Embracing the Twilight: Overcoming Loneliness as an Older Solo Traveler

Solo travel possesses an inimitable allure, intimately understood by those who have embarked on such journeys. It embodies the liberty to awaken and embark wherever the moment leads, fostering serendipitous friendships with strangers encountered along the way, and fostering profound personal growth through venturing beyond one’s comfort zone. However, let’s acknowledge the reality; it’s not solely a curated reel of breathtaking vistas and joyous camaraderie. As dusk descends and the night unfolds, a whisper of solitude may gently permeate, particularly for seasoned travelers who have bid farewell to the bustle of hostels and late-night revelry.

I’ve been there, in the midst of my travels, sitting at a café as the day wanes, feeling that pang of solitude. I’m in my mid-40s now, and while I’ve had my fair share of hostel stays and danced the night away in clubs around the world, those scenes don’t hold the same allure they once did. And while a cold beer and a sunset sound like a perfect pairing, I don’t drink, which adds another layer to the challenge of finding evening companionship on the road.

Can anyone relate to this? I’m sure I’m not alone in this. Solo travel, as magnificent as it is, comes with its own set of hurdles, and loneliness can be a significant one. But it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. It’s a signal, a nudge from our brains to seek out connection, to keep moving and interacting with the world around us. That’s my scientific explanation, at least.

How to make solo night brighter?

So, what can you do when the evening blues hit during your solo travels? Here are some strategies that have helped me and might just make your solo evenings a little brighter.

Firstly, indulge in what brings you joy. This is your journey, your time to be unapologetically you. Whether it’s losing yourself in a good book, capturing the essence of a city through your camera lens, or simply people-watching as the world goes by, do what makes you smile. There’s something incredibly liberating about embracing your passions without compromise. And if you can find an activity that’s unique to your destination, something you couldn’t do back home, all the better.

Another approach is to treat yourself to a touch of luxury. Traveling, especially in less developed countries, can be taxing, and sometimes all you need is a comfortable bed and a hot shower to lift your spirits. Splurging on a nice hotel room or a cozy Airbnb for a night or two can be just the pick-me-up you need. It’s not about being extravagant; it’s about recognizing when you need a little extra comfort and allowing yourself that kindness.

Connecting with other solo travelers is also a fantastic way to fend off loneliness. The world is full of people on similar journeys, and there’s a good chance you’ll find someone to share an evening with. Utilize platforms like Meetup.com or join a local event or free walking tour. These activities are hotspots for fellow adventurers looking to connect and share experiences. You might just find someone to join you for that sunset, sans beer.

If you’re feeling introspective, reading can be a wonderful distraction. Books have the power to transport us to different worlds, teach us new things, and inspire our next adventures. Why not dive into a travel memoir or a novel set in your current locale? It’s a way to explore even when you’re sitting still.

Going slow and embracing change is perhaps the most profound way to travel. Kathy, a fellow solo traveler, shares her approach: frequenting the same café each morning, engaging with locals, and being open to conversations with other English speakers. This slow travel method allows for genuine connections to form, often leading to shared meals or city explorations. It’s a reminder that travel isn’t a race; it’s an experience to be savored, loneliness and all.

I remember sitting in the airport, about to embark on a trip to Georgia, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. Despite years of solo travel, I was nervous. But that trip turned out to be life-changing, teaching me that the rewards of travel far outweigh the challenges. It’s okay to feel anxious or homesick; these feelings are normal and nothing to be ashamed of. They’re part of the journey, part of what makes us human.

So, as we venture out into the world on our own, let’s remember that it’s okay to seek out moments of connection, to indulge in self-care, and to embrace the full spectrum of emotions that come with solo travel. The evenings might be tough sometimes, but they’re also opportunities for growth, reflection, and unexpected joy. Let’s cherish them, just as we do the rest of our adventures.

Seek company while traveling

As the evening sky paints itself in hues of orange and pink, the solo traveler might find themselves seeking company amidst the beauty. It’s a common scenario for many, including myself, a mid-40s adventurer who has swapped the raucous hostel nights for quieter, more introspective evenings. The absence of alcohol in my routine only amplifies the challenge of finding companionship as the day ends. But fear not, fellow travelers, for there are myriad ways to enrich those solo evenings and transform them into cherished moments of your journey.

One of the most delightful ways to spend an evening is by attending local events or meet-ups. These gatherings are a treasure trove of like-minded individuals, many of whom are also navigating the solo travel experience. Platforms like Meetup.com are a goldmine for finding events that resonate with your interests. Whether it’s a book club, a photography walk, or a cultural event, immersing yourself in these activities can lead to meaningful connections and perhaps even friendships that extend beyond the evening.

Free walking tours are another excellent avenue for meeting fellow travelers. These tours not only provide valuable insights into your destination but also serve as social hubs. After the tour, why not suggest grabbing a bite or a coffee with your new acquaintances? It’s a casual and non-committal way to extend the interaction and enjoy the company of others who share your wanderlust.

For those who find solace in the written word, evenings are the perfect time to dive into a good book. Travel memoirs or novels set in your current location can add depth to your experience, allowing you to see your surroundings through a different lens. Reading is not just a distraction; it’s a portal to other worlds and perspectives, enriching your travel experience from the comfort of a cozy café or the privacy of your room.

Kathy, a fellow solo traveler, advocates for the ‘slow travel’ approach. By frequenting the same spots and engaging with locals and other English speakers, she has found a way to form genuine connections. This method might lead to shared meals or explorations and is a testament to the idea that travel is not about ticking off a checklist but about forming bonds and creating memories.

Embracing the slow travel philosophy, I’ve found that returning to the same café each evening can lead to familiar faces becoming friends. It’s a simple yet effective way to feel a sense of belonging in a new place. And as my Italian improves, I find that engaging with locals not only enhances my travel experience but also helps stave off the loneliness that can come with solo adventures.

I recall the anxiety that gripped me at the airport before my trip to Georgia. Despite my extensive travel history, the fear of loneliness was palpable. Yet, that trip turned out to be transformative, reminding me that the rewards of travel far outweigh the moments of doubt. It’s natural to feel anxious or homesick; these emotions are part of the journey and a reminder of our humanity.

So, when the evening arrives and you’re feeling the weight of solitude, remember that it’s okay to seek out connections and indulge in self-care. Whether it’s through attending events, reading, or embracing slow travel, there are countless ways to fill your evenings with joy and companionship. The key is to remain open to the possibilities that each night brings, for even in solitude, there is room for growth and unexpected happiness.

The solo traveler’s evening need not be a time of loneliness but an opportunity for personal enrichment. By engaging with the community, indulging in passions, and welcoming the slow rhythm of travel, one can find contentment and connection in the quiet moments. As the night unfolds, let us savor the solitude, for it is in these moments that we often find the most profound sense of place and self.

Related posts:
Solo Travel: 5 ways to overcome loneliness
Solo travel blues: Dealing with anxiety, burnout and loneliness on the road
How to Overcome Loneliness While Traveling Solo