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“Aren't you scared to eat alone?”
This is one of the most popular questions that I get when people find out that I often travel by myself. While it may have intimidated me years ago, I've gotten used to dining solo. If this is something that's holding you back from traveling, let me share some tips that have helped me become more confident.
Solo Dining Tips from Terry:
1. Bring a book to read
I have to admit - this isn't my favorite tip because I think it can make it more difficult for you to be approachable to others around you. However, if your main goal for dining alone is simply to eat or to get out, this is a great way to keep your mind occupied, ease some of the social anxiety, and provide yourself with some time to catch up on the book you've been meaning to finish.
I created a list of some of my favorite books to read on the go. Did you know that if you sign up for Kindle Unlimited you get access to tons of books with a monthly subscription. If you’re an avid reader, this is perfect for you and there are so many great books that are part of the collection.
2. Organize Photos on Your Phone into Albums
I don't know about you, but my photos and videos are a MESS on my phone. It sometimes makes it challenging for me to find what I'm looking for later. By creating albums and organizing your photos, you'll save time and energy later on.
3. Create/draft social media posts from your vacation
Instead of wasting part of your day posting all about your trip, be in the moment! Enjoy and document the experiences while you're having them. While you're sitting down to eat, you can start carefully crafting that Instagram post, or beginning to edit clips together from your day for a TikTok video or Instagram Reel. It will allow you to reflect on your day while you enjoy your meal.
4. Research additional plans/excursions/tours for the rest of your trip
I often like to leave some things to the last minute on my trip. I try to make room for some spontaneity as I travel, so I'll keep some days open and have zero plans. This is a great time to see what tours or excursions have availability the next day or on one of the upcoming days. It will give you something to look forward to and you can even ask your server if they have any ideas they recommend.
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5. Look up information about the city you're in
If it's your first night, or you're in a city that has a lot of history, use this time to read up on it. Find out what makes the area unique, what some of the famous monuments are and why they're significant. Ask your server if there's anything they know about that's unique to the area that they can share with you may or may not find in the typical tour guides. It's a great conversation starter.
6. Talk to Nearby Tables and/or Your Waiter
Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with a table nearby. I've often found that even tables with couples who are on a romantic trip are happy to have a conversation with a traveler. They are often surprised when you tell them you're traveling alone. (Just be careful to not divulge that information if you don't feel it's safe to do so - this is something you should always be cautious of, so use your best judgment). You never know who you may talk to!
7. Journal (manifestations, goals, etc.)
Traveling alone is incredibly therapeutic and a wonderful time for reflection. If you're dining solo, it's the perfect time to journal about your trip or write down some manifestations. Setting goals and envisioning your future can be powerful and motivating.
While it can be intimidating to dine alone, I highly recommend giving it a try and using one of my suggestions above. I have a feeling you'll end up finding that it's not so bad. And if you still don't like it, that's absolutely okay and at least you know that you tried it.
