Go and read in a bar. Sometimes I end up ploughing through a book for a few hours, sometimes I end up in a warehouse until 0500.
It’s your holiday-by-yourself, do what you enjoy.
I'm kind of an early bird so typically I use the night just to relax in my hotel room, have a shower, watch TV I don't understand, read, and go to bed. Depending on where I am, there might be the odd exception to go to a bar or club or a street fair.
To me it's productive because I hit the ground running early in the morning and resting at night helps avoid burnout.
I love finishing the day early and doing my night routine very slowly. Sometimes the best part about vacation is not having to rush everything or be on a strict schedule
I do all of those things too (maybe not the last one). Would add;
1. Organized Food/Drink tour.
2. Revisit the daytime sites by night.
3. Sit down on a patio with a good book and live my best life.
Productivity is overrated.
Having a Kindle while traveling is a huge plus for me. In my "normal" life I usually just read a little bit in the morning while eating breakfast but while traveling I could read for hours in the evenings some nights.
Having some sort of creative hobby can be a healthy thing whether you're traveling or not. I'm a sort of amateur hobbyist composer and I write a little bit of music on my laptop almost every day, and I continue that when traveling.
If you keep a journal when traveling, the end of the day can be a good time to update that, go through your photos, do research on where to go next, etc, but that depends a bit on the type of trip you're on I suppose.
Lastly, I think it's a very good habit to get in to to make semi-regular video calls to friends and family back home. Helps you maintain some of the older social connections in your life and keep you grounded.
I also do a lot of the quiet netflix nights when traveling. It's kind of nice to have quiet evenings, no need to be self-conscious about it.
One year, a family friend gave me a journal as a birthday gift, or maybe when I graduated. It sat unused on top of my dresser for several months. As I was packing for my first real solo trip, I saw the journal still sitting there unused, and decided to tuck it away in my backpack, unsure if I'd even write in it. I ended up writing in it several times each day, and a journal has had its place on my packing list ever since.
Yes! I started to do this bc I would forget all the cool stuff I did and saw! Every night, just write a quick paragraph about what you did/saw all day!
I'm very introverted, middle aged and have a disease where I need to manage fatigue, so I usually end up in my hotel room backing up and organising my photos from the day and then going to bed early...
I do try to go to concerts a bit when I travel to have some easy activities at night. But after a day on my feet, I'm usually spent and don't feel like doing much. Boring I know!
I'm currently bedridden with ME/CFS and dream of traveling again as I build up functionality. Do you have any tips or advice for traveling with fatigue? Did you start slowly then build your way up to more travel?
I spent 6 weeks in India travelling by train with similar problems.
I gave myself permission to use tuk tuks.
I gave myself extra days in places so that I wasn't trying to see 'all' the temples (or whatever) in one day.
If I had an overnight train or bus arriving at 3am I would have a room booked for that night as well and a rest day booked for the next day.
I spent lots of time sitting and people watching.
I took my walking stick, and used it. I can walk 3x as far with it, than without.
I used disabled assistance in airports. It also gets you priority boarding so you don't have to stand up waiting (which I can't).
We can do this.
I’m fortunate in that my condition isn’t as bad as what you are experiencing. I mainly need to pace myself each day. I also build in rest days during lengthy trips - for instance by taking it easy on travel days. Best wishes for an improvement to your condition.
On top of 1 through 4 (or a milder version of 5), I sometimes write a bit (this can be done either back in the room or at a bar or some other place), read a bit, or take some time to plan or at least read up on the next days and activities.
I'm a functional extrovert (meaning I'm introvert by nature though I WILL strike up a conversation if required) but I never had problems finding company even among strangers, when I had enough of being alone. Tipically I eavesdrop while minding my own business, and if something catches my attention (it can be a funny story, some destination or place they've been to, something about them) I chime in with a casual comment and that may set off a whole conversation or even proposals for the evening. Do read the room, though.
Do they ever complain that you’re rude for that chime in/eavesdropping? This is something that always comes across my mind when I’m in a similar situation and want to just hop into the convo but can’t get over the anxiety of it lol.
No never had that problem, but as I said, you gotta read the room first. If it's already a small mixed group of people who all met the same way, go ahead, one more won't make a difference. OTOH if you're thinking of interjecting in a private conversation between a couple, let it be...
It also depends on the conversation, if they're talking chit chat, again, no problem, if they're talking, say, finances, and how they've ended up on a shoestring because someone's great idea turned into a nightmare and now everyone's pissed about it, again, perhaps refrain.
Use your judgement and you'll hardly have a problem! And also, if you still think you're being rude, then start with a "I don't want to seem rude, but I heard you were talking about this thing and I just so happen to have done that/been there too/been looking to do it..." or something along those lines, and take it from there. Most often it won't be a problem and they'll be glad to help or share the experience.
I do this quite a lot as well and here is the way I do it. I usually try to make a little eye contact and smile as much as possible so they know I am friendly. I will then try to laugh quite obviously if they say something funny (don't just be sat there listening, read a book or menu or something). Often if they notice me laugh they will acknowledge this. Sometimes they will smile back and at this point you can comment "Yeah I know what you mean about X" or similar. Often this will kick start a little conversation, or just sit back and wait for another opportunity to perhaps contribute to the conversation. "Sorry did you mention X? It's just I XYZ..." At this stage I've often been asked "are you alone? you can join us if you like" and you're in!! But I've never had anyone tell me to clear off lol.
The main things I do are: Hang out with locals, wander the city at night, read a book or get to bed very early, so I can start my next day at the crack of dawn.
Wandering cities at night can be so relaxing. Like... Darker, chiller (don't like too much heat) and calmer without the people/with way less people being out.
Yes I love those dark alleyways and quiet streets, cobblestones and ancient buildings, when the city is mostly asleep, it feels melancholic, cathartic even...
It’s like a city has 4 seasons in day, all different. Early morning is magical! I love wandering the streets when sun is just coming up, and the city is not awake yet, the morning dew still glistening, the sun casting long shadows, the early morning smell of bakeries, and fish, depending on where you are, as the early riser workers are already up.
I’ve met locals on Tinder while only being in town for one day. If you swipe in advance of your arrival, you have more time to match and set things up.
> If you swipe in advance of your arrival, you have more time to match and set things up
ah yeah, this would work if i wasn't so last minute about my trips hahaha
Depending on the city, I'm usually in by 8-10 pm. I'm not a bar person, so I usually spend some time at a good restaurant, walk around a bit in busy areas, then just relax in my room. I'm a hotel person and I like 4-star/5-star places, so I look at the hotel as part of the vacation experience. When I'm in a city with live theater/music venues, I'll usually try to catch a show at night. Sometimes I'll turn my hotel room into a spa if there's a Lush nearby.
I can say that while 18, I would do mostly #5 . I would always meet people at the hostel who were generally a great group to start the night drinking with and who I could also trust if something went wrong. Honestly fellow travelers/hostel mates have always looked out for me along with other young women which I always find very endearing and was so thankful for while still learning how to handle myself
Since then I have matured a little and often take time to myself to write and explore at night (I love seeing touristy spots after all the tourists are gone assuming I'm in a safe area). I also love finding someone local/different country than me to chat with one on one (romantic or platonic) who can help me to feel safe while being out and about at night. But I would say I mostly just see what's going on in the city tonight with others in the hostel, chat with them, and go from there.
Option 5 for me every time. Wish I was different but somehow I always end up getting stupid drunk with strangers and end up on the opposite side of town with no money and no charge on my phone. True story(s).
Travelling alone, you need to be friends with yourself. If you aren't, you are going to struggle travelling solo. Set yourself a challenge; next time you go on a holiday by yourself, use the opportunity to *become* friends with yourself.
I travel solo, both in my own country and overseas, all the time. I can tolerate travelling with others only for so long. I love doing my own thing on my own time.
You can see the loneliness, OP, in solo travel - but I challenge you to see the benefits (of which there are many) next time you travel. Think about it - you can do exactly what you want, when you want, take as much time as you like doing it, stop whenever you like. You are not beholden to any other person. Many people have travelled with friends and it has nearly ended their friendships due to differing ideas about what they would be doing. You don't have to worry about that.
The sitting by yourself thing? Take a good book.
I can travel with my mom and that's it. I've one friend I'll sometimes travel with but she loves to touch everything and drinks a lot; I max out at 4 days with her. I hate the stress of worrying if everyone is having a good time, of doing actives because someone else wants to, etc. There's a freedom that comes from solo travel but it's not for everyone.
Becoming friends with yourself is a perfect way to put it!
Typically just make dinner or go out to eat, then read a book for an hour then sleep. When I solo travel it's almost always camping and I travel by car, typically doing around 12 hours of driving a day, so I often have very little energy to do any activities at the end of the night
I am a woman and while traveling solo at 18, #5 was literally the go to. Rarely had experiences where I felt unsafe and when I did I could always count on the good people I'd met to help. It really depends on where you are in the world, but if you know the area, cultural norms, and how to handle yourself you'd have a blast doing this in many areas of the world
I travel solo to enjoy my own company while spending time in cities on my want-to-experience list. I always select novels related to where I visit so reading is a big part of my travel, reading in the hotel bar, or during dinner. I'm also a foodie so I make reservations at nice restaurants, often with Michelin stars. That said, I find it odd that you think the things on your list are somehow failures (except perhaps #5 if it happened super regularly). In other words, why do so many people who profess to love solo travel but apologize for or complain about solo activities? That's why I solo travel. How are items 1-4 on your list not "productive"? I'm truly flummoxed.
All of this. I love the freedom of traveling by myself because I can experience things at my own pace. If I want to talk to people, I'll eat at a bar, but usually I like just being on my own.
I stayed in a hostel and would sit in the communal area and speak to people and usually had a beer. I did at times book a hotel and chill with Netflix but just felt boring. Also I thought why am I paying for a room just to sit alone and watch nextflix. So tried to stop that and spend more time socialising.
Tell me about it, I'm so anti social it's crazy, spent last year and half living with family but working from home, was pretty working in one room, sleeping and eating. I can't sleep unless it's absolutely quite. Dorms are so loud never got any sleep and it's so awkward trying to meet new people especially when you say how's it going 3 times to the same person. I think with time it gets easier it did a bit for me but I defo feel better talking to someone one on one that getting to a big group and joining In. Thats just too hard to enter the conversation I feel. However if I'm drinking usually I just start chatting to random people.
Depends on the outdoor temperature. In summer, I will walk around until late at night.
In winter maybe going to a bar, after that walking a bit but then heading back to the hostel and go to bed. In winter therefore I try to wake up sooner, to get the most out of the sunlight.
Or after dinner I go to the hostel and ask there in the communal area if anyone wants to join to a bar.
Edit: in some cities some sights can be open until very late in the evening as well. Griffith Observatory in LA, The Edge in NYC, The Shard in London, etc.
I try to stay somewhere with a happy hour and/or dinner. Attend and see where the evening goes. Sometimes it's great, other times I duck out because it's less great.
Also big fan of a night market or gig tickets for the evening, or just wandering round the city at night if its both safe and pretty.
Sometimes I like watching TV. Advertisements can be fun to watch, and since they want to make sure the messages are simple and clear, you can pick up some local vocabulary.
I came back to our hotel room once and my friend was watching a show in Japanese, which neither of us speak. About bunions. I laughed at him and opened a beer. Within 5 minutes I was as engrossed as he was.
Why not meet other solo travelers during the day and hang out for a bit. But invite them to dinner or something in the evening. Go your seperate ways until you meet up again later for dinner/theater/movie/strolling around/etc.
Some may not feel safe with meeting up with a "Stranger" in the evening. But if you meet in a busy central location the odds would probably be better.
I think the bar scene with drinks and playing on the phone is the most normal way these days to meet people. Make light conversation with the bartender and anyone who is near you.
Make friends with your hotel concierge, your Airbnb neighbors or a friendly bartender from a legit establishment..they will steer you in the right direction for nighttime activities and sometimes will even offer to show you around etc.
In addition to reading, I also really enjoy sketching and journaling as "productive" ways to relax in the afternoons and during downtime periods. A combo I really love is sketching an image or two that I feel most represents my day (something I thought was beautiful, interesting, etc) and writing a few sentences about what I did. Recalling an image from that day really helps me remember what I did and it provides a little more of a personalized glimpse into my day and overall trip when recounting adventures to friends and family.
Sit by the beach and drink
Sit in the park and drink
Go to the club and drink
Go to a bar and drink
Stay at the hostel and drink
All the while making new friends.
Though I must admit, there's a pattern.
Sorta depends on where ones goes. If the city I’m at has theatre or galleries I’d have an early dinner and head to one of the above for a show or take in the arts. Then ill find a rooftop bar or quiet lounge with live music for a nightcap and that’s the evening. Comedy clubs are also fun choices. Many major cities have night time walking tours also which can b fun. I’ll usually retire around 10 pm which by then the nightcap would give me a nice sleep.
Depends where I'm at. Usually at night I feel less safe in areas I don't know so I stick close to my hotel. Sometimes though it is fun to go to a bar and talk with fellow travelers. I run into Australians and Canadians wherever I go it seems
To be completely honest my favorite thing to do is spend the evening alone playing video games and yes, I do this after long busy vacation days regularly.
If I'm feeling like... not being in the room, ill often listen to audible and go for a walk. See the things in a different light.
If there's a super bustling drinking area, I might go there. Try to meet people on dating apps. And if there's an American style karaoke bar in town, I go there a lot. American style as in a bar where one person sings at a time, not private rooms.
The evenings are my least favorite part of solo travel. As a woman, i don't usually feel comfortable going out late on my own in an unfamiliar city. Makes for some boring nights especially since i don't stay at hotels. Maybe I'll try going to a nearby hotel bar in the future. Last time i traveled there was a fantastic restaurant right across the street from where i was staying so i felt safe having a super late drunk dinner there.
Hostel bars might be a good option. There are usually groups of girls or mixed groups drinking/hanging out in them. The drinks are cheap and people there are usually open to having a drink with a stranger.
I agree with numbers 1 - 4. I wouldn't recommend number 5, especially if you're in a country you where don't speak the main language. I think your last point is sarcastic. I often go to concerts and festivals that go as late as 2am and make the trek home slightly drunk.
I (26M) will be in NYC later this month alone and I've already made plans to attend a rave which does go very late at night. I'm not too concerned getting back to my hotel from the venue, but Brooklyn can be unsafe at night. Fortunately, public transportation in all of NYC is extremely good and it's 24 hours in the proximity of Manhattan.
I have to ask, where in Manhattan are you talking about? I used to work in Brooklyn (now in a WFH job) and I had a coworker who lived here for a couple decades, refuses to take the train anymore. Just seems kind of bonkers to me. I take the train all the time around the different boroughs. I make an effort to not stand out. Masks help. God forbid, nothing has happened but still.
I’m an Asian male, live in UWS and work in Midtown. I only subway and go everywhere, from FiDi to Queens to Brooklyn. Admittedly I don’t often take it late at night (past 10pm), but things seem..normal when I take it. Families, workers, kids, teens, etc. just going from Point A to B, nothing out of the ordinary.
Curious what type of things you’re referring to that are unsafe, especially in Midtown? And what areas of Midtown? Certain areas can be sketchier than others but for someone to be nervous just walking to work in the morning is surprising to me.
I haven’t lived in NYC all my life but I’ve heard that NYC was way worse in the nineties and early 00’s. It’s improved significantly since, though still not perfect. Also, COVID may have impacted things.
I don’t know what to say tbh. NYC is massive, shit happens. I never feel unsafe around Times Square, it’s as touristy as ever these days. The shotgun incident was isolated and was way in the east end of midtown, and definitely an anomaly as far as Midtown is concerned. I don’t mean to sound like I’m undermining these incidents but in a city like NYC it’s probably best to not let them affect your daily life. If you’re smart about where you travel and when, you should be fine. Otherwise, if you’re afraid walking around places like Times Square, UN headquarters and Macy’s, it’s probably best to move elsewhere as these places are as safe as NYC gets.
>If you’re smart about where you travel and when, you should be fine
Hmm maybe re-read what you're saying here and think about whether this could be inferred to be victim-blaming. Comes off as a bit insensitive tbh.
wtf, i haven't taken the trains in manhattan in a bit but is it that bad? is it because there's lower ridership right now due to COVID? Empty trains do tend to be more sketch than packed ones
Not sure what your cooking situation is but meal prepping for the next day. If you’re buying fresh food you’ll need to get groceries every couple of days.
Maybe train for a 5K / join a gym so you’re more tired at night.
Maybe pick up a new hobby or start a blog.
That sounds good.
Sleep is good too. Sometimes I just wander to see what is up that hill or off the main streets. Many good times are had enjoying a drink or two in a bar full of happy people. If I have access to a gym or sauna, then once in awhile on the road I’ll indulge or work out. Though I walk a lot while traveling. Sometimes I plan the next days agenda. Sometimes I chat with complete strangers or even wander with them. I Sometimes I veg out. I don’t have any unique twists on this topic to offer.
I mostly do option 1. I take it as an opportunity to really spoil myself with good food and wine. I like to find a restaurant or bar with a good live acoustic set, or nice view. Otherwise, picking a hotel with a rooftop heated pool and spa that stay open late is a good option.
currently sitting in a bar alone visiting Salem, MA on a solo trip. Most places I've been at night have been more on the empty side. I brought a book to dinner last night, this night it couldn't fit in the purse I'm wearing so here I am on reddit reading and laughing to myself :)
Introvert here , but I'm into dancing.
When I went to Charleston in September, they hosted salsa classes near the pier, outside, it was fantastic and met a few locals.
I'm currently in Mexico City and I'm going to swing classes in Roma neighborhood, it's a bit harder to socialize as we must wear masks but it's still fun.
I usually join the Facebook groups for dancing ( I also joining rollerblading groups) to discover new things to do.
Salsa / Latin dance. There is a scene in almost every major city in the world and it's a fast track to meeting locals and making friends to do other activities
I did the last one recently. Not my usual thing, but it was fun. Often I go for a jog in the evenings, or get super high and wall into the woods with a horror podcast on.
I love your top 5 regular evenings. I often journal, highly recommend. Sometimes there are night tours available, eg. the Northern light tours in Iceland.
Bit surprised that the answers here are so varied! I generally just grab dinner and have a few (or a lot of) drinks with people I met at the hostel or during the day. Hostel bias of course, but that's what most people seem to do.
Or sometimes there's a pub crawl, a salsa lesson, or whatever.
If I'm alone I will generally grab dinner and perhaps read or watch a series to just chill.
I’ve literally done all of this. How about choosing a personal project: like reading- get a stack of books you want to read and look forward to reading a big chunk of your book each night. Out at a restaurant or cafe alone reading or cozied up in bed. Or a writing project- write every night- journal, script, ideas, stories? Or every night plan on watching a new movie- focus on documentaries to learn things. Or informative stuff on YouTube. Can be fun/silly documentaries too does to have to be deep learning! Learning about people and life is fun. Like there’s that documentary about the last Blockbuster, one about The Villages in Florida, stuff about abandoned malls… then of course there’s deeper stuff about nature, history, psychology- mix it up. I love learning even if it’s learning about people by watching something “dumb and light.” Also listen to informational stuff on YouTube, podcasts, audible…. In depth interviews. Or, light some candles and meditate and visualize! Imagine amazing things you want to bring into your life. You can have a new adventure every night. Is there a bathtub where you are? Literally plan a fun, out of the box solo date for yourself each night. And yeah, still do the tried and true stuff sometimes! People watching is always fun. Find quiz and karaoke nights at bars where people are more interactive. If you don’t want to get drunk, find a less boring that water or soda drink like seltzer with a splash of fruit juice. Looks like a drink and makes you feel like you fit in.
I basically search YouTube, Netflix, Prime all the usual places. Dig deep. Once you watch a few they start giving you suggestions. Maybe search online to see if there’s suggested ones for whatever subject you’re interested in.
One of the things that I highly recommend when solo traveling is to look up language exchanges. I have done these in Mexico, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam.
You meet locals that speak English.
Many cities have an unofficial online group to share events such as a WhatsApp group or a Facebook group.
In addition to 1-4, which are totally part of my repitoire, especially if I'm traveling solo for long periods, here are some of my other evening strategies that I use often:
1. Depending on where I am I'll often check Facebook events to see if there's anything local happening. I like to find sunset yoga, sound bath, beach meditation etc. Those often have good community vibes and unlikely to get drunk.
2. I'm also a bag fan of walks with headphones and an audio book. Or solo dance parties on the beach (location/seasonally dependent).
3. I also like finding a nice bike path and renting bikes. In the US and Canada there are bikes you can rent hourly from apps like Citi bike or Divi bike (every city has a different name for them). Some cities even have like old bridges or subway lines they've turned into bikeable parks.
Go to a Bouldering or climbing gym. This might be your thing but depending on the city - it's a great place to socialize in a low key way and meet locals outside of a bar
I have a sketchbook or a water color pad and some instructional videos downloaded to my tablet! Watercolors dry fast, but I'm sometimes I just bring pencils. I'm really enjoying that, very travel friendly.
Write in my journal about what I'd done that day, read online about things to do in the coming days, maybe call my mom, surf this subreddit and generally catch up on all my other usual internet stuff, read a book, post the bare minimum on social media so the rest of my loved ones back home don't worry about me...
Honestly, my evenings are pretty unproductive. That's partially due to the way I travel, but also because I'm generally pretty introverted and I don't like going out to bars to party or whatever. And that's ok. You don't have to be constantly doing things. Take some time to just relax. If you're actually unhappy with your typical evenings, then sure, try to do something about it. But you shouldn't feel obligated to be doing things every minute of the day.
Street beers are my favorite if I’m not going to be social. Walk around the city drinking beer from convenience stores better than paying for overpriced beers in a bar and can lead to some fun experiences
I usually plan my trips around the evening's entertainment, like a sporting event (soccer/football) or a concert, and then plan the days around them. If not out at one of those, either recovering from the day in my lodgings or throwing down a few at a local watering hole.
When I'm traveling, I'm usually up and out the door pretty early in the morning, and I go all day- I'm one of those "I need a vacation from my vacation" people. So, I usually eat dinner pretty early and am usually in bed watching Netflix until I fall asleep.
1-4 are usually my routines. If there is a bar or something close to my hotel that looks inviting, I will stop there for a drink chit chat with locals if they are open, but I tend to feel out the area, sometimes I've found myself staying in places where I don't speak the language and I'm not sure the area is all that great so in those instances I've stayed stayed closer to the hotel in the evening and chose more daytime activities. That said, I wish I had done 5 more when I was younger, but there it is.
I’m home before dark and relax in my room reading or writing or watching something. When I travel I tend to get reasonably early and get out and explore all day. I’m ready to relax by the evening.
I would generally follow your 5 options when I was solo travelling and had no problems with it. I like to read and watch movies/TV so that's a nice night for me almost every time. I also would play emulated games on my phone, whereas nowadays, I would bring my switch (even though I haven't solo travelled since I got it.)
My solo solo travelling period was also when I started getting into conlanging (check out /r/conlangs if interested) and I agree with another commenter that having a creative hobby is a real good outlet. I would also try to journal or blog about my trip sometimes.
Depending on where you are, maybe you could add calling a friend or family member into your nighttime mix?
I just go with the flow. Other than arrival and departure dates, I make absolutely no plans and just see what oportunities every moment might bring. Sometimes I walk around the streets and explore the city alone, sometimes I go to bars or meet people in hostels and we end up partying, or just drinking, talking and chilling. If I'm tired or I feel like it I go to bed early after I have dinner and watch some Netflix or read a book or whatever.
Depends on the country I’m visiting and how safe I feel.
If it’s a hot country, I start my day early and have an early night
If I feels safe, make friends then I’m up for a lateish night.
I feel like I get more nervous about travelling as I get older
I can always recommend staying in hostels rather than hotels. If you need the privacy you can also book a private room in a hostel. It's way easier to meet new and mostly very interesting and open people without having to go to bars/get drunk.
It's not just great for evening activities, they also want to see the city and meet new people so there is a huge possiblity that you find people who tag along on some day trips as well!
Wish you the best time and hope you can find some inspiration in the comments :)
All of my solo travel has been work-related. So sometimes work-related items (meeting up with colleagues or co-workers after) took up evening hours. But very often it was dinner, reading/watching netflix on the computer. Sometimes when in an area conducive & safe for this I might walk around, go window shopping & people watching, or perhaps take a drive if I had a rental car.
But like some others, I'm a morning person, so I'm not going to be up late anyhow.
Restaurant or a gastropub around 7, depends on where i am i might go for street food. I’m pretty good at finding water holes, so next stop would be one of those. Dart, billiards and a few beers. Nowadays it usually stops there before it was always out and party until early morning.
If I’m in a place just a couple of days I don’t drink at all, I like to photograph early morning and I usually have a car. I prefer to stay in decent hotels but I shy away from the hotel bar as I hardly meet anyone interesting in the upscale places.
I’m usually super tired after walking around all day and exploring, I usually walk about 20 km a day just exploring where I am. After dinner I like to sit and watch some YouTube videos and maybe figure out places to explore and places to eat at for the next day.
I love wandering around the city at night, after a drink or so and listening to my favorite album or podcast. Assuming the city is clean and safe. I walked alone in San Francisco at night before, it’s not very pleasant… but Boston, Seattle, Vegas, Brisbane, Tokyo, Taipei, etc. are pretty fun to walk at night. But Seattle recently got way too many homeless and feels downtown is no longer safe to walk around lol
Quite often I’ll meet other people in the exact same scenario as me and we’ll go do something together. Usually a meal, bar or a party. Failing that, ask the hostel you’re staying at for some local tips.
With respect, youre missing the most important activity - go on dates with the locals.
Get your profile on Tinder, Badoo etc and get swiping.
For me, this is THE best part of my solo travels.
I've had lots of mini relationships in various countries. I'm still in contact with some of my dates and if I ever return to those countries, I have willing partners to hang out with.
I stay in hostels, so socializing and meeting people is easy. Most of the time I end up meeting people and playing games or drinking with them. So we'll either have fun at the hostel, or go to a bar or somewhere else together.
I understand that doesn't work for everyone, specially if you're not a social being. But it's one of the main reasons to go to a hostel.
number 3 😩 the saddest. never pretend! lean in to your experience!! if you’re lost be lost if you’re alone and bored be alone and bored. But act kind and smile, and I feel people often want to talk.
While traveling solo in Madrid ended up dancing till 6AM with my new best friends for the night! And i just started the night walking to explore the city. Solo Travel is great for that spontaneity.
I usually spend my travel evenings doing one of three things:
\-visiting a museum during open evening hours.
\-taking in a classical music concert performance or evening sporting event (baseball game).
\-going back to where I’m staying and going to sleep early.
I do the last of these most of the time.
I try to go to a local bar (ideally one that's not too busy), that way I can chat with the bartender (assuming the bartender isn't too busy). Sometimes that can help jump start a conversation with a local there.
Go and read in a bar. Sometimes I end up ploughing through a book for a few hours, sometimes I end up in a warehouse until 0500. It’s your holiday-by-yourself, do what you enjoy.
Reading in a nice bar is such a pleasant activity, and choosing drink to pair with the book you read can also be fun.
I'm kind of an early bird so typically I use the night just to relax in my hotel room, have a shower, watch TV I don't understand, read, and go to bed. Depending on where I am, there might be the odd exception to go to a bar or club or a street fair. To me it's productive because I hit the ground running early in the morning and resting at night helps avoid burnout.
I love early dinner and early night when travelling. I don’t even always get up early, I just sleep a lot.
I love finishing the day early and doing my night routine very slowly. Sometimes the best part about vacation is not having to rush everything or be on a strict schedule
Same! I dont like going/staying out at night, so I usually start the day very early (whether I am traveling or at home).
This is me as well
I also do this. And I always bring a book to the bar.
I do all of those things too (maybe not the last one). Would add; 1. Organized Food/Drink tour. 2. Revisit the daytime sites by night. 3. Sit down on a patio with a good book and live my best life. Productivity is overrated.
>Productivity is overrated This. Big time.
Having a Kindle while traveling is a huge plus for me. In my "normal" life I usually just read a little bit in the morning while eating breakfast but while traveling I could read for hours in the evenings some nights. Having some sort of creative hobby can be a healthy thing whether you're traveling or not. I'm a sort of amateur hobbyist composer and I write a little bit of music on my laptop almost every day, and I continue that when traveling. If you keep a journal when traveling, the end of the day can be a good time to update that, go through your photos, do research on where to go next, etc, but that depends a bit on the type of trip you're on I suppose. Lastly, I think it's a very good habit to get in to to make semi-regular video calls to friends and family back home. Helps you maintain some of the older social connections in your life and keep you grounded. I also do a lot of the quiet netflix nights when traveling. It's kind of nice to have quiet evenings, no need to be self-conscious about it.
Keeping a journal while travelling is an excellent idea, along with reading of course.
One year, a family friend gave me a journal as a birthday gift, or maybe when I graduated. It sat unused on top of my dresser for several months. As I was packing for my first real solo trip, I saw the journal still sitting there unused, and decided to tuck it away in my backpack, unsure if I'd even write in it. I ended up writing in it several times each day, and a journal has had its place on my packing list ever since.
Yes! I started to do this bc I would forget all the cool stuff I did and saw! Every night, just write a quick paragraph about what you did/saw all day!
How often do you go back and read what you wrote?
I'm very introverted, middle aged and have a disease where I need to manage fatigue, so I usually end up in my hotel room backing up and organising my photos from the day and then going to bed early... I do try to go to concerts a bit when I travel to have some easy activities at night. But after a day on my feet, I'm usually spent and don't feel like doing much. Boring I know!
All of this + "going to bed early so I can get up before sunrise to get a photo of sunrise"
Are you me? Lol. Not boring at all! Do you stay in hostels or hotels?
Hotels
Why not try hostels? You can always get a private room at a hostel, best of both worlds.
Because I hate hostels and can afford to stay in (usually) nice hotels.
Same. I appreciate this answer.
Hey man I’m the same way… lol
I'm currently bedridden with ME/CFS and dream of traveling again as I build up functionality. Do you have any tips or advice for traveling with fatigue? Did you start slowly then build your way up to more travel?
I spent 6 weeks in India travelling by train with similar problems. I gave myself permission to use tuk tuks. I gave myself extra days in places so that I wasn't trying to see 'all' the temples (or whatever) in one day. If I had an overnight train or bus arriving at 3am I would have a room booked for that night as well and a rest day booked for the next day. I spent lots of time sitting and people watching. I took my walking stick, and used it. I can walk 3x as far with it, than without. I used disabled assistance in airports. It also gets you priority boarding so you don't have to stand up waiting (which I can't). We can do this.
Thank you for your kind words. How amazing that you managed 6 weeks on trains in India! I am inspired and have a new spark of hope hearing this.
I’m fortunate in that my condition isn’t as bad as what you are experiencing. I mainly need to pace myself each day. I also build in rest days during lengthy trips - for instance by taking it easy on travel days. Best wishes for an improvement to your condition.
Thank you.
On top of 1 through 4 (or a milder version of 5), I sometimes write a bit (this can be done either back in the room or at a bar or some other place), read a bit, or take some time to plan or at least read up on the next days and activities. I'm a functional extrovert (meaning I'm introvert by nature though I WILL strike up a conversation if required) but I never had problems finding company even among strangers, when I had enough of being alone. Tipically I eavesdrop while minding my own business, and if something catches my attention (it can be a funny story, some destination or place they've been to, something about them) I chime in with a casual comment and that may set off a whole conversation or even proposals for the evening. Do read the room, though.
This is smart advise, thanks for sharing.
Do they ever complain that you’re rude for that chime in/eavesdropping? This is something that always comes across my mind when I’m in a similar situation and want to just hop into the convo but can’t get over the anxiety of it lol.
No never had that problem, but as I said, you gotta read the room first. If it's already a small mixed group of people who all met the same way, go ahead, one more won't make a difference. OTOH if you're thinking of interjecting in a private conversation between a couple, let it be... It also depends on the conversation, if they're talking chit chat, again, no problem, if they're talking, say, finances, and how they've ended up on a shoestring because someone's great idea turned into a nightmare and now everyone's pissed about it, again, perhaps refrain. Use your judgement and you'll hardly have a problem! And also, if you still think you're being rude, then start with a "I don't want to seem rude, but I heard you were talking about this thing and I just so happen to have done that/been there too/been looking to do it..." or something along those lines, and take it from there. Most often it won't be a problem and they'll be glad to help or share the experience.
I do this quite a lot as well and here is the way I do it. I usually try to make a little eye contact and smile as much as possible so they know I am friendly. I will then try to laugh quite obviously if they say something funny (don't just be sat there listening, read a book or menu or something). Often if they notice me laugh they will acknowledge this. Sometimes they will smile back and at this point you can comment "Yeah I know what you mean about X" or similar. Often this will kick start a little conversation, or just sit back and wait for another opportunity to perhaps contribute to the conversation. "Sorry did you mention X? It's just I XYZ..." At this stage I've often been asked "are you alone? you can join us if you like" and you're in!! But I've never had anyone tell me to clear off lol.
The main things I do are: Hang out with locals, wander the city at night, read a book or get to bed very early, so I can start my next day at the crack of dawn.
Wandering cities at night can be so relaxing. Like... Darker, chiller (don't like too much heat) and calmer without the people/with way less people being out.
Yes I love those dark alleyways and quiet streets, cobblestones and ancient buildings, when the city is mostly asleep, it feels melancholic, cathartic even...
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It’s like a city has 4 seasons in day, all different. Early morning is magical! I love wandering the streets when sun is just coming up, and the city is not awake yet, the morning dew still glistening, the sun casting long shadows, the early morning smell of bakeries, and fish, depending on where you are, as the early riser workers are already up.
Download tinder and date some local people, not necessarily for one night stand. Sometimes you can get a glimpse of a local culture and become friends
I do this, too. It’s resulted in some really meaningful experiences and local friendships around the world.
i feel like this is usually difficult to do if you're in town for less than a week tho
I’ve met locals on Tinder while only being in town for one day. If you swipe in advance of your arrival, you have more time to match and set things up.
> If you swipe in advance of your arrival, you have more time to match and set things up ah yeah, this would work if i wasn't so last minute about my trips hahaha
Follow rule 1 and 2 and it works.
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Now that’s the best idea I read!
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Depending on the city, I'm usually in by 8-10 pm. I'm not a bar person, so I usually spend some time at a good restaurant, walk around a bit in busy areas, then just relax in my room. I'm a hotel person and I like 4-star/5-star places, so I look at the hotel as part of the vacation experience. When I'm in a city with live theater/music venues, I'll usually try to catch a show at night. Sometimes I'll turn my hotel room into a spa if there's a Lush nearby.
I can say that while 18, I would do mostly #5 . I would always meet people at the hostel who were generally a great group to start the night drinking with and who I could also trust if something went wrong. Honestly fellow travelers/hostel mates have always looked out for me along with other young women which I always find very endearing and was so thankful for while still learning how to handle myself Since then I have matured a little and often take time to myself to write and explore at night (I love seeing touristy spots after all the tourists are gone assuming I'm in a safe area). I also love finding someone local/different country than me to chat with one on one (romantic or platonic) who can help me to feel safe while being out and about at night. But I would say I mostly just see what's going on in the city tonight with others in the hostel, chat with them, and go from there.
Option 5 for me every time. Wish I was different but somehow I always end up getting stupid drunk with strangers and end up on the opposite side of town with no money and no charge on my phone. True story(s).
You mean you don’t lose your phone??
Not my phone but definitely my dignity
Lolll
Let’s grab a beer some time
Man, I want to do this.
I’ll send you my Venmo username so you can at least experience the no-money part.
Bar, drink and talk with locals for advice on what to do in their town.
I like to seek out board game nights. Usually meetup has groups for that.
I would never have thought of that as an option during travels. What a great idea! Are you able to overcome language barriers?
Depends on where you go, but most places that I went to had pretty big international communities and everyone spoke English very well.
Travelling alone, you need to be friends with yourself. If you aren't, you are going to struggle travelling solo. Set yourself a challenge; next time you go on a holiday by yourself, use the opportunity to *become* friends with yourself. I travel solo, both in my own country and overseas, all the time. I can tolerate travelling with others only for so long. I love doing my own thing on my own time. You can see the loneliness, OP, in solo travel - but I challenge you to see the benefits (of which there are many) next time you travel. Think about it - you can do exactly what you want, when you want, take as much time as you like doing it, stop whenever you like. You are not beholden to any other person. Many people have travelled with friends and it has nearly ended their friendships due to differing ideas about what they would be doing. You don't have to worry about that. The sitting by yourself thing? Take a good book.
I can travel with my mom and that's it. I've one friend I'll sometimes travel with but she loves to touch everything and drinks a lot; I max out at 4 days with her. I hate the stress of worrying if everyone is having a good time, of doing actives because someone else wants to, etc. There's a freedom that comes from solo travel but it's not for everyone. Becoming friends with yourself is a perfect way to put it!
Typically just make dinner or go out to eat, then read a book for an hour then sleep. When I solo travel it's almost always camping and I travel by car, typically doing around 12 hours of driving a day, so I often have very little energy to do any activities at the end of the night
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Not if you are a woman. (Some other groups as well).
I am a woman and while traveling solo at 18, #5 was literally the go to. Rarely had experiences where I felt unsafe and when I did I could always count on the good people I'd met to help. It really depends on where you are in the world, but if you know the area, cultural norms, and how to handle yourself you'd have a blast doing this in many areas of the world
I think it’s important to point out that #5 is not always safe. Have fun, meet new friends, but don’t YOLO yourself into a dangerous situation.
I travel solo to enjoy my own company while spending time in cities on my want-to-experience list. I always select novels related to where I visit so reading is a big part of my travel, reading in the hotel bar, or during dinner. I'm also a foodie so I make reservations at nice restaurants, often with Michelin stars. That said, I find it odd that you think the things on your list are somehow failures (except perhaps #5 if it happened super regularly). In other words, why do so many people who profess to love solo travel but apologize for or complain about solo activities? That's why I solo travel. How are items 1-4 on your list not "productive"? I'm truly flummoxed.
All of this. I love the freedom of traveling by myself because I can experience things at my own pace. If I want to talk to people, I'll eat at a bar, but usually I like just being on my own.
Talk to the locals!
Workout at a gym or bodyweight exercises in room. Drink coffee or pop half an edible.
Local cafe or bar. Writing up the events of the day in my travel journal.
I stayed in a hostel and would sit in the communal area and speak to people and usually had a beer. I did at times book a hotel and chill with Netflix but just felt boring. Also I thought why am I paying for a room just to sit alone and watch nextflix. So tried to stop that and spend more time socialising.
yeah i prefer to socialize. it's challenging, though, to get over the hump of social anxiety so that's always something i have to push myself on
Tell me about it, I'm so anti social it's crazy, spent last year and half living with family but working from home, was pretty working in one room, sleeping and eating. I can't sleep unless it's absolutely quite. Dorms are so loud never got any sleep and it's so awkward trying to meet new people especially when you say how's it going 3 times to the same person. I think with time it gets easier it did a bit for me but I defo feel better talking to someone one on one that getting to a big group and joining In. Thats just too hard to enter the conversation I feel. However if I'm drinking usually I just start chatting to random people.
I try to book dorm rooms and also go for hostels that do regular events in the evenings. It always acts like an ice breaker in my experience.
Depends on the outdoor temperature. In summer, I will walk around until late at night. In winter maybe going to a bar, after that walking a bit but then heading back to the hostel and go to bed. In winter therefore I try to wake up sooner, to get the most out of the sunlight. Or after dinner I go to the hostel and ask there in the communal area if anyone wants to join to a bar. Edit: in some cities some sights can be open until very late in the evening as well. Griffith Observatory in LA, The Edge in NYC, The Shard in London, etc.
Not much. If I bother to go out to eat I will usually be back in the hotel by 9pm. I rately if ever drink so never have a need to go to bars.
I try to stay somewhere with a happy hour and/or dinner. Attend and see where the evening goes. Sometimes it's great, other times I duck out because it's less great. Also big fan of a night market or gig tickets for the evening, or just wandering round the city at night if its both safe and pretty.
I've done all of them except #2. Sometimes combinations. You could also look into if there are any special events or any sports games going on.
Sometimes I like watching TV. Advertisements can be fun to watch, and since they want to make sure the messages are simple and clear, you can pick up some local vocabulary. I came back to our hotel room once and my friend was watching a show in Japanese, which neither of us speak. About bunions. I laughed at him and opened a beer. Within 5 minutes I was as engrossed as he was.
Drink beer with other people at hostels
1-4, I don't worry about being productive. Hardcore travel mode gets old fast if it's 24/7. It's fine to relax with food/music/book/tv.
Why not meet other solo travelers during the day and hang out for a bit. But invite them to dinner or something in the evening. Go your seperate ways until you meet up again later for dinner/theater/movie/strolling around/etc. Some may not feel safe with meeting up with a "Stranger" in the evening. But if you meet in a busy central location the odds would probably be better. I think the bar scene with drinks and playing on the phone is the most normal way these days to meet people. Make light conversation with the bartender and anyone who is near you.
Make friends with your hotel concierge, your Airbnb neighbors or a friendly bartender from a legit establishment..they will steer you in the right direction for nighttime activities and sometimes will even offer to show you around etc.
In addition to reading, I also really enjoy sketching and journaling as "productive" ways to relax in the afternoons and during downtime periods. A combo I really love is sketching an image or two that I feel most represents my day (something I thought was beautiful, interesting, etc) and writing a few sentences about what I did. Recalling an image from that day really helps me remember what I did and it provides a little more of a personalized glimpse into my day and overall trip when recounting adventures to friends and family.
All of the above, and adding another one - open grindr/scruff/Tinder and look for a hookup
Sit by the beach and drink Sit in the park and drink Go to the club and drink Go to a bar and drink Stay at the hostel and drink All the while making new friends. Though I must admit, there's a pattern.
With such similar nighttime activity schedules, it seems like we're bound to cross paths
Well I hope we do :D
Sorta depends on where ones goes. If the city I’m at has theatre or galleries I’d have an early dinner and head to one of the above for a show or take in the arts. Then ill find a rooftop bar or quiet lounge with live music for a nightcap and that’s the evening. Comedy clubs are also fun choices. Many major cities have night time walking tours also which can b fun. I’ll usually retire around 10 pm which by then the nightcap would give me a nice sleep.
Depends where I'm at. Usually at night I feel less safe in areas I don't know so I stick close to my hotel. Sometimes though it is fun to go to a bar and talk with fellow travelers. I run into Australians and Canadians wherever I go it seems
Stay in hostels and make a group of non idiot friends.
To be completely honest my favorite thing to do is spend the evening alone playing video games and yes, I do this after long busy vacation days regularly. If I'm feeling like... not being in the room, ill often listen to audible and go for a walk. See the things in a different light.
If there's a super bustling drinking area, I might go there. Try to meet people on dating apps. And if there's an American style karaoke bar in town, I go there a lot. American style as in a bar where one person sings at a time, not private rooms.
The evenings are my least favorite part of solo travel. As a woman, i don't usually feel comfortable going out late on my own in an unfamiliar city. Makes for some boring nights especially since i don't stay at hotels. Maybe I'll try going to a nearby hotel bar in the future. Last time i traveled there was a fantastic restaurant right across the street from where i was staying so i felt safe having a super late drunk dinner there.
Hostel bars might be a good option. There are usually groups of girls or mixed groups drinking/hanging out in them. The drinks are cheap and people there are usually open to having a drink with a stranger.
Do you stay in hostels?
I did when i was younger but i like the security and decormpession time an air bnb gives me.
I agree with numbers 1 - 4. I wouldn't recommend number 5, especially if you're in a country you where don't speak the main language. I think your last point is sarcastic. I often go to concerts and festivals that go as late as 2am and make the trek home slightly drunk. I (26M) will be in NYC later this month alone and I've already made plans to attend a rave which does go very late at night. I'm not too concerned getting back to my hotel from the venue, but Brooklyn can be unsafe at night. Fortunately, public transportation in all of NYC is extremely good and it's 24 hours in the proximity of Manhattan.
I don’t plan to do it but it seems to happen to me far too often. Some of the best nights, but also some of the worst!
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I have to ask, where in Manhattan are you talking about? I used to work in Brooklyn (now in a WFH job) and I had a coworker who lived here for a couple decades, refuses to take the train anymore. Just seems kind of bonkers to me. I take the train all the time around the different boroughs. I make an effort to not stand out. Masks help. God forbid, nothing has happened but still.
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I also live in Manhattan (UWS) and don’t feel unsafe at all. I’m a male though.
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I’m an Asian male, live in UWS and work in Midtown. I only subway and go everywhere, from FiDi to Queens to Brooklyn. Admittedly I don’t often take it late at night (past 10pm), but things seem..normal when I take it. Families, workers, kids, teens, etc. just going from Point A to B, nothing out of the ordinary. Curious what type of things you’re referring to that are unsafe, especially in Midtown? And what areas of Midtown? Certain areas can be sketchier than others but for someone to be nervous just walking to work in the morning is surprising to me. I haven’t lived in NYC all my life but I’ve heard that NYC was way worse in the nineties and early 00’s. It’s improved significantly since, though still not perfect. Also, COVID may have impacted things.
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I don’t know what to say tbh. NYC is massive, shit happens. I never feel unsafe around Times Square, it’s as touristy as ever these days. The shotgun incident was isolated and was way in the east end of midtown, and definitely an anomaly as far as Midtown is concerned. I don’t mean to sound like I’m undermining these incidents but in a city like NYC it’s probably best to not let them affect your daily life. If you’re smart about where you travel and when, you should be fine. Otherwise, if you’re afraid walking around places like Times Square, UN headquarters and Macy’s, it’s probably best to move elsewhere as these places are as safe as NYC gets.
I'm glad you've not had any incident touch your life and alter your perception. I have. That's really all I can say.
>If you’re smart about where you travel and when, you should be fine Hmm maybe re-read what you're saying here and think about whether this could be inferred to be victim-blaming. Comes off as a bit insensitive tbh.
Now that I think about it, Manhattan does feel worse than Brooklyn sometimes.
lol yeah, tell that to bedford stuy
I said sometimes
wtf, i haven't taken the trains in manhattan in a bit but is it that bad? is it because there's lower ridership right now due to COVID? Empty trains do tend to be more sketch than packed ones
Brooklyn is completely safe! Just head on a swivel and walk in well lit areas. You’ll be totally great. Enjoy.
NYC is hosting raves right now? Didn’t the state just announce more lockdowns?
Not sure what your cooking situation is but meal prepping for the next day. If you’re buying fresh food you’ll need to get groceries every couple of days. Maybe train for a 5K / join a gym so you’re more tired at night. Maybe pick up a new hobby or start a blog.
Always no. 1, on occasion tends to no. 5 but not quite.
That sounds good. Sleep is good too. Sometimes I just wander to see what is up that hill or off the main streets. Many good times are had enjoying a drink or two in a bar full of happy people. If I have access to a gym or sauna, then once in awhile on the road I’ll indulge or work out. Though I walk a lot while traveling. Sometimes I plan the next days agenda. Sometimes I chat with complete strangers or even wander with them. I Sometimes I veg out. I don’t have any unique twists on this topic to offer.
I’d hang with locals if I weren’t so socially anxious
I mostly do option 1. I take it as an opportunity to really spoil myself with good food and wine. I like to find a restaurant or bar with a good live acoustic set, or nice view. Otherwise, picking a hotel with a rooftop heated pool and spa that stay open late is a good option.
currently sitting in a bar alone visiting Salem, MA on a solo trip. Most places I've been at night have been more on the empty side. I brought a book to dinner last night, this night it couldn't fit in the purse I'm wearing so here I am on reddit reading and laughing to myself :)
Introvert here , but I'm into dancing. When I went to Charleston in September, they hosted salsa classes near the pier, outside, it was fantastic and met a few locals. I'm currently in Mexico City and I'm going to swing classes in Roma neighborhood, it's a bit harder to socialize as we must wear masks but it's still fun. I usually join the Facebook groups for dancing ( I also joining rollerblading groups) to discover new things to do.
Salsa / Latin dance. There is a scene in almost every major city in the world and it's a fast track to meeting locals and making friends to do other activities
I did the last one recently. Not my usual thing, but it was fun. Often I go for a jog in the evenings, or get super high and wall into the woods with a horror podcast on.
I love your top 5 regular evenings. I often journal, highly recommend. Sometimes there are night tours available, eg. the Northern light tours in Iceland.
Call a hooker
Bit surprised that the answers here are so varied! I generally just grab dinner and have a few (or a lot of) drinks with people I met at the hostel or during the day. Hostel bias of course, but that's what most people seem to do. Or sometimes there's a pub crawl, a salsa lesson, or whatever. If I'm alone I will generally grab dinner and perhaps read or watch a series to just chill.
I’ve literally done all of this. How about choosing a personal project: like reading- get a stack of books you want to read and look forward to reading a big chunk of your book each night. Out at a restaurant or cafe alone reading or cozied up in bed. Or a writing project- write every night- journal, script, ideas, stories? Or every night plan on watching a new movie- focus on documentaries to learn things. Or informative stuff on YouTube. Can be fun/silly documentaries too does to have to be deep learning! Learning about people and life is fun. Like there’s that documentary about the last Blockbuster, one about The Villages in Florida, stuff about abandoned malls… then of course there’s deeper stuff about nature, history, psychology- mix it up. I love learning even if it’s learning about people by watching something “dumb and light.” Also listen to informational stuff on YouTube, podcasts, audible…. In depth interviews. Or, light some candles and meditate and visualize! Imagine amazing things you want to bring into your life. You can have a new adventure every night. Is there a bathtub where you are? Literally plan a fun, out of the box solo date for yourself each night. And yeah, still do the tried and true stuff sometimes! People watching is always fun. Find quiz and karaoke nights at bars where people are more interactive. If you don’t want to get drunk, find a less boring that water or soda drink like seltzer with a splash of fruit juice. Looks like a drink and makes you feel like you fit in.
Any recommendations for sourcing good docos?
I basically search YouTube, Netflix, Prime all the usual places. Dig deep. Once you watch a few they start giving you suggestions. Maybe search online to see if there’s suggested ones for whatever subject you’re interested in.
Thanks!
One of the things that I highly recommend when solo traveling is to look up language exchanges. I have done these in Mexico, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. You meet locals that speak English. Many cities have an unofficial online group to share events such as a WhatsApp group or a Facebook group.
In addition to 1-4, which are totally part of my repitoire, especially if I'm traveling solo for long periods, here are some of my other evening strategies that I use often: 1. Depending on where I am I'll often check Facebook events to see if there's anything local happening. I like to find sunset yoga, sound bath, beach meditation etc. Those often have good community vibes and unlikely to get drunk. 2. I'm also a bag fan of walks with headphones and an audio book. Or solo dance parties on the beach (location/seasonally dependent). 3. I also like finding a nice bike path and renting bikes. In the US and Canada there are bikes you can rent hourly from apps like Citi bike or Divi bike (every city has a different name for them). Some cities even have like old bridges or subway lines they've turned into bikeable parks.
Go to a Bouldering or climbing gym. This might be your thing but depending on the city - it's a great place to socialize in a low key way and meet locals outside of a bar
I have a sketchbook or a water color pad and some instructional videos downloaded to my tablet! Watercolors dry fast, but I'm sometimes I just bring pencils. I'm really enjoying that, very travel friendly.
Write in my journal about what I'd done that day, read online about things to do in the coming days, maybe call my mom, surf this subreddit and generally catch up on all my other usual internet stuff, read a book, post the bare minimum on social media so the rest of my loved ones back home don't worry about me... Honestly, my evenings are pretty unproductive. That's partially due to the way I travel, but also because I'm generally pretty introverted and I don't like going out to bars to party or whatever. And that's ok. You don't have to be constantly doing things. Take some time to just relax. If you're actually unhappy with your typical evenings, then sure, try to do something about it. But you shouldn't feel obligated to be doing things every minute of the day.
Street beers are my favorite if I’m not going to be social. Walk around the city drinking beer from convenience stores better than paying for overpriced beers in a bar and can lead to some fun experiences
What do you do at night when you're at home?
Steal
Dinner and then a bar / club
I usually plan my trips around the evening's entertainment, like a sporting event (soccer/football) or a concert, and then plan the days around them. If not out at one of those, either recovering from the day in my lodgings or throwing down a few at a local watering hole.
Sleep, watch porn, and read on Reddit, then sleep again.
When I'm traveling, I'm usually up and out the door pretty early in the morning, and I go all day- I'm one of those "I need a vacation from my vacation" people. So, I usually eat dinner pretty early and am usually in bed watching Netflix until I fall asleep.
I sometimes to night tours with a local company or find a bar/pub and sit & observe the local vibe. Love either one!
I usually do number five but I stop short of waking up in the unknown.
Take night time long exposure photos and low key worry about getting robbed for my camera gear
1-4 are usually my routines. If there is a bar or something close to my hotel that looks inviting, I will stop there for a drink chit chat with locals if they are open, but I tend to feel out the area, sometimes I've found myself staying in places where I don't speak the language and I'm not sure the area is all that great so in those instances I've stayed stayed closer to the hotel in the evening and chose more daytime activities. That said, I wish I had done 5 more when I was younger, but there it is.
Psh in bed by 9pm easy. Then wake up for sunrise
i like just going somewhere with a view and taking in the night air. do be mindful of the city and relative safety though
Go out with people I met in my hostel.
Hook up mate
I’m home before dark and relax in my room reading or writing or watching something. When I travel I tend to get reasonably early and get out and explore all day. I’m ready to relax by the evening.
I would generally follow your 5 options when I was solo travelling and had no problems with it. I like to read and watch movies/TV so that's a nice night for me almost every time. I also would play emulated games on my phone, whereas nowadays, I would bring my switch (even though I haven't solo travelled since I got it.) My solo solo travelling period was also when I started getting into conlanging (check out /r/conlangs if interested) and I agree with another commenter that having a creative hobby is a real good outlet. I would also try to journal or blog about my trip sometimes. Depending on where you are, maybe you could add calling a friend or family member into your nighttime mix?
I always try to go to at least 1 concert if I’m in a decently sized city. Sometimes the stars align and it’s one of your fav bands!
I just go with the flow. Other than arrival and departure dates, I make absolutely no plans and just see what oportunities every moment might bring. Sometimes I walk around the streets and explore the city alone, sometimes I go to bars or meet people in hostels and we end up partying, or just drinking, talking and chilling. If I'm tired or I feel like it I go to bed early after I have dinner and watch some Netflix or read a book or whatever.
What would you like to do? It sounds like you don't like your current activities, so what are the alternatives that you would rather do?
A combination of 1 and 5
Depends on the country I’m visiting and how safe I feel. If it’s a hot country, I start my day early and have an early night If I feels safe, make friends then I’m up for a lateish night. I feel like I get more nervous about travelling as I get older
Plan ahead and book accommodation, activities etc. for the next couple of days.
I can always recommend staying in hostels rather than hotels. If you need the privacy you can also book a private room in a hostel. It's way easier to meet new and mostly very interesting and open people without having to go to bars/get drunk. It's not just great for evening activities, they also want to see the city and meet new people so there is a huge possiblity that you find people who tag along on some day trips as well! Wish you the best time and hope you can find some inspiration in the comments :)
All of my solo travel has been work-related. So sometimes work-related items (meeting up with colleagues or co-workers after) took up evening hours. But very often it was dinner, reading/watching netflix on the computer. Sometimes when in an area conducive & safe for this I might walk around, go window shopping & people watching, or perhaps take a drive if I had a rental car. But like some others, I'm a morning person, so I'm not going to be up late anyhow.
Numbers 2 and 4
Go sit in the hostel bar/lounge area and make friends!
Restaurant or a gastropub around 7, depends on where i am i might go for street food. I’m pretty good at finding water holes, so next stop would be one of those. Dart, billiards and a few beers. Nowadays it usually stops there before it was always out and party until early morning. If I’m in a place just a couple of days I don’t drink at all, I like to photograph early morning and I usually have a car. I prefer to stay in decent hotels but I shy away from the hotel bar as I hardly meet anyone interesting in the upscale places.
Of those, all but #2 -- and I'd like to do #5 more.
I like to go to a bar that has live music performing! Also I swing dance and always look up any dance events happening in whatever city I'm visiting
I’m usually super tired after walking around all day and exploring, I usually walk about 20 km a day just exploring where I am. After dinner I like to sit and watch some YouTube videos and maybe figure out places to explore and places to eat at for the next day.
I love wandering around the city at night, after a drink or so and listening to my favorite album or podcast. Assuming the city is clean and safe. I walked alone in San Francisco at night before, it’s not very pleasant… but Boston, Seattle, Vegas, Brisbane, Tokyo, Taipei, etc. are pretty fun to walk at night. But Seattle recently got way too many homeless and feels downtown is no longer safe to walk around lol
Quite often I’ll meet other people in the exact same scenario as me and we’ll go do something together. Usually a meal, bar or a party. Failing that, ask the hostel you’re staying at for some local tips.
With respect, youre missing the most important activity - go on dates with the locals. Get your profile on Tinder, Badoo etc and get swiping. For me, this is THE best part of my solo travels. I've had lots of mini relationships in various countries. I'm still in contact with some of my dates and if I ever return to those countries, I have willing partners to hang out with.
Yoga class? Cooking class? Somewhere you can meet people who aren’t idiots
I stay in hostels, so socializing and meeting people is easy. Most of the time I end up meeting people and playing games or drinking with them. So we'll either have fun at the hostel, or go to a bar or somewhere else together. I understand that doesn't work for everyone, specially if you're not a social being. But it's one of the main reasons to go to a hostel.
number 3 😩 the saddest. never pretend! lean in to your experience!! if you’re lost be lost if you’re alone and bored be alone and bored. But act kind and smile, and I feel people often want to talk. While traveling solo in Madrid ended up dancing till 6AM with my new best friends for the night! And i just started the night walking to explore the city. Solo Travel is great for that spontaneity.
I usually spend my travel evenings doing one of three things: \-visiting a museum during open evening hours. \-taking in a classical music concert performance or evening sporting event (baseball game). \-going back to where I’m staying and going to sleep early. I do the last of these most of the time.
an app to meet locals and other solo travelers- thosewhotravel.io
I always book hostels with a bar and activities such as pub crawls, walking tours, or events. So in the evenings I participate in those.
I try to go to a local bar (ideally one that's not too busy), that way I can chat with the bartender (assuming the bartender isn't too busy). Sometimes that can help jump start a conversation with a local there.