discussion among solo traveler

I am 68 year old female who travels on RS trips solo---because my husband has not yet retired---and I would like to know if there is anywhere on this site that solo travelers post a little bit about themselves and what trips they are contemplating so that other solo travelers might get to know others and perhaps plan trips together. I have seen this on discussion boards on Rick Steves travel website, but have not found anything similar on this site. I love to travel, and will travel solo by necessity, but would much prefer to meet others and travel with someone I know a little about. I have limited funds and cannot usually afford to pay the single supplement to stay in a room by myself.

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kharasta032210 over 4 years ago

I'm new to RS and was hoping to see a little bit of information of other participants on the trip I am signed up for. I see profile names but nothing else. I would lobpbe to somehow connect with other solo travelers... this is all so very new to me
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kharasta032210 over 4 years ago

I'm new to RS and was hoping to see a little bit of information of other participants on the trip I am signed up for. I see profile names but nothing else. I would lobpbe to somehow connect with other solo travelers... this is all so very new to me
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zen021519 over 4 years ago in reply to kharasta032210

RS used to send out a list of participants prior to the trip but, for some reasons, has decided not to do that any more. I am not sure what the reason is but having the list might help some people coordinate travel to the airport or meet up at the airport, which might help reduce anxiety for some.
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eliztravels021352 over 4 years ago in reply to zen021519

I wouldn’t be surprised if privacy laws make it difficult for RS to post participants names. I think they could do a better job of advertising this discussion board, however. The could send out a notice to participants as soon as they have paid their deposit, give some instructions on how to find and use the board and encourage them to sign up to meet people.
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larrylobo42010500 over 4 years ago in reply to eliztravels021352

That's why, on another thread, I suggested that RS ask permission from those signing up for any particular trip if they
would consent to have their email address sent to other registrants on the same trip. Consent waives HPPA regs.
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lndg5012042 over 4 years ago in reply to kharasta032210

This reply was deleted.
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mbdev16020316 over 4 years ago in reply to lndg5012042

I hope so. I am a bit apprehensive since I am going alone and don't know anyone on the trip. Diving in feet first... hope no rocks hidden in the water.
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TravelHound over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

LOL, you'll be fine. Remember you are not traveling "alone". You are traveling "solo". To me a huge distinction and the advantage of traveling with RS. Having almost all meals together you have a chance to get to know the people you travel with. I have been on 5 RS trips solo and have never been disappointed. I find the question "What are you passionate about?" a great conversation starter when meeting people for the first time.
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praynak030710 over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

I have been on 4 RS trips and have been solo on all and it was great meeting new people from differnet parts of the USA
Took one to Old World Eurpoe in the fall and it was great. Have never felt left out.
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mbdev16020316 over 4 years ago in reply to kharasta032210

I too am new to RS attending my first event in two weeks. Hopefully I will be included in the 'on your own activities'. with other solo travelers. this learning curve is a bit steep.
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doreanp011014 over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

Just relax and you will have a wonderful time.
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mbdev16020316 over 4 years ago in reply to doreanp011014

Thanks, my cousin was laughing at me, he wanted to know if I have my “30 second elevator speech” ready. Deep breaths and laugh at yourself!
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TravelHound over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

I agree relax and expect nothing but the best. I enjoy my freetime. It makes it all the more enjoyable when you rejoin the group. Not to say at I have not joined or been joined with others when we have free time. I have mentioned before on another forum; people seem to be more inclined to ask you to join if you also allow them space. Do some research ahead for those gaps in the schedule and have something in mind that looks of interest to you. I always have a list with me so no time wasted asking around.
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TravelHound over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

LOL. He is right. Keep it short and sweet and be ready to have a good time.
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praynak030710 over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

Just relax and have fun, go with the flow
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mbdev16020316 over 4 years ago in reply to TravelHound

I am nervous about exploring an unfamiliar city on my own particularly since I am an 'older' woman, 70. I remember going to Barcelona with my husband in 2000 and we were advised not to venture into particular parts of the city. Of course that was where he wanted to go to visit the restaurants and shops to get the full feel of the culture. I was so nervous until we returned to the hotel.
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TravelHound over 4 years ago in reply to mbdev16020316

I have also used Global Greeter program when on my own(globalgreeternetwork.info/). They are free, meet you at your hotel, vetted and you are their only client for the entire day; whatever interest you choose. I have used them in Chicago and NYC, not overseas. Got to see suburb of Chicago loaded with Frank Lloyd Wright houses and in NYC spent a full day exploring Harlem. May be a way to do the group events and then be with someone to explore on your free time.

If you are not comfortable exploring on your own don't make yourself miserable worrying about it, planning an adventure should be fun, not full of stress. Hope you find something that suits you.
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