Does anyone else get very lonely and bored while traveling alone?

Question

I usually travel alone, as I usually take long trips for 2-4 months always.

I have been all over Europe, including Russia as well as Egypt, India, and Southeast Asia.


Maybe I am just tired of traveling but it seems like I always get lonely and bored when I am traveling.

I usually travel during the winter time, as this is when I have my freedom from my work.

It seems like I get lonely because it is difficult to meet people many times and i get bored because I feel like "oh, i am here now, now what?" and you cant go to the pub or bar every night, so get bored at night time especially.

Does anyone else get like this, what are ways you keep from being like this (if you travel alone, that is)?

Answer 1

I read a lot and do puzzles. Talking to random people on planes makes for interesting conversations. Obviously, be care full though.

Answer 2

Wow, tough life, being lonely while seeing the world! Just kidding! Many others know exactly what you're talking about, myself included. Philip's got the right idea. Stay in hostels and say hi to everyone. Not the best accommodations, but always the best place to find other people like you who love to travel and want to chat about it. If you're in cities go to free or cheap concerts at museums-it passes the time and you're not by yourself. They're usually in the evening. Or stop in on an evening church service. Even if you aren't religious (I'm not), the experience is really cool and it's different from home, and you can sit and really look at your surroundings. One thing I turn to is books-make sure you always have one! It's my great escape from everything, whether I'm home or away. And with the internet cafes everythere, go online and email your friends and family. They'll write back and you won't feel so lonely! Post on a blog to keep an online journal. You'll love having it to look back on later. Good luck, and enjoy your travels. If you decide to take a year or two off, that could refresh your desire to travel alone as well. Independent travelers all know how hard work it can be, so maybe a break is in order.

Answer 3

Talking to people is the best way not to be lonely. The best thing about travelling is that you always have something in common with another traveller to break the ice....your travels. You don;t have to go to bars to meet people. Get chatting while you are out and about during the day. You'll be surprised at the number of people who will say "hey, what you doing tonight, pop over for food".....

Answer 4

I salute you for travelling alone rather then not travelling at all!

I find the same thing, but most places I have been I've stayed in hostels. so I've nearly always managed to meet at least one other person to talk to, take trips with etc....

For me the solution is always going to be that - stay in hostels ... and say hi to everyone you meet!

HTH

Philip

Answer 5

Have a few friends in far off places? If yes, plan your trips so you can drop in on them at some point. If you break up your solo travel with time in groups, you'll appreciate both (time alone and time with pals) more.

Answer 6

sometimes but going travelling alone is actually the most common way to do it -whenever I'v gone backpacking, 90% of the people I'v met in hostels etc are also travelling solo, so you are never alone for long (unless you want to be).

Answer 7

Try your damn best to get a friend - one will do - join a club or advertise for a friend etc - lifes too short to be travelling to beautiful places on your own - you won't regret it

Answer 8

Travelling is nice...but the novelty wears off.
You obviously choose to live a single lifestyle....so why complain?

Answer 9

How to not be lonely when you travel..

Meet people on http://www.couchsurfing.com as you go.

Answer 10

Yes a lot...but than i meet people and make friends with them..