join a tour group

Best Tours & Travel Groups for Singles

Travel groups bring together individuals with similar interests from all around the world! Many single travelers decide to join a group tour as it’s an ideal setting to share the experience amongst like-minded travelers.  

There are many solo travel groups available, as well as plenty of reasons why single travelers might opt to join one. Perhaps there’s a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, but would feel more comfortable traveling with an organized group.  

Maybe you’re no stranger to traveling alone, and are primarily interested in meeting new people in a group setting. Or, you might just appreciate the convenience of having the itinerary and logistics planned for you. 

There’s a multitude of options that cater to a wide variety of demographics, such as travel groups for singles over 40, tours for seniors traveling alone, and travel tours for singles in their 20s.

What are Group Tours?

Group tours are operated by companies that organize specific itineraries and arrange a wide variety of trips that cater to various demographics and interests. Travelers are transported through the exciting journey, within a small group setting. 

When traveling with a tour group, there’s no need to worry about small details or logistics. The tour company conveniently puts together a seamless itinerary, and handles your transportation and accommodations at each stop.

The best tours and travel groups for singles  offer a bit of everything! Various types of tours exist, including enchanting wildlife safaris, scenic walking tours, tasty culinary ventures, thrilling outdoor adventures, and many more!  

Take a deep dive into a destination you’ve always wanted to visit, as many tour companies offer sightseeing itineraries to a vast selection of countries! Read on below for tour operators that offer a wide array of exciting group tours to choose from, many of which are ideal for singles.  

Intrepid is a leading adventure tour company that organizes small group tours, offering over 1,000 trips to 100 countries! Pick your favorite worldwide destination to discover, or choose from a variety of tour themes, such as a walking tour through Italy’s Amalfi Coast, or an outdoor adventure in Peru.

G Adventures

G Adventures is a travel company that arranges small group tours, safaris, and expeditions, primarily focused on young people. Choose from a variety of interesting travel styles such as a wellness tour or an active tour. If you have a desired region in mind, select from one of many itineraries featuring that destination. Try an active tour to the Inca trail in Peru, or a sightseeing expedition in Morocco.  

Trafalgar is a tour operator that arranges trips to over 72 countries. Choose from a wide selection of creative itineraries that include your favorite destination, or select from a plethora of exciting travel themes!    Join a sightseeing tour and see the highlights of Ireland & Scotland, or explore European culture and history on a journey to Spain and Portugal.  

Exodus is a tour company that organizes trips to over 100 different countries! Exodus focuses on adventure, and features hundreds of interesting itineraries to select from. Try an active cycling tour, a sightseeing walking tour, or a thrilling wildlife experience. Exodus also offers a selection of group tours designed for solo travelers.

Discovering Group Tours for Solo Travelers

If you plan to travel alone, there are factors to consider when searching for a group tour. There’s an abundance of tours and travel groups for singles. Ask yourself the below questions to help narrow down your options and determine a tour that’s best suited for you.

When do you intend to travel?

When looking at a specific group tour, you might come across a list of intended departure dates and an itinerary of the destinations you will visit. Tour companies generally have pre-set departure dates for when a tour will take place. These can be far ahead, or closer to the current date. As the tour dates and itinerary are typically pre-arranged, this is something to be mindful of when planning your vacation, so that you can choose a date that works best for your schedule.

How long would you like to travel for?

Many tours range from 8 to 14 days long, as they account for travel time between cities, and allow you to experience the highlights of the cities visited. While it depends on the tour, many itineraries will typically visit 3 to 5 different destinations within that time frame. For certain experiences, you can also find tours as short as 5 days, tours as long as 24 days, and everything else in-between.

What type of activities interest you?

Tour companies typically offer various types of tours. Perhaps you would like to spend your days hiking in the forest, explore the food and culture of a country, or uncover historic landmarks in a city. A common theme offered is sightseeing-based tours. These tours transport you to a brand-new city or country and allow you to visit the notable attractions and top highlights. They are broad and generally appeal to most people.

There are also more specific tour themes for certain interests. For example, there are adventure tours that take you outdoors, culinary trips, and sailing or cruise expeditions. While you’ll often find single travelers in most groups, there’s also tours that specifically offer group trips for solo travelers.

Where do you want to go?

Is there a specific destination that you already have in mind? If not, flip through a travel magazine for ideas, or see our Solo Trip Guide  for inspiration. Tour companies will generally plan an itinerary that gives you the opportunity to visit various top cities within the same country or region. For those interested in group travel for singles, there’s a wide array of destinations to contemplate.

Try browsing through tour listings to see what piques your interest. Often, you’ll be able to see a group tour’s itinerary on the tour listing page, which displays the scheduled cities and the activities planned for each day.   

See More for Solo Travelers:

There’s a multitude of cities, adventures, and group tours for singles to consider. The best group trips for singles showcase the highlights of a destination and give you the opportunity to experience a new city alongside others.

However, if you’re looking for other travel styles where a creative itinerary is planned for you, or an engaging atmosphere where you have the opportunity to meet new people, you might be interested in a voyage on a cruise! Read the Best Cruises for Solo Travelers for more options!

If you prefer the excitement of planning your own trip and the flexibility of traveling at your own pace, there are plenty of amazing destinations and vacation experiences for single travelers featured on our website.

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How to Join Travel Groups

Are you itching to explore the world with a group of like-minded adventurers? Well, look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to join travel groups and experience the freedom and excitement that comes with traveling in a pack. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking companionship or simply want to share unforgettable moments with others, we’ve got you covered. So buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating journey into the world of travel groups!

Key Takeaways

• Joining a travel group provides a built-in community of fellow travelers and a sense of security and companionship.
• It is important to find a travel group that aligns with your interests and preferences, values independence and flexibility, and prioritizes authentic experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Researching different travel groups online or asking for recommendations can help you find the right group for you.
• To make the most of your travel group experience, actively participate in group activities, get to know your fellow travelers, engage in conversations and share stories, and embrace new experiences.

Benefits of Joining a Travel Group

There are many benefits to joining a travel group, such as having a built-in community of fellow travelers. When you join a travel group, you instantly become part of a like-minded tribe who shares your love for adventure and exploration. You no longer have to wander alone; instead, you can connect with individuals who desire the same freedom and excitement that you do. Travel groups provide a sense of security and companionship, allowing you to feel more confident in exploring new destinations. Additionally, being part of a travel group gives you access to exclusive deals and discounts, making your adventures more affordable. So why limit yourself to solo travels when you can experience the world with others who crave the same sense of liberation? Joining a travel group opens up endless possibilities for unforgettable experiences.

Finding the Right Travel Group for You

When looking for the perfect travel group, it’s important to find one that aligns with your interests and preferences. You desire freedom in your travels, so finding a group that values independence and flexibility is crucial. Look for groups that allow you to choose your own activities and explore at your own pace. Seek out those who prioritize authentic experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, rather than sticking to touristy spots. It’s also essential to consider the size of the group – smaller groups often provide more freedom and personalized attention. Research different travel groups online or ask fellow travelers for recommendations. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions about their philosophy and itinerary. Remember, joining a travel group should enhance your sense of adventure, not limit it. Find the right group that resonates with your free-spirited nature and embark on unforgettable journeys together!

Steps to Joining a Travel Group

To become a part of a travel group, start by researching different options online or asking fellow travelers for recommendations. Here are three steps to help you join the perfect travel group:

Determine your travel preferences: Think about what kind of experiences you want from your trip. Are you looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation? Knowing your preferences will help you find a travel group that aligns with your desires.

Research different travel groups: Look for reputable organizations or websites that offer group trips. Read reviews and check their itineraries to see if they match your interests and budget. Don’t be afraid to reach out to past participants for their feedback.

Connect with potential group members: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to travel enthusiasts. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and share your own experiences. This way, you can connect with like-minded individuals who may already be part of a travel group or looking to join one.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Travel Group Experience

One way to enhance your travel group experience is by actively participating in group activities and getting to know your fellow travelers. Remember, you’re not just a passive observer on this journey, but an active participant who can shape the dynamics of the group. Engage in conversations, share stories, and exchange ideas with others – after all, everyone in the group is seeking new experiences and connections. Take advantage of the freedom that comes with being part of a travel group by stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. Whether it’s joining a local cooking class or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations together, embrace the opportunity to create unforgettable memories with like-minded individuals who share your passion for adventure. The more you engage with your travel group, the richer and more fulfilling your experience will be.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them in Travel Groups

Engaging in open communication and actively participating in group activities can help overcome common challenges that arise within travel groups.

Listen and be understanding : Everyone in the group may have different preferences, ideas, and expectations. By actively listening to others and being understanding of their perspectives, you can create a more harmonious environment.

Address conflicts promptly : Conflicts are bound to happen, but it’s important to address them promptly instead of letting them simmer. Openly communicate your concerns and work towards finding a resolution that benefits everyone involved.

Embrace flexibility : Travel plans can change unexpectedly due to various reasons like weather conditions or logistical issues. Being flexible and adaptable will help you navigate through these challenges with ease, ensuring a smoother travel experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical costs associated with joining a travel group.

The typical costs associated with joining a travel group include transportation, accommodation, meals, and any additional activities. It’s important to budget for these expenses and consider if the benefits of group travel outweigh the costs for you.

How Can I Ensure the Safety of My Belongings While Traveling With a Group?

To ensure the safety of your belongings while traveling with a group, keep them close to you and use secure bags or locks. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts if something feels off.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Joining Travel Groups?

There aren’t any age restrictions for joining travel groups. You can join regardless of your age. So, don’t worry about that and focus on the amazing experiences you’ll have while traveling with others!

Can I Join a Travel Group if I Don’t Have Any Previous Travel Experience?

You can definitely join a travel group even if you don’t have any previous travel experience. It’s all about having a desire for adventure and being open to new experiences. So go ahead and join that group!

What Are Some Common Cultural Etiquettes to Be Aware of When Traveling With a Group?

When traveling with a group, it’s important to be aware of cultural etiquettes. Respect the customs and traditions of the places you visit, be open-minded, and considerate towards others in the group.

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2024

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Caroline has a passion for adventure travel and has hiked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the bottom of the Grand Canyon in pursuit of a good story. Follow her around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2024 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 8-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,014 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $799 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $749.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 10 million dollars to over 160 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-35 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience foodie trip of a lifetime Intrepid Travel’s South Korea Real Food Adventure , which includes time in three cities and an overnight temple stay.

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination. For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina).

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $6,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to closer destinations like Mexico or Costa Rica—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife & Nature: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Organize a travel group

What’s better than traveling the world? Doing it for free. Our Group Coordinator program lets you share your passion for travel (and food, and history) with others—plus awesome perks, including a free spot on tour for every six travelers who join you.

How it works

Our Group Coordinator community is a diverse crew with one thing in common—a passion for sharing the world with others. Whether you’re the person in your circle who plans all the fun, a leader of your book club looking to visit the setting of your favorite novel, or a lifelong educator, you could be the perfect fit. Here’s how we can help you make your travel dreams a reality.

We’ll match you with a Tour Consultant who’ll share the details of becoming a Group Coordinator and help you plan your trip. Count on them for help every step of the way. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 to get started.

Choose from 200+ immersive, guided tours with curated itineraries that your group members will love (Spoiler alert: They’re all pretty dreamy.) We take care of everything, from accommodations to zip lining.

The more travelers you recruit, the more rewards you’ll pile up. (It takes effort, but we’re here to help you succeed.) So, invite friends, family, neighbors—anyone with an appetite for adventure—to hit the road with you.

Enjoy all the sightseeing and pasta-twirling—and do it all over again thanks to our travel rewards . Our community is here to help you dream up a travel program you (and your travelers) will keep coming back to.

Rewards and perks you won’t get anywhere else

Inspiring fellow travelers and stoking their travel fire is half the fun of being a Group Coordinator. It’s also real work that we love to reward. That’s why we offer our Group Coordinators the best travel loyalty program and perks out there (and tons of resources and support to make it all happen).

Free spot on tour

For every six travelers you bring, you’ll earn a free spot on tour—with no limit to the number of free spaces you can earn or tours you can take. You won’t find this offer anywhere else.

Personalized benefits that go far (just like our 200+ expertly planned guided trips)

Earn commission.

We’ll help you find the commission structure that makes the most sense (and fun) for the program you want to build. Flexibility is built in.

Discounts you can share

Sweeten the deal for your travelers with discounts on tours, as well as unforgettable add-ons. Did someone say sunset Santorini cruise?

Stellar rewards that add up fast

Our unmatched loyalty program, Global Rewards , lets you earn points to redeem on Convention Tours, on-tour experiences, and more.

Exclusive Convention Tours

We design special trips—to spectacular places—just for Group Coordinators, so you can swap everything from travel stories to recruiting strategies.

Meet some of our Group Coordinators

The fun friend who plans themed movie nights and hosts epic dinners. The bon vivant who lives for bringing people together. The adventurer who’s always dreaming up a new escape, whether to the next town over or a time zone half a world away. These are a few of the folks who make up our Group Coordinator community—a bunch of curious, adventurous explorers who share a passion for travel. And if you’re anything like them, you’ll fit right in.

Get to know some of our Group Coordinators →

We’re all curious and interested in learning. We love to discover. And we’re a little irreverent. Word of mouth just spreads when you’re all enthusiastic and passionate about the same things.

—Group Coordinator Dan

Working with Go Ahead, I can see the change that has been made in so many of my friends’ lives.

—Group Coordinator Debbie

Now that you know how it works, let’s talk support

As a Group Coordinator, we’ll never ask you to go it alone. We’ve got your back with dedicated consultants and mentors (who started out just like you) to inspire you and guide you as you make travel happen.

A Go Ahead team just for you

Your dedicated Tour Consultant will help you choose the right trip, or plan a Private or Customized Tour to suit your group. Your Account Manager will be at the ready to assist with everything from travelers’ payments to insurance options and so much more.

Mentorship opportunities

You’ll meet and connect with our Global Ambassadors. These veteran Group Coordinators have learned a thing or two over the years, and they’re eager to share their expertise—and experiences—anytime you need it.

Our free mobile app

You can use it to recruit travelers, view group members’ account status, track progress toward your group-size goal, and communicate with your group members before and during your tour—to name just a few of its handy features.

A personalized tour website

Share the link to inspire potential travelers, spread the word about your trip, and keep existing group members up to speed on your tour’s details.

Recruiting materials

To help you recruit travelers, we’ll send you personalized flyers, posters, and presentation templates to spread the word. You’ll also have access to the Group Coordinator Handbook and an online toolkit with trainings and resources.

A private Facebook group

Sign in to ask questions, share tips and strategies, post on-tour photos, and chat all things travel with other members of our Group Coordinator community .

Ready? You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 or request details now.

Your best picks for epic trips

Check out handpicked tours Group Coordinators and their crews love, brimming with experiences they’ll never forget. Hot-air-balloon rides high above the Nile and rainforest kayaking in Costa Rica? Built right in.

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Frequently asked questions

Here are some questions that potential Group Coordinators often ask.

As a Go Ahead Group Coordinator, you’ll earn one free spot on tour for every six travelers you bring with you. The easiest way to earn your free spot is by recruiting at least six full-paying travelers for your trip, but we also offer a variety of other options to fit your group’s unique needs that you can discuss with your Tour Consultant. Call us at 1-800-438-7672 to find out more.

Many Group Coordinators have existing networks of potential travelers. Think: friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, book club members, hairstylists… you get the idea!

Your dedicated Tour Consultant and Account Manager will support you throughout the process of planning your tour and growing your group of travelers. Our team will create a personalized website, flyers, slideshow, reservation forms, and business cards that you can use to spread the word.

You’ll also receive access to an online Group Coordinator Toolkit, which is full of resources that make creating and growing your group of travelers easy.

When you join EF Go Ahead Tours as a Group Coordinator, you become part of a supportive travel community.

You’ll be paired with a dedicated Tour Consultant and Account Manager who’ll help you with every step of the process. We’ll also make you personalized materials to help spread the word, like posters, business cards, and your own webpage. Plus, you’ll have access to an online Group Coordinator Toolkit full of helpful resources, info, and advice about getting travelers to join you on tour. Give us a call at 1-800-438-7672 to get started.

Choosing EF Go Ahead Tours means exploring the world on expertly-planned guided tours, sharing your travels with others, and earning rewards along the way. We’re backed by over 55 years of experience and the EF Education First global network, educational heritage, and local-everywhere expertise.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll:

• Earn the industry’s best benefits, including free travel
• Enjoy the perks of Global Rewards , our industry-leading loyalty program
• Be part of a supportive community of passionate travelers & Go Ahead staff
• Travel the world on culturally immersive tours guided by experts

We offer more than 200 expertly-planned guided tours across the globe. Each includes staff-vetted hotels, comfortable transportation, sightseeing with local guides, authentic meals, an expert Tour Director, and much more. There are a few different ways you can join us to explore the world as a Group Coordinator.

• You and your travelers can join any of our 200+ pre-planned itineraries .
• With 10 travelers or more, you can make any of our trips a Private Tour . That means your trip is exclusive to your group, and you can choose the departure date that works best for you.
• With 14 travelers or more, you can dream up your own Customized Tour tailored to your group’s interests.

We partner with organizations looking to make a difference in their members’ lives, whether it’s on alumni travel tours, trips with local banks, special interest tours through community organizations, or spiritual tours through religious organizations.

We offer flexible benefits packages so you can choose what works best. You can generate revenue for your organization, earn a free spot on tour for a community leader, or create a custom benefits package that suits your group’s needs. Read more about our corporate partnerships .

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Travel By Style

Solo Travelers 18-35+-

Solo Travelers 30-45+-

Solo Travelers 50+

Singles and singles by faith.

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Serious dancers.

High School Graduations

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Active 

Beach Resorts

Religion (Faith)

African Safari

World Holidays

Unique events and festivals.

Small ships

Small Groups

Independent

HOST A GROUP!

Whitewater rafting in costa rica.

Host groups, unlock travel perks! Whether you lead a spa, gym, church, or enjoy group travel, hosting brings free or discounted trips. No handling money; you assemble the group, we handle the rest.

Book now~Pay Later

Plan well in advance.

Plan ahead with our flexible booking. Reserve now, pay later. Enjoy a hassle-free vacation when the time comes.

Giving Back

Education initiatives.

We prioritize social responsibility by partnering with initiatives that actively contribute to enhancing education, empowering every student to reach their full potential.

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Solo vacations

Vacations for solo travelers.

Our  small group tours are ideal for solo travelers who want to really explore, and who want some good company along the way. All of our group tours are suitable for single travelers, no matter your age. In fact, with around 60% of our customers traveling solo on our tours, you're likely to have other solos in your group, so you'll instantly have something in common.  The average group size on our solo trips is just 11, so you'll have the opportunity to meet new friends looking for the same experiences as you are, but not too many to disrupt your trip. And you'll be led by a local  tour leader  with expert knowledge about your destination, who will keep you safe and ensure you have the best experience possible.

Find your solo trip

Solo vacations for over 30s

Solo vacations for over 40s

Solo vacations for over 50s

Solo vacations for over 60s

Solo adventure tours

Solo walking tours

Solo cycle tours

Solo travel guide for women

Solo travel guide

Our most popular solo tours

The best of azerbaijan, georgia and armenia.

Historic Baltic Republics

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Highlights of Poland

Walking Scotland’s Orkney Islands

A Taste of Georgia - Tbilisi to the Caucasus Mountains

FAQs for solo travelers

First time traveling alone on a group holiday? We've answered the top questions about traveling alone on an Explore tour:

No, there is no extra cost for traveling by yourself on our tours if you’re happy to share with another traveler. If you prefer a room of your own, there’ll be a single room supplement to pay. How much this is depends on the trip.

Yes, we build free time into our itineraries on the majority of our trips. Check the itinerary on the trip page where we detail the plan for each day, including available free time.

Our typical small group is 11 people, plus an Explore leader. Big enough to meet likeminded people, but small enough to get close to the destination you’re visiting. The exact size varies according to the type of trip, the transport and accommodation used and activities included. We rarely have groups that are smaller than five or six people or larger than 16. Usually around half of the travelers in each group are traveling solo.

Included in our trip price is a bed in a twin room, which you would share with another person in your group of the same sex. If you prefer a room of your own, you can choose to pay for our single room option (single supplement). This is available on most of our trips but may not apply to all nights - check the trip itinerary, where we state which nights have single room options. The single supplement cost varies according to the trip – see the trip pages for pricing.

Typically, we leave the evenings free on our tours, so you can enjoy free time to do whatever you choose. Your tour leader will be on hand to recommend local restaurants and things to do, and can organise bookings for you. It's up to you whether you eat with your whole group, in smaller groups or on your own. Some trips have evening activities, for example a meal with locals in a home stay or a sunset boat ride, but often these are optional. Check the trip page for a day-to-day breakdown of included meals and activities.

Of course! People travel alone with us for all sorts of reasons, not just because they're single. So if you're partner isn't able to join you on your trip, or isn't up for traveling, you'll still be in great company.

Yes, our customers' safety is our number one priority, so you'll be safe traveling with us. Being with a group is a sure way to stay safe, and our tour leader will also be with you to watch out for the whole group. As a local, your tour leader will be able to advise you on local customs and etiquette, common phrases and what to look out for. And in the unlikely event that something unexpected should happen before or during your trip, we pride ourselves on our swift and efficient response, so you can be assured that you’ll be well looked-after. Read more in our solo travel guide for women

Want to know more? Check out our solo travel guide . 

What to expect as a solo traveler with Explore

Unforgettable experiences

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small groups

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Reviews from solo travelers

Average customer rating:

Independent service rating based on

Ready for your solo tour?

Read more about solo travel on our tours

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Best solo tours in the UK

Travel Guide for Single Parent Family Holidays

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

Solo Travel Guide: Travelling alone in Europe

Best solo tours in North America

Best travel groups to join

Interest in travel groups is booming , especially among the new generations; They are a great option for people to make new friends, discover fascinating places, have their travel planning taken care of and go on a trip even if they don’t have anyone to travel with.

While we love solo travel, group tours offer many advantages such as:

• Sharing costs and avoiding the single supplement
• Have a host/guide that takes care of everything during the trip
• The convenience of having everything planned out for you
• Help keeping safe
• The opportunity to visit destinations that may be hard, expensive or challenging solo
• Make new friends who share a love for travel

There are thousands of groups for travel out there, and sometimes loads of options can be overwhelming and confusing. This is why we’ve narrowed it down to this list of the best. 

Besides regular travel groups, we’ve also included niche and specific options that specialize in a certain travel style, age range or community. This is the only travel group list you need.

• 1 Women-only travel groups
• 2 Mixed gender travel groups 
• 3 Adventure travel groups
• 4 Mature & senior travel groups
• 5 Educational travel groups
• 6 Boutique/niche travel groups
• 7 Black travel groups
• 8 LGBT+ travel groups
• 9 Groups to find travel buddies
• 10 Facebook travel groups

Women-only travel groups

Travel groups for women who want to travel solo, but in a group. Small group trips are a safe, affordable and convenient way to visit challenging destinations or to test solo travel in a predefined way.

Traveling with a group of like-minded women means a group of new travel friends and the beginning of genuine connections and long lasting friendships. 

Here are our recommendations for the best women travel groups out there.

Solo Female Travelers 

Join us in bucket list destinations and unusual places for life changing connections with local women, great food & wine, fabulous company, culture, nature, wildlife and so much more! 

Our trips are designed by women, for women and are led by women. We offer a range of luxury, personally curated experiences that have all the ingredients of a well-deserved vacation and adventure expeditions to unheard of places.

What sets us apart from all other group travel companies is that our tours are focused on women; we provide employment opportunities to women in the destinations we visit, we engage them in conversations about women’s rights and learn more about a country through the eyes of their women. We believe that the best path to peace and understanding is through building bridges between cultures and do that on all our trips.

For that extra something, many of our female travel tours are accompanied by our photographer to capture unforgettable moments and candid instants that will stay with you.

Come solo and we’ll pair you with another traveler or book with a friend, and get ready to have an unforgettable experience. These are the places we take you to – click on the image to see the detailed itinerary.

Mixed gender travel groups 

If you’re longing for a group vacation but less concerned about connecting with local women, in this section we will suggest group travel companies that offer a wide range of options for all ages and genders. 

These travel groups accept female and male guests, with a mix of solo travelers, couples and families, so they’re great for meeting people . These tour companies guarantee an exciting and fun holiday abroad. Take a look!

Contiki is a tour company that focuses on social travel, that is, people traveling together to make memories. 

They offer group trips all around the world, great for people from 18-35 years old. Almost 60% of their travelers are solo, so it’s perfect for meeting people, making friends and creating meaningful connections abroad if you are in your younger years.

All the tours are culturally immersive led by expert guides, and center on exploring new places without hassle. They have everything from short trips, festivals, hiking, ski & snowboarding, to island hopping and safari tours. 

Most of their tours have a lot of in-built free time and some meals so make sure you look at the inclusions carefully to estimate extra expenditure.

Their most popular trips are: Egypt & the Nile, Ireland and East Africa Safari. 

• Who’s Contiki for: 18-35 years old travelers who want all the planning sorted out
• Destinations: More than 350 trips across 6 continents
• Duration: short trips of a few days up to 4+ week trips 
• Group size: they have trips with 15 people or less, trips with 16-30 people and trips with 30+ people 
• Single supplement: They pair you up with a roomie. If you want a private room for yourself, they can arrange it for a small supplement

Exodus Travels offers unique tour experiences such as cycling in Croatia or hiking in Morocco, that guarantee you’ll have the best time and share memorable moments with like-minded people in whatever activity level you choose: leisurely, moderate or challenging. 

Compare the tours and find the one that matches your interests. Have a detox of the ordinary and make the most of your singles vacation going to a bucket list trip like Pyramids and Pharaohs in Egypt, Cabernet and Capers in South Africa or Street food and Sunshine in Sicily. 

• Who’s Exodus for: adventurous people who like unique experiences 
• Destinations: More than 100 countries across 6 continents
• Duration: from 3-23 days
• Group size: 8-16 people
• Single supplement: Their tours have no single supplements as they will put you in a shared room with a fellow traveler of the same gender. Occasionally, you may end up with your own room

A UK adventure travel company, Explore creates unforgettable experiences for small groups and were recommended by members of our community. 

They have a wide variety of tours including the classic ‘Discovery’ tours, walking holidays, cycling trips or solo holidays. They also have unique special tours like Polar trips. Some of their bestsellers are: Costa Rica wildlife tour, Cycle Turkey trip and Maldive cruise. 

• Who’s Explore for: travelers looking for adventure and fun
• Duration: from 4-19 days
• Group size: average is 12 people
• Single supplement: As a single traveler you won’t have to pay any extra charges for traveling alone. A twin room is included in their trip price and they will pair you with another individual of the same sex. You can opt to pay a single room supplement, available on most of their tours

Solos Holidays

With more than 40 years of experience, Solos Holidays is a tour company that hosts especially crafted holidays designed for single and solo travelers. 

They focus on creating sociable experiences where one can travel independently, but with the convenience of traveling in a group and having a tour leader. 

In order to appeal to a wider range of travelers, they have many holiday types with specific activities that match almost any interest. There are solo travel groups for the active which include activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, yoga, golf, whale watching. They also have ClubSolos which is an exclusive tour in luxurious accommodation.

• Who’s Solos Holidays for: independent travelers seeking the support of traveling in a group
• Destinations: more than 45 countries in all of the 7 continents
• Duration: from 7-14 days
• Group size: average size is 15, but can be up to 20 or 30 people, depending on holiday type
• Single supplement: there are no single supplements on all of their holidays

Adventure travel groups

Feeling bold and brave? Join one of these adventure travel groups. 

The companies in this section specialize in outdoor intrepid holidays and will make sure you have the time of your life while making new friends and staying safe.

You don’t have to be super fit or have the best physical condition to join one of these tours. There are tours with different activity levels, look for the one that suits you best.

Mt Sobek 

It all started in 1969 with their first Everest Base Camp trek. MT Sobek creates small group adventure travel vacations with unique itineraries. They have a wide range of trips with more than 150 in different categories such as trekking, hiking, safaris, rafting, kayaking, cruising and cultural voyages. 

They were recognized as a preferred travel outfitter by Smithsonian Journey and the New York Times Journeys. 

• Who’s MT Sobek for: adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities
• Destinations: more than 60 countries
• Duration: from 4-15 days 
• Group size: fewer than 10 people per group
• Single supplement: if you’re comfortable sharing your room with a same-gender roommate, you pay no single supplement through their Single-Share Program. If you want a private room, you do pay a low single supplement

Duvine is an international adventure company that specializes in cycling tours around the world. Their bike tours offer much more than cycling; they involve the local culture, culinary experiences (including wonderful local wines!), luxurious accommodation and passionate people to connect with. 

Duvine provides top-quality bikes and all the necessary gear to explore the world by bike. Their most popular bike trips are in Tuscany, Provence and Mallorca.  

• Who’s Duvine for: travelers who like biking and cultural & culinary experiences
• Destinations: 30 countries across Europe, Latin America, US and Africa 
• Duration: from 4-8 days 
• Group size: up to 14 people
• Single supplement: their bike tours are priced based on double occupancy. If you ask the tour coordinator, they can pair you with another solo traveler in order to waive the single supplement

Recreational Equipment, Inc (REI) was founded in 1938 and has been one of the top outdoor companies in the world. Best known for selling outdoor gear and apparel, REI hosts exciting outdoor adventure tours throughout the US. Activities on the trips include hiking, backpacking, cycling, kayaking, mountain biking, and rafting.

In REI Adventure trips you can discover places like a local, explore at your own pace and eat delicious food. REI also makes uniquely crafted women’s adventures . Some of their best selling trips are: Yosemite Hiking and Camping, Grand Canyon Backpacking, and Alaska Cycling.

• Who’s REI for: travelers who love outdoor adventures
• Destinations: 6 national parks and 8 states across the US
• Duration: short trips are 4 days or less, the rest are from 5 to 13 days 
• Group size: 4-16 people
• Single supplement: prices are based on double occupancy. If you request single accommodation, you will be asked to pay the single supplement fee

Mature & senior travel groups

Mature adults and seniors are an important and growing segment in the travel industry and according to a US study , by 2025, seniors will be traveling more than ever before and should account for 13 percent of all international travel. 

If that’s you, you are in luck because more and more travel companies are ready to cater to your needs. Here are some good senior travel groups options.

Expat Explore

Founded in 2005 by two South African travelers, Expat Explore specializes in coach tours mainly in Europe and the UK, but also offers travel experiences in USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. Expat Explore was recommended by many members of our community. 

They’re known for covering the highlights as well as the hidden gems of a destination, in a very convenient and affordable way. Their coach tours are most aimed at adults and seniors and there’s a wide variety of options: from those trips that cover many countries in a few days, to those which explore the region more in-depth. The tour prices include accommodation, transport, and many meals. 

Their most popular trips are Greece, Turkey & Croatia, Egypt and Eastern Europe. 

• Who’s Expat Explore for: adults looking to travel affordably and comfortably in a group
• Destinations: more than 50 tour packages across Europe, UK, USA, Canada, Africa, Asia, Middle East and South America
• Duration: from 5-26 days
• Group size: 40-50 people
• Single supplement: they pair-up solo travelers of the same gender in twin-share rooms, and if you prefer to have your own room, they have that option available at an affordable  extra cost

Rick Steves 

American Rick Steves is an expert in European travel and has a best-seller guidebook series, a TV show, a radio show and a travel column. 

His company gives tours throughout Europe and focuses on fun, affordable and culturally broadening trips. Some tours have a large group size, while others limit to small groups. His travel groups were recommended by members of our Facebook group.  

Some of their top sellers tours are Heart of Italy, Best of the Adriatic and Best of Scotland. 

• Who’s Rick Steves for: people looking to immerse culturally in a European country
• Destinations: more than 20 countries in Europe
• Duration: from 7-21 days
• Group size: 24-28 people
• Single supplement: they offer solo travelers the option  to  either  share a room with another  solo  tour member of the same sex  or  pay a single supplement to secure a private room

Overseas Adventure Travel

Established in 1978, Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T) is the first US travel company to offer adventure trips to travelers aged 50 and over. Their tours specialize in providing travelers an active experience in exotic places, without losing the comfort and service components. They offer adventures by land and by small ships. 

O.A.T travel groups are ideal for adult & senior solo travelers, according to their stats : 46% of all O.A.T. travelers join the company as solos— which has increased significantly from 44% in 2015 and 27% in 2010. Also, 85% of O.A.T.’s solo travelers are women who travel solo regardless of their marital status.

Their most popular tour destinations are Morocco, Iceland and Botswana on safari. 

• Who’s O.A.T. for: adults & seniors who want to travel off the beaten path in a small group
• Destinations: more than 70 countries across the globe
• Duration: from 5-30 days
• Group size: 8-16 people in tours by land and 20-25 people aboard ship tours
• Single supplement: 92% of their single spaces are free on all 2022 adventures. The remaining 8% have low single supplements. They also offer free single supplements on every trip extension and stopover

Insight Vacations

Travel in style with Insight Vacations , a tour company that creates premium small group trips in outstanding destinations. Their trips are fancier than most tour companies and offer stylish accommodation, fine dining, and unique experiences. 

Insight Vacations have out of the box experiences in many of their tours like Twirling on the dance floor in Vienna, savoring Egyptian sun bread in a local village and learning about Oyster farms in Croatia.

Their top destinations are Croatia, Switzerland and Italy.  

• Who’s Insight Vacations for: travelers looking for unique experiences in a premium tour
• Destinations: Europe, Britain & Ireland, Americas, Asia, North Africa
• Group size: 12-40 people
• Single supplement: many of their tours have a solo traveler supplement discount, from 15% to 100% off. Find the deals here

Educational travel groups

Who says going on a trip means laziness and not being productive? This is a huge myth about traveling , and these tour companies prove it. 

Make your next trip a worthwhile vacation by learning deeply about the culture and history of a destination, or learning a new skill like cooking or painting. Take a look at these companies that create memorable educational holidays.

Road scholar 

Road Scholar states that they are “a diverse community of knowledge seekers and explorers, united in the belief that lifelong learning is a vital part of overall wellbeing”. 

They specialize in learning trips for people of 40+ years old and, according to their PR Director, Kelsey Knoedler, almost 30% of their travelers in 2021 came solo and 80% of them were women. 

They have a massive variety of destinations, travel styles and trip lengths. Immerse yourself in the Latin American ambience going on their South American Odyssey (Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru), discover Morocco in their Melting Pot of Cultures, or dive into the Cultural Highlights of Japan. 

This is a very unique way to have a single holiday, focused on learning about the destinations, connecting with new people, and making the best of your vacation. 

• Who’s Road Scholar for: intellectually curious travelers
• Destinations: more than 100 countries across the Americas, Europe, Australia, Asia, Africa and Antarctica
• Duration: short trips from 2-6 days and longer tours from 6-29 days
• Group size: 10-24 people
• Single supplement: they offer a roommate option to avoid paying a full single supplement

Flavours Holidays

Created in 1998, Flavours Holidays gives unique learning tours for solo travelers: quality cooking, painting, pilates, language and photography holidays. 

All the trip destinations are picturesque sites in Italy, Spain and the UK, where guests can learn from passionate chefs and experienced tutors. All their tours are custom-made for solo travelers, with over 70% of their guests coming without a travel partner. 

Our top pick is the cooking holiday in Italy, they have options in many Italian sites: Tuscany, Puglia, Amalfi, Venice, Bologna and Sicily. 

Other great options for your singles holiday can be a painting tour in Andalusia, Spain or in the Scottish Highlands. These holidays are perfect for singles over 40 who want to learn something new while discovering places and cultures.  

• Who’s Flavours Holidays for: people who want to learn a new skill while traveling
• Destinations: Italy, Spain, UK
• Duration: 4-8 days 
• Group size: 8-10 people
• Single supplement: they don’t charge single supplements, so you can have a comfy room for yourself

EF (Educational First) is a well known company that focuses on student travel. Their trips promise to widen student’s perspectives through experiential learning. Expert educators and teachers lead each tour, and EF works hard to ensure safe travel for all students. 

EF has a wide variety of tour types and destinations, which give students the opportunity to immerse themselves culturally and have life-changing experiences. Discover the Galapagos Islands or taste traditional Italian cuisine, or choose another adventure from their exciting itineraries.

• Who’s EF for: students or solo travelers looking for a cultural travel experience
• Destinations: 40+ countries across Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia
• Duration: 7-32 days 
• Group size: 14-38 people
• Single supplement: If you wish to have a single room, a single room supplement will be charged

Boutique/niche travel groups

Whether you want to see a destination through a professional photographer’s eyes or have an active fitness holiday, these niche travel groups craft exciting tours. Check them out! 

Under30Experiences

Founded in 2012 in the US, Under30Experiences makes travel accessible for young people with a focus on Millennial travel on a budget.

U30X’s adventures are small groups aimed at people from 21-35 years. These travel groups are very focused on solo travelers (more than 70% come solo), so they make it easy for you to make new friends from the start. They also provide optional experiences if you wish to try new things, or you can always opt out and explore at your own pace.

Whether you want to explore Petra in Jordan, kayak in Greece, or hike in New Zealand, Under 30 Experiences has a wide variety of trips to choose from.

• Who’s U30X for: young vibrant travelers from 21-35
• Destinations: 20+ trips across 6 continents
• Duration: 4-11 days 
• Group size: up to 16 travelers
• Single supplement: they don’t charge single supplements, as they pair you up with a roommate

Fit & Fly retreats

Founded by attorney and travel writer Rebecca, Fit & Fly offers fitness, wellness and cultural retreats in beautiful locations. They empower women to take special care of themselves and make meaningful connections with other women. 

If you want to workout and get a vacation at the same time, this is the travel company for you. The retreats include stylish accommodation, fitness classes, delicious eats, wellness activities, spa experiences, cultural excursions and more. You don’t have to be super fit or be great at workouts to join, Fit & Fly has a supportive environment and instructors that tailor workouts to be challenging but doable, depending on the person’s capabilities.

Their top retreat destinations are Bali, Dubai and Maldives, with a few more exotic places to choose from. 

• Who’s Fit & Fly for: women who want to take care of themselves in a wellness retreat
• Destinations: Palm Springs, French Riviera, Ibiza, Iceland, Tuscany, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Bali
• Duration: 5-7 days 
• Group size: 12-20 women
• Single supplement: a single supplement is charged if you want a private single room

Black travel groups

These travel groups offer fabulous experiences specially designed for the Black community. Make new friends, have a blast and explore destinations surrounded by an amazing group of people.

Wind Collective

Wind Collective is a global travel company that combines adventure and creativity. They host monthly group travel experiences for those travelers who are curious and brave enough to explore the world creatively. 

All of their tours are immersive experiences in fascinating destinations, curated by the creative team in partnership with local businesses and with a healthy dose of music and creative endeavors including dynamic photoshoots and Give back sessions. 

• Who’s Wind Collective for: curious travelers who love to try new things from local culture
• Destinations: Cuba, Colombia, Morocco, Los Angeles, Sri Lanka, Ghana, Bulgaria, Brazil, South Africa, Jordan, Dubai, South Korea, Bali
• Duration: 4-9 days 
• Group size: 8-12 people 
• Single supplement: no single supplement for solo travelers as they will be paired with another solo traveler in double accommodation. There’s an additional charge only if they request a private single room

LGBT+ travel groups

Have a trip of a lifetime in a tour specially curated for and by LGBT+ community members. These companies host incredible trips and make sure you feel safe and welcome as a LGBT+ traveler.

Out Adventures

Founded in 2009, Out Adventures creates small group experiences for the gay community around the world. They have an expert team that takes care of everything including how to navigate local customs and attitudes towards the LGBT community. 

Their carefully made itineraries include local restaurants, authentic experiences, boutique hotels and friendly partners, who make members of the LBGT community feel truly welcomed. 

Out Adventure’s small group tours offer a balance between time to explore the destination’s highlights and time for guests to enjoy on their own.

• Who’s Out Adventures for: Gay community travelers looking for unique experiences
• Destinations: 40+ countries across 6 continents 
• Duration: 4-12 days 
• Group size: up to 16 people, cruises up to 40 people
• Single supplement: they pair you with another solo traveler in double-bed rooms. If you want your own room, you have to pay a single supplement

Outstanding Travel

Outstanding Travel is an Israel-based group travel company that hosts Mediterranean LGBTQ+ adventures especially for gay travelers. Their tours immerse in rich history and culture, culinary experiences, and the LGBTQ+ scene. 

All their travel groups have a tailor made approach and promise an unforgettable cultural experience involving beaches, fabulous people and vibrant nightlife.

Their top tour destinations are Jordan and Israel. They also offer Pride Events special tour packages. They also offer a feature that lets you design your custom trip , choosing the dates, destinations, how many people are joining, activities you wish to do, accommodation type, and more. 

• Who’s Outstanding Travel for: LBGTQ+ travelers seeking a cultural vacation with lots of fun
• Destinations: Jordan, Israel, Greece, Egypt
• Duration: 7-10 days 
• Group size: 10 – 40 people
• Single supplement: there’s a single supplement if you want a private single room

Groups to find travel buddies

We love traveling solo, but sometimes it’s nice to share some parts of the journey with other travelers or even with locals. There’s something special about making connections far away from home, and the possibility to transform them into long lasting friendships that makes finding a travel buddy all the more appealing. Here are travel groups designed just for that.

SFT Connections

Since there are always so many people interested in connecting with other travelers, we created a subgroup of our main group called Solo Female Travelers Connection , set up just for women who want to find travel buddies, a host, other travelers or locals to meet up or hang out with, even someone to pet sit their house or to swap homes with. 

Join the group , post your travel details, house/pet sitting offer or request and connect with others who match up. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends abroad.

Meetup is a great site for meeting people. This isn’t only for global travel, but is also a great way to meet people locally who share your interests.

You join a meetup in the area you’re situated, which is basically an event or activity, and meet people for anything, from sunrise yoga to kayaking. 

Travel-related Meetup groups are a great way to find a travel buddy as you can connect with people who have shared interests and friendships may form. And remember meetups are for anyone, both locals and international travelers, so you never know who you’re going to meet.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a free version of Airbnb, or shall we say Airbnb is a paid version of Couchsurfing since they were first!

You get to immerse yourself in the culture as you stay with a local for a short period of time for free sleeping on their couch, bed or a mattress. 

Like Workaway, Couchsurfing offers a meetup feature where you can either meet with another traveler one-on-one or you can create a group meetup for similarly-minded people who like to do the same activities as you, from hiking to wine tasting. 

Join my trip

Join My Trip is sort of like a local guided experience where you can tag along with other travelers on a local journey around a specific part of the world.

The trips vary in price as some are with professional guides while others are just for tagging along with other solo travelers who want to share transportation fare (what they call a “seat filler”). The trip leader can charge a small fee to organize the entire trip.

They also have a “Global Greeter Network” where you pay the annual membership and then can request someone to pick you up at a designated spot. You can then go on for a guided tour, a walk around the city, or just be dropped off somewhere.

In this way, you get to find out more about the area from a local without worrying about having to find a taxi. Other categories include “Travel buddies”, “Group Travel”, and “Female Travel”. 

Host a Sister

Created by Host A Sister, a company that promotes cultural exchange through women sharing their homes and friendships with other female travelers for free. This is a great community where you can find travel buddies or meet up with a new friend. 

You can even seek for a host to stay with or offer your own home as free accommodation for other women. The group is properly moderated and all of the posts follow a certain format to make every request clear and straight to the point.    

Facebook travel groups

Looking to connect with like minded travelers? Facebook is a great place to find them, as well as handy tips and resources for your next trip. Here are a few of the best travel Facebook groups out there, find the rest here .

Solo Female Travelers

This is our group and consists of well over 272,000+ member community of brave, fearless and independent women with a shared passion for traveling solo.

Our Facebook Group is the heart of our community, where women are empowered to explore the world solo, safely and on their own terms. In this group you will find meaningful conversations, travel tips and resources to make solo travel as a woman rewarding, enriching and safe. 

If you love to travel solo, dream of doing it in the future or just want to get travel inspiration from diverse women from all around the globe, this group is for you.

We strictly enforce our values of inclusion, open-mindedness, courage, positive impact, and union and keep the group free from spam and trolls. We love to travel solo, but we also meet up for women-only tours to travel together . 

Travel Community

This group was created by Scott’s Cheap Flights , a company that delivers amazing flight deals to your inbox.

Travel Community is very well run by a group of expert moderators that contribute to keep the posts that are going to add value or answer questions from the community. The group members are very interactive and engaged, almost every post has dozens of comments. 

Also, the posts are relevant and range from many topics like travel tips, how to find great deals and discounts, personal experiences, itinerary suggestions, among many other travel related topics. The group is often updated on news from Scott Cheap Flights and how to take advantage of their website.

Digital nomads around the world

Digital Nomads Around the World is a resourceful group by Digital Nomads Nation , which is the world’s first e-nation, connecting global digital nomads with the shared passion of working remotely as a lifestyle and traveling the world. 

You can go to their website and navigate the company’s resource platform, where you’ll be able to do research on career opportunities and access their talent database and find remote job opportunities from worldwide companies. 

The Digital Nomads network offers a lot of perks and benefits like attending on and offline talks and events or doing networking with fellow professionals. They have taken the idea of a virtual digital nomad community further with a range of services and resources that are specifically targeted at those without a fixed lifestyle.

Join this Facebook group where fellow travelers share their insights around digital nomad life, whether you are an experienced digital nomad or are looking to get started, the group will give you knowledge based on the experience and advice of members.

Travel Divas

Travel Divas is an online community where black female travelers share their stories and experiences traveling as a woman of color. Admins and moderators do a great job avoiding any solicitation of promotion posts, so the feed may stay organized and resourceful for all.

Join this awesome group if you want to get inspiration and insight from the perspective of someone like you, which will help you to make the best of your next trip.

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Best Solo Travel Groups

• Accommodation - shared or private room, the TripLeaders choose the best based on your preferences and budget
• Transportation during the tour
• Attractions and activities
• An experienced TripLeader - they do the planning and show you the fantastic spots
• Curated itineraries - flexible with a good amount of free time
• Say goodbye to the solo travel blues. You have like-minded mates during the journey to share amazing moments and good laughs.
• There is safety in number. Sticking with your group allows you to travel safely and comfortably.
• Share costs and save your budget. You won't have to pay for everything alone.
• Flexible itineraries. You get the perfect balance between traveling together and spending time alone to tick off your bucket list.
• We conduct thorough background checks on our TripLeaders and verify all TripMates
• Also, if any problems arise during your trip, our 24/7 support is available remotely to assist you with any questions or concerns.
• Our free JoinMyTrip Travel Insurance , powered by Allianz, will cover you (applicable only for the residents of Austria and Germany) in case of any unforeseen situations. So you can travel with peace of mind and enjoy your adventure.

10 Reasons Why You Should Join a Small Group Tour

Are you thinking of traveling alone or joining a small group tour ? If you’re new to a certain place or country, traveling in a small group tour is highly recommended. From saving money to meeting new people, these are just some of the advantages of being in a group tour.

If you’re still not convinced, then we have a list for you. In this article, we put the 10 reasons why you should join a small group tour .

Table of Contents

1. You’ll have private tour guides

If you will join a small group tour , you are most likely to have a knowledgeable tour guide. And of course, you’ll want to have that as you’re traveling not only to take instagrammable pictures but also to learn about the places or countries that you are going to.

Knowledgeable tour guides can also help you regarding the basic things that you must know while traveling. That includes the do’s and don’ts while you’re wandering around. If you are traveling alone, it might be quite confusing especially if your source is only the internet. This is one of the reasons why having a knowledgeable tour guide is an advantage.

2. You can get a chance to meet new friends

Of course, there is a big chance that you’ll meet new people that shares the same interest as you — traveling! Considering having the same interest, that’s a potential friend, or maybe a lifetime friend. You can also learn from them or expand your connections when it comes to traveling (we know that this is one of the best things to consider when you travel — having connections).

Another reason is, pictures! If you are traveling alone it is quite awkward to ask strangers to take your picture on some of the beautiful destinations (especially if you like photography). But if you’re in a small group tour, you can become closer to the other members and they can be your “new” photographer . Of course, you need to do the same for them!

3. You’ll have a better connection with the locals

Most tour guides are also locals in the place or the country that you are into, and because of that, there’s a big chance that you will get a deeper understanding of their culture. They can tell you a lot of things about their country or introduce you to some other locals they know (well, most tour guides do this). 

4. You can share your stories or experiences with others

What’s the best thing about meeting new friends? It’s the fact that you can share your stories or experiences with them! And what’s the exciting thing about that? You know that they’re listening and interested in your stories as they also share the same feeling with you. Imagine talking about things you are really excited about with people who are willing to know about your experiences.

They may be strangers at first, but it will surely form a strong bond between you and the other members of the small group. And just like what most people say, “Sometimes it’s better to tell your stories and experiences to strangers.” 

5. Great value for money

Joining a small group tour means you can lessen your expenses. If you’re traveling alone, of course, you’ll spend everything by yourself, from food to accommodation. And that’s absolutely painful. But if you’re on a small group tour, you can have all the expenses paid even before your flight. Accommodation, tours, transportations, etc. All you need to bring is your bag, camera, and of course pocket money (depending on how much you want to spend).

6. Your personal belongings are safer and more secure

If you join a small group tour, you can make sure that your belongings are safe. You will know the names and faces of each member of your group and for that reason, of course, there is a low chance of stealing. And since you are all traveling together, no one would dare to steal something from you, unlike if you’re alone.

7. You don’t have to worry about paying for a single person

Traveling alone is fun and exciting! Sure. But if we’ll talk about money, it’s a little bit harsh. Imagine paying everything all for yourself. Accommodation, food, and transportation (especially taxis). But if you are in a group, you can always share money with each other if needed. Also, some tourist destinations offer higher prices if you’re alone than if you’re in a group.

8. Traveling in a small group is environmental friendly

You might wonder why but it is also one of the reasons why you should join a small group tour. If you travel in a group, the vehicle you’ll use will leave a much lighter carbon footprint than if each of you hired a car. Help the environment in your own little way, join a small group tour! 

9. You’ll get the chance to do more when you’re in a small group tour

Most small group tours have a very organized itinerary. You’ll most likely experience more things and visit a lot of places. You can even try some activities that are usually added to your IT. Tour guides always have something for the group, and it will make your trip more fun and exciting.

10. Less organizational hassle

Like what we mentioned above, all small group tours always have an organized itinerary. We all know that making an itinerary is a little bit confusing and time-consuming. But if you’re in a small group tour, you don’t have to worry about it, everything is settled up for you! You just have to wait for your departure then enjoy an adventurous trip!

With all these reasons why you should join a small group tour, we can understand the advantages of joining. And if you think about it, it is really fun to join one as you will see a different side of the world, not only because of the places you’d go to but also because of the people you will meet.

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When Should You Travel With a Tour Group?

Some travelers always choose guided tours, while others prefer to make travel arrangements on their own. There are times, however, when traveling with a tour group might be the better choice. Let's take a closer look at some of these situations.

Unfamiliar Language and Customs

Perhaps you have always wanted to visit China or Russia, but worry that you will not be able to make yourself understood or find your way around. A tour group led by a guide that speaks your native language fluently might be the best way to see your dream destination. Your tour guide knows the local area and can give you tips for finding good restaurants and exploring during your free time. You will be able to ask your tour guide as many questions as you like so you can make the most of your vacation experience.

Driving Is Not an Option

There are times when driving in an unfamiliar place is not a good idea. You may be dealing with newly-diagnosed impaired vision, or you may just want to avoid driving on the other side of the road. In some countries (Ireland, for example), car rental companies set age limits that might also prevent you from driving on your own. You may want to explore an area where rental car companies will not let you take your rental car, either because of theft risk or because the roads are in poor repair. Finally, you may want to go somewhere, such as Denali National Park, where private vehicles are banned. In cases like these, a tour group could be your most affordable option.

Access to Sights, Events and Opportunities

If you have always wanted to travel to Cuba and are an American citizen, or you yearn to see penguins, a tour group might be your only option. Some travel opportunities are available only to tour groups. For example, US citizens may only travel to Cuba with an approved travel provider, and most visitors to Antarctica get there via cruise ship or tour group.

You Need Specialized Equipment or Vehicles

Sometimes taking a tour is the easiest way to gain access to specialized gear, such as a bicycle, or a vehicle, such as a tundra vehicle, that you will need at your destination. It is difficult to safely view polar bears without a tundra vehicle, and you can't rent one at the airport. Similarly, if you are doing a bicycle tour on another continent, going with a tour group will make the logistics of renting a bicycle much easier because your tour operator will coordinate the rental for you.

Meeting New People Is a Priority

For some travelers, making new friends is very important. It is much easier to meet people in a tour group, where people must travel together, than it is if you vacation on your own. In a tour group, you will be able to get to know your fellow travelers during bus rides, at mealtimes, and during your sightseeing excursions. Your fellow travelers will want to make friends, too, so you will have no trouble finding travel buddies.

You Don't Have Time to Plan Your Trip

Researching destinations, transportation options, accommodations and sightseeing opportunities takes a great deal of time. If you are too busy to research and plan your vacation, taking a tour might be a good choice for you. Your tour company will make your travel arrangements, and you will be able to visit your chosen destination without having to think about flights, ground transportation or hotel reservations. Many tour companies offer customizeable tours. This might be a good option if you cannot find an itinerary that includes all the places you want to visit.

Personal Safety / Solo Travel

If you are traveling by yourself or are worried about personal safety, you may feel more comfortable traveling with a tour group. You will be able to see the sights without worrying about most safety issues. Be prepared to guard against pickpockets; they prey on tour groups as well as individuals.

Tip: Solo travelers may be asked to pay a single supplement , which could significantly increase the cost of your trip. Consider finding a travel companion or participating in your tour group's roommate-finding service, if offered, in order to avoid paying the single supplement.

Tips for Traveling Solo With a Tour Group

The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

Why Cruising Solo Is Worth it

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How to Visit Los Angeles Without a Car

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Beyond the Tour Group

How to Travel to Cuba If You Are an American

The Pros and Cons of Solo Travel

Essential Guide to Hiring a Car and Driver in India

Everything You Should Know Before Renting Your First RV

Planning an All-Inclusive Caribbean Vacation for Singles and Solo Travelers

Is It Safe in Thailand?

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Planning an RV Trip: The Complete Guide

Young Pioneer Tours

Five reasons to join a travel group

Traveling on your own is a blast, but sometimes even the biggest lone wolves crave company. While independent travel does have its advantages, traveling with other people is almost always a more convivial, enjoyable, and fun-filled experience.

A travel group gives you access to like-minded people as you explore the world. An instant group of friends, it allows you to do activities that are best done as a group far more easily and gives you the pleasure of discussing the day’s discoveries over a glass of wine. A travel group means you avoid the loneliness that sometimes comes with solo travel, and improves security too.

Joining a travel group also means that a large part of the planning and organization of your trip will be taken care of. Travel companies who organize groups will sort everything from travel and accommodation to food and activities, and even if you join a more casual, informal group, it will still spread the logistical load, which can be a good thing.

So if you are thinking about heading off somewhere exotic or enjoying a relaxing vacation cruise next year, here are five reasons why you should consider joining a travel group.

You will make new friends

Traveling is the best way to make new friends , and a travel group is a gift-wrapped way to make the magic happen faster. When you are thrown together in unfamiliar surroundings with a group, you very quickly get to know people, as well as making bonds that will last a lifetime. The best thing about a new group of friends is learning how everyone is, and what they are best at. You’ll discover who is good at map reading, who is the life and soul of the party, and who has the knack for finding the best cafes, restaurants, and bars.

You can do activities which are best done in a group

When traveling, some activities are just more fun when done as a group. This is most often the case when it comes to activities that involve adrenaline and adventure. Whether zip-lining through the jungle, paddling down white-water rapids, or climbing mountains, having a team around you is a great way to get you over your fears and enjoy the ride more.

You will have someone to share discoveries with

One of the best things about travel is the sense of awe, wonder, and discovery that comes with it. But exploring new places and discovering new experiences is only half of the fun. Having someone to share these discoveries with makes them all the more special. Whether it is finding the best cafe in town, stumbling upon a gorgeous hidden beach, or unearthing gems in the local market, having people around you who are sharing these experiences makes them all the more memorable.

You can relax and enjoy yourself

Organizing a trip can be a lot of work, but joining a travel group takes most of the burden off your back. If you sign up for a formal travel group experience, you’ll have your entire trip planned out for you, without you having to lift a finger. But even if you just join a casual group of fellow travelers, having others around you to share the important tasks (and help you remember to take care of vital things) makes the logistics far more manageable.

You will have someone to watch your back

Safety in numbers is a real thing, and while most travel experiences are safe and secure, being in a group gives you an extra level of peace of mind. Whether it is keeping an eye on your belongings on a busy beach or finding your way out of an unfamiliar part of town, traveling in a group means there is always someone on hand to help.

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Tour Groups: Pros, Cons & Deciding if They’re For You

• Initially, with family (parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.)
• With friends
• Just the 2 of us
• Solo travel
• Many people have, of course, also traveled with their own families once they’re adults and have kids. Joe and I don’t have kids so we’ve never experienced that type of travel
• Group tours

That last category, going on group tours, is really its own thing, quite different from traveling with people you know. It has its place, but also isn’t for everybody.

Going on a group tour has its own set of pros and cons. Before you go on one, it’s probably best to consider both, so you can determine if going on a group tour is something that’s for you or not.

Pros of group tours

You don’t have to plan much.

Probably one of the best parts of going on a group tour is that you don’t have to do a lot of planning. Group tours are generally pre-set, so there’s a lot less work to do ahead of time. Although you may have some free time where you’ll have to decide what to do, for the most part, the itinerary is already laid out for you.

You don’t have to worry about transportation

If you’re making your own travel plans, you have to figure out all the logistics of getting from Point A to Point B to Point C, to Point D, etc. Plane? Train? Rent a car? Even going from place to place within a city can be daunting. With a tour, they already have the bus/shuttle/flights all done for you (as an example, this would never have happened if we were on a tour)

You have the opportunity to make new friends

Meeting new people is not necessarily a positive for everyone (I’m an introvert; I totally get it).

Some group tours are even made for specific groups, such as singles, LGBTQI+, seniors, people of certain skin colors or religions, etc. So you may be in a group of people who you have something in common with.

You don’t have to travel solo

Some travelers have no one to travel with because of reasons. Going on a group tour allows you to avoid having to travel solo (this might be especially important for women, who may not feel safe going to certain locales on their own).

The safety factor

Speaking of safety for solo women travelers, some locations in the world are simply not as safe as others, regardless of gender. The mere fact that you’re part of a group can increase your safety. Your guide will also (hopefully) look out for you, since they know how to avoid potential problems.

Having a guide who’s familiar with the area can also help you from getting ripped off by merchants, warn you about potential issues ahead of time, etc. (i.e. when we were going to Angkor Wat, our guides warned us that the merchants in a particular area were particularly ruthless in trying to sell things to tourists. They told us how to respond to them [or rather, NOT respond] so the merchants would leave us alone and we wouldn’t get stuck buying something we didn’t want.

You learn more about what you’re experiencing

A tour usually has guides who are familiar with your locale and can tell you more about what you’re experiencing, as you experience it, than what you may learn on your own.

You get to do things you otherwise might not experience

Our most recent group tour was to Vietnam/Laos/Cambodia. Some of the activities included seeing things that required hiking up literally hundreds of steps.

I’m not a big fan of stairs because of my asthma. I can do the hike; it just takes me a long time because I have to rest and catch my breath so often. If there was a certain view we wanted to see, we might do the hike, albeit very slowly.

Because we were on the tour, I was able to say I’d stay at the hotel (because I didn’t want to slow the rest of the group down), and Joe was able to go on the hike with the rest of the group, at a more normal pace (read: not have to stop every 20-25 steps so I could stop gasping for breath). He might not have gone if we weren’t on the tour, instead saying let’s not bother, knowing that it would be a difficult activity for me.

A group tour may also allow you to experience activities only open to groups, or that might be difficult if the activity doesn’t have any sort of English translation and you don’t speak the language, or that you literally just wouldn’t have found on your own.

It could be cheaper

Because tours get group rates for hotels, activities, restaurants, etc., going on a tour may wind up being less expensive than if you planned everything on your own.

Budgeting is easier

When you’re on a group tour, you may still need to pay for some things. Alcoholic drinks. Souvenirs. A meal or two. Tips for your guides. But going on a group tour means it’s easier to budget because you know you have your upfront cost already done and it’s just those little incidentals to consider.

You always have someone to take your photo

Sometimes you don’t want a selfie; sometimes you want a real, full-body-with-background shot. You may be able to get a stranger to take your picture (and hope they don’t steal your camera/phone). But if you’re in a group, there’s always someone to ask to take your picture (and they may ask you, as well).

Cons of group tours

You’re generally stuck with their itinerary.

Group tours have a set itinerary and there’s little wiggle room for choice. So you may miss something you’ve always wanted to see, because it’s not on the tour. That might not always be the case (i.e. on our tour of Vietnam, a part of the group, a family of 4 said they would skip {whatever the afternoon/evening activities were] because they were going to see something else), but sometimes it can be.

The same goes for where you get to go shopping. The scheduled “shopportunities” we had on our Adventures by Disney tours were at places that sold art, jewelry, specialty coffees, etc. None of that is for me – give me a touristy crap shop ANY time. 😉 (to be fair, we went past those too. But the few times we actually stopped at places that had those, we had, like, 5 minutes to explore. We had 45 minutes at the art and jewelry place though).

Similar to being stuck with a group tour’s itinerary, you’re also pretty much married to their scheduling. Not a morning person? Sucks to be you if the first activity of the day consistently starts around 8am (I may or may not be saying that from personal experience LOL).

There’s little opportunity to be spontaneous

Because you’re on a set itinerary, being on a group tour means you don’t really get a chance to explore. See a sign for a waterfall down this path and you want to check it out? Too bad, because the group is on their way to a lookout over there.

Guided tours can be exhausting

This goes hand-in-hand with scheduling. When you travel on your own, you go at your own pace. When you’re with a guided tour, you’re at the mercy of their planning more than you’d typically do, walking faster than you’d prefer, etc. It can be a constant go-go-go for upwards of 12 hours at a time and by the time the tour is done, you need a vacation because of your vacation.

All. The. Peopleing

Group tours mean a whole lot of being and interacting with others. If you’re an extreme introvert, that may not be your idea of a great vacation.

Even if you’re not an introvert, sometimes you just may not be compatible with the other people on your tour. You may be stuck with people you really don’t like, don’t want to talk to, etc.

Your guides might not be that great

Just as you may or may not like your fellow group tour members, your tour guide could be awesome…or not. Or sometimes your main tour guides are great but your local guides may not be your cup of tea.

Yeah, I know I said the cost of a group tour could be cheaper than doing it alone. On the other hand, some group tours wind up costing more than if you did everything without a tour. You need to do your homework.

Paying up front

Going on a group tour means paying for that tour months ahead of time. For some people that could be an issue.

Are group tours for you?

Obviously, whether or not group tours are something you should consider is a Your Mileage May Vary situation.

Joe and I have been on about a half dozen Adventures by Disney group tours (the American Southwest, Australia/Tasmania, The Rockies/Banff, Hollywood/Disneyland, Ireland, and Vietnam/Laos/Cambodia). We’ve also been on one (to Cuba) that was a private tour with guides but all planned for us, and another (Iceland – here are 17 Iceland tips the guide books don’t tell you about ) where our hotels and rental car were taken care of and our itinerary included “recommended” locations but which we went to was up to us.

We’ve found that when going to a location we know little about, especially one where English is not the primary (or secondary) language, we much preferred doing a tour – that was especially true for Cuba, Iceland and our recent tour to SE Asia. We’ve also gone on one (that Disneyland tour) because it allowed us to see some behind-the-scenes things that, at least at the time, were only available to people on the tour.

Like I said, group tours have their place. They have their pros and their cons. We’ve determined they’re good for us some of the time. How about you?

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I’m not a tour fan personally. The waiting on the slowest person so you can proceed to the next place you’re told to be drives me nuts. Somebody is inevitably late and that just eats into your time. I also like to wake up when I choose rather than having to put my suitcase outside my door before sunrise. You also get a lot less time to do what you want so you miss out on lots of the little experiences that make travel memorable. That said, I’m not anti-tour. It’s just not for me at this point.

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23 Travel Groups That You Need to Join On Social Media That Will Make Your Solo Trips Magical!

Having said that travelling with family, friends or bae can be fun, not all live by this mantra. Travelling solo gives a kind of liberty to explore offbeat places or try an adventure sport which is otherwise a mighty “no-no” when travelling with friends, family or even with bae. Although the thought of travelling solo is alluring, it comes it with its set of disadvantages. And that is where these backpackers come to your rescue. They will create a customized itinerary, have been known to ensure the safety of solo women travellers and some even cater to “only women” travellers!

Here's the list that will help you plan your next solo trip:

1. wovoyage.

Type of Travellers: Exclusive all-women travel community

Type of Trip: The World is our oyster

Motto: “We want to empower solo female travellers and bring together female guides, drivers and entrepreneurs.”

2. The Backpacker Co – “travel junkies and travel addicts who have personally backpacked to the locations”

Type of Travellers: Anyone can join

Motto: “FOMO no more! We, at The Backpacker Co, LOVE what we do. We have been there, done that, witnessed the touristy things, and also experienced it like a local. Let us take care of the planning whilst you fall in love with the places. Experience it like a local, break free from the mundane because #whydoboring.”

3. The Land of Wanderlust

Type of Trip: Desi

Motto: “Your Search Ends Here! Cover The Earth Before, It Covers You”.

4. Treks and Trails

Motto: “Eco Tour Agency”

Contact: 088280 04949

[email protected]

Location: Mazgaon, Mumbai, India, Maharashtra

5. WOW Club

Motto: “We help you travel the world”

Contact: 080 2665 1135

Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka

6. Indian Solo Travelers

7. HikerWolf

Motto: “We do whatever makes people happy, mostly Travel😊”

Contact: Whatsapp: +91 9699514240

8. Homestays of India

Motto: “The largest Indian platform to find authentic, family run homestays across the country.”

Contact: 081783 35056

Location: New Delhi, India, Delhi

9. Travel Tribes

Type of Trip: Desi - Treks | Camps | Backpacking Trips

10. Trekkers United

Type of Trip: Desi - Himalayan Treks, Beach Treks, Backpacking Trips

Motto: “Life Changing Experience ✨”

Contact: 077109 63353

Location: Dombivli, Maharashtra, India

11. Bhatakna Tours & Travel India

Motto: “India's Coolest #travelcommunity”

12. Tag Along Backpackers

Type of Trip: Desi - Northeast

Contact: +91 7602082768

+91 7679245505

Location: Tag Along Backpackers, Near Punjab and Sind Bank, Development Area, Gangtok - 737101, Sikkim, India.

13. Backpackclan

Motto: “Is all about travelling, exploring and sharing your experiences.”

Contact: 097118 77111

Location: Padma Tower II, 507, Rajendra Place, New Delhi, Delhi 110008

14. Solo Travel India

Contact: +91- 8448817629

Location: Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

15. Wander Womaniya

Motto: “Affordable group trips for #solofemaletravelers Best Offbeat Itineraries”

Contact: +91 9971820462

Location: Delhi & Pune

16. Chindi Safar

Motto: “For every chindi wallet, we have a chindi solution!”

Motto: “Solo women tours are carefully curated to suit the taste of an adventurous traveler.”

Contact: 098114 54591

Location: Delhi, India, Delhi

18. Wandering Jane

Contact: 91-9986565263

19. Women On Clouds

Motto: “Only Women Travel Club🌏”

Contact: 9650844470 / 9810033630

Location: Delhi

20. Ladakhi Women’s Travel Company

Motto: “The first female owned and operated travel company in Ladakh”

Contact: 094691 58137

Location: Leh, India, Jammu and Kashmir

21. The Flapper Life

Motto: “Focused on #SustainableTourism in India.”

Contact: + 91 98922 29782

22. F5 Escapes

Motto: “Redefining #WomenTravel In #India”

Contact: 080-47091759, 7892705102

23. Solo Traveller Meetup

Type of Travellers: Anyone can join but only solo

Contact: +91 9979362906 / 9825063664

Phew!! I think it is a rather well-curated list that will help you to choose the travel group that best caters to your needs – be it solo, group, friends or couples but one thing is for sure, all these groups cater to solo travel and ensure safety of the guests too.

Must Read : women travel groups , Solo Trip in India

Think we missed out on something? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or write about it here on Tripoto and earn Tripoto Credits !

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Further Reads

How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel

I 've always considered myself a fiercely independent traveler. I've navigated more than 50 countries on my own, and while I have sometimes booked short excursions, usually for a day, it had never occurred to me to book a group tour. That changed when I decided to take two of my children on a family tour with Intrepid Travel . 

I had planned on spending our winter break in the Middle East but changed my mind at the last minute due to safety concerns . Because of the abrupt change, I knew I wouldn't have time to plan an itinerary, book hotels and arrange transportation before our departure date. However, I didn’t want to let that stop me from having an adventure. I'm glad I took a chance on a group tour because it changed the way I travel. Here's how.

BEST OF THE BEST: 15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours

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The trip planning was stress-free

I spent a little time comparing tour companies but quickly honed in on Intrepid. The company offers a variety of itineraries for families at different price points, and a few of my friends had been on its tours and had a good experience. I also liked that Intrepid offers specialized tours for different types of travelers, including family tours . 

At first I planned on an "original" style family tour but upgraded to a "comfort" tour, which included more activities and meals along with upgraded accommodations. Although it cost more, the company's 10-day Morocco Family Holiday tour was still within my budget and looked like a good value. 

BEFORE YOU GO: The 5 most important questions to ask yourself before booking a tour  

Once I committed to a tour, my planning was essentially done. That was a huge relief. I normally spend hours searching for hotels , figuring out some must-do activities in every location along with some off-the-beaten-track attractions, researching transportation options, and gathering restaurant recommendations. Although I often find it's fun, it’s also time-consuming and can become draining for trips that involve several stops.

Even though a group tour was not exactly what I would have planned on my own, Intrepid's Morocco itinerary was fairly close. I thought giving up some control was well worth the trade-off of not having to do all the planning on my own. Because Intrepid uses local teams based at its tour destinations to plan trips, I also hoped having a local involved would bring me to places I never would have found on my own. 

SAVE MONEY: Kids stay free at these 10 all-inclusive family resorts

Instead of reading hotel reviews and booking entry tickets, I spent the weeks leading up to my family vacation learning more about Moroccan culture. I knew this would enrich my experience more than figuring out all of the details for a trip abroad to run smoothly. I'm usually a mix of excited and stressed in the week or two leading up to a big trip. This time I was mostly excited, and my stress was at a minimum. 

Though I won’t stick exclusively to group tours in the future, this trip taught me to not sweat the small stuff so much. I don’t need to spend so much time finding the perfect hotel or restaurant to have a great trip.

Group trips are fantastic for solo travelers and parents traveling on their own

Before I had a family, I often traveled on my own. Though I enjoyed solo travel , it was lonely at times, even more so when I stopped staying at youth hostels and lost access to the fantastic communities they provide. Now I frequently travel with my two younger children. They are fantastic travel companions, but on longer trips I sometimes find myself longing for adult interaction or an extra pair of hands. Additionally, even though my kids usually get along well, they sometimes get sick of each other in the absence of any other playmates. 

TRAVEL WITH TEENS: 10 best vacation ideas for families with teenagers

On my Intrepid trip, I had other adults to talk to throughout the day. That was a refreshing change from my usual experience of going a week or more without speaking to another adult for more than five minutes, usually for transactional matters like checking into a hotel. My kids also quickly made friends with the other children on the trip. Not surprisingly, all of the families on the trip had similar interests and an adventurous spirit. My children and I were the only Americans in the group, and it was interesting learning more about life in New Zealand, Canada and Australia from the other families.

The parents in the group quickly started leaning on one another for support. One mom, also traveling alone with her children, asked me to take one of her daughters on an outing so she could get some one-on-one time with her other child. I asked a different mom to keep an eye on my son while I packed our things for the next day. It was nice not feeling as if I was on my own. 

UNIQUE TRIPS: Hate bus tours? These 7 unique guided tours were made for you

This "it takes a village" spirit is something I want to bring with me in my future travels. Although it’s not possible to replicate the experience of traveling with other families, it is possible to seek out connections away from home. For example, on a recent trip, my son wanted to play soccer with local children who lived near our hotel. Instead of rushing him away so we could squeeze in another activity, I let him play. He wound up meeting up with the other kids every night we were there, sharing candy and communicating with an app. The nights playing soccer were a highlight of that trip for him and something I probably would not have let him do before my experience with a group tour.  

I appreciated a slower pace

I have serious FOMO and often pack too much into my days when I travel. When I first reviewed the itinerary, I noted right away that it had downtime and even an entire free afternoon built into the trip. Though I know many people enjoy that balance, I was worried I would feel bored and come away feeling as if I had traveled halfway around the world and missed seeing all there is to do. 

TRIP REVIEW: Adventures by Disney’s Peru tour is a riveting family adventure

The reality is it’s impossible to do everything. Trying is exhausting and impossible. There is always something left on the to-do list at the end of the trip. It was refreshing to go into a trip not trying to see an entire country in two weeks and being OK with that from the outset. 

Though there were a couple of other things I would have liked to have squeezed in, I was very happy with the balance of activities and downtime. Other than all-inclusive family vacations and trips to family resorts , I normally don’t schedule time to just relax while I am traveling. It was really nice to have time to read and play UNO with my kids. I also liked that Intrepid had a couple of optional activities for those of us who didn’t want quite as much downtime as others. 

MONEY MATTERS: How much should you tip on a guided tour? All your gratuity questions answered  

I do still feel pressure to see and do everything when I travel, but going on a group trip helped me see the value in traveling at a slower pace. Some of my favorite moments from my Intrepid trip happened during scheduled downtime; they gave me and my children time to just enjoy being with one another without the pressures of work and school. It’s a lesson I’ve tried to carry with me as I’ve planned future trips. 

Learning from a local is invaluable 

One reason I chose Intrepid is the company uses all local guides, and most tours use the same guide throughout the trip. It may sound obvious that learning from locals is the best way to get to know a country, but I had underestimated just how valuable traveling with a local guide would be. 

TOUR REVIEW: Adventures by Disney’s South Africa tour is a lesson in culture, history, and beauty  

I learned much about Moroccan culture through our tour guide, who was always willing to answer questions about his life and traditions. He even brought us to his family home to meet his parents and niece, which was a very special experience. Aside from being able to share the history of everywhere we visited, I also liked that our guide warned us about scams to watch out for, shared the tipping culture and gave advice on bargaining. He was also helpful when it came to practical matters like finding an ATM.  

For future trips, I will be more open to taking guided tours with local guides, even if it’s just for a few hours. I will also make it a point to try to talk to more locals, as long as I can do so without bothering them too much. 

Even though it wasn’t what I had originally planned, not only did I have a great experience on my trip with Intrepid, it has also forever changed the way I plan to travel.

How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from TourScoop:

• 9 best travel companies that specialize in women-only tours
• 8 best senior travel tour companies
• 4 great tour companies with independent tours

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel

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How We Got Here: A Timeline of LIV Golf's Creation and How the PGA Tour Reacted

Bob harig | jun 6, 2024.

How did professional golf's split come to life? Here's a timeline compiled by Bob Harig, from the initial reports of a rival league in January 2020 until now, one year after a "framework agreement" was supposed to unify the sport.

2020: The rival circuit idea takes hold

2021: liv golf is born, early 2022: phil mickelson speaks, liv prepares, mid 2022: liv golf—with big names—tees off, early 2023: owgr, legal issues persist, summer 2023: the stunning agreement , late 2023: liv strengthens its lineup, 2024: pga tour lands an investor deal.

January:  Reports first surface about the potential for a rival golf league that has been meeting with players and agents behind the scenes and touting an 18-event circuit with just 48 players, 12 teams and guaranteed pay. Initial ideas saw $10 million purses with no cuts and a windfall for 12 team captains. The concept was called the  Premier Golf League .

Jan. 29:  Phil Mickelson  plays in the pro-am for the Saudi International, an event that is sanctioned by the European Tour. In his group is Majed Al-Sorour, CEO of the Saudi Golf Federation; Andy Gardiner, a director at Barclays Capital and a founder of the PGL; and Colin Neville of the Raine Group, also a backer of the PGL, which had Saudi Arabia backing as well through the Public Investment Fund.

Jan. 30:  Greg Norman, who once tried to spearhead a rival league with the backing of Fox Sports, sees viability in the PGL a day after the pro-am in Saudi Arabia. “It’s just a matter of getting all the right components together, whether players stay together," says Norman, whose World Golf League in 1993-94 was thwarted by the PGA Tour. “With my original concept, some players loved it, and others didn’t like it. I had corporate, I had television but you need 100% of the pie to be together before we can bake it. From what I’m seeing here, this one has every chance of getting off the ground."

Feb. 11:  Speaking at the Genesis Invitational,  Tiger Woods says he’s been approached about the PGL . “My team’s been aware of it and we’ve delved into the details of it and trying to figure it out just like everyone else. We’ve been down this road before with World Golf Championships and other events being started. There’s a lot of information that we’re still looking at and whether it’s reality or not, but just like everybody else, we’re looking into it."

Asked why he might even be interested, Woods said: “I think just like all events, you’re trying to get the top players to play more collectively. It’s one of the reasons why we instituted the World Golf Championships, because we were only getting (the top players) together five times a year, the four majors and the Players, and we wanted to showcase the top players on more than just those occasions. So this is a natural evolution, whether or not things like this are going to happen, but ideas like this are going to happen going forward, whether it’s now or any other time in the future."

Feb. 18:  A week later at the WGC-Mexico Championship,  Rory McIlroy  seemingly deals the PGL a serious blow: “The more I’ve thought about it, the more I don’t like it. The one thing as a professional golfer in my position that I value is the fact that I have autonomy and freedom over everything I do. I pick and choose—this is a perfect example. Some guys this week made the choice not to come to Mexico. If you go and play this other golf league, you’re not going to have that choice.

"I read a thing the other day where it said if you take the money they can tell you want to do. And I think that’s my thing, I’ve never been one for being told what to do, and I like to have that autonomy and freedom over my career, and I feel like I would give that up by going to play this other league. For me, I’m out. My position is I’m against it until there may come a day that I can’t be against it. If everyone else goes, I might not have a choice, but at this point, I don’t like what they’re proposing."

Spring/Summer:  Talk of the rival golf circuit dies down considerably amid the global Coronavirus pandemic. Talk shifts to when golf will resume and how it will take place amid a health crisis. The PGL idea goes into the background.

Fall:  The PGL approaches the European Tour, now the DP World Tour, with a proposal to merge or cooperate. CEO Keith Pelley turns down the PGL and instead forms a "strategic alliance" with the PGA Tour that will see some crossover events, the Tour take an ownership stake in European Tour productions, and effectively—at the time—hold off the outside threat.

May 4:  A report surfaces that a new Super Golf League has emerged and that it is either the new name for the PGL or something different. Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson are among those linked to it. Sometime during the spring and summer of 2021, the PGL sees some of its personnel switch allegiances to a new entity that will have full Saudi backing and will come to be known as LIV Golf.

Oct. 27:  At a private unveiling in New York, LIV Golf Investments is announced with Greg Norman as its CEO, with the idea of first helping to back golf in Asia with the $300 million investment in the Asian Tour, which will be used to finance a new elevated series of events called the International Series. It is eventually disclosed that Norman will also be the commissioner of a new tour called the LIV Golf League, with plans to launch in the spring of 2022.

Nov. 21:  PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan sends a memo to players outlining how 55% of the Tour’s revenue will be paid out to players in the form of prize money, bonuses and other benefits—believed to be in response to Phil Mickelson saying on a podcast that only 26% of revenue was going to the players.

Feb. 2:  While playing in the Saudi International for the third straight year, Phil Mickelson does an interview with  Golf Digest  in which he refers to the  PGA Tour’s "obnoxious greed"  as a reason why players might be interested in LIV Golf. He also maintains that the Tour is sitting on millions of dollars that should be going to the players. "It’s not public knowledge, all that goes on," Mickelson said. “But the players don’t have access to their own media. If the Tour wanted to end any threat, they could just hand back the media rights to the players. But they would rather throw $25 million here and $40 million there than give back the roughly $20 billion in digital assets they control. Or give up access to the $50-plus million they make every year on their own media channel."

Feb. 17:  Even Tiger Woods and the Genesis Invitational—where he is not playing—take a back seat to the drama that unfolds when Alan Shipnuck releases an excerpt from his soon-to-released  biography of Phil Mickelson  in which the golfer, among other things, says he is willing to use the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League as leverage against the PGA Tour and that he and other players paid attorneys to help LIV Golf develop its business plan.

Feb. 20:  With Phil Mickelson’s comments the talk of the tournament, players such as  Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau come out in support of the PGA Tour , viewed as a blow to LIV Golf. It is later learned that Mickelson’s comments and the subsequent back-tracking of several players who were interested in LIV set back the league’s plans and sent it into disarray.

Feb. 22:  In the wake of his comments,  Phil Mickelson offers an apology  and says he will step away from the game for a period of time and offers to pause relationships with sponsors. “I have always known that criticism would come with exploring anything new. I still chose to put myself at the forefront of this to inspire change, taking the hits publicly to do the work behind the scenes.”

Mickelson said that he offered the brands with which he was associated “the option to pause or end the relationship as I understand it might be necessary given the current circumstances.” KPMG and Amstel Light end their relationships with Mickelson, and a few days later, Callaway announces that it is pausing a relationship that dates to 2004.

March 8:  With Phil Mickelson missing—and, later it was learned, suspended—PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan addressed the media at the Players Championship. A typical state-of-the tour-type news conference  turned into questions about Mickelson and LIV Golf . "The PGA Tour is moving on," he said. "We have too much momentum and too much to accomplish to be consistently distracted by rumors of other golf leagues and their attempts to disrupt our players, our partners, and most importantly our fans from enjoying the Tour and the game we all love so much.

"I am grateful for the strong support our top players have shown recently and publicly, and I’m extremely proud that we’ve turned the conversation around to focus on what we do best: delivering world-class golf tournaments with the best players to the best fans, all while positively impacting the communities in which we play. We are and we always will be focused on legacy not leverage."

March 16:  Despite numerous setbacks, LIV Golf announces an eight-tournament schedule to begin in June. It won’t be the LIV Golf League, as planned, but the LIV Golf Invitational Series. Purses will be $20 million for the individual portion with $5 million more set aside for the teams. At the time, LIV Golf was unsure if it would be able to fill a 48-player field so it announced that the entire purse would be paid out regardless of the number of players who started. Total prize money for the eight events was set at $255 million, with $50 million set aside for a season-ending Team Championship.

May 10:  PGA Tour players and Korn Ferry Tour players interested in competing in the first LIV Golf event outside of London in June need to seek conflicting event and/or media releases but are denied. The Tour tells players it is not an authorized event. Greg Norman, the LIV Golf commissioner, pushes back. "Sadly, the PGA Tour seems intent on denying professional golfers their right to play golf, unless it’s exclusively in a PGA Tour tournament. This is particularly disappointing in light of the Tour’s non-profit status, where its mission is purportedly to promote the common interests of professional tournament golfers.

"Instead, the Tour is intent on perpetuating its illegal monopoly of what should be a free and open market. The Tour’s action is anti-golfer, anti-fan, and anti-competitive. But no matter what obstacles the PGA Tour puts in our way, we will not be stopped. We will continue to give players options that promote the great game of golf globally.”

May 31:  Dustin Johnson, a two-time major winner who has 24 PGA Tour titles, headlines  the field announced for the first LIV Golf event  to be played at The Centurion Club outside of London. Others listed are past major winners Sergio Garcia and Louis Oosthuizen, as well as Kevin Na, Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood.

June 6:   Phil Mickelson ends a four-month hiatus  in which he missed the  Masters  and defense of his  PGA Championship  title, emerging as LIV Golf’s latest signee who is set to compete later in the week at the first tournament. At a news conference prior to the tournament, Mickelson is asked several times about his past comments regarding Saudi Arabia, its human rights record and the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, believed by U.S. government officials to have been carried out by the Saudi regime.

“Well, certainly, I've made, said and done a lot of things that I regret, and I'm sorry for that and for the hurt that it's caused a lot of people. I don't—I don't condone human rights violations at all. Nobody here does, throughout the world. I'm certainly aware of what has happened with Jamal Khashoggi, and I think it's terrible. I've also seen the good that the game of golf has done throughout history, and I believe that LIV Golf is going to do a lot of good for the game as well. And I'm excited about this opportunity. That's why I'm here."

June 9:  Within minutes of the first tee shots being struck at the first LIV Golf event, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan issues a memo in which  players who are participating are told they are being suspended .

June 11:  Charl Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters champion, wins the first LIV event, holding on for his first victory anywhere in nearly six years. The win was worth $4 million from the $20 million purse and because Schwartzel’s team, Stinger GC, won the team competition, he pocketed another $750,000 from the $3 million paid to the winners.

June 21:  Following other players who committed to play for LIV during or after the first LIV event, then-four-time major champion  Brooks Koepka is announced as the latest addition . He joins the likes of Bryson DeChambeau, Pat Perez, Patrick Reed and Abraham Ancer as those who were now set to play in LIV’s second event.

June 22:  During a news conference at the Travelers Championship, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan outlines a plan that will see the PGA Tour return to a calendar-year schedule in 2024 while also increasing the purses substantially at eight events, including the legacy events for Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer and  Jack Nicklaus . The FedEx Cup season is also changed to see smaller fields at the first two playoff events.

Aug. 2:  Eleven LIV golfers sue the PGA Tour to challenge suspensions and claim a restraint of trade. Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau are among those named in the suit. Three other players—Talor Gooch, Hudson Swafford and Matt Jones—seek a temporary restraining order so they can play in the FedEx Cup playoffs. (The restraining order is denied on the eve of the FedEx Cup playoffs.)

Aug. 16:  Tiger Woods flies to Delaware and heads a players-only meeting at the BMW Championship along with Rory McIlroy where details are hashed out that will lead to substantial purse increases and benefits for players. It would later commonly be referred to as  "the Delaware Meeting."

Aug. 24:  On the back of the Delaware meeting, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan announces a hastily-devised plan that will see eight tournaments in 2023 with boosted purses. First called designated events, these tournaments would have $20 million purses except for the Sentry, which will be $15 million. For several of the events, the result means more than doubling the purse. For the legacy events, it means adding $8 million per event. And the first two playoff events will also have $20 million purses.

Aug. 30:  Just more than a month after his victory at St. Andrews,  British Open  champion  Cam Smith becomes the latest player to join LIV Golf , doing so in time for its event in Boston. Smith is joined by Joaquin Niemann, who attended the Delaware meeting, along with Marc Leishman, Harold Varner III, Anirban Lahiri and Cameron Tringale. At the time, it gave LIV Golf six of the top 30 players in the Official World Golf Ranking.

Oct 5:  LIV Golf announces a strategic alliance with the MENA Tour, a developmental tour that has had Official World Golf Ranking accreditation since 2016. LIV Golf incorporates its events into the MENA Tour schedule and says it believes it should be granted OWGR immediately due to the association.  The move is scoffed at as an end-around to try and obtain points  and the OWGR does not grant points to LIV Golf.

Oct. 29:  Martin Slumbers, the CEO of the R&A, makes it clear that the British Open is not going to ban LIV golfers who are otherwise eligible for the 2023 championship. "We are not going to abandon 150 years of history have the Open not be open," Slumbers said.

Oct. 30:  LIV Golf completes its first season with Dustin Johnson’s 4Aces team winning the team championship in Miami. The four team members share a $16 million payday.

Nov. 15:  At the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, Rory McIlroy says it is time for golf’s warring factions to figure something out. But  he says it needs to happen without LIV Golf commissioner Greg Norman . “Greg needs to go. He needs to exit stage left. He’s made his mark but I think now is the right time to say you’ve got this thing off the ground but no one’s going to talk unless there’s an adult in the room that actually try to mend fences."

Nov. 29:  At his Hero World Challenge event in the Bahamas, Tiger Woods also says that Greg Norman needs to go. Woods had been planning to play for the first time since the British Open but withdrew due to plantar fasciitis. “I think (Greg Norman) has to go, first of all, and then obviously the litigation against us and then our countersuit against them. Those would then have to be at a stay as well, then we can talk, we can all talk freely. Right now as it is, not right now, not with their leadership, not with Greg there and his animosity towards the tour itself. I don’t see that happening. But why would you change anything if you’ve got a lawsuit against you? They sued us first."

Dec. 16:  Only a year into the job, the  Chief Operating Officer for LIV Golf leaves his position . Atul Khosla was hired by LIV Golf in December 2021 from the  Tampa Bay Buccaneers  NFL team, where he held the title of chief corporate development and brand officer. Khosla was also chief operating officer for the Chicago Fire soccer club in the MLS and also worked for General Electric and NBC Sports. In his role at LIV Golf, he reported to CEO and commissioner Greg Norman. His role was taken over by executives of the Performance 54 agency and not filled for nearly a year.

Dec. 20:  Augusta National makes clear it will be  inviting those eligible for the Masters to participate . “Regrettably, recent actions have divided men’s professional golf by diminishing the virtues of the game and the meaningful legacies of those who built it," Masters chairman Fred Ridley said in a statement. “Although we are disappointed in these developments, our focus is to honor the tradition of bringing together a preeminent field of golfers this coming April.”

Jan. 19:  LIV Golf announces it has a  long-awaited television partner  after its events were available only via streaming in the first year. The CW Network—the C is for CBS, the W for Warner Media—enters into a multi-year agreement to televise LIV Golf tournaments. The deal will not see LIV Golf get paid a traditional rights fee but that is "mutually financially beneficial." It is believed that LIV will share advertising revenue with the CW and will also likely be expected to shoulder a good bit of promotional work.

Jan. 24:  Jay Monahan and Keith Pelley recuse themselves from reviewing LIV Golf’s application for Official World Golf Ranking points. Monahan, the commissioner of the PGA Tour, and Pelley, the CEO of the DP World Tour, are two of the seven members of the OWGR board of directors that ultimately decides the fate of tours seeking accreditation. Keith Waters, who heads up the International Federation of PGA Tours and is the DP World Tour’s chief operating officer, also recused himself from the application.

“I have not looked at the LIV application," Pelley says during a session with reporters in Dubai. “So I can’t give an opinion on an application I have not seen. It is in the hands of the technical committee. On the advice of legal counsel, myself and Jay recused ourselves from the separate committee. Representatives of the four majors will now determine the LIV application. We are not involved and we have no influence on what transpires as far as LIV goes."

April 5:  The DP World Tour wins an arbitration case against LIV Golf players who were seeking to play the former European Tour. The arbitration panel rules that the DP World Tour had the right to fine and suspend players for violating its membership regulations in order to compete in LIV Golf events. Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and 10 other players had brought the action in response to fines levied for not being granted permission to compete in LIV Golf events. A separate antitrust case between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour is still scheduled for 2024.

May 4:  Amid its investigation of former President Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents, the Department of Justice looks specifically at his dealings with LIV Golf, according to the  New York Times . Two of Trump’s courses hosted events in 2022 with three scheduled to do so in 2023.

June 6:  The golf world is stunned to learn that secret negotiations have been taking place and resulted in a  "framework agreement" between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Public Investment Fund . Initially said to be a "merger," it is later reframed as an agreement that would see the entities have an alliance. The biggest part of the news is that all of the lawsuits have been dropped. The idea is to have a final deal by Dec. 31, 2023.

As more details emerge, it is learned that PGA Tour Policy Board members Jimmy Dunne and Ed Herlihy secretly met with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the PIF, for several weeks prior to the announcement. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan also had clandestine meetings with Al-Rumayyan. On the day of the announcement, they appeared together on CNBC.

June 7:  While surprised that everything came together so quickly, Rory McIlroy says that the PGA Tour’s partnership with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia will ultimately be good for the game of golf. Speaking after his pro-am round at the RBC Canadian Open,  McIlroy learned of the agreement shortly before the rest of the world  but said much of it has been mischaracterized and that it should not be viewed as a merger with LIV Golf.

“LIV has nothing to do with this. It’s the PGA Tour, the DP World Tour and the Public Investment Fund that are basically partnering to create a new company. That’s where I was a little frustrated. All I’ve wanted to do was protect the future of the PGA Tour and protect the aspirational nature of what the PGA Tour stands for. I think this does this. If you look at the structure, this new company sits above everything else. (PGA Tour commissioner) Jay (Monahan) on top of that. Technically, anyone involved with LIV would answer to Jay. The one thing whether you like it or not, the PIF were going to keep spending money in golf. At least the PGA Tour controls how that money is spent. You’re dealing with one of the biggest sovereign wealth funds in the world. Would you rather fight against or have them as a partner?"

June 7:  Although not involved in the negotiations, LIV Golf CEO and commissioner  Greg Norman has a positive message for the staff . Norman, who was not mentioned in any of the news releases associated with the agreement, tells more than 100 people on a 30-minute call that LIV will see no operational changes and that work is already being done on a 2025 schedule. “The spigot is now wide open for commercial sponsorships, blue chip companies, TV networks. LIV is and will continue to be a standalone enterprise. Our business model will not change. We changed history and we’re not going anywhere."

June 14:  On the Tuesday of the  U.S. Open  week, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan announces through the Tour a  health-related leave of absence  that will see Tour executives Ron Price and Tyler Dennis take over his duties.

July 7:  In a memo to players, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan says he will return from his leave on July 14, which is the Monday of British Open week.

July 9:  Randall Stephenson, a longtime member of the PGA Tour and former head of AT&T,  sends a resignation letter to Monahan and the board  and specifically cites his displeasure with the framework agreement.

July 11:  Among wish-list ideas proposed by the LIV Golf League in the time leading up to the framework agreement was giving Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy LIV Golf League franchises and seeing them compete in LIV Golf events. It was just one of the ideas that discussed by the parties as part of documents released by a Senate subcommittee during a hearing in Washington, D.C., led by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). The PGA Tour rejected it as part of the negotiation.

The committee is concerned about the foreign involvement in an American sports league as well as possible antitrust violations. Some of the ideas include having a "World Golf Series" team event that would be played in Saudi Arabia; LIV operating as it is but being played in the fall or with the idea of LIV coexisting along with the PGA Tour; two of the PGA Tour’s designated events that would be branded by the PIF or the Saudi Arabia oil company, Aramco.

July 18:  Masters champion  Jon Rahm  says he has no trust issues with PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan—unlike several of his peers—and suggests time is needed. “As it comes to what he's been doing for us and the PGA Tour, I think he's done a fantastic job. I would say it was unexpected what happened. I think what the management of the PGA Tour, the turn they took without us knowing was very unexpected, but I still think he's been doing a great job. And right now after that happened, I only think it's fair to give them the right time to work things out. I still think they have the best interest of the players at heart."

Rahm, speaking before the British Open, also reiterates he is not interested in LIV Golf. “We all had the chance to go to LIV and take the money and we chose to stay at the PGA Tour for whatever reason we chose. As I've said before, I already make an amazing living doing what I do. I'm extremely thankful, and that all happened because of the platform the PGA Tour provided me. As far as I'm concerned they've done enough for me, and their focus should be on improving the PGA Tour and the game of golf for the future generations."

Aug. 1:   Tiger Woods is named to the PGA Tour Policy Board , giving the players a power boost as he becomes the sixth player director on the board. Part of the move includes a stipulation that will see a change in PGA Tour governance that means the player directors will have final say in any decisions going forward.

Aug. 8:  PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan speaks with reporters for the first time since his leave and after returning to work and takes responsibility for the way the negotiations for the “framework agreement" were secretly handled and the subsequent rollout. “It was ineffective and as a result there was a lot of misinformation. And anytime you have misinformation that can lead to mistrust. And that’s my responsibility. That’s me and me alone. I take full accountability for that. I apologize for putting players on their back foot. But ultimately it was the right move for the PGA Tour. I firmly believe that as we go forward time will bear that out. It was the right move and obviously we’re now in a position with NewCo (PGA Tour Enterprises) that provides the opportunity to have productive conversations."

Oct. 19:  On the eve of LIV Golf’s final event of 2023, CEO and commissioner Greg Norman speaks with reporters publicly for the first time since the agreement was announced and says  he has "zero" concern about the future of the league , regardless of what happens with the “framework agreement."

“All indications are showing that the position of LIV has never been stronger and that the success of our players and our brand has never been in a better place. And as we look forward into 2024, we’ve got a full schedule. We’ve got some places we’ve been to before, but we’ve got some new venues as well and we’re reaching different regions."

Nov. 28:  Tiger Woods speaks publicly for the first time since the framework agreement was announced and he joined the Policy Board, touching a variety of subjects including outside Public Equity Investment in the PGA Tour, the Public Investment Fund and LIV Golf.  He calls the ongoing negotiations "murky"  and says "I would have to say there's a lot of moving parts on how we're going to play. Whether it's here on the PGA Tour or it's merging, or team golf. There's a lot of different aspects that are being thrown out there all at once and we are trying to figure all that out and what is the best solution for all parties and best solution for all the players that are involved.’’

He says during the week and again two weeks later at the PNC Championship that he is focused on a deal getting done or some resolution by the Dec. 31 deadline.

Dec. 7:  After weeks of speculation,  Jon Rahm is announced as the newest member of LIV Golf . The two-time major champion, who on numerous occasions had expressed his disinterest in LIV due to the format, among other things, makes it official in New York where he said the lucrative offer was difficult to ignore and he had come to terms with the format. He also said his decision had nothing to do with any animosity or issues wit the PGA Tour.

I am proud to join @livgolf_league and be part of something new that is bringing growth to the sport. I have no doubt that this is a great opportunity for me and my family and am very excited for the future. pic.twitter.com/myf4isJgJ3 — Jon Rahm Rodriguez (@JonRahmOfficial) December 7, 2023

“I’m forever grateful to the PGA Tour and the platform they allowed me to be on. I have nothing bad to say about them. They allowed me the opportunity to play in some great events and allowed me to make a mark."

Dec. 31:  The agreement deadline comes and goes but the PGA Tour says  there is "meaningful progress" and that negotiations will continue  into 2024.

Jan. 31:  The PGA Tour  announces the formation of PGA Tour Enterprises  in a partnership with Strategic Sports Group, a group of investors from a number of professional sports. The deal, worth $3 billion, is said to allow nearly 200 PGA Tour players access to $1.5 billion in equity over time. The deal states that it allows for co-investment from the PIF in the future.

March 12:  Speaking with reporters for the first time since August, PGA Tour commissioner  Jay Monahan said negotiations with the PIF are “accelerating”  and that he and PGA Tour Policy Board members met with Yasir Al-Rumayyan in January, but did not offer specifics.

May 9: Rory McIlroy reveals that he is part of a subcommittee including Tiger Woods and commissioner Jay Monahan that is tasked with working directly on a deal with the PIF.  The seven-man committee also includes Adam Scott, player liaison Joe Ogilvie, Joe Gorder, a board member from Valero Energy, and John Henry from Strategic Sports Group.

May 13: Jimmy Dunne, one of the architects of the June 6, 2023, agreement, resigns from the PGA Tour Policy Board . In a letter to the board, he wrote that “no meaningful progress has been made towards a transaction with PIF,” and that ever since players seized control of the board and cut him out of negotiations, “my vote and my role is utterly superfluous.”

Bob Harig is a golf writer for SI.com and the author of the book "DRIVE: The Lasting Legacy of Tiger Woods," which publishes in March and can be ordered here. 

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9 money-saving tips for budget travelers in Australia

Nov 10, 2023 • 8 min read

Stretch your budget further in Australia with these money-saving tips © Belinda Howell / Getty Images

Australia – with its wallpaper-worthy landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife – is a dream destination for many.

Unfortunately, while Australia  is known to be laid-back, it is not known as a budget destination. Even locals find the cost of living a hard pill to swallow. Ultimately, how expensive Australia feels will depend on the exchange rate of the Australian dollar with your home currency.

Whether you’re in Sydney , Perth  or an outback location in between, food, activities and especially accommodation can add up quickly. However with careful planning it is possible to keep costs reasonable on a trip to Australia. Here are our top money-saving tips along with a guide to daily costs.

A guide to daily costs

• Shared bunk room in a hostel: $40–80
• Basic room for two: $180–250
• Single fare on public transport: $2–4
• Bacon and egg roll for breakfast: $8–12
• Meat pie: $6
• Dinner per person, excluding drinks: $30–60
• Beer in pub: $5–9, 
• Cocktails: $15–25

Total average daily cost: $200 – 300

1. Plan your trip during the off-peak season

Australia's peak tourist season  falls during the southern hemisphere's summer. This makes December to February the most expensive time to visit Australia. 

Instead, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), when you're more likely to score a deal on accommodation, domestic flights and even tours. As most accommodation providers – particularly in urban centers – rely on dynamic pricing, these months are when you’ll be more likely to snag a room for a reasonable price. The same is true of seats on internal flights and tour buses. 

It’s also a great opportunity to discover offbeat festivals timed to coincide with the seasons, such as Tasmania ’s winter solstice celebration, Dark Mofo, or cherry-picking in Victoria’s Yarra Valley .

2. Sydney is not always the cheapest city to fly into

Sydney is considered the gateway to Australia, but it’s not the country’s only international airport. You might be able to save a chunk of change if you fly directly into Melbourne , Brisbane or Perth instead. 

You'll find that domestic airfares within Australia are surprisingly budget-friendly, although their high environmental cost bears careful consideration. One-way flights between Melbourne and Sydney retail for as little as $59. You can expect a slightly higher level of service and more inclusions when flying with Australia’s budget airlines (including Bonza and Jetstar ) than you may have experienced with low-cost carriers in other regions. 

Another money-saving option is to consider a flight package. Qantas , Australia's largest airline, often has travel deals that include airfare, hotels and car hire . You can use its  multi-city trip planner to budget domestic travel within Australia. 

3. The cheapest places to eat are markets and pubs

Australia's big cities have top-notch restaurants , but they can be pricey and are likely to be a stretch too far for budget travelers. Instead, opt for the lively markets in laneways, parks, and historic sites. Savor street food, like Thai and Greek delights, at Melbourne's Queen Victoria Market or explore Sydney's Chinatown night markets on Fridays, with dishes starting at just $5. 

If you're in regional areas, weekends are a treat with farmers' markets offering everything from freshly baked pastries and picnic supplies to souvenirs to take home. 

For more wallet-friendly dining, keep an eye out for food trucks – they're everywhere. In Darwin , Parap Village Markets serves up some of the best laksa (Malaysian noodle soup) in Australia, while Sydney and Brisbane have a variety of options from Texas BBQ to Filipino fare.

And if you're in the mood for a classic Aussie meal, check out the local pubs. Most will offer a daily special, like a $12 chicken parmigiana or a $10 burger with chips. Finally, before you balk at prices for mains, remember that they include tax and tipping isn't customary; what you see on the menu is what you'll pay. 

4. Australia's best attractions are free

In Australia, the real treasures lie outdoors on captivating beaches, coastal walks, and mountain trails. There are over 600 national parks and while a handful charge an entrance fee, most are free to explore.

There are also hundreds of cost-free museums and attractions across the country, including the Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Gallery of Victoria . Some may request donations or provide free entry only during specific hours, typically outlined on their websites. 

Another option is to join a free walking tour that delves into local history and iconic landmarks. In Brisbane, volunteers spend two to three hours guiding visitors through the city; the Sydney Sights tour leads you around neighborhoods and to famous places, like the Opera House ; and in Melbourne, a Culture Capital tour takes you deep into the city’s labyrinth of laneways and arcades. While these tours may advertise themselves as "free," they often run on a tips basis or "pay what you think it's worth", so bear in mind that the guides are usually expecting a financial contribution.

If you’re having trouble finding a tour online, ask at an information center or chat with the booking desk or concierge where you're staying. Just remember to book your spot for these tours in advance.

For popular tourist attractions, consider investing in a multi-attraction combo pass. Sightseeing Pass Australia , for example, offers discounts for attractions in South Australia and Western Australia, while Sea Life Sydney ’s Pass will save you up to 50% on other nearby sights. Alternatively, scout for discounts on platforms like Klook , Red Balloon  and Adrenaline to make the most of your sightseeing adventures.

5. Hire an RV or campervan for cheap accommodation and travel

Whether it's a road trip through the outback or along the coast , the best and sometimes only way to see Australia is by car. To explore efficiently, consider hiring a camper instead of a traditional car rental. Campervans provide affordable accommodation on wheels, with nightly fees at caravan parks averaging around $30 for unpowered sites, and upwards of $40 for powered spots (although you may find even better deals on private land through Hipcamp ).

There are also free campsites available throughout the country, offering an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. These can be found using apps such as WikiCamps Australia and CamperMate . If you go this route, prepare for minimal amenities; some spots lack toilet facilities or access to clean water. 

Van rental costs start at approximately $40 per day, depending on the model. Camplify (which is like Airbnb for motorhomes and vans) has an under $100  section, making it easy to pick your next home on wheels within budget. Jucy Rentals is another option, best suited to road trippers on a backpacker budget.

While you’ll save on accommodation, bear in mind that petrol (gas) is expensive in Australia. Prices fluctuate, but at the end of 2023 a liter of fuel was between $1.80 and $2.10.

6. Consider a farm stay for a different perspective 

Australia is witnessing a rise in the popularity of rural farm stays among travelers. Whether visiting a region for a month or a weekend, you can book a tiny house on a cattle station or sleep in a chic converted shearing shed. They can sometimes be cheaper than hotels, with a breakfast typically included. Most importantly, they double as a free attraction for the whole family, as many farm stays encourage guests to pet the horses and feed the cows.

To find them, use Hipcamp or Booking.com 's "farm stay" filter. While some farm stays can be upwards of $600 for a luxe glamping experience, some cost less than $250 per night for an entire cottage to yourself. Many tourist-facing farmstays, such as the Tweed's Hosanna Farmstay , double as campgrounds with sites from $21 a night and huts from $125.

7. Work or volunteer while you travel 

A working holiday visa in Australia can be a savvy move to explore Australia's culture and breathtaking scenery while padding your wallet. Available for visitors between the ages of 18 and 30 (and up to 35 in some cases) from eligible countries, these visas allow you to work as a tourist in Australia. 

Housesitting is another option for travelers. You get to stay for free in great homes across Australia, in exchange for looking after the house, and possibly pets too, while the owners are away. Aussie House Sitters and Mindahome.com both list available house sits; there is a small membership fee to join, but it’ll pay off in accommodation savings if you land a housesitting gig.

8. Bring your own wine to dinner

Australia has steep taxes on alcohol, resulting in high prices. Expect to pay $13 for a glass of house wine. To lessen the blow on your budget, opt for happy hour drinks when cocktails are just $15 and tap beers will start at $5. Many places also offer food deals like $10 nachos and $5 fries. 

For a budget-friendly dinner with drinks, some restaurants – particularly Chinese, Italian, and Mediterranean ones – will allow you to bring your own bottle of wine. This will typically be advertised in the restaurant’s front window, with a nominal corkage fee of around $3. Although if you walk in with a “goon” bag (a four-liter bag of wine, which will set you back about $12) you might turn some heads.

9. Join a group tour

A common oversight among travelers is underestimating Australia's vast size. With a population of just 25 million, its landmass rivals that of the United States. Travel times – particularly to remote regions – aren’t just critical to your itinerary; they’ll also affect your bottom line. 

This is when group tours – which cover lodging, food, transportation, and experiences – can be particularly good value, especially for destinations such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and K’gari (Fraser Island) . Tour operators are typically able to negotiate lower group rates for their guests, saving you not just time and effort in planning, but money as well.

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Why You Should Definitely Book a Solo Travel Vacation This Year

Solo travel is a boom to your mental health

Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle reporter with over a decade of experience covering health and wellness topics.

Daniel B. Block, MD, is an award-winning, board-certified psychiatrist who operates a private practice in Pennsylvania.

Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images

Travel is one of the most exciting, challenging, and eye-opening things you can do for yourself. Whether you’re road-tripping to the next state over or hopping on a plane and zooming to the opposite side of the world, traveling immediately takes you out of your comfort zone and invites you to see the world through new eyes. Solo travel elevates this experience further, inspiring you to explore both inward and outward.

Mandi Getz, Travel Expert at Fit4Travel 

Go into the experience with an open mind that this will be an adventure and that you'll learn something and grow.

Solo Travel and Mental Health

Raise your hand if you’ve ever deeply felt the mundanity of life. You wake up in the morning, drink your coffee, work, enjoy maybe an hour or two of free time, then go to sleep only to repeat the same sequence day after day.

“People need challenges in their lives and to break free of their comfort zone to expand their mental health, allowing them for personal development and growth,” explains licensed professional counselor and avid traveler, Abbey Sangmeister , MS.Ed, LPC, ACS. “I encourage clients to do solo travel as they have more time to turn inward and focus on themselves and areas that are no longer working for them.” 

Mandi Getz, a travel expert at Fit4Travel , which creates tailored wellness retreats, agrees. She says that traveling is an opportunity to step outside of your daily life and experience new people, new cultures, and new adventures.

Disrupting that day-to-day flow allows you to work through challenges, empower yourself, and discover your inner strength (or even help you find what you didn’t know you had!). So often we quiet our own passions and longings, but solo travel has the potential to silence all the external influence so you can tune into yourself.

8 Ways Solo Travel Improves Mental Health

Let's explore some of the specific ways solo travel benefits your mental well-being in the short and long term.

• Simply planning and looking forward to your trip can help you feel happier.
• The experience provides you with intentional opportunities to look inward and self reflect.  
• It encourages you to think about what you really want to do versus catering to another person’s preferences.
• Solo travel increases your tolerance for adversity and challenges, which can benefit you in your daily life, too. 
• It can help you feel greater satisfaction about your overall quality of life and even improve your relationships.
• The experience shows you just how strong and resilient you are, which can promote confidence and a greater sense of self.
• It can make you a more open and agreeable person, which is crucial for social interactions and relationships, as well.
• Solo travel allows you to meet new people and make new friends. When you’re with a partner or longtime friend, that same desire to meet others isn’t quite as high.

Tips for Planning a Solo Trip 

Feeling inspired to book a solo vacation but aren’t sure where to start? You're not alone. Follow these expert tips to help ensure you have an amazing experience from beginning to end.

Start Small 

It’s OK if the idea of traveling alone makes you feel nervous. It's guaranteed to get those butterflies going! But you can do it, and remember, small steps only lead to bigger ones. 

“If someone has never traveled alone and feels anxious about it, start small,” Sangmeister says. “Have you ever sat at a coffee shop alone without a laptop in front of you? Expand upon that and go out to lunch and then dinner alone. Try adventuring in your own neighborhood. Then book that trip." 

Join a Group Retreat 

Participating in a group trip is an amazing way to travel solo without being completely alone. These trip itineraries are curated by travel experts and are packed with highlights of your destination while remaining flexible to give you the freedom to be on your own.

“Our wellness retreats make things super seamless instead of you having to go in and plan everything on your own,” Getz adds. "This is especially helpful if you're not a well-traveled person or feel nervous about traveling. From hotel transfers to excursions to having a local guide lined up, we ensure you can enjoy a fully integrative experience with the culture and the history.” 

Choose the Right Destination  

Newbie solo travelers should put a lot of thought behind where they’re going. Jay Ternavan, founder of JayWay Travel , recommends starting with a destination that’s known for its safety and travel-friendly environments. These destinations often have robust tourism infrastructures and low crime rates, making them ideal for building confidence. 

Stay Smart 

The reality is that crime is possible even in your own backyard. (To that end, some destinations may even be technically safer than where you live!) Still, Ternavan says to always be aware of your surroundings. 

“Trust your instincts and avoid secluded areas, especially at night,” he advises. “Keep your valuables secure using hotel safes and avoid displaying expensive items in public. I also recommend sharing your travel itinerary with family or friends and scheduling regular check-ins with them.” 

Pro Tip: You don't have to be fluent, but learning a few basic phrases in the local language can help you navigate and interact with locals more comfortably. 

Be Open to the Experience 

Travel forces you to roll with the punches and be adaptable. Maybe the restaurant won’t have any food you like (time to try something new!) or perhaps the tour started way later than you wanted. Whatever the case, try to remain flexible.

“I know a lot of people are nervous just because they want everything to go perfectly, and with travel, things don't always go perfectly no matter how much you plan,” Getz says. “Go into your travel day and the experience with an open mind that this will be an adventure and that you'll learn something and grow. It will all be well worth the experience.”

Don’t Over-Schedule Yourself 

To make your trip really count, avoid the temptation of overbooking and account for some flexibility in your plans. “With most people having an over-scheduled daily life, I encourage them to listen to their inner voice and practice flowing when they are on solo travel,” Sangmeister says. 

Try to Be Present 

It’s already a struggle to remain present in our daily lives, but that can compound when we’re traveling. So often, our minds go to what's the next thing on the itinerary versus soaking up an experience while you’re there. “Taking time to be in the moment is super important,” Getz says. “Be mindful and continue to remind yourself to be present where you are.” 

Abbey Sangmeister, MS.Ed, LPC, ACS

Use the time of solo travel to listen to your thoughts, find your breath, and think through ideas and goals.

Do Some Self-Reflection 

Solo travel is the perfect opportunity to look inward and better understand yourself. “ Keep a journal to reflect on your trip and those messages that come when you are in quiet moments,” Sangmeister suggests. “Use the time of solo travel to listen to your thoughts, find your breath, and think through ideas and goals.” 

Solo travel can help you uncover a path you never dreamed of or discovered. It allows you to courageously conquer fears, build new coping skills and strategies for success, and learn about new cultures and experiences. Embrace it all! 

Gilbert, D., & Abdullah, J. (2002). A study of the impact of the expectation of a holiday on an individual’s sense of well-being. Journal of Vacation Marketing , 8 (4), 352–361. https://doi.org/10.1177/135676670200800406

Chikani, V., Reding, D., Gunderson, P., & McCarty, C. A. (2005). Vacations improve mental health among rural women: The Wisconsin Rural Women’s Health Study. WMJ: Official Publication of the State Medical Society of Wisconsin , 104 (6), 20–23.

Zimmermann, J., & Neyer, F. J. (2013). Do we become a different person when hitting the road? Personality development of sojourners. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology , 105 (3), 515–530. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0033019

By Wendy Rose Gould Wendy Rose Gould is a lifestyle reporter with over a decade of experience covering health and wellness topics.

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