Traveling alone when you are single and over 50 can be a great fun adventure for some, but it can also be a challenge for many others. One way to heighten the fun and minimize the intimidation is to go with a travel buddy. With a travel buddy you will have someone to take a goofy picture, to chat with over lunch or dinner and when you get back from your trip and tell your tall stories, your travel companion will swear they are true. What is even more important, you have someone to help you read the map when you get lost. I always get lost!
I have seen some very strange things happen when people leave home. While on a cruise ship in Malaysia I saw a 61-year old dissolve into tears, “I wanna go home, I miss my dog”. Then there was the time, when traveling with a group in Italy, we entered the dining room one morning to find one tourist, screaming at the top of her lungs at the Breakfast Chef in the Hotel, “WHAT DO MEAN, YOU HAVE NO OATMEAL!”
Travel is great fun, but at times it can be anxiety provoking dealing with new places, new foods, and new ways. The secure feelings of a familiar environment are gone.
With a travel buddy its like bringing a piece of that secure environment with you. You will also lower travel cost if you share a room and have someone to speak to quietly about your needs and concerns. He or she will speak your language, and understand the special needs you might have. That will help to lower your anxiety.
We can help you find the travel buddy who may be interested in joining you on your next trip.
Aileen R. Sirey Ph.D.
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