I am a 64 yo female who just returned from my first solo trip to Sicily (two weeks). This was my fourth trip to Italy but first to Sicily so I knew what to expect. I was very nervous about going alone but reading all the reports in this forum really helped me so thanks everybody. I spent time in Palermo, Ortigia and Taormina. I took day trips to Agrigento and Cefalu. I only took one group walking tour but would do more the next time. The only time I felt weird was at dinnertime but this got better as the trip went on. I always felt safe but was never out late at night. I relied solely on busses and trains and really enjoyed using them. I haven't gotten the nerve to rent a car yet. I took one taxi ride to the airport in Catania and got stressed about the traffic but my driver was awesome. I built in days where I didn't schedule any activities and this worked out great. Now that I am older and less compulsive, I really enjoyed relaxing, but always made sure to factor in the wonderful cappuccino, gelato and granita stops along the way. I will definitely consider going solo again and spent most of the nine hour flight from Amsterdam, which was torture, planning my next itinerary.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7801 posts
Hi Michele! I’m glad your solo experience was so positive! I agree, the dinner meal can feel diferent when traveling solo. A former forum member told me once, “Italy wants to feed you!” That made me smile if I was feeling awkward. I also plan to review my day’s photos on my phone during the time I am waiting for the meal to arrive - makes me glad to be there!
I see you’re in central Washington. If you’re ever in Coeur d’Alene on a first Saturday of the month, our local RS group meets at the Woops French Bakery on 4th at 10am. We have people from the Spokane & Coeur d’Alene area - a fun group with a nice variety of travel styles.
Posted by
Land of La
9219 posts
Bit older, female and have preferred to travel solo for decades. On my 3 visits to Italy mostly used public transport. However did have rental car when I visited friends who have home in San Casiano dei Bagni. Easy peasy drive from Chiusi where I rented the car. Had trained from Rome to Chiusi.
My career involved lots of driving in LA so very used to traffic.
I know how to drive with a stick shift, understand kilometers and how to read a map. Even now on US road trips I do NOT rely on GPS. Secret to my willingness to drive is I plan my route the night before and use Google Maps satellite view to see the route. I make note of rest stops and petrol/gas stations. I always use designated parking lots or structures and most often do not drive into any city. Did it once in Belfast and admonished myself for doing so.
Very smart to make time to enjoy a cappuccino or gelato. Simple pleasures enhance one’s travels.
Posted by
TX, USA
4809 posts
Sounds like a successful trip if you are already planning another! So congratulations!
I often travel solo myself and really enjoy it now - but the first trip was definitely the hardest. It sounds like you planned well for your own enjoyment. The next will be even more fun, I bet! But be careful - it’s addictive! 🤣
Posted by
San Diego, California
5603 posts
Where is your next trip?
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
14723 posts
“I often travel solo myself and really enjoy it now - but the first trip was definitely the hardest. It sounds like you planned well for your own enjoyment. The next will be even more fun, I bet! But be careful - it’s addictive!”
As so often happens, TexasTravelMom fully expresses my thoughts!
What a fun time you had. And yes…where to next?😆😆
Posted by
Southeast US
4044 posts
I have done a fair amount of solo travel... will admit that I prefer a companion... but don't always have one willing to join me. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Posted by
6 posts
I'm glad to hear that you had a wonderful solo trip to Sicily! It's always nerve-wracking to travel alone, especially to a new place, but it sounds like you did a great job planning and taking things slow. It's also great that you relied on public transportation and didn't feel the need to rent a car - it's often a good way to save money and avoid added stress. I was in Catania for a few days and have seen fish market and the rocks a little bit outside. Very interesting!
If you're interested in another solo trip, I highly recommend visiting Sardinia! It's a beautiful island with lots to see and do, and it's also relatively safe for solo travelers. One of my favorite spots on the island is Costa Rei - it has stunning beaches, great food, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Check out this article here for more information on planning a trip to Costa Rei.