Great, you’ve checked all the scuba diving trips for singles, decided where to go: itinerary, gear and all are ready. One last block: you’re scared of all the disadvantages of travelling alone… Safety issues, additional costs, fear of being homesick, or simply feeling lonely. One thing, this is absolutely normal. Then, consider that more and more people are travelling alone now: there is nothing weird about it anymore, this is quite the opposite actually. So let’s discuss those few disadvantages of travelling alone and how to handle them. This way, you can prepare for unforgettable diving holidays without feeling scared or stressed.
1 – What about the safety issue of travelling alone?
Okay, no need to say that travelling alone isn’t significantly more dangerous than travelling with friends or family. Although, you can feel less safe, and it’s absolutely normal. Obviously, you’re on your own, so you don’t have the advantage of the numbers in case of trouble. Nobody to have your back, check luggage, personal belongings or yourself for two. And of course, you have the right to ask yourself “is it safe to travel alone” if you have to go back to the hotel late, as a solo female traveller for example.
- Special World Adventure Divers’ tips:
Definitely, no need to become paranoid about it, but you’ll have to be more responsible and aware of yourself. Just apply classic safety rules, the same ones you would adopt naturally at home: no need to wander around drunk and exposed, to get out on the other side of town far from your hotel, or to take empty dark streets on your own on the way back. Moreover, you can grab a taxi if you feel like it.
Consider hiding your money and papers in a safety belt, rather than in a handbag. I like also the trick of a second fake wallet with little money and loyalty cards only. Or even go out with people from your hotel, so you’re already hanging out as a group. Just a bit of common sense and everything will be fine.
2 – Travelling alone might be more expensive
Indeed, even if you travel to the cheapest diving destinations, they are some costs that will be the same, whether you travel on your own or with someone. Hotels and transportation are the usual culprits. Some hotels, agencies or activity centres even apply a supplement for solo travellers, whatever (non) sense this makes.
- Special World Adventure Divers’ tips:
First of all, look for accommodations that don’t add a supplement, have single rooms, or have a discount price list for solo travellers. This is especially easy to do so on booking.com. Honestly, solo travel is now a thing and this is more frequent than you think. Don’t hesitate to negotiate for single occupancy, especially if you’re travelling at low season, or if you feel your hotel isn’t full.
By the way, have you thought of asking who is going in which direction and sharing a taxi with someone from your hotel?
3 – You might feel lonely sometimes
Yes, being on your own can feel empowering as hell. But sometimes, one of the biggest disadvantages of travelling alone is to actually feel lonely. One thing: even experienced solo travellers face this feeling, no shame, this is just life. You might struggle with the fact of meeting new people because you’re not what we can call the biggest extrovert ever. I hear you, you don’t feel like living amazing moments while scuba diving or in front of stunning landscapes without the possibility of sharing it with someone. I promise it doesn’t have to be this way.
- Special World Adventure Divers’ tips:
First, if you feel really homesick, there is no need to blame yourself. Once again, let’s wave the indulgence flag here. If you feel like eating a pizza or food from your country, laying on your bed watching a movie, while eating ice cream and seeing nobody, that’s fine! Treat yourself, accept the feeling of the moment and let it go the day after. If it sounds like you, why not try local diving first?
If you struggle meeting and talking to people, remember you can always book your dives as a single diver and being paired up with other scuba divers. You’ll definitely meet people on the way. Consider that simple and genuine questions asked to another solo traveller, like “First time diving in here?”, “Where do you come from?” or whatever else, might be enough to break the ice. Besides, check if your hotel or dive centre organises some events in the evening and show up!
4 – What about eating alone?
It can feel a bit awkward, not to say deeply uncomfortable for some of us, to go to a restaurant, ask for a table for one and actually sit in front of… nobody. And what about hanging at the bar of the hotel without any buddy? I hear you and the good news, it can easily be handled.
- Special World Adventure Divers’ tips:
First, consider that eating on your own is okay, nothing wrong with it. Order some good wine, and great food, grab a book and bring a notepad to write about your adventures; there might also be a terrific view to enjoy from the terrace; just avoid being stuck to your phone if you want to stay open to the opportunity to speak to other people.
Feel like it’s still too intimidating? Consider seating at the bar, where you can talk to the bartender sometimes. You might meet a lot of people during your diving tours, and some of them may be staying at your hotel or nearby. Thanks to fun activities like scuba diving, I promise, it won’t be too long before you actually start sharing your meals with new friends.
Okay, these may be the worst disadvantages of travelling alone. I hope with these tips you’ll feel confident to handle them. Now, let’s talk about the benefits of travelling alone, shall we?
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