Solo travel is gaining popularity
each year, influenced by the impact of social media on adventurous individuals.
The era of relying on friends, family, or large groups for global exploration
is waning. Today, embarking on solo journeys with just a carry-on and
discovering destinations independently is a prevalent trend.
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| Solo travel experts talked to Fox News Digital about the joys of traveling alone — and some of the top destinations to hit. (Myron Mclure Photography/Valerie Joy Wilson/Pamela Holt) |
"I relish the freedom to chart my own course, explore at my own pace, and make spur-of-the-moment decisions," shared Valerie Joy Wilson, a travel content creator residing in Los Angeles, with Fox News Digital. Wilson has been exploring the world solo since 2011.
Fox News Digital interviewed
Valerie Joy Wilson and another solo travel expert to explore the joys of
traveling alone in 2024 and discover their must-see spots.
Valerie Joy Wilson, also known as
the Trusted Travel Girl, has embarked on over 100 solo journeys, expressing her
passion for solo travel as a source of unparalleled independence. She
emphasizes the ability to make personal decisions on one's own timeline and the
opportunity to curate every aspect of the journey.
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| Valerie Joy Wilson (pictured) has traveled on over 100 solo journeys around the globe — and said she "relish[es] the freedom" to chart her own course. (Myron Mclure Photography) |
Wilson's love for solo travel stems from the chance to immerse herself in diverse cultures, the efficiency of exploring the world independently, and the confidence gained through her experiences. According to her, each journey serves as a testament to her ability to navigate the unknown, overcome challenges, and adapt to new environments.
Valerie Joy Wilson emphasized that
solo travel serves as a constant reminder of her capability to take on the world,
stating, "It’s a constant reminder
that I’m capable of taking on the world, literally."
Another solo travel expert, Pamela
Holt, based in Los Angeles, shared her transformative experience with solo
travel, mentioning how it changed her life after a traumatic car accident in
her mid-thirties.
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| Pamela Holt (pictured) said traveling by herself has brought her confidence |
"After getting into a traumatic car accident in my mid-thirties that left me nearly immobilized, I made an ’80 by 50’ promise to myself," Holt revealed. She explained that this promise helped her rediscover confidence and feel empowered in her decision-making abilities.
Holt, now 54, has surpassed her
initial goal, having traveled alone to over 92 countries and territories.
Similar to Wilson, Pamela Holt
highlighted how solo traveling significantly boosted her confidence in everyday
life. She expressed that it not only expanded her worldview but also helped her
rediscover confidence and feel empowered in her decision-making abilities.
Holt's favorite aspect of solo travel lies in the opportunity to meet new people along the way. She emphasized, "In my decades of travel, I’ve realized it is almost impossible to not meet new friends while traveling solo." As the host of "Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel" on GoTraveler and Amazon Prime Video, Holt has found that solo travel provides a unique chance to connect with individuals from all corners of the world — an experience she might not have encountered with companions in tow.
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| Wilson (pictured) said Kenya is a great place for traveling solo and enjoying a safari |
Both solo travel experts shared
their top destination recommendations for solo travelers to consider adding to
their bucket list in 2024.
Valerie Joy Wilson recommended
Jordan in the Middle East, citing its reputation for safety, affordability, and
a diverse array of adventurous activities. She also highlighted the country's
delightful culinary scene, offering great food options throughout.
In addition, Wilson suggested Kenya
as another excellent destination for solo travelers, particularly for its
renowned safari offerings.
Pamela Holt recommended Hanoi, Vietnam, as an affordable destination for solo travelers to consider exploring.
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| Hanoi, Vietnam, was a recommendation for solo travelers to visit |
Pamela Holt shared some of her
favorite experiences, stating, "My favorite experiences were exploring the
backstreets of Hanoi on a vintage Russian motorcycle … and taking a cruise
through Ha Long Bay — an iconic bay with spectacular limestone islands."
Holt also recommended Bali,
Indonesia, as an ideal destination for those who enjoy a slower pace.
Both experts emphasized Thailand as
a fantastic stop for solo travelers. Valerie Joy Wilson highlighted the
country's welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and diverse range of
experiences it has to offer.
Pamela Holt pointed out that Bangkok, Thailand, is an excellent destination for food enthusiasts keen on exploring various types of cuisine. She recommended visiting during the Lunar New Year for a festive and lively experience.
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