Why a Solo Cruise Can Be a Wonderful Lifetime Experience

My first solo cruise was such a great experience, much easier and more fun than I ever expected. It was a small ship (700 passengers) and not entirely full so it was a good way for me to try cruising. Also, I met so many wonderful people – couples and singles – who were happy to talk about their experiences and give me good information on what to consider if I wanted to continue cruising.

Planning My Next Solo Cruise Adventure

I started checking cruises leaving from Florida in the next few weeks hoping to find one that would offer last minute discounts or waive the single supplement for someone traveling solo. I wanted to see more of the Caribbean so I focused on those trips.

There were lots of options but most were already sold out or not really areas I wanted to travel to – at least not yet. I did find one that sounded very interesting, 10 days, four islands and some great activities on and off the ship, but it was completely full and set to leave in a week.

On a whim, I contacted a travel agent to inquire about any last-minute cancellations. I didn’t really expect anything to come of it and thought that would be a good trip to take some time in the future.

Learning to Be Spontaneous

It was the last day the ship could make passenger changes and there was one cancellation. The agent asked if I was still interested and if so, we had to book it immediately and I would need to be at the port in three days.

I was thrilled and very nervous all at the same time. A million questions raced through my mind – do I really want to do this, what will I pack, how quickly can I take care of everything before I go? All I could say was yes, absolutely. I wanted to try this and now it was happening.

Usually, when you are planning a cruise you pick what cabin you want, what deck, if you want interior or ocean-view, what meal and or drink package, etc. Since I was purchasing the cancelled trip, there were no options: I would either take what was available or not go. I hadn’t done anything this spontaneous in a long time so I jumped at the chance.

Suddenly Reality Set In

After committing so quickly I began to have second thoughts. This was a massive ship with 3,000 passengers and I wasn’t sure if I was going to be comfortable with the size and being with that many people. Unlike my first cruise that was very casual, this was your standard shopping, casino, shows, specialty restaurants and dining dress codes type of cruise. Something I have never experienced before and I needed to be ready in a couple of days.

It took me a minute to calm my fears but once I realized that even if I didn’t do anything but walk around the ship, take some shore excursions and read in my cabin I would probably have a good time. I love seeing new places and really appreciate having food and entertainment available, so I quickly focused on the positive aspects of taking this very last minute adventure.

My Feeling of Panic When I Arrived at the Cruise Terminal

The cruise terminal looked chaotic, with people swarming everywhere and luggage as far as the eye could see. I took a deep breath and dove in. I worked my way close to the nearest baggage handler and quickly realized that this was going to be just fine. Everyone was so helpful. Even though I didn’t have any documentation because of booking so late, they directed me easily to where I needed to go.

Even check-in was a breeze. They had my name on the passenger list and directed me to the desk and then the waiting area. I was very surprised and relieved that they were so organized and took such good care of all of us. The process didn’t take much longer than it had on the small ship and that was amazing with that many people.

On Board I Got a Pleasant Surprise

My cabin was beautiful with a lovely private balcony and a gorgeous port-side view. Now, I was getting excited. I remembered other travelers telling me to pack a carry-on bag with a change of clothes and swimsuit so I would have what I needed with me until my bag was delivered to my stateroom. This was fantastic advice and allowed me to begin enjoying my trip immediately.

The ship was beautiful and so well laid out, I never felt crowded or claustrophobic. As I explored all the different areas I thought it was very interesting but I wasn’t sure how much of it I would take advantage of. Everyone seems to have their own plan for how to spend their time – some like to gamble, others shop or lay out at the pool. There are so many options you can do as much or as little as you want.

This Solo Cruise Was Just My Style

We weren’t even past the first day and I was already having a great time. Everyone was so friendly and happy to be there. It was fantastic. I enjoyed visiting the different ports but what I really love is just being on the water. It is so easy having everything right there; it was like a sailing resort with all the amenities and service you could possibly ask for.

As a solo traveler, I am careful about where I go and what I do when I’m away from home. That still applies on a cruise but what I discovered is that I felt more freedom to explore things I might not normally do alone. Like gambling or attending a nightclub. It was great knowing that I could go anywhere I wanted and at any point I could simply go back to my lovely room.

Now that I have had two very different but equally wonderful experiences, I can’t wait to try more!

Have you ever been on a cruise? Do you like to travel alone or with groups? Do you prefer large ships with lots of ports of call or smaller ships and more time on the water? Join the conversation and share your stories!

Published on Sixty and Me

Postcards from a Solo Traveller

Solo Travel Souvenirs 

Cheese and wine from Paris, tea and biscuits from London and a pair of flip-flops from Barcelona when it was simply too hot to wear anything else.

These are the purchases that remind Lynn Clare of the wonderful places she's visited as a solo traveler.

Wherever she goes, she likes to buy something authentic, whether it's something to wear or a local delicacy to treat her taste buds. She used to try to save the latter for the journey back to Denver, but more often than not, she found them too irresistible to resist.

Now Lynn prefers to buy gifts for others. “I love to bring back gifts for my family,” she says. “I usually keep the bag the gift came in as a souvenir; I use it for my future travels, and it always reminds me of the trip where I got it.”

“My grandchildren love hearing about all the places that I visit,” she says. “We try to Skype so they can see a little of it.”

Her passport is full of stamps from New Zealand, Canada and Italy, but her most treasured memories are from her many trips to Ireland.

“The first time I visited, I found that the beauty of the Irish countryside is only surpassed by the kindness of the people,” she says. “I was so touched by the warmth and generosity that after my first visit, I came home and quit my job, so I could spend more time there.”  “That was 10 years ago, and I still go once or twice a year,” she adds.

Lynn's first solo trip outside of the US - over 30 years ago - took her to Mexico. “I did have quite a few reservations initially, but my desire outweighed my fear,” she says. “I planned as much as I could, which helped to alleviate some of the anxiety around things like where I would stay, learning a little Spanish and understanding currency conversion.”

Any concerns that Lynn had previously harboured about travelling alone quickly evaporated. On the flight home, she was already thinking about her next adventure.

With each trip, Lynn grew in confidence, gradually venturing further afield. “I kept having such a fantastic time that it gave me the confidence to travel alone anywhere in the world,” she says.

Anyone who has travelled alone will likely recognize the newfound confidence that Lynn describes.

It can be an intoxicating feeling, but Lynn has been careful not to let this feeling turn into overconfidence, particularly when visiting countries where the culture is very different.

“Some destinations are not what you are expecting, and that can be challenging,” she says. “I have to reset my expectations very quickly, so I can enjoy whatever environment I find myself in. That can be great fun as long as I stay flexible.”

“It's very important for women to stay safe while travelling,” she adds. “You must stay aware of your surroundings, protect your personal information and belongings, and always let someone know where you are.”

For peace of mind, Lynn always chooses to stay at a hotel with a restaurant on site. When eating out, she's careful not to become easily distracted, and whenever she feels uncomfortable about booking a table for one, she simply orders room service.

That's not to say that Lynn feels uncomfortable very often. Having found a way that works for her, the experience of dining out in a restaurant on her own is now one of her greatest pleasures.

Now, she always allows herself at least one night to dress up and indulge in the local cuisine, sharing pleasantries with her fellow diners or simply enjoying some peace and quiet.

The whole experience of travelling alone is one that Lynn finds to be liberating. “I have travelled solo most of my adult life, and I just love the freedom of it,” she says. “I have always enjoyed seeing new places and meeting new people, so I take trips near and far at every opportunity.”

See the full interview at Staysure.co.uk

How to Stay Organized While Traveling

After all of the years of traveling, I have grown to appreciate the art of packing light, no matter where I go or for how long, it is critical for me to take only what I need but not feel that I have to do without.  I use my tried and true packing list, carefully color co-ordinate my wardrobe and have learned how to roll and stuff like a pro.  What I haven’t been able to master is how to stay organized while I am away, especially on extended trips.  By the time I arrive at my first destination, that lovely packing job I was so proud of becomes an unruly, tangled mess.

This summer, I embarked on a fantastic downsizing adventure, and traveled to Florida to look for my new home.  I was determined to only take my one carry-on bag for the entire trip.  I put everything else in storage and off I went.  It was pretty easy to accomplish that because I knew I wouldn’t need much for the warm weather and that I could easily pick up anything else I wanted along the way.

This was a multi-faceted journey, different cities and different accommodation

By the time I was at my first stop, I was already feeling a bit unsure about how to keep my one little bag organized.  There was no room to put my clothes away and because it was such a short stay it didn’t make sense to have to unpack and repack every day.

It was then that I was contacted by the Co-Founder and President of EzPacking http://www.ezpacking.com/, a small travel accessories company in California.  They asked if I would try out their Packing Cubes and give them some feedback.  Timing could not have been better.  I asked them to ship them to my next destination so I could try them right away.  I have talked to many people who love packing cubes but I really wasn’t sure if they would be right for me but I was willing to give them a try.

The starter set was perfect for my carry on

They sent the starter set https://www.ezpacking.com/collections/all/products/starter-set and it was waiting for me when I arrived.  Even as I opened them I was a bit skeptical, wondering if these would really help.  I did like the design and that with clear tops you could see the contents.  It wasn’t until I actually started packing them that I was truly impressed. 

I started my standard rolling process and then decided how I would organize what went into each cube.  Slacks and blouses in the largest, shorts and dresses in the next, swimsuit, undergarments, sleep shirt in the next – that was everything and I still had one left to use for toiletries or miscellaneous bits that I carry in my tote bag.  I was really surprised how much they held and that I still had room for more. 

Versatile and Easy to Use

Something I really like about them is that I don’t have to pack and repack my bag while deciding what I want to take on my trip.  All 4 cubes fit easily in my bag, so I know if it fits in the cube it will fit in my luggage.  I don’t have to worry about a zipper breaking and strewing my laundry all over the airport or TSA rummaging through my bag, it all stays visible and organized.  It also really helped me when I stayed at a very small B&B that had almost no drawer or closet space at all.  I kept my clothes in the cubes and just took out what I needed for the day. 

Now, after several trips, many different destinations and adding to my collection it all still fits in my one carry-on bag.  They are so easy and convenient with so many ways you can use them either at home or away. 

I appreciate EzPacking sharing their product with me and was happy to provide a review for this site.  I really enjoy using them for all of my travels!

Have you ever used packing cubes?  What are your favorite travel accessories?  What is your biggest challenge when it comes to packing for your trips?  Share your stories and join the conversation!

Disclaimer – I received the EzPacking Starter set in kind for my honest review of the product and all opinions are my own.

The Best Travel Memories Come in Orange Plastic Bags

As I was packing for a short work trip recently, I pulled out a bright orange plastic Sainsbury’s bag that I had from my last trip to London. It brought back such a flood of great memories that you would have thought it was a priceless memento.

Something as simple as this little bag represents a special place and time and I can instantly recall all of the wonderful experiences I had when I was there.

Building Travel Memories and Watching the World Go By 

I stayed at a great hotel right at Paddington Station, which is one of my all-time favorite places. This is not just because of the trains – with all of the shops and restaurants right there it feels like a little city unto itself.

The hotel has a fantastic lounge, overlooking the train platforms and some of the shops. I loved to just sit and watch all of the passersby coming and going on their daily commutes. It felt like I was sitting at the window of the world and just imagined all the stories and lives that were intersecting there.

Wherever I Go, I Feel Like a Local

I love to shop at the market or grocery store, it always makes me feel like I live there and am not just visiting. Just browsing through the aisles looking at all of the interesting and unfamiliar products is so much fun.

When I’m in England, I always buy biscuits, tea, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers to take back to my room. I used to try to save some for the journey home, but very seldom did they last that long. That said, I always ended up with a bag or two and found that just that small reminder was enough to relive the entire experience.

My Favorite Keepsakes

When I travelled, I was so excited about all of the new experiences that I would save almost everything from my trip. This included bus tickets, boarding passes, maps and, of course, the required tourist souvenirs of all sorts. Sometimes, I would actually buy a tote or bag from my destination to make sure I had room to bring it all home.

Now, wherever I go, even when I buy gifts for friends or family, I always save at least one small plastic bag from every trip. Each one has a special memory attached. One reminded me of being stuck at the Barcelona airport in the sweltering heat and buying a pair of flip flops. 

Another brought back memories of the fantastic French wine and cheese I had in my hotel room. Then, there was the bag that once held the lovely scarf I bought for the train trip to Italy. Another bag took me back to the wonderful bacon sandwich I had for breakfast in Ireland. There are too many memories to list!

The Gift I Give Myself is the Memory

I love that I can recall exactly how it felt to be in that environment – who I met, what I did, the food I ate, the places I went and the things I saw. It all becomes part of that special experience I had along the way.

Something as simple as seeing one of those cherished bags instantly transports me back to that moment in my life and I will always remember my wonderful journey.

What are the most meaningful mementos from your travels? What are your favorite travel memories? Do you like to buy traditional souvenirs or is there something special that evokes a memory for you? Share your stories and join in the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Packing Challenge - 3 Weeks, 2 Climates, 1 Bag

As I prepared for a recent trip to Europe, I thought about all of the different activities and climates I would need to plan for. There would be sunny beaches in Spain, cold and wet hikes in Ireland and of course the fantastic dinners and dances with my friends.

For the first time in many years, I considered actually checking my luggage, so I could just take everything I wanted and not be concerned about what to bring.

This was a big trip, so I felt totally justified in bringing extra bags.  Then I thought of the times when my luggage was lost, or when the wheel came off of my roller bag and I had to carry 3 bags upstairs, across the train platform, outside in England, in the rain, I remembered why I always travel light!

So, now my challenge was to see if I could bring everything I needed and wanted in 1 carry-on bag.

Planning My Wardrobe

The first thing I always do is go through my expected itinerary, day by day, and make a list of what clothes I will need. Starting with what I will wear on the plane and every day and evening for the entire trip. 

Immediately, the list becomes overwhelming and seems to include just about everything I have in my closet. Knowing that it is not reasonable, I begin to pare down.

First, I select the main color scheme I want for the trip (black and gray or brown and blue). Right away that decreases my list by half or more, especially since I now only have to bring one color of shoes.

Next, I begin to put together complete outfits and lay them out on the bed. Every top must match every bottom – no exceptions. You never know when you are going to have a spill on the one blouse that only went with that skirt and need to change it.

You will never be sorry that you have more choices that match as opposed to ones that don’t.  I stick to solid color bottoms and then add printed tops and scarves for color and variety.

Prepack and Volume Check

Now comes the fun part, I attempt to pack my bag (I use a rolling backpack, it’s versatile and lightweight and I don’t have to worry about broken wheels or handles). 

I don’t even get half of the clothes in when I realize that I still need room for shoes and shampoo. This is usually about the time the panic sets in and I start thinking how much easier it would be to just check my luggage but I refuse to give in and start over.

I look back at my list and start eliminating anything redundant or unnecessary. I don’t need 3 pairs of jeans or that bulky sweater that I might wear once, so out they go. 

It’s amazing what you’ll discover when you start to work with what you have. I found that I don’t need a separate swimsuit cover when that lovely black blouse will do fine or that I can layer warm weather pieces for the cooler climate.

The Final Selection

This is where I give myself permission to change, rethink and repack absolutely everything. Now that I know what will fit in the designated bag, including shoes and personal supplies I can make whatever substitutions I want, as long as it all still fits in the bag.

I ended up taking nice dress slacks, jeans, a skirt, a dress, a sweater, blouses, a swimsuit, walking shoes, boots, flats and a raincoat. Not only did I have more than enough to wear, but even came home with a couple of tops that I never wore at all, that really surprised me.

Tips and Tricks

Packing light is a fine art and with a little practice you can master it too. Take the lightest weight, wrinkle free garments that you can find, remember layering is your friend. Not only can you take more with you but you can also wash things out easily during your trip.

Use compression bags to help maximize the space and roll everything tightly. You will be surprised how much you can get into that one little bag and how much easier your trip will be when you learn to travel light!

What kind of packer are you? Have you ever had an experience taking too much or too little on a trip? Share your stories and join the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Celebrating My 60th Birthday in Mexico

Every year, I plan an international trip for my birthday. It’s a wonderful way to mark the passage of time and an excellent excuse to go somewhere fun. I especially love milestone birthdays and since this year was my 60th, I wanted to do something extra special for myself.

Even though I usually travel solo, a friend of mine wanted to meet in Mexico and I jumped at the chance to have a girlfriend’s getaway. She was going to be in Tulum, so, I flew down to join her.

It Was All Very Last Minute

I just booked the flight, packed my bag and left. It has been a while since I did anything quite so spontaneous, but I knew I would have a fantastic time and I was up for the adventure.

We ended up at a lovely resort right on the beach and my friend arranged to have me put in the room right next to hers. The room was perfect, full of rustic Mexican charm. It even had a balcony with a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea. I was thrilled and I knew this was exactly what I needed.

On the Very First Night, We Decided to Go Into Town

We went to a gorgeous, beachfront dance club. It had all the fun and flair you would expect to find in a lovely little Mexican town. To top it off, it was a full moon and a Saturday night, so, everyone was in very high spirits.

To me, it felt like everyone was there to celebrate my 60th birthday. What an incredible evening it was!

Years ago, celebrating would have been a nightly occurrence. After such a great first night in Mexico, I was simply content for the rest of the trip to relax under a shady palapa and visit with my friend.

Turning 60 Was a Big Event for Me

I have always loved the aging process and truly appreciate every passing year. This birthday felt different – somehow more significant.

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Turning 60 felt like a new beginning – a brand new start to the rest of my life.

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Things that might have concerned me in the past seemed unimportant and I had the sense that nothing would ever be the same. I had given myself permission to enter this chapter of my life with the wonder and excitement of a child. I suddenly had no more expectations – just anticipation for what may lie ahead.

My Life Has Been a Series of Fantastic Experiences and Wonderful Lessons

Now, beginning a new decade, I feel that I am becoming more myself. All of the self-reflection, joy and sorrow are blending into this beautiful mosaic that is my life.

Watching the crystal blue waves, rolling in and out, feels like a metaphor for my life – one continuous, beautiful flow.

There is a lovely symmetry to reaching a golden age and going on vacation. Both experiences are a wonderful reflection of who I really am. They remind me to enjoy every single moment.

I am so grateful for this incredible journey that is my life – and that I got to celebrate it in Mexico!

Have you ever gone on vacation to celebrate a milestone birthday? What do you like most about life after 60? Join the conversation!

Published on Sixty and Me

Planning Your First Solo Travel Adventure

It’s been over 40 years, but I remember the first few trips I took alone like they were yesterday. I was so excited and nervous. At the same time, I knew it was something I had to try.

I would read stories about all of the wonderful places in the world and fantasize about going on those trips, never really believing I would actually go. Finally, I let my desire overcome my fear and I booked a short solo trip, not far from where I lived.

Now, four decades later, I am barely home from one adventure before I am planning the next.

Everywhere I go, women ask me how I do it, so, I thought I’d share some of my tips on how to plan your first solo travel adventure.  Just a word of caution – it can be very addictive and can change your life forever!

Planning for Your Solo Travel Adventure

The first step is to think of something you enjoy doing. Do you like visiting gardens or parks, museums, outdoor activities or sporting events?

Whatever you like to do at home you will enjoy even more when you are away. I love to hike in the mountains so that is what I decided to do for my first trip. Having a sense of purpose helped to calm my nerves.

I recommend staying close to home at first; this will ease the stress of feeling like you are too far away. My first trip was only an hour from home and I knew if I didn’t like it or if anything happened I could easily leave; it was very reassuring.

Next, decide where you want to go, how far away and for how long. I began with just a weekend – drive on Saturday morning, go hiking, stay overnight and drive home on Sunday. It seems so easy now but at the time this was a very big deal for me.

Managing Your Bookings

Whether you are driving, flying or taking a bus, you will need to make arrangements for how you will get there and where you will stay. The Internet has made this process so much easier so you can research and book everything online.

I always check multiple sites before I make any travel arrangements. I start with Expedia and Travelocity and then check the specific hotel or airline website for more detailed information and the best rates.

Many airlines offer vacation packages that include airfare, hotel and car so it is easy to book all of them together. Before I book anything I check Tripadvisor.com to see the reviews from other solo travelers. I am very careful to make sure that where I am going is safe and that I will be comfortable.

Also, I make refundable arrangements. It can cost a bit more but I want to make sure that I can cancel without penalty.

Depending on where I am going and what the costs are sometimes I purchase travel insurance. Also, I always have a contingency plan, just in case.

Looking for Tours and Excursions

Depending on what you plan to do, you can either book organized tours or go independently. Many of my early trips were to visit lovely botanic gardens in various states so I would check into my hotel and then go from there.

I very often take walks in the park or gardens here at home so it did not feel uncomfortable to do this on my own in a new city. The one thing I always do is plan my transportation before I leave the hotel – directions, bus schedule, taxi etc.

Getting the Most from Dining Out

For some women traveling alone this can be a big concern. It is one of the reasons that I always book a hotel with a restaurant onsite. If I am feeling uncomfortable for any reason or perhaps just don’t want to go out I can order room service and stay in.

Early on, when I went out, I took a book or my journal to occupy myself if I felt bored or uneasy. Now, with phones and tablets, most of us have something available all the time.

Try not to be too distracted. A lot of people will talk to you when they see you are on your own but won’t interrupt you if you seem too engrossed in your phone.

Honestly, it has become one of my greatest pleasures. I always plan at least one night when I dress up and treat myself to a nice dinner out. I’ve met wonderful people all over the world and always look forward to this part of any trip.

Embrace a Little Self-indulgence

For me, this has become one of the best things about traveling on my own. I get to do what I want, when I want and always do something special for myself. It doesn’t have to be expensive just anything that makes me happy.

It might be a nice meal, massage, cute pair of earrings or just a nice warm bath with a glass of wine at the end of a great day. No matter what it is, it helps me remember that I deserve to treat myself with love and kindness.

Wishing you safe and happy travels!

Have you ever traveled on your own? If not, would you like to? What solo travel advice would you like to offer the other women in our community? Join the conversation and share your stories below.

Published on Sixty and Me