Celebrate Independence & Community on Solo-Only Learning Adventures

Going Solo

With about 30% of Road Scholars traveling solo, there is no shortage of people to tell us about their experiences of going alone. This is just a sampling of the feedback we receive from our community. Solo travel can be exhilarating — and intimidating at first — but it’s clearly popular. In fact, solo travel has increased more than 130% in the past six years. Why? There are so many reasons, from wanting to see the world without waiting for others to enjoying freedom and independence, having different interests than partners and friends or not having someone to travel with. Whatever the reason, the advantage is clear — you can travel where you want, when you want and with plenty of room for new friends. 

“This program was my first solo travel experience, and my apprehensions were immediately discarded. I felt very safe, and the accommodations, food and activities were fantastic! I made some new friends, people with the same adventurous spirit and lust for learning.”

—Angela from Independence, Mo., Road Scholar Class of ‘20

Making New Friends

While it can be intimidating to make those new friends, realizing that you’re on a program with people of a similar age and interests can help. You’ll spend time with them on buses or trains, watching performances or eating together. Switching up your seat and asking questions of your companions can also fast-forward a friendship connection. Being friendly and listening with an open mind and curiosity helps, too. 

“On my fourth solo Road Scholar adventure, I met a fellow traveler who lives less than 10 miles from me. We had so much in common and went together to a number of local events that summer. Since then, we have gone on four more programs. I have Road Scholar to thank for bringing me my best friend — I could not imagine a better travel companion.”

—Shirley from Coos Bay, Ore., Road Scholar Class of ‘23

Solo Adventures

Below are just a few of our participants’ favorite programs for solo travelers — explore, make new discoveries and bond with other like-minded adventurers in a unique and supportive learning environment almost anywhere in the world. 

“I thought travel was over for me when my husband was diagnosed with dementia. My children suggested I travel solo, so after a lot of research, I decided to go to Sicily with Road Scholar. I specifically chose a program that included many meals so I knew I would be eating with people — that was important to me. It all exceeded my expectations — Road Scholar gave me a great way to see the world as a solo.”

—Nancy from Lake Success, N.Y., Road Scholar Class of ‘23

Please note that some of the programs below offer select solo-only dates, while others are designed with all dates just for solo travelers.

• Canada: Discover the beauty and history of Eastern Canada’s great cities — Québec City and its Old Town, cosmopolitan Montréal, national capital Ottawa and Toronto, the largest city in Canada.
• Costa Rica: With more than 5% of the world’s biodiversity, 121 volcanic formations, 801 miles of coastline and hundreds of endemic birds, Costa Rica is a true Mecca for nature lovers to explore.
• Louisiana: Get to know the real New Orleans through incredible cuisine and full days of excursions to historic landmarks, artists’ haunts and jazz venues.
• Croatia: Alongside experts, learn about Roman monuments, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, National Parks and idyllic villages nestled above the waters of the Dalmatian Coast.
• Oregon: Oregon’s Willamette Valley produces 70% of the state’s wine. Meet local winemakers, learn how to pair wines with food and get an insider’s look into this growing industry.
• Just about anywhere else you can imagine: The list goes on — Germany, the Galápagos, Tanzania and more. See a comprehensive list of programs on our website, and while you’re there, you can check out our tips for solo travelers. 

Why do you travel solo? Join the conversation on Facebook.