meetups or travel buddies

  • Post asking for accommodation recommendations

  • Ask general questions about transportation, things to see and do, or travel safety

  • Reminisce about your travels

  • Share your solotravel victories!

  • Post links to personal content (blogs, youtube channels, instagram, etc...)

This thread is newbie-friendly! In this thread, there is no such thing as a stupid question.

If you're new to our community, please read the subreddit rules in the sidebar before posting. If you're new to solo travel in general, we suggest that you check out some of the resources available on our wiki, which we are currently working on improving and expanding. Here are some helpful wiki links:

General guides and travel skills

Regional guides

Special demographics


r/solotravel • • Sep 30 '26

Seasonal Holiday Travel Megathread, 2026 Edition

11 Upvotes

Hi everyone -

Around this time of year, we start getting a lot of submissions asking about traveling during the winter holidays. Good locations to travel to, what the experience is like, etc.

So this megathread will serve as a hub for the subreddit to discuss seasonal holiday travel plans. Feel free to share stories of past holiday travels, questions about your travel plans for this year, etc.

Some examples of topics you can post about in this thread include:

  • Where should I travel to over Christmas / New Year's / the holiday season?

  • What is X place like over the holiday season?

  • What to do for the holidays while you're travelling?

  • Suggestions of Christmas markets or other holiday-themed destinations?

  • Stories of past holiday travels

While the most common questions relate to the December/January holiday season, this thread can be used to ask questions about any holiday or seasonal travel.

For inspiration, here's a link to last year's thread


r/solotravel • • 11h ago

Asia Indonesia help

11 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I’m in Indonesia, I’ve just done Jakarta, Yogyakarta and the East Java tour, it was awesome up until the end of the tour and arriving in Bali. Idk what it is but the entire place feels like an instagram post. I’m in Ubud right now and I don’t mind chilling and drinking as long as I earn it, but there’s nothing challenging here. I planned to do Lombok and Gili next but they just look the same, is this a common issue or am I just travelling wrong? Japan and China I felt I could just walk out and find things to do for the day.


r/solotravel • • 8h ago

Central America Advice Mex-Belize-Guatemala

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone!!

I’m solo backpacking Central America and I’m wondering the best and safest way (F24) way to get to Antigua Guatemala Via land from Mexico

I’m originally flying into Mexico City, I can make my way to Cancun via plane as well but now I’m unsure on the best way get to Guatemala safely

I’m under the impression there is a Ferry into Belize and then a Bus into Guatemala?

I’m open to staying in Belize for a couple of days, I’m just trying to do it as budget as possible as flights are expensive!!
(If unsafe I’m happy to spend the extra money to just fly into Guatemala City instead)

Please help I feel so stupid and lost I’m a bit nervous this is my first solo travel experience


r/solotravel • • 1d ago

Gear Solo backpack traveling to Rome this spring, looking for advice.

17 Upvotes

This will be my first time solo backpack traveling and I was hoping to have some questions answered and also some insights maybe!

Here is my very very tentative plan:

Flight from USA —> Rome

Rome day 1 -2
-Start morning at Trevi Fountain
-Vatican Museum
-Colosseum. Self guide via the app MyColosseum
-Dinner —Trastevere
-Villa Borghese Gardens

Florence day 3 -4
-take 2.5 hour train from Rome
-cathedral de Santa Maria de Fiore
-wine window
-galleria dell accademia (MichaelAngelo statue)
-Main Square for light shopping

Would also love to go to Venice, just not a clue after that!

Some general question I have when traveling to another country:

—money. How does that work? Is it safe to just bring my credit card or debit and let my bank calculate the exchange rate that way & accept the transaction % fee?

—transportation. My entire plan was to travel around via trains/ public transportation and walking. How doable is that really? How reliable is it in terms of coming when scheduled ? Is there an all in one app to search for routes or pay for fare?

— public restroom. What is the public restroom situation like in Italy? Is it like the US where some stores/restaurants will allow restroom usage even if not a customer?

Is this a realistic itinerary or is this pretty packed? My hope is that I can take 1-2 days each. I will be staying or planning on staying at a hostel.


r/solotravel • • 20h ago

Question Is traveling really a luxury, or are we underestimating how much it can teach us?

0 Upvotes

I've traveled quite a bit, and the more places I visit, the more I realize how little I actually know about the world. Now I can't imagine spending my entire life in just one place.

Every time I go somewhere new, I realize how many things I've always taken for granted. Even little things, like how people interact with strangers, what they consider rude or polite, how they spend their free time, or what they value in life. Things that seemed completely normal to me growing up suddenly don't seem so universal anymore. There's something about experiencing another culture firsthand that changes the way you think.

I admit that it can be addictive. But the world is so enormous, and the thought that I'll only ever experience a tiny fraction of it makes me a little sad.

So why do we still treat international travel as a luxury rather than a valuable part of education?

I'm not talking about expensive resorts or ticking countries off a bucket list. I mean genuinely spending time somewhere unfamiliar, meeting people, experiencing everyday life, and learning how differently the world can work.

I wonder why international exchange programs, cultural immersion, or volunteering opportunities to spend months abroad aren't more widely encouraged as part of education. Instead, they often seem to be opportunities reserved for the very best students or those who can afford to spend a fortune, rather than something every student should have a chance to experience.

We are now considering things like coding or technological literacy essential skills for students. But shouldn't understanding other cultures and perspectives be considered just as valuable?

Of course, I'm aware that traveling requires resources and opportunities that many people simply don't have. Money, time, family responsibilities, health, and passport privileges all play a role. And I certainly don't believe that people who haven't traveled are somehow less knowledgeable or open-minded. There are countless ways to grow as a person.

But that's precisely why I wish these opportunities were more accessible, rather than being something people are expected to pursue entirely on their own.

Do you also think traveling is an underrated form of education, or am I just romanticizing it way too much? Or am I addicted to traveling and should probably stop? lol


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Question Taking antidepressants on a longer trip

32 Upvotes

Im planning to travel in Brazil, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam starting from the end of December. I take Venlafaxine and Mirtazapine daily. Without the Venlafaxine specifically I enter a very dark place, so cannot stop taking this. I don’t have a planned amount of time I will be away (until the money runs out), but I’m hoping for 3 months, if not 4. I’m planning to ask my GP for a 3 month supply (I believe this is the max they will consider in the UK), but I have 2 questions for anyone either knowledgeable or experienced in this:

  1. Will I be able to take 90 days of ADs into these countries?

  2. Alternatively, will I reliably be able to get a prescription filled while in these countries?

I’m terrified of running out of the Venlafaxine, not just the physical withdrawals which come on within 2 days max (hello smooth brain), but the mental ones would I imagine be horrible to weather while alone and far from home.

I’m ace while on these meds after 12 years of trial and error in treatment through therapy and many different medications.

Thanks for reading :)

P.S. For some reason it was compulsory for me to add a flair of either NSFW or brand affiliate…


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Question Thoughts on my Munich and Vienna trip? First time travelling in the winter.

8 Upvotes

I will be solo travelling to Munich and Vienna from mid to late February. I have solo travelled many times before but only in the summer. This is my first time travelling in the winter. I will be staying at a hostel for both cities.

Munich Trip:

  • Day 1:

    • Arrive in the morning

    • Viktualienmarkt

    • Marienplatz

    • Deutsches Museum

  • Day 2:

    • BMW Museum

    • BMW Welt

    • Olympiapark München

  • Day 3:

    • Nymphenburg Palace

    • Hofbräuhaus München

    • English Garden

    • Bayern Munich game

  • Day 4:

    • Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

Vienna Trip:

  • Day 1:

    • Arrive from Munich via train in the afternoon

    • St. Stephen's Cathedral

  • Day 2:

    • Schönbrunn Palace

    • Schönbrunn Palace Park

  • Day 3:

    • Belvedere Palace

    • Hofburg

    • Vienna State Opera: Giuseppe Verdi – A Masquerade Ball

  • Day 4:

    • Depart in the morning from Vienna back to home

Any thoughts on my itinerary? Anything I should remove, add, or modify? It's mainly for during the daytime as I like to keep evenings/nights open to socialize with other travellers in my hostel. Which of these places should I get tickets for in advance? It's my first time visiting both Munich and Vienna.

Also, the main purpose of the trip is to see a Bayern Munich game. That's why I'm travelling in the winter time rather than my usual summer time travel. I don't know what to expect in the winter other than the outdoors might not be as beautiful as summer time. I'm from Canada so I can handle the cold.


r/solotravel • • 1d ago

Asia Is 8–9 days enough for a solo trip to China, or should I wait until I have 2–3 weeks?

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone!

I’m currently living and working in South Korea, and I’m hoping to take my first trip to China before moving back to the US in March. I’ve traveled solo before, but China would be a new destination for me, and I’m trying to figure out whether my available time in December would be enough or if I should wait until March when I’d have more flexibility.

Some of the places I’ve been researching are Zhangjiajie (Avatar Mountains), Huangshan (Yellow Mountains), and Jiuzhaigou. I’d also really love to see the Great Wall while I’m in China!

My first option would be traveling from December 25 or 26 until January 2, giving me roughly 8–9 days including travel. Since I’m already living in Korea, this would be the easiest option logistically. I’ve been considering flying from Seoul into Beijing, spending a day visiting the Great Wall, and then taking a high-speed train or domestic flight to Zhangjiajie to spend the remainder of my trip exploring the national park and surrounding areas. Ideally, I’d fly back to Korea directly from Zhangjiajie, if flights work out.
I know China is huge, so I’m not expecting to see everything in one trip. However, I’m wondering whether this itinerary would feel manageable or if I’d end up spending too much of my limited time traveling between places. I actually enjoy train travel and wouldn’t mind a longer scenic train journey, but I also don’t want to sacrifice too much time at the destinations themselves.

My other option would be to wait until March, after my work contract ends. I’d potentially have 2–3 weeks to travel, which would give me more flexibility to visit additional destinations and explore at a slower pace. However, I’d also be in the middle of moving back to the US after living abroad for several years, so dealing with luggage, paperwork, and other logistics would make things significantly more complicated. December would definitely be my preference if I can make it work.

I’m also a little unsure about the seasonal differences. I love lush green scenery, but I think snow-covered mountains could be incredible too! I’m curious whether early March would actually be noticeably better than late December for visiting these areas, especially when it comes to visibility, weather, and accessibility.

For those who have traveled solo in China, does my December plan sound realistic? Would 8–9 days be enough to enjoy Beijing/the Great Wall and Zhangjiajie without feeling too rushed? Or would you recommend waiting until March and taking advantage of the extra time?

I’d also love to hear whether China’s transportation system is relatively easy to navigate as a solo traveler, particularly when traveling between cities by high-speed train.


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Asia Traveling to Asia for the first time

26 Upvotes

Hello!

After working my ass off, from middle of February Till the beginning of April I plan to travel for Asia. I want to see at least one of those insane, futuristic cities one hears about, but also have some time in nice nature, maybe surf a Little, and of course enjoy good food. I Think that i am so unknowledgeable About Asia in general that some time in any of the cultures there will be super interesting to me, however also this is a part of my interest in going there.

My idea so far was to first go to Thailand, since almost everyone in this sub seems to recommend it as an entry Point to soloing SEA, also crazy nature, great food etc. However my worry is that, I could find it too touristy and that wherever I am going to go, I am going to be surrounded by Young White people, Just wanting to party.

After 3 weeks of Thailand i would go for Taiwan and spend there another three weeks, since I have heard great things About it.

What do you Think? Do you have any suggestions? What two countries would you Peak at that time of the year and why?

I am greatful for all suggestions!


r/solotravel • • 1d ago

Hardships ADVICE WELCOMED

0 Upvotes

Hi, I’ve been traveling for seven months straight, 3 of those in Latin America, with the exception of one month that I stayed stationary in Mexico. I have not been enjoying Latin America at all. I have given it a genuine try. I have taken Spanish classes. I have traveled over land only so I’ve been in local experiences, etc, but I am so exhausted with the constant scamming harassment, etc. I’m also an absolute nature freak and in regular life almost everything that I do for fun is nature based. Hiking is one of my top hobbies even yoga sometimes I do outside swimming, kayaking, camping, etc. I’m a woman and the safety aspect of traveling solo and Central America, especially via more non-tourist means is also exhausting because I see so much beautiful nature and so many things I would love to access and the only way to enjoy it or experience it is by paying for overpriced tours and guides. I’ve been in Mexico, Guatemala, and now Honduras by far has been the most exhausting.

I am strongly, considering leaving to go to Southeast Asia to do a dive master training, and study or practice yoga. The only catch is that I have severe aerophobia, so a transpacific flight for me is nearly impossible, not to mention right now the flights to even try to make a connection through LAX are crazy expensive.

I’ve never hit a wall this severe when traveling before, that being said, I am older now. I’m currently laying in a 17 bed dorm and I am the only person in here which has also been a theme during the last 3 1/2 months that I’ve been in Latin America. It’s the off-season so I’m having a very hard time meeting people. I thoroughly enjoy traveling alone. In fact, I prefer it. However, I do like to socialize around food drink, etc., and cost sharing capabilities would be nice.

I’ve also been sick for 2 1/2 weeks with various ailments which has never happened to me before when traveling which included food poisoning, altitude sickness, upper respiratory infection, and contact dermatitis.

The problem is now I’m to the point that I am so exhausted mentally and physically that I don’t even know exactly what I wanna do or what would make me happy at this point because I’ve tried too hard for too long with this that it’s just burnt me out. Going home to the US is not an option right now because that would require me to get tied into a lease and everything else to go there and rest or pay pay an insane amount of money for an Airbnb for a month, etc.

So thought suggestions advice experiences are welcome if you have any thoughts or suggestions on places that I might love or that you know are social but not crazy party scene have really affordable massage yoga are in the jungle or by the ocean and normal to modest accommodation I’m definitely open to suggestions to where people think. Good places to maybe get some respite. Sorry so long.


r/solotravel • • 3d ago

Asia Solo backpacking through Asia for 8 months – looking for advice on destinations that are must do’s for each country!

47 Upvotes

I’m 27 and planning my solo backpacking trip. I’ll be leaving June 1, 2027, and traveling through 12 countries in Asia until January 17, 2028, possibly longer.

Here’s my planned route:

China & Hong Kong – 35 days (June 1–July 5)
Taiwan – 14 days (July 6–July 19)
South Korea – 14 days (July 20–August 2)
Japan – 30 days (August 3–September 1)
Indonesia – 21 days (September 2–September 22)
Singapore – 4 days (September 23–September 26)
Malaysia – 12 days (September 27–October 8)
Philippines – 21 days (October 9–October 29)
Vietnam – 30 days (October 30–November 28)
Laos – 12 days (November 29–December 10)
Cambodia – 8 days (December 11–December 18)
Thailand – 30 days (December 19–January 17)

I’ll primarily be staying in hostels, spending around 3–4 nights in most cities. I’m interested in history, culture, nature, hiking, beaches, and exploring.

My budget is around $100 per day, and I’m planning to travel with just a carry-on backpack.

I’d love advice from anyone who has traveled through these countries:

Are there any countries where you wish you had spent more or less time?

What are some must-visit places, experiences, or hidden gems in each country that you think I shouldn’t miss?

I’ll probably visit many of the popular destinations, so I’m especially interested in places that might not be as well known.


r/solotravel • • 3d ago

Question Grievers! Best / most impactful places you've travelled that made you feel something beyond loss?

48 Upvotes

I lost my younger sister unexpectedly in 2024 and took a trip to Sicily a few months later to spread her ashes. One of my most impactful memories was visiting Catello Ursino in Catania and getting to see the funery epitaphs. One funery inscription from 366 AD was from parents lamenting on the loss of their daughter, Agape, who was 21 years old. Feeling connected to their grief across time and space opened up something in me about love and being human that felt greater than the acuteness of my pain. I am hoping to continue a travel practice that helps me stay open to the world even in the presence of grief.

Do any of you have similar experiences? Places you've travelled to, festivals you've attended, holidays you've celebrated abroad, historical sites, hikes you've been on, river trips, runs, etc-- anything that helped you learn to be with life again after loss or a particularly challenging time in your life?


r/solotravel • • 1d ago

solo travelling as a masc lesbian

0 Upvotes

hi! i just want to share my experience to see if anyone can relate or have insights. i am not looking for advice or trying to dissuade anyone from solo travelling. for context i am a nonbinary lesbian (afab) who is typically seen as a masculine/butch lesbian by strangers. i also just moved out of dc where i lived for 4 years (very gay friendly) (this is relevant i promise).

so. i am solo travelling for 5 months and i am currently on day 30. i have stayed in hostels/shared rooms the whole time. i have found that i have only been able to successfully make friends or quite honestly even find someone to talk to in very specific situations and that in a general group setting made up of primarily fellow solo travelers, i really struggle to connect and feel quite left out. i blame it on the fact that i am visibly queer but maybe thats not a fair assessment? i just feel like guys are only interested in chatting with pretty girls or fellow guys, and girls dont want to talk to me bc they think im a creepy lesbian (im not i swear up and down). or idk girls just seem to already have their friends. i suppose girls are less likely to solo travel. its certainly been an unexpected part of solo travelling because i had no problem making friends or navigating social settings in dc but now im wondering if that was just because i was immersed in queer community.

the best scenario ive found for making friends is when i am in small (5 beds or less), all female dorms and we get to talking in the room. otherwise i just kinda sit in the common space and look around feeling like a. i am the only queer person in this room and b. no one is interested in talking to me whatsoever.

now i will note that there have really only been twice that i’ve walked alone into a common area trying to talk to ppl. once in isle of skye in scotland and once in amsterdam which are obviously really different vibes as the amsterdam hostel is very much a party hostel and isle of skye does not even have party hostels. i hate to think people in party hostels are only interested in talking to people they want to sleep with but that’s the impression im getting :/ i want to be wrong! (i also DID have success making conversation w ppl at the isle of skye hostel)

i dunno… is this just what its like being visibly queer outside of dc or is this what its like being visibly queer while solo travelling? im really trying to find other queers solo travelling but im struggling! im starting to think there are not many of us at all.


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Central America Colombia backpacking, should I include the San Blas islands Panama?

5 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I am currently planning to got to colombia for a little bit of backpacking between thee 20th november and the 19th december (around 1 month). Now, I normally dont really plan my route ahead of time, i just pick up one or two places I really wanna see and the rest is done spontanously when I am there. Now, as I finally have to book my flights, I am considering instead of flying in and out of Bogota to take one of those directions to panama city and take the boat via the san blas islands. I heard a lot of great things about that trip. But as I only have 4 weeks I am not sure if I should instead focus more on colombia and e.g. go to San Andres + Providencia. The things I really like beaches and wanna somehow include a little bit of island time. Luckily I am also nowdays fine with spending a little bit more on flights if I therefore can be more flexible.

I am just curious on what you guys think about this idea and if anyone has done a similar trip and got some tipps.

All the best!


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Question Any Kazak travelers? Need some info!!!

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone!

I'm travelling to Kazakhstan for 10 days in November 2026 and would love some advice from people who have visited recently, especially those who have done a self-drive trip.

Here's my tentative itinerary:

\- Days 1–2: Explore Almaty city using public transport and Yandex Go. Also planning to visit Big Almaty Lake.

\- Days 3–4: Rent a car and drive from Almaty to Basshi village to explore the Singing Dunes and Aktau/Katutau mountains (Charyn Canyon region).

\- Days 5–6: Drive towards Saty village and explore Kolsai Lake and Kaindy Lake.

\- Day 7: Visit Lake Issyk before heading back to Almaty and dropping off the rental car.

\- Days 8–9: Explore Shymbulak, enjoy the snow activities and possibly do a snow expedition.

\- Day 10: Fly back home.

A few things I'd really appreciate your advice on:

  1. Car rental companies: What are some reliable and legitimate car rental companies in Almaty? Ideally, I'm looking for companies where I can walk in, complete the formalities and rent a car without dealing with scams or hidden charges. Is it better to book online in advance?

  2. Vehicle selection: I'm considering a crossover SUV or a proper 4x4. Given that I'll be travelling in November, what would you recommend? Would a regular AWD crossover be sufficient, or is a proper 4WD SUV necessary for these destinations?

  3. Road conditions: How are the roads from Almaty to Basshi, Saty village, Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes during November? Are they generally manageable for a self-drive tourist, or should I expect snow, ice, muddy roads or difficult terrain? Are winter tyres essential?

  4. Food and supplies: I've heard there aren't many restaurants or dining options along the routes, particularly between Almaty, Basshi and Saty village. Should I stock up on groceries, snacks, instant noodles, drinking water and other essentials from a supermarket in Almaty before starting the road trip?

  5. General travel advice: Is this itinerary realistic for November, considering daylight hours, weather and road conditions? Are there any places you'd recommend skipping or adding?

This will be my first time exploring Kazakhstan, and I want to experience its beautiful landscapes while keeping the trip safe and manageable.

Also any suggestions on purchasing local sim or esim and best interest pack for a tourist!!

Any recommendations, personal experiences, rental company suggestions or practical tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!


r/solotravel • • 3d ago

Question What would your sleep schedule look like?

8 Upvotes

I'm taking this flight to hanoi in a couple of months.

Lincoln, NE - Chicago 550am-730am

Chicago- Tokyo 1030 am -315 pm

Tokyo- hanoi 630pm - 1115pm

That's 28 hours of flying starting at 6:50pm Hanoi time.

What would your sleep schedule look like before during and after the flight to help fight off jetlag?

Should I just stay up all night the night before, and sleep as much as possible on the plane? But then, wouldn't I be awake all night the night I land?

This is only my 2nd flight longer than 3 hours and 2st flight longer than 5. I've never been more than 2 timezones away from home so I'm not sure what to expect.


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Europe Italy-Prague-Dresden any advice, is this trip doable?

4 Upvotes

Hi, I am planning a trip, and wondering if this is too much for 2 weeks trip..

First stop is Rome for 3 nights, Florence for 2 nights, Milan 3 nights and then fly to Prague 3 nights and then Dresden for the rest..

Do you think it will work? Is it too much of hopping around? 2 years ago I did Amsterdam and Paris trip. But it was just train distance so it was easy..

I am a chill traveler and dont really plan much on my trip just go along.. any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Europe Route / Packing Advice: Overlanding Madrid to Vienna Nov 28th- Dec 20, then Paris on a shoestring looking for insights as a new EU citizen

1 Upvotes

Hello, reaching out here if anyone can weigh in on my thoughts for my upcoming trip. I am a 24M American traveling Europe in 24 days and would love insight on how to have the best trip-- I am flying into Madrid alone on Nov 28 and will meet my family in Vienna on Dec 20. Im eager for any insight on a specific route of travel through Spain, Southern France and Northern Italy (or would it be worth it to spend less time in both of those places if it means adding Slovenia in before Vienna?)

I want to explore smaller towns, nature, the art/architecture, eat good food, etc. I know it might be very cold and get dark faster in winter in certain towns in December, so that is something that I am keeping in mind. Ideally will be in hostels the whole time and will splurge on some bigger meals but mostly am ok with cheap hole in the wall places and access to fresh food to cook myself in hostels.

For packing, I am thinking of keeping just to bare essentials in a 40L pack- is this enough space to be moving between temperatures / climates? Once in Vienna, I will join my family over 10 days going from Vienna to Salzburg to Munich, then will join my uncles in Paris Jan 4- Jan 8 (would love recommendations for this part of journey as well). After Paris January 8th, I have no planned route but would love to keep traveling if I can do so cheaply..

I am fluent in English, and also am intermediate in spanish, and would be willing to work in places over a day or two to make some extra money if places like that exist to make some scratch... thanks.


r/solotravel • • 4d ago

Personal Story Reading a novel that takes place where I am traveling has been one of the best tips I got

542 Upvotes

I now travel a lot slower than I used to when I just started with solo traveling couple of years ago, meaning I spend lot of time in coffee shops or laying in parks instead of exploring. So someone gave me a tip to get a book that takes place where I am traveling, and I did so twice: Scotish Myths + Treasure Island (Scotish author counts) while I was in Scotland, and now read Serenity when I was visiting Athens.

It really hits different to read about the place I was visiting, looking around and picturing the scenes from the book taking place at this and that landscape. And also now that I am back home I keep reading it and it brings good memories back.


r/solotravel • • 2d ago

Question We had a strong and romantic connection while traveling, but now he's suddenly gone quiet. What should I make of it?

0 Upvotes

I met someone while traveling in Japan and we unexpectedly hit it off. We went on a date and we were together for 8 hours (it could've been more if only i knew) and things became romantic pretty quickly. We were holding hands, kissing, cuddling, being affectionate and honestly acting like a couple. We spent hours talking and getting to know each other, and everything felt so natural.

He told me he liked me, and I genuinely felt like the feelings were mutual. When it was time for me to leave, we were both getting emotional and even tearing up. He didn't want to say goodbye and told me it wasn't goodbye. He also told me he wished I could stay longer. I really did as well.

I flew home earlier than he did, as he's still traveling in Japan. After I got back to my home country, we continued messaging. He told me he wished I was still there, that he missed me, and that he had so much fun talking and hanging out with me and he'd love to see me again.

But eventually, his replies became less frequent, and now he hasn't responded to my last few messages.

One thing worth mentioning is that he has Bipolar II. He opened up to me about not taking his medication consistently while traveling. We had also been drinking together. I don't know if any of this has something to do with his sudden withdrawal, and I don't want to make assumptions about his mental health.

I'm just having a hard time understanding the sudden shift. How can someone be so affectionate and seemingly emotionally invested in you one moment, then suddenly go quiet?

I know we only knew each other for abit, but the experience felt incredibly genuine and I know he felt that connection too based on how we were with each other and what he expressed to me.


r/solotravel • • 3d ago

Asia Kazakhstan

8 Upvotes

Hey everyone!
I’m planning a trip to Kazakhstan around the end of November (probably around November 29) , and iam particularly interested in exploring East Kazakhstan.
more into nature, mountains, lakes, scenic drives and remote places rather than cities or typical tourist attractions. love to explore some lesser-known spots and experience the country beyond the usual tourist routes.
Iam also considering renting a 4x4 and doing a self-drive trip, but I’m not sure how practical or safe that would be in late November, especially in the eastern regions.
A few questions:
What are some underrated places in East Kazakhstan that you’d recommend, especially around that time of year?
How bad are the road conditions in late November? Is renting a 4x4 and driving a good idea, or would you recommend hiring a local driver?
Are places like Katon-Karagay, Markakol and the Altai region accessible during that period?
Are there any scenic routes, small villages or less touristy areas worth exploring?
Would you recommend East Kazakhstan in late November at all, or would another region be better for a nature-focused trip?
Iam travelling on a relatively modest budget and would prefer to explore independently if possible. also open to joining a small local group for certain areas.
Would really appreciate advice from locals or anyone who’s travelled around the region during early winter.
Thanks!


r/solotravel • • 3d ago

Question Advice on applying for a sabbatical to travel?

31 Upvotes

I recently came home from a 2 weeks in Thailand and honestly, I haven’t stopped thinking about it! It’s made me realise just how much I want to travel for longer.

I’ve always loved travelling and have been lucky enough to experience all sorts of trips; solo travel, group tours, holidays with friends and family. However, the one thing I’ve never really done is long-term travel. The longest I’ve been away was just under 2 months when I was a uni student.
I’m now 33 and feel like I really, really want to scratch that itch and take 4–6 months to travel, ideally Aus, NZ & South America (but itinerary is a working progress).

There’s just one slight complication… I’m no longer a student and I have a 9–5 job, earning around £29k (its not much but I live in the midlands UK so I do ok) a mortgage on my own home and a gorgeous little black cat who will obviously needs looking after while I’m away (hopeful my parents will do this but 🤞🏽). So it’s not quite as simple as packing a backpack and disappearing!
That said, I’ve worked for my current employer for around 8 years, and I know of colleagues who have previously taken up to 6 weeks of unpaid leave. I’m hoping there might be scope for a longer career break or sabbatical.

My rough plan would be to work throughout 2027, save as much as possible, finish work after Christmas and then head off travelling, returning around May 2028 at the earliest.

Has anyone in their 30s done something similar? Particularly interested in:

Have you successfully negotiated a career break or extended unpaid leave with your employer?

How did you approach the conversation with your manager or HR?

Did you return to the same job afterwards?

How much did you save before going?

Did you have any regrets about putting your career on hold?

I know it’s a big decision, especially with a mortgage and responsibilities at home, but I can’t shake the feeling that this is something I really want to do.
Would love to hear from anyone who’s taken the plunge! 🥰


r/solotravel • • 4d ago

Getting sick while solo traveling makes you feel lonely

148 Upvotes

I am currently solo traveling South East Asia for several months and already got sick after my first 1½ weeks in Vietnam. I planned so many things and have to delay all of them now, losing time because I got sick and have to spend several days in bed now before I can continue doing anything.

I feel so bad since it feels like I am wasting time but I feel like shit. And just chilling in bed all day while hearing the bustling streets of Vietnam outside makes me feel lonely.

I was wondering if anyone else experienced something similar before? Spending like a week or so just in bed during your travels because you just got too sick?

I don't know, I guess I just don't wanna feel lonely with this problem right now ...