Finding friends in solitary sojourns
When it comes to travel, there's a lot to be said for going it alone, writes STEPHEN SCOURFIELD
Single and Solo
Lets start with the slightly tricky title of this guide. For the words “single” and “solo” are very different and cover a range of people and situations.
SINGLE
Many readers I meet are rather reluctant singles. Through separation or loss of a partner, they find themselves living ostensibly solitary lives but making an effort to connect to others.
They spend time with family, and meet friends for coffee. They go along to clubs and develop their hobbies and interests. They volunteer.
They refuse to give up their interest in travelling the world and all the experiences and stimulation that can bring. But they face the challenge of committing to travelling alone, finding other singles to travel with them, or jumping the social precipice to join a cruise or tour with strangers who they hope will become friends.
SOLO
It’s fair to say that lots of solo travellers go solo out of choice.
Maybe the time they have available doesn’t match that of a partner. Maybe each recognises they have different tastes and desires, and choose separate adventures. Maybe they like to refresh and bring back stories to the relationship. Maybe one wants to fish or tour on motorcycles. Maybe the other wants to visit art galleries and do cooking classes. Or maybe one partner simply doesn’t want to travel, and the other does.
Read the full story, and more, at thewest.com.au
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Stephen Scourfield
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