Solo & Thriving: Why Travel Gets Better After 45

Traveling alone can be an incredibly enriching experience for women over 45, offering the thrilling opportunity to explore the world at your own pace!

I absolutely love travelling, especially when it comes to international adventures!

Rhein River Cruise in Amsterdam 2022

Believe it or not, I thrive on solo trips and have been joyfully embarking on them for the past 30 years. Yes, indeed!

Most of my journeys, whether across the continental United States or abroad, have been solo, and that's been intentional.

People I know have asked, "Why do you do that?" They can't imagine doing it themselves and prefer traveling with a companion or in a group. That's perfectly fine, and I've done that too, traveling with friends and also with my husband and children—it's definitely enjoyable and I still look forward to going to a place or two with family and close friends I haven't seen in ages. However, there are moments, particularly as a wife and mom, when I just need some "me" time, and I'm sure some of you can relate.

Traveling gets better after 45 and you might ask... Why?

In my experience, age brings a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and history, likely due to life experiences. The things I valued in my 20s and 30s during my travels are even more cherished now. For me, it's about health and wellness, focusing on self-care and ignoring distractions. For others, being more financially stable, reconnecting with old friends, and having more time to pursue long-desired activities make travel more enjoyable at this stage of life. Essentially, travel shifts from checking off destinations to truly experiencing them.

I love traveling by myself and connecting with new people in different places. It's always an adventurous and enlightening experience. Traveling solo allows me to concentrate on my own interests, which I view not as selfish, but as a form of self-care which is so needed in my life due to my stressful schedule. I highly encourage you to give it a try if you haven't already—you might discover it's an incredibly adventurous and exciting experience!

That being said, there are certain things you should be aware of and do when traveling alone particularly to unfamiliar locations. Safety is crucial, whether you're traveling solo or with companions. As a solo traveler, it's essential to take additional precautions. I've had the chance to visit various cities in the US and several countries like England, the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg, and more, with a few of these trips being solo. I always made sure to do the following:

1. Share your travel itinerary with a few trusted friends or family members and provide them with regular updates. I also make it a habit to call them at a specific time each day, such as between 8–10 am or 6–8 pm in the evening. This way, if I don't check in during that time frame, they will promptly contact me or the designated contacts I’ve provided for where I’m staying. 

   
   

2. Chose a well-known hotel near the airport, or if visiting friends or family, made sure someone in the US had my address and the details of my hosts. For hotels, prioritize those with positive reviews highlighting security features such as 24/7 reception, attentive staff, well-lit areas, secure locks on door and 24/7 security on the premises. Avoid locations that appear isolated or lack safety measures. Ensure that whether staying at a hotel or with friends/family, there is also a reliable Wi-Fi connection.

   
   

3. When attending an event or concert alone at night, ensure it is in a well-lit and busy area. However, most of the time, I usually return to my hotel before it gets dark.

   
   

4. Know the location and contact details of the nearest US embassy or consulate, as well as the local police.

   
   

5. Be mindful of the surroundings and trust your intuition if something feels off.

   
   

6. Lastly, entrust your journey to God. It's crucial to pray before setting out and let Him guide your steps and path, as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6. Avoid traveling to places without His approval. If He has approved your trip, you will feel at peace.

   
   
   
   

A recent research revealed that women over 45 planning solo international trips in 2025 have selected India as their top destination. India provides a variety of experiences, such as excellent accommodations, diverse cuisine, and a rich historical heritage. Other favored and safe destinations include Iceland, Portugal, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Thailand, Japan, Canada, and Australia. These locations offer a mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and safety, making them ideal for solo travelers. Ultimately, the choice is yours, my friend. And as mentioned earlier, let the Lord guide your travel plans.

Regardless of your relationship status, consider planning a solo trip. Be intentional about taking time for yourself. You deserve some time off, whether it's a brief getaway or an extended vacation. Start your preparations early to secure great deals. Keep a travel journal to document your experiences and reflections, allowing you to cherish the memories. During your travels, try to connect with one or two new people who might become long lasting friends.

If you have tried a solo trip before, whether locally or internationally, let us hear from you about your experience(s). And if you haven't and thinking about, let's chat.

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I look forward to hearing from you.

I remain yours in the faith,

Margaret (MKO)