Find Solo Time on Group Trips
Need your space when traveling en masse? Extroverts and introverts alike all need a little solo time to recharge. Here are easy ways to politely find your own space while still enjoying the group parties, meals, events, activities, and hoopla.
A family reunion, bachelor party, or weekend getaway group agenda doesn't always have to be your agenda. There can be a lot of hanging out time or slower pace in doing things to accommodate for the slowest group member and herding the troops. After a couple of days, finding ways to get some personal space is just fine. Good friends or family should understand. Many will likely copy your actions (or have already scheduled solo time for themselves). It's quite natural.
So, take that leap. Get the most out of any group vacation by returning relaxed using these tips, ideas, and resources:
1. Listen to Music: Put on your headphones or earbuds, close your eyes and tune out others and into yourself. In today's always connected world, streaming music is the norm, but seasoned travelers know the frustration of spotty or non-existent WiFi and mobile connectivity. To ensure your melodies keep flowing, download your playlists ahead of time. This simple step not only guarantees access to your favorite tunes but can also save battery life.
2. Enjoy Podcasts: Podcasts tours can be an invaluable companion, transforming mundane journeys into enriching experiences. Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets of Barcelona, earbuds in, as a local historian narrates the tales behind Gaudi's architectural marvels, or hiking through the lush trails of the Pacific Northwest while an ecologist explains the unique flora and fauna around you. These podcasts blend storytelling with practical travel tips. These auditory journeys can provide a rich understanding of places (cultural, culinary, historical...) and often feature interviews with locals, expats, and fellow travelers. Learn how to get personalized podcast recommendations for your next trip.
3. Journal: Who wouldn't respect your request for a little alone time to jot down memories, thoughts, rants, raves of the trip? In a world dominated by snapshots and social media updates, the timeless tradition of travel journaling offers a more intimate and reflective way to preserve your thoughts. Travel journals often become cherished keepsakes, brimming with vivid descriptions, doodles, ticket stubs, etc. This practice also encourages mindfulness and observation and long after the journey ends, flipping through these pages can reignite the senses and emotions of your trip.
4. Read: Many people bring books for plane rides, down time between transfers, and down time in general. A basic for down time which can double as nap time if you read with sunglasses (no one will be the wiser if you position your book and head on a pillow just so). How about books with Sudoko, crossword puzzles, and other mind games? Or are you the trashy romance novel type? John Grisham or Michael Crichton fanatic? Likewise offers many great book lists for travelers including this list of "books to inspire you to explore the world."
5. Take Walks: Walk the city, beach, destination and let your thoughts and imagination be your guide. One of the most relaxing elements of travel can be finding quiet place to ponder your current situation (career, lifestyle, health, relationships) or simply letting go of it all and fully immersing yourself in the now to contemplate lapping waves, patterns in the sand, or perhaps the origins of Pina Coladas.
6. Exercise: In the whirlwind of travel, where every moment can be filled with activities, exercise creates space for a precious oasis of 'me time.' Imagine the tranquility of an early morning jog or a sunset yoga session. Solitary exercise time is an opportunity to disconnect from the demands of travel companions, reflect and recharge. Whether it's a hotel gym workout or a leisurely bike ride through a historic city, these moments of physical activity become sanctuaries of self-care. They remind us that taking time to focus on our well-being and individual needs is not just beneficial, but essential.
7. Just say NO. While the main objective of any group trip is to be together, taking time for yourself shouldn't catapult feelings of guilt into your conscience. Learn the delicate art of politely declining for certain activities.
Any other ways to step aside from group gatherings to recharge with solo time?