A solo traveler who has been to more than 80 countries says to stay close to home for your first trip alone

08.03.2024 - 19:45 / insider.com

If you're planning your first solo trip, make it quick and close by.

That's according to Pamela Holt, a seasoned solo traveler who visited 80 countries by her 50th birthday. Now 54, Holt has ventured to even more places and hosts a show on Amazon Prime and GoTraveler called "Me, Myself & the World."

The show follows Holt in various destinations as she shares exciting accommodations, activities, and key tips for solo travel.

Holt acknowledges that traveling alone can be daunting and overwhelming for first-timers — especially for those not used to being in new places by themselves.

"When I'm talking to first-time solo travelers, women in particular, they look at me like I'm crazy and they could never do this," Holt said.

But it's all about starting small.

"If you're a total first-time solo traveler living in the US, just go away for a night or a weekend and get used to yourself — traveling with yourself, depending on yourself, and your own company," Holt told Business Insider.

For example, according to Holt, Santa Barbara is a great option for Los Angeles residents.

"Or, if you're in Chicago, go to Wisconsin. It's an hour-and-a-half away, and there are quaint little towns that are so different from Chicago," she said. "It'll give you the effect as if you traveled 10 states away."

If an overnight stay feels too intimidating, Holt recommends taking a day trip.

"Travel an hour, start early in the morning, and spend the day there until you would go to bed. Then go home," she said. "Just experience what that is to be a visitor in another location you haven't been to before."

Holt recommends participating in activities and events with a built-in community in the destination.

"Try to immerse yourself culturally. Go to a street festival, a concert, or a sporting event," she said.

For those looking to meet people, Holt also suggested signing up for community-based events related to hobbies.

"Whether you're into knitting or jet-skiing, you can instantly find a community that might make you feel a little bit more welcome at that destination," she added.

For those not looking for a social trip, solo travel is an opportunity to catch up on alone time.

"It's all about creating the vision you want and seeking it out," Holt said of solo trips.

And the more you take, the more capable you'll feel.

"If I could break it down, it's really about getting used to being with yourself, trusting yourself, entertaining yourself, and getting comfortable and confident," Holt said.