Advice for Extroverted Introvert Solo Travelers

The idea of traveling alone sounds mighty appealing. You’re off on the road or in a different country on your own. You’re ready to go on your next adventure of a lifetime. The best part? You don’t have to worry about checking in with others or compromising what you want to do. But then, people start listing everything you should and shouldn’t do. Though you know their advice comes from a good place, you begin hearing: You must stay at these hostels. You have to go on these excursions. You have to eat at these restaurants. It becomes an overwhelming sense of duty. Anyone who identifies as an extroverted introvert, like me, starts feeling guilty. Then, the initial excitement deflates enough that you don’t want to do anything. 

Here's my little secret as an extroverted introvert solo traveler: I don’t have to do anything anyone says. Neither do you!

Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy socializing with locals and tourists, but my social battery depletes quickly. So, as an extroverted introvert, I lean more towards the introverted side of things.

For those who are an extroverted introvert and love the idea of traveling but are unsure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Here are three great reminders to take with you as you explore the world:

Advice 1: Find a Middle Ground with Accommodations

I always look for great places that give me a great return experience. But sometimes, I waffle between saving money, staying at a hostel, or treating myself to a wonderful hotel stay. I remind myself to seek a compromise that gives me what I want versus what I need. Here are some things to consider when you’re deciding what’s best for your travels:

Hostels

Hostels are bouncing back bigger than ever, offering budget-conscious explorers a social haven after isolation.

Pros:

• Meeting like-minded travelers that can grow into long-lasting friendships.

• They are more affordable.

• Many are located close to the best attractions.

• Hostels often offer organized activities.

Cons:

• Inconsiderate people are everywhere, so depending on your roommates, your stay may or may not be enjoyable.

• Possibility of unhygienic spaces.

• There is a lack of privacy unless the hostel offers private rooms.

Hotels

Ah, yes, hotels: the dependable choice for comfort and convenience for seasoned explorers and first-time flyers.

La Valise Tulum

Pros:

• Offers a common area (i.e., a bar or dining area).

• Offers alone time when needed to maintain your social battery at a healthy level.

• Offers comfort and safety.

• More perks.

Cons:

• Hotels can become expensive depending on location.

• Also, depending on the location, not all hotels are safe.

• Not all hotels offer perks.

While hotels provide privacy, hostels can enrich your trip with cultural exchange and insider tips from a community of globetrotters. However, hotels offer ultimate privacy and convenience with in-room amenities, daily housekeeping, and 24/7 service for a relaxing and hassle-free stay.

Advice 2: Limit Your Excursions

Ziplining through the jungle

While you want to go out and have fun, doing too many excursions is the quickest way to drain your energy levels. I recommend two ways to help make your trip fulfilling:

1. Limiting a trip to three excursions allows you to have fun, relax, and do your own thing.

2. Consider going on an excursion in the morning so you have time to relax at the end of the day. That way, you don’t have to plan around the excursion; it’s planned around you.

You can find a wealth of excursions online, from tours to activities and so much more. Need help? Click here for the best travel agent I know.

Advice 3: Make Time for Self-Care

After a long day of traveling and adventures, you want to hang in your air-conditioned hotel room or sit by the hotel pool and do nothing. Do it! It’s perfectly okay and valid. As an extroverted introvert, there’s no better way to recharge your body and mind than to reground yourself with what you love to do.

Nothing like a good book and a drink by the pool

Whether it’s lounging with a good book and getting room service or enjoying a quiet morning at a nearby café with a view, there is no judgment if you don’t want to go out, explore, or do any excursions.

The most important thing you can do for yourself is to do you! There is no need to feel any pressure. It’s your trip. Do whatever you want without the guilt. And the best part? You can visit again if you have more to explore.

Cheers to your adventure, fellow explorer! To stay informed about future blogs, be sure to subscribe to get an insider look at what's coming up next.