WHERE TO GO?

There are a lot of people out there. How can I find a place where I can be alone? Even if I can’t be alone, how can I feel alone?

Introverts are different. Some can be more social than others. Some like traveling with friends or families, small groups that can have meaningful conversations. Some want to disconnect from the world completely, and some may want or have to stay at least a little connected. Some like to be pampered while wait staff serve us, and others like to be in the rugged outdoors.

The following ideas are from my perspective. I prefer to feel disconnected; I don’t want to make many decisions once I’ve started, and I prefer to see/learn new things.

  • The world has an abundance of scenic locations where you can get away from it all. It can be as simple as camping in a local state or national park or as complicated as a fishing cabin in Alaska with Mt Denali as a backdrop, which is only accessible by float plane. I am sure there are even more complex trips out there, but this one can easily be customized to fit your individual needs. 


  • There are some amazing spas and resorts out there that allow you to be in your own space while also being attended to in luxury. It may be sipping wine over the hills of Napa Valley, in a “glamping” tent in a savanna in Africa, soaking in an Onsen in Kyoto, or a hot stone massage in Oslo. There are plenty of ways to get some of that “me time” you need while being pampered.

  • Now, hear me out on this one. Some cruise lines are experts in catering to “kid soup” while others can be very quiet and mature. Picking the right cruise line is crucial here, but it can offer everything you need in one place with minimal decision-making. Introverts have families too and many cruise ships have a kids club where the kids can release their energy, while you find a corner of a lounge and sip cocktails while recharging your own batteries. Even large ships from mass cruise lines have areas that can be found to get away and have some solitude. Other cruise lines are targeted towards older persons who want to learn more about different cultures. Even when there are gatherings, they tend to be small and quiet. (My favorite here is Viking cruises because they tend to be smaller ships with an emphasis on the cultural aspect of the destination). And there are also cruise lines with smaller ships that are bathed in opulence and will cater to your every need.

  • Similar to cruising, all-inclusive resorts can provide everything you need under one roof with minimal decision-making needed. Finding the right resort is the key to making this work.


  • This is one of my favorite. With rail travel, you can travel in luxury or be rugged. Trains tend to have mostly solo or small groups (2-4) traveling together. It tends to be quiet and what noise there is is drowned out by the humm of the rails. There are usually plenty of spaces to sit and read a book or just watch the scenery go by. 


  • Sometimes getting behind the wheel on the open road is the best way to get into your own head space. It can be cheap, easy to arrange and easy to cater to your individual needs.

  • Does photography make your heart sing? Plan a trip to a place with stunning landscapes or unique architecture. Are you a history buff? Immerse yourself in a city with ancient ruins or fascinating museums.  Maybe you're a budding writer. Find a quiet beach house and spend your days listening to the waves and putting pen to paper. The best vacations for introverts are the ones that allow you to indulge in your passions at your own pace and in a way that energizes you.