Solo Souls -- Do you want to be bothered?

[Sir.Walks-a-Lot]

During our trip, we saw quite a few solo trippers (or at least they were solo when we saw them)...my better half and I felt sad for most of them as they seemed lonely.

When you solo, are you mainly doing it because you don't have anyone willing to come along that you want to go with, or are you going solo so you can just enjoy the sights and sounds on your own without being bothered?

My other half wanted to adopt half of you into our group :), but that can make some people quite uncomfortable.

(And I can understand the draw of going alone...most of my trip I spent wishing I was solo -- family trips can be quite trying.)

[aubriee]

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl: I go to WDW at least four times a year. I try my best to make sure that at least two or three of those trips are solo. I go at least once a year with family, but spend part of those trips wishing I was solo. You can get so much more done when you are solo, plus you can ride what you want (over and over, if you want). You get to eat when and where you want. If I want to spend a morning just looking for Hidden Mickey's, I can do so. There are always other solos down there if you want to meet up. I usually post some here on the solo board before I go and always have at least a few meals lined up with others. However, on a solo trip you get to do what you want when you want. If you want to make every rope drop you can, or you can sleep in until noon if you want. If you want to take a nap in the afternoon you can. Single rider lines are so much quicker than the regular lines and are great for solos. I can go on backstage tours and eat anywhere I want. I can simply sit and people watch if I want. Anytime I'm solo I usually see parents with screaming kids or couples yelling at each other and thank God I'm solo and can do what I want when I want. My family is just a phone call away if I decide I miss them. Don't feel sorry for solos. I assure you we are perfectly content.:rotfl:

[mgoblue21]

I like talking to new people in lines and whatnot, but don't feel sorry for me. While this may seem antisocial, I'd feel kinda weird and weighed down if I joined some random family. I'm not lonely while at Disney solo, and I enjoy the abilities to hop around, be a single rider, do whatever I want, etc.

Then again, I know some people who cannot see movies alone in a theater, they have to be with someone (or a group). I'm just more independent I suppose, so that can be weird to some people.

Feel free to say hi and chat (or whatnot), but don't feel like we're sad, lonely people because we're having just as much fun as you are :)

[SoloFriendly]

If it were me, I would be more than happy to chat with you for awhile (I love meeting new people when I travel!) and possibly join you for an activity or two (like drinks or watching a show), but not for the whole trip. I like being on my own. Even when I travel with someone, I prefer traveling with people who are independent so we can split up and go our own ways for a morning or afternoon and then meet up again for a meal.

I think it's great that you gave thought to the solos you saw, though. I encourage you to be friendly in the future to any solos you see. Although we like to be on our own for much of the time, we also crave conversation with another human being once in awhile, so feel free to chat with us.

You know what would really be a great ice breaker? If you see us with a camera, ask us if we'd like our picture taken at the parks. Solos come home with very few pictures of themselves when they travel, which is one of my biggest disappointments. (Thank God for Photopass photographers!) I was asked and volunteered to take pictures for groups all the time, but none of them offered to reciprocate, even though it was obvious I was alone and had no one to take my picture.

[Floydian]

I agree with every response so far. Everything mentioned applies to me as well. Taking it slow, people watching, napping, riding something 7 times in a row, chatting for a bit with strangers, even the picture things. But please don't try to adopt me. I love knowing that I can come and go as I wish without having to consider what anyone else thinks. So unless I make plans to give up that freedom for time with people, the whole "adopting thing" could spoil that. :) :goodvibes

[tinkergrumpybuns]

Hey, it took a long time for me to get a " single " trip. Family all grown up. I like to go and do what I like. There are many things I skipped and really wanted to see for the sake of everyone else. I drag my camera along and took well over 2000 photos last trip. I toss many, but I came back with some good ones.
I enjoy the circle vision stuff, strolling and sitting for a bit and watching the crowd.
Meals are peaceful , and someone always chats with you.
I get to pick what bed I sleep in, and the other holds my open suitcase!

I feel so absolutely comfortable and safe alone in WDW.
Also, consider there are many business people who are taking a break from business meetings. I stayed at CS once and they assumed I was business.

Sometimes I meet up with friends for part of the stay too.
It's amazing the new things you see, do alone.

Someday, I hope to be going with grandkids!

[soulmates]

For me, I will never understand the concept of SOLO trip. As much as I LOVE Disney World, I can't imagine going and having no one to share the experience of it with...more power to you all who love them...but for me, half the fun for me, is sharing it with a loved one.:hug:

[If U Had Wings]

I'm planning my first solo trip to the world this December, and absolutely can't wait. All my other trips have been with family or friends, but I really am looking forward to having the chance to just have a leisurely peaceful trip. It's been hard planning this trip, because everyone wants to come along. :rotfl:

My last trip I had a few solo afternoons and it was wonderful. I got the chance to take it easy, and chat with people as I walked around. Lots of fun!

[Claudia Kellenberger]

Well ..... for me ...... I am 55 years old, and I love WDW SO Much !
I don't have any children, no grandchildren, and no sisters. My DH is retired, and I'm still working. We went to WDW four annual visits, starting in 1993.
He got tired of the place, while I became obsessed. So now, I am planning on my 9th annual SOLO trip to WDW. As much as I love my DH, he doesn't travel well, and I can have so much more fun leaving him at home.
DH insists that he does not want to vacation anywhere, at any time. He is already on vacation because he is retired !

My very first time solo I did solo because I wanted to go so badly, and I really didn't have anyone to go with. However, after that first solo trip, I go alone simply because I really love my solo vacation. I keep in frequent contact with my DH, and my Mom via my cell phone. I never feel lonely at WDW. Don't feel sorry for me. I don't want to be included in any one's family. HOWEVER , please feel free to stop to chat with me. I wear all my lime green Mickey heads for just that purpose !!!

[Magix]

While I suppose I can understand why you might assume solo trippers are "lonely", it really is highly insulting. Last time I was at WDW, I spent a week with a friend, then went on my own to visit friends in Tampa, then returned to Orlando and spent 2 nights at Universal and 3 nights at WDW on my own. The solo time was by far the most enjoyable! I had a great time, did exactly what I wanted to do and enjoyed the heck out of my time alone!

Those of us solo aren't sad to be alone. We're having a swell time (maybe even a better time than you are!).

[Dolce27]

My first solo trip wasn’t intentional. I had originally booked the trip with one friend. She bailed shortly after we booked. Another friend stepped in but bailed the week of final payment. My half of the trip was already paid for and I was beyond eager for a Disney trip so I had the decision to either go it alone or let my vacation be ruined because of my friends. I chose to go alone and found that I actually had fun. But, I’m pretty independent and don’t have a problem going out to catch a movie by myself or stop off at a restaurant for dinner solo. Count me as one of those people who can’t comprehend the people that must always have someone with them to do anything and if they don’t, lock themselves up inside of their homes and do absolutely nothing. Non-independent people would be miserable going solo at Disney.

I don't mind being "bothered" at Disney. I often chat with the people in the line/crowd around me and have met some very interesting people from all over the world that I wouldn't have met if I had been there with family or friends.

[DisCopper]

I've been solo to Disney a bunch of times. Usually, this happened as the result of a business trip where I added an extra day or two at the Parks for myself.

Would I specifically plan a solo trip? I doubt it. It's ok for a day or two, but long term just wouldn't be for me.

That said, on those solo trips, I would have been very happy to join up with another group... at least for a while. My advice would be:

1. Don't pounce on the solo person. If you're next to them in line or at a show, go ahead and talk. If they're interested, they'll talk back.

2. When you're done with the attraction, or show, and if you seemed to hit it off, then invite the person on to the next thing you're doing. "Hey, we're going to Tower of Terror next, want to come along?"

[ClareH37]

My first ever solo trip didn't exactly go as planned lol - my parents decided they wanted to return too! However, we didn't spend all day every day together (I need my space!), I spent some time alone and met other Dis'ers, I also have friends who live in Florida. I had a ball.

I always have one holiday a year with my boyfriend (and sometimes friends too), but I also need my own space, some pure self indulgent 'me' time. I feel comfortable at Disney, I wouldn't want to go solo some place I didn't know. I'm planning my 'proper' solo trip next year, although I'm sure I'll spend some time with other Dis'ers too ;)

I love to talk, but I'm equally happy not talking IYGWIM, but more importantly I want some time doing what I want when I want and not having to consider anyone else.

[PaulaSB12]

During our trip, we saw quite a few solo trippers (or at least they were solo when we saw them)...my better half and I felt sad for most of them as they seemed lonely.

When you solo, are you mainly doing it because you don't have anyone willing to come along that you want to go with, or are you going solo so you can just enjoy the sights and sounds on your own without being bothered?

My other half wanted to adopt half of you into our group :), but that can make some people quite uncomfortable.

(And I can understand the draw of going alone...most of my trip I spent wishing I was solo -- family trips can be quite trying.)

If you see me in the parks or lines I would be happy to talk to you. I am not sad to be solo but one of the things I like about Americans is how friendly they are (oh if you want to know me I am the one with the waist long brown hair and the ipod). One thing I found odd though when talking to women they usually asked me which religion I belonged to a question I am not used to and find a little uncomfortable being asked.

[litlpixie]

If you see me in the parks or lines I would be happy to talk to you. I am not sad to be solo but one of the things I like about Americans is how friendly they are (oh if you want to know me I am the one with the waist long brown hair and the ipod). One thing I found odd though when talking to women they usually asked me which religion I belonged to a question I am not used to and find a little uncomfortable being asked.

OK, I give up...where in the World were you when you found a "friendly American":goodvibes They must not have been from NY:rotfl: I can say that, being a native NY'r.....I have done WDW solo, only once during a biz trip and it was AWESOME!!! However, this coming trip is my 40th birthday and I have already been stiffed by the person who was supposed to come with me. Now I'm scrambling trying to find someone to go and its either nobody has any money or no vacation time!! I honestly dont mind going alone, but, geez its my big 4-0, it might be a little depressing to be there that day by myself....maybe I can be adopted for a day by a family:wizard:

[tinkergrumpybuns]

Paula, not sure why they would ask you about religion. Odd.
My last trip , I did run into 2girls , I assumed they are Amish, on their time alone to decide if they are staying with their "ways". I so wanted to chat with them, and get their impressions of disney, but I didn't want to intrude on their time. The only reason I noticed them is they were in front of me in line at AK , and they had the typical amish caps on.

I agree, please don't feel bad, or think I am lonely or a loner b/c I am at disney alone. Usually, it is a case of finding someone who is available at the same times I am , or someone who is a disney appreciator. I don't want to go with a disney drip. I had one friend who I though to ask but she had dissected the life out of a trip for me.
I waited so long to go to disney for the first time, and had it totally controlled and almost ruined ( except I refused to let it be). <G>

Sometimes I like to be alone at home, with a good book, my iPod or computer and a hot cup of coffee and the phone off the hook.

And I so enjoy meeting new people in the parks and chatting with them, but I can still take off and wander around. It is kind of fun to try and guess where everyone is from and " collect " people. ( as in, met people from all over the UK, Belgium, Au, Germany, Japan... etc.)

As to safety issues... I found one trip, I really enjoyed staying at CS. I really loved that inner court in Casitas 3. IT was the perfect spot for me. I had a wonderful long water feature that had lion heads I think , that spouted water and mexican tiles. I didn't even notice it until the second day there!

Can't wait for my next trip!
:surfweb::thumbsup2

[lillasmom]

I love going to WDW. I go with family more often but there is just something so special about going alone. No one to fight with about what to ride, where to eat, or when to go back and get something to eat. I love talking with people but would never join a group. I would loose my freedom that way. I love my kids and my hubby, but some times a mom has to do what a mom has to do!

:mickeybar

[Claudia Kellenberger]

Litlpixie ...... As much as I love my solo vacation, there's NO WAY I would want to be solo over my birthday.

[DFD]

During our trip, we saw quite a few solo trippers (or at least they were solo when we saw them)...my better half and I felt sad for most of them as they seemed lonely.

When you solo, are you mainly doing it because you don't have anyone willing to come along that you want to go with, or are you going solo so you can just enjoy the sights and sounds on your own without being bothered?

My other half wanted to adopt half of you into our group :), but that can make some people quite uncomfortable.

(And I can understand the draw of going alone...most of my trip I spent wishing I was solo -- family trips can be quite trying.)

I dont mind being adopted... where are we eating ????:lmao:

Just like a few posters I go about 4 times a year also and in that four I have a Me trip... not alot of meets and more of me hanging out whenever and where ever... and the other three trips well I leave my home airport solo but by the time I get to the MCO thats the end of being Solo... I have made a few good friends in my previous trips that some of our trips have coincide for us to be able to meet for lunch, share a ride or two or just plain hanging at and having a burger.. or two!!! So I really hope the one that your better half had witness was someone just deep in their thought trying to figure out what day it was, which meet she has to go and what dessert he or she is going to eat :goodvibes

and thank you for thinking of the "soloist" :)

[dorky dork]

i love taking solo trips to disney. most for my friends arent really "disney lovers" and they think its for kids. i have to admit its MORE fun being with a group but traveling solo gives me more independence and more flexibility to do as i wish.

but if someone talks to me or wants to hangout for a little bit, im down for that too. who knows, maybe i could make a friend or two during that time. as far as being "adopted", if it was a group of friends, i would go for it. but if it was a couple, i would feel like a third wheel and awkward around them.

[GaSleepingBeautyFan]

I went solo at the end of April and normally go with my family. I sure wasn't lonely at all. I loved doing what I wanted and being alone.

When I wanted to, I'd chat away with folks. I met some fantastic people that way.

So not all of us solo folks are lonely - some of us love to have the time alone. But do say Hi if you want. It never bothers me to meet new folks.

[DFD]

One thing I found odd though when talking to women they usually asked me which religion I belonged to a question I am not used to and find a little uncomfortable being asked. I missed this part... there was one time I got chatty with a lady while waiting for RNR... and eventually she did ask about my religion... "hmmm wait what is the next holiday.... ohhh Labor Day... no upcoming religious holiday ???" she looked at me :confused::confused3 ... "well if it is Xmas then I would be Catholic... and around January I am Buddhist I need to be off on Chinese New Year:rotfl:... whatever is the holiday... what religion do you belong to??? Maybe I will come visit on one of the social gatherings...":laughing: she turned her back on me... :confused3

[MyMuse]

If it were me, I would be more than happy to chat with you for awhile (I love meeting new people when I travel!) and possibly join you for an activity or two (like drinks or watching a show), but not for the whole trip. I like being on my own. Even when I travel with someone, I prefer traveling with people who are independent so we can split up and go our own ways for a morning or afternoon and then meet up again for a meal.

I think it's great that you gave thought to the solos you saw, though. I encourage you to be friendly in the future to any solos you see. Although we like to be on our own for much of the time, we also crave conversation with another human being once in awhile, so feel free to chat with us.

You know what would really be a great ice breaker? If you see us with a camera, ask us if we'd like our picture taken at the parks. Solos come home with very few pictures of themselves when they travel, which is one of my biggest disappointments. (Thank God for Photopass photographers!) I was asked and volunteered to take pictures for groups all the time, but none of them offered to reciprocate, even though it was obvious I was alone and had no one to take my picture.

While I suppose I can understand why you might assume solo trippers are "lonely", it really is highly insulting. Last time I was at WDW, I spent a week with a friend, then went on my own to visit friends in Tampa, then returned to Orlando and spent 2 nights at Universal and 3 nights at WDW on my own. The solo time was by far the most enjoyable! I had a great time, did exactly what I wanted to do and enjoyed the heck out of my time alone!

Those of us solo aren't sad to be alone. We're having a swell time (maybe even a better time than you are!).


Couldn't have said it better myself.Well done. :thumbsup2

[penguinkimberly]

I have never been lucky enough to take a solo trip, I have always been with family or friends, but I always sneak off before everyone wakes up and go to a park. Once at the park my cell magically turns on silent mode for a few hours. It is wonderful to be able to look at everything and just wander your own way!

[1littlespark]

I used to go by myself fairly frequently before I got my house, when I lived around the corner and had premium annual passes. Sometimes it's nice not to have to deal with anyone else's ideas of what to do all day. It can be a very nice, free of aggravation sort of magical day. lol That being said, I usually never mind if people strike up conversation with me. I'm that way...unless someone is creepy, of course. Thankfully around Disney World that's less of an issue than other places.

[suzycute]

Please don't feel sorry for me - I LOVE going solo and have travelled from the UK on my own just to do this!! Just doing what I want to do when I want to do it, after spending years doing what others want to do, is GREAT!!

Don't get me wrong, I love being with my family at WDW and am looking forward to a week with DD on our first girls only trip this September. However I'm looking forward to my next solo trip - although now I have bought in to DVC, I suddenly seem to have lots of people wanting to accompany me!! :rotfl:

[Racknack]

I took my fifth solo trip to WDW this past November, and really thought it would be my last (I'm 75), however I am now planning another visit to WDW for December of this year. This will be my sixth consectitive holiday time solo visit to The World, so I must have been having fun. Just wanna try it one more time ...

:wizard: Karnak

[1littlespark]

My 90 year old Aunt still goes wandering around Manhattan by herself whenever she needs to, so I hope you have a lot more visits coming. :)

[Jamie77]

During our trip, we saw quite a few solo trippers (or at least they were solo when we saw them)...my better half and I felt sad for most of them as they seemed lonely.

When you solo, are you mainly doing it because you don't have anyone willing to come along that you want to go with, or are you going solo so you can just enjoy the sights and sounds on your own without being bothered?

My other half wanted to adopt half of you into our group :), but that can make some people quite uncomfortable.

(And I can understand the draw of going alone...most of my trip I spent wishing I was solo -- family trips can be quite trying.)

I can't be bothered to take other people along. They sleep too much.:headache:

I always end up talking with someone while there solo. On my first night at the Studios, I met a teenager at RNRC after being assigned to ride in the front row with her. She adopted me and we spent the rest of the night riding in the front rows of ToT, Star Tours and RNRC again before it starting raining like crazy. The park was about to close anyway.

[princessCKL]

I'm from South Carolina and I am a very friendly American! I love going solo now that my kids are grown because I see so many things that I didn't see because I was too busy worrying if other family members were having fun.

In 2007 I did my first solo trip for my 49th birthday - loved every minute of it and it was a 10 day trip.

In 2008 did a trip with just my adult daughter and I for my 50th - it was fun too.

In winter of 2008 did a solo Disney Cruise - love, love, loved it!

This summer will be celebrating my 51st birthday with a solo trip!

I chat with people in line, on the buses etc. I've been an early childhood teacher for many years and young children seem to sense that and just start talking to me.

[Simba's Mom]

During our trip, we saw quite a few solo trippers (or at least they were solo when we saw them)...my better half and I felt sad for most of them as they seemed lonely.



Sometimes solos just give the impression of being lonely. I remember once, getting on PPFlight, when the CM said,"How many" and I said "One", he replied "Cheer up, it's not so bad." What a shock-up til then, I'd never thought I might look sad or lonely. Also, many "solos"you see are only solo for the moment-maybe others are napping, sleeping in, golfing, etc. We once talked to a solo at Biergarten, and found out he was alone because no one else in his large family wanted to eat there and he put his foot down and went anyways. He told us that up til then, his wants seemed to come in last. All that being said, I love talking with others when I'm on solo trips. Feel free to talk to me.

[Shenanigoat]

I can't be bothered to take other people along. They sleep too much.:headache: ....

Testify! That is exactly how I feel.

My first solo trip was because the company I used to work for had it's big meeting in Orlando last year and, since I lived in CA and hadn't been to WDW since 2001, I was not wasting that airfare. I ended up having so much fun on that 4 night trip that I booked another one in Jan'09 and I'm going again in Sept'09. I asked the DH if he was interested, and he wasn't at all. He goes to DL with me (maybe 1 out of every 5 of my day trips), but he's not as :hyper: about Disney as I am.

I am never lonely or sad in WDW. I miss him, but I miss him whenever we aren't together, so that is fine. And I really do like doing things alone, at my own pace. I chat up people in line, use the SR line, watch the entertainment in World Showcase, and eat in restaurants my DH would never step foot in!

[MyMuse]

Sometimes solos just give the impression of being lonely. I remember once, getting on PPFlight, when the CM said,"How many" and I said "One", he replied "Cheer up, it's not so bad." What a shock-up til then, I'd never thought I might look sad or lonely. Also, many "solos"you see are only solo for the moment-maybe others are napping, sleeping in, golfing, etc. We once talked to a solo at Biergarten, and found out he was alone because no one else in his large family wanted to eat there and he put his foot down and went anyways. He told us that up til then, his wants seemed to come in last. All that being said, I love talking with others when I'm on solo trips. Feel free to talk to me.

when I went down in March and most rides when they asked and I replied with "one", their eyebrows went up, but didn't actually say anything to me. I had the best time doing what I wanted, when I wanted.

When I went down in May with my bro and niece...ugh, I was tearing my hair out. Waking everyone up, grumpiness, "i gotta eat!", "i need coffee", "are we done?", "i don't want to do that".....:headache:

Testify! That is exactly how I feel.

My first solo trip was because the company I used to work for had it's big meeting in Orlando last year and, since I lived in CA and hadn't been to WDW since 2001, I was not wasting that airfare. I ended up having so much fun on that 4 night trip that I booked another one in Jan'09 and I'm going again in Sept'09.
I am never lonely or sad in WDW. I miss him, but I miss him whenever we aren't together, so that is fine. And I really do like doing things alone, at my own pace. I chat up people in line, use the SR line, watch the entertainment in World Showcase, and eat in restaurants my DH would never step foot in!

The SR line is great! Though, I've seen entire groups go on, intending to be together and they were split up. hehe.

I'm going back again in December 09....alone! Or perhaps with a Disney-crazy friend of mine as well. Though she and her mom are staying at Bay Lake, so I may or may not crash their place. :goodvibes

[FergieTCat]

Sometimes solos just give the impression of being lonely. I remember once, getting on PPFlight, when the CM said,"How many" and I said "One", he replied "Cheer up, it's not so bad." What a shock-up til then, I'd never thought I might look sad or lonely. Also, many "solos"you see are only solo for the moment-maybe others are napping, sleeping in, golfing, etc. We once talked to a solo at Biergarten, and found out he was alone because no one else in his large family wanted to eat there and he put his foot down and went anyways. He told us that up til then, his wants seemed to come in last. All that being said, I love talking with others when I'm on solo trips. Feel free to talk to me.

I always answer "Party of One!" :banana:

[1littlespark]

I just remembered that I went by myself this past Easter and some people do kinda look at you strangely, which is silly. In fact, I was on line waiting for the boat from FW to the World Showcase (I have in a lazyyyy mood lol) and there was this very precocious, funny little girl on line who was basically interrogating me about a variety of things. She started asking where I Got my bunny ears, then launched into questioning me about being there alone with quite the incredulous tone. lol

[MomsOf2boys]

We are a chatty family and do find ourselves chatting with this or that person. Not because we feel bad for them. Many "solo" guests we have found have someone else somewhere, with the little ones, at the spa... etc.

We have offered others to tag along with us if they wanted. Surprisingly, we have had several who have joined us. I am thinking however it had to do with the fact that we often travel with my DD18 and my nephews 21 & 23.....:rotfl2::rotfl2:

[PaulaSB12]

when I went down in March and most rides when they asked and I replied with "one", their eyebrows went up, but didn't actually say anything to me. I had the best time doing what I wanted, when I wanted.

When I went down in May with my bro and niece...ugh, I was tearing my hair out. Waking everyone up, grumpiness, "i gotta eat!", "i need coffee", "are we done?", "i don't want to do that".....:headache:



I got that when I took my sister and her children, got to go to bed (10pm) not getting out of bet until 10 in the morning then having a swim and complaining about ride lines, how much food there is the heat everything. Add one thing one niece digging me in the ribs to complain about the non existant snoring!!!!!!! The cheek I don't snore!!!!

[mum24grlz]

I think its great that there are so many solo travelers! I've decided that once the kiddos are grown and on their own that I'm gonna do the solo traveling thing too. I don't want to do it w/ someone else and have to plan around their needs/wants, I wanna do what I wanna do! LOL I've done what everyone else wants for so long ( my oldest is 23 and my youngest is 6 so it has been a very long time) that I want time for ME!!

I do run out to WDW every now and again to sit and people watch. I'm gonna spring for an AP this year and venture to the parks to ride the rides, see the shows, etc all by myself when the kids are in school. I can't wait!

[MyMuse]

I got that when I took my sister and her children, got to go to bed (10pm) not getting out of bet until 10 in the morning then having a swim and complaining about ride lines, how much food there is the heat everything. Add one thing one niece digging me in the ribs to complain about the non existant snoring!!!!!!! The cheek I don't snore!!!!

LOL!! Exactly!
My niece kept hogging the whole bed! I had an ok enough time, how can I not when I'm in Disney?

I'm going to enjoy going down solo in December more though! Candlelight Processional, Keys to the Kingdom, PhilarMagic, here I come! :laughing:

[jamstew]

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl: I go to WDW at least four times a year. I try my best to make sure that at least two or three of those trips are solo. I go at least once a year with family, but spend part of those trips wishing I was solo. You can get so much more done when you are solo, plus you can ride what you want (over and over, if you want). You get to eat when and where you want. If I want to spend a morning just looking for Hidden Mickey's, I can do so. There are always other solos down there if you want to meet up. I usually post some here on the solo board before I go and always have at least a few meals lined up with others. However, on a solo trip you get to do what you want when you want. If you want to make every rope drop you can, or you can sleep in until noon if you want. If you want to take a nap in the afternoon you can. Single rider lines are so much quicker than the regular lines and are great for solos. I can go on backstage tours and eat anywhere I want. I can simply sit and people watch if I want. Anytime I'm solo I usually see parents with screaming kids or couples yelling at each other and thank God I'm solo and can do what I want when I want. My family is just a phone call away if I decide I miss them. Don't feel sorry for solos. I assure you we are perfectly content.:rotfl:

What she said :thumbsup2 I do enjoy meeting up with other Dissers (including aubriee, who I'll see in December) for meals and a few rides, and I've traveled with a friend twice now, but I really, really, really love my alone time!

[Donald is #1]

I can't be bothered to take other people along. They sleep too much.:headache:


:rotfl2: I totally understand! My last couple of trips with family or friends have been a struggle to get people moving in the morning. What part about we only have 3 days and if you want to see everything we need to make park opening don't they understand? :lmao:

What she said :thumbsup2 I do enjoy meeting up with other Dissers (including aubriee who I'll see in December :goodvibes) for meals and a few rides, and I've traveled with a friend twice now, but I really, really, really love my alone time!


Me too! I love meeting other DISers when I am on my solo trips! I loved meeting jamstew last December and spending some time with her and RedBudLover.



Now to answer your question(s). While many of my trips are with friends or family, I love my solo trips because of the freedom that I have to do whatever I feel like doing without dealing with any complaining or whining. In my case, my solo trips are actually longer than my trips with other people because everyone else either can't afford to go or don't want to spend more than a few days at WDW. I am not lonely there, but then again I have always been single so I am used to doing things on my own. Back in my 20's I used to try to setup my vacations with friends or family but I got tired of hearing the excuses when it was time to commit the money. So in my late 30's I started taking solo vacations and have never looked back. I love meeting people at WDW so if you see me sitting on a bench or in line, please say hi to me.

[gokenin]

I have never done an official solo trip I however done several trips with some friends that I think of as solo trips. We arrange supper somewhere every day and after that we go our seperate ways. I love knowing that I can go into the parks whenever I want, see whatever I want and do whatever i want with my time. I spend alot of my time taking pictures which I know would bore them to death.
I find these trips to be more relaxing since I go at my own pace the last two trips with my family have been very hectic and much more stressful than anything that happened on my solo trips.

[jamstew]

Me too! I love meeting other DISers when I am on my solo trips! I loved meeting jamstew last December and spending some time with her and RedBudLover.

I think I'll see you again this December, right?

[Continuum]

I'm sure it looks a bit lonely to many people when they see someone being by themselves at Disney World and I have some friends that would think that. To be honest, I'll be more happy by myself than if I had someone along with me. It's not like I'll ignore people I come across while I'm down there or anything though.

[Sueb383]

I'm leaving for my first solo trip in just a little over 2 weeks and I already am 100% sure that I'm going to enjoy myself more being there alone than when I'm there with other people! I'm thinking that it will be hard for me to go back WITH other people in the future!

[MyMuse]

:rotfl2: I totally understand! My last couple of trips with family or friends have been a struggle to get people moving in the morning. What part about we only have 3 days and if you want to see everything we need to make park opening don't they understand? :lmao:.

EXACT-A-MUNDO!! :lmao:

We had 3 days for the trip in May and that's exactly what I had to deal with. Oiy.


In my case, my solo trips are actually longer than my trips with other people because everyone else either can't afford to go or don't want to spend more than a few days at WDW. I am not lonely there, but then again I have always been single so I am used to doing things on my own. Back in my 20's I used to try to setup my vacations with friends or family but I got tired of hearing the excuses when it was time to commit the money. So in my late 30's I started taking solo vacations and have never looked back. I love meeting people at WDW so if you see me sitting on a bench or in line, please say hi to me.

That's how my solo vacation came about in March. I was celebrating my 37th birthday. I had a great time! Both during the visit and all the pre-planning before it.

I'm going back down in December and will start planning over the summer. Here's hoping to some discounts! I want to stay at AKL or the Boardwalk area. :goodvibes

[DisCopper]

EXACT-A-MUNDO!!

Easy Fonzie... :rotfl2:

[Donald is #1]

I think I'll see you again this December, right?

Yes! I'm looking forward to it. :goodvibes

EXACT-A-MUNDO!! :lmao:

We had 3 days for the trip in May and that's exactly what I had to deal with. Oiy.




That's how my solo vacation came about in March. I was celebrating my 37th birthday. I had a great time! Both during the visit and all the pre-planning before it.

I'm going back down in December and will start planning over the summer. Here's hoping to some discounts! I want to stay at AKL or the Boardwalk area. :goodvibes

When will you be at WDW in December?

[MyMuse]

Easy Fonzie... :rotfl2:

I use that with the young 'uns and no one knows what I'm talking about. Now, I know I'm old. :laughing:


When will you be at WDW in December?

I'm looking at December 5-10, for right now. I'm hoping to extend it for a few days. I'll have to wait that out with work.

[disneypolybride2008]

i would go to disney solo, if my DH lets me. I'd be alone home either way so i may as well be alone but at Disney!! When i was going solo to my college orientation, had no clue where i was, a nice family who's son was in the same program, adopted me. It was nice to have someone else's family since i was unable to have mine come.

what's the green mickey thing about? is it so other dissers walking around know you're an approachable disser?

one thing is that going solo guarantees there will be no arguments!

[Donald is #1]

I'm looking at December 5-10, for right now. I'm hoping to extend it for a few days. I'll have to wait that out with work.

I'll be there from the 4th until the 15th. I believe that Timmy is still planning on organizing a DISMeet on the 13th in case you end up adding a few days.

[jamstew]

I'll be there from the 4th until the 15th. I believe that Timmy is still planning on organizing a DISMeet on the 13th in case you end up adding a few days.

I'm hoping that aubriee will take care of the ADR for dinner on the 13th when she gets to a point to think about the December trip :goodvibes

[ILoveJack]

Well I will be there with my 2 dds (9 & 11) October 13th - 20th. We will be going to MNSSHP on the 13th and 18th and if anyone would like to join us for some fun please feel free. Most of the trips I get to sneak off by myself because Grandma has the girls, so I like doing somethings by myself. But haveing another adult around is nice too after the kids are driving me crazy. So you have the pros and cons.

[Aussiegal]

I travelled for the first time on my own last year and while it was daunting at first, I had an absolute ball and met some wonderful people... it was nice because you could meet up at dinner and lunch but when you wanted to sleep in, or go read a book and just go for a swim - you could!! :)

I am going to WDW for the first time in November and it will be a solo trip the whole time I am in Orlando (only a week)... I am travelling from Western Australia too so I can't wait to meet so many different people and see so many different things! I have 4 days to complete the 4 worlds so it should be great fun! Feel free to say hi and invite me along if you so wish - as I am sure I will appreciate the effort you have gone to to include me in your activities!! :)

I do agree though, if you are an independent person, then travelling on your own is not a big deal... but if you aren't happy to go and do things on your own, then definitely don't do the travelling alone thing!!

[Missytara]

I can tell you for me, I have been going every year since 2000. I am single with no children and turned 40 that year, and decided it was time to start traveling. I do Disney mostly by myself, but I do things to engage others in conversation in line, or sit at the bar to eat dinner, so I meet lots of interesting people. But I get to keep to myself as well. I like sitting by the pool and reading or just going back to the room and taking a nap and knowing that I don't have to work around anyone else's schedule.

I am an only child, so I am used to amusing myself.

[Hallowishes]

i go solo coz mostly coz i dont have anyone to go with. it would be cool to go with my parents ... but my mom works for the schools and cant take time off when i like to go to WDW (sept/oct)
my first solo trip didnt happen on purpose ... my "friend" ditched out on me at the last minute ... it made me so angry/distrustful of her seeing as how she had her MOM come tell me at MY WORK at 46 days till wdw time. :mad: :headache: :scared: she's 22 years old ... so i definitely didnt think it was cool of her to have her MOM come tell me. My parents talked me into going anyways and im so GLAD i listened!
ANYWAYS ... I had a blast at WDW for 9 wonderful days last year .. and since i had a GREAT time by myself im totaly PUMPED to be doing it again this year for 11 days! :wizard:
It gets hard when i see families having sentimental moments at the park .. as i wish i had someone to share it with ... but all in all, i have a blast and dont want anyone to feel sorry for me! :flower3: i would LOVE to talk with you in line or ride some rides with you.... or even eat a meal together ... but i like feelikng independent and going where i want when i want :cloud9:

[pbrim]

If you see me in the parks or lines I would be happy to talk to you. I am not sad to be solo but one of the things I like about Americans is how friendly they are (oh if you want to know me I am the one with the waist long brown hair and the ipod). One thing I found odd though when talking to women they usually asked me which religion I belonged to a question I am not used to and find a little uncomfortable being asked.

I'm willing to bet that most of these women were from the South. We Southerners are friendly, but usually the first thing everyone wants to know is "Who are your people and where are they from?" and "What church do you go to?" That defines where you fit in the web of Southern society and how you may be kin by blood, marriage, or religion. Since you are a "furriner", there is little point in asking about your people, or your actual church, but that leaves the more general varient of "What religion are you?"

[PaulaSB12]

I'm willing to bet that most of these women were from the South. We Southerners are friendly, but usually the first thing everyone wants to know is "Who are your people and where are they from?" and "What church do you go to?" That defines where you fit in the web of Southern society and how you may be kin by blood, marriage, or religion. Since you are a "furriner", there is little point in asking about your people, or your actual church, but that leaves the more general varient of "What religion are you?"
That explains it, I thought it was a bit odd but as I said I like how friendly people at disney are.

[Straughn]

Another solo traveler here who loves the freedom of being unaccompanied. Even when DH was alive and we went to WDW, he spent most of his time on the golf course and I was by myself in the parks. After his death, I took several short solo trips to the World as it was the only place I could sort of lose myself. On one of my trips, I meet a mother and three children standing in line at BTMRR. We got to chatting and when we got to the ride, the oldest child ended up sitting with me and the mother took the two younger children in the car with her. After the ride was over, we walked out together and she asked if I wanted to hang out with them for the rest of the afternoon. I think she was glad for another adult and it also made it possible for them to go on more rides because one of the children could sit with me as they were too small to ride some attractions without an adult next to them. She and I still keep in touch.

I am always happy to talk to somone or to share a table in a restaurant. But I am also perfectly happy doing my own thing. I doubt you have ever seen me looking miserable at WDW. And I agree with those who have said that we wish someone would offer to take our picture. Sometimes a cast member will do it, but there isn't always one around when you want a picture taken.

[geffric]

I'm looking at December 5-10, for right now. I'm hoping to extend it for a few days. I'll have to wait that out with work.

I'll be there from the 4th until the 15th. I believe that Timmy is still planning on organizing a DISMeet on the 13th in case you end up adding a few days.

I'm hoping that aubriee will take care of the ADR for dinner on the 13th when she gets to a point to think about the December trip :goodvibes

I am at WDW 12/7 - 12/14 would love to meet up with anyone..


To answer the OP q... I have been single a few times.. mostly business trip but 2 pure solo.. I love being at WDW and doing what I want.. so Solo is wonderful.. but if you see me.. I talk to anyone and everyone.. and love to hang with others and meet others for meals..

[jamstew]

I am at WDW 12/7 - 12/14 would love to meet up with anyone..


.

Somewhere, there's a 12/13 sign-up sheet, but I have no idea where the thread is right now :confused:

[Donald is #1]

Somewhere, there's a 12/13 sign-up sheet, but I have no idea where the thread is right now :confused:

Here is the thread: Dec 13 signup (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2205580)

[jamstew]

Here is the thread: Dec 13 signup (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2205580)

Thank you, thank you! I need to keep track of that one. :goodvibes

[daisax]

The religion question isn't an American thing - it's a Southern American thing.

Americans from other areas of the country would also be taken aback by the question.

I'm happy to chat with folks in line or casually in a counter service restaurant, but I wouldn't want to join total strangers on their park day, especially if I felt that they thought they were doing me some sort of favor.

[brack]

I go to WDW solo when my wife can't go. In the past she would have a conference either in Orlando or Anahiem and I would tag along for a DIsney trip. She would meet when not at the conference. I have met up some DISBoard friends but mostly go on my own.

Now that we live in Florida I go solo when she can't or doesn't want to. I am perfectly happy alone (with my camera) but wouldn't mind some "friends" for part of the day. I am not a thrill ride person and would be very laid-back compared to some (or most!). Taking photos is a slow process and I might be considered boring after awhile

[mikamah]

I was at a conference in orlando once and spend a wonderful day at epcot alone. I wasn't into disney like I am now, since I took my son on his first trip, but I can totally see myself taking a solo trip when my son is grown and doesn't want to go with me anymore.

As a single parent, we went on our first trip alone in january, and it was great. I feel so safe there, knowing I'm not going to get lost and wind up in a bad section of some city I don't know.

[lovemickeyshouse]

Yes its ok to say hi to me I don't bite and love meeting new people and of course being flirted with:cool1:

[lustergirl]

Lonely- no way!!
Having the time of my life? YES YES YES

Get to do what I want when I want to do. I can sit at the Tambu Lounge at the Poly forever sipping on the Pina Colavas.

[HRCCrazy]

I would be OK with being bothered while in the parks, I do enjoy talking at WDW and telling story of trips and rides.

[rmeguy]

I have been to WDW a number of times but was always with family. After this Deployment i will be in WDW for 11 days from NOV1-11 and it will be solo. I bought 2 tickets at the Contemp but the other half 'fell thru' So i guess i will try and ask some friends when i go home but other than that i just spent a good chunk of money on someone who 'cant' go. So if anyone is interested in a free trip (more or less) let me know (fblkids@yahoo.com). Back to the subject i dont mind being alone, i have just never pictured DW to be a place to go alone. I have no quams meeting up with people or just talkin to strangers tho. I know i will probably run into a few of the CP members so it will be fine.

-Ben:banana::flower3:

[mickaroonie]

I'm planning on going on a cruise by myself in December and was wondering if anyone had been on cruise solo.:rolleyes1

[Donald is #1]

I'm planning on going on a cruise by myself in December and was wondering if anyone had been on cruise solo.:rolleyes1

I came close for my cruise next month, but my sister decided to come. I would love to see how you like it. I have comtemplated it a few times, particularly for whenever I decide to visit Alaska.

[Dolce27]

I'm planning on going on a cruise by myself in December and was wondering if anyone had been on cruise solo.:rolleyes1

I sort-of have. The company that I work for takes its employees on an all expense paid trip every other year. I interviewed for this job (2006) and the HR manger called me when they were 99.9% certain that they were hiring me to ask if I wanted to go on the trip that year. It was the last day to sign-up. The firm does pay for one guest (whether it be spouse or friend) but I literally had a couple of hours to make a decision and none of my friends would have been able to make a last minute commitment like that. The cruise took place the week after I began. I knew no one. There were over 200 hundred of us on that cruise and I never knew if I was standing/sitting next to a co-worker or not. So, I was basically alone.

Me, with my personality, I didn't mind it. I was coming from a high-stress job (that I still suffer some short-term memory lapses from -it really was that stressful) and I spent a lot of time sipping sodas in a lounge staring at the sea and working (I write). It was a much needed getaway from reality and there was enough going on in the ship to keep me entertained.

I do have a solo cruise planned for this fall. It's up to New England, where I've never been, and I'm very excited. Just pack something to keep you occupied for any downtimes on the ship and look at it as a great getaway from everyone and everything.

[HRCCrazy]

I'm planning on going on a cruise by myself in December and was wondering if anyone had been on cruise solo.:rolleyes1

I have done 3 cruises solo, in a way

In Sept. 06 I did a 7 day DCL cruise 100% solo, and had a blast, I not sure how it would go, and almost pass on eatting in the dinning room, but went and all my tablemates were very nice, and I keep in touch with some of them, and that was almost 3 years ago.

March 07 I did a 7 day NCL out of New Orleans and in Oct. 07 I did a NCL 9 day out of LA, I was alone in my room, but had friends on the cruises, so I wasn't alone 100% of the time, which was nice to.

Go for it, there aways is so much to do on a cruise you can always keep your self busy.

[crocrafter]

My first solo trip wasn’t intentional. I had originally booked the trip with one friend. She bailed shortly after we booked. Another friend stepped in but bailed the week of final payment. My half of the trip was already paid for and I was beyond eager for a Disney trip so I had the decision to either go it alone or let my vacation be ruined because of my friends. I chose to go alone and found that I actually had fun. But, I’m pretty independent and don’t have a problem going out to catch a movie by myself or stop off at a restaurant for dinner solo. Count me as one of those people who can’t comprehend the people that must always have someone with them to do anything and if they don’t, lock themselves up inside of their homes and do absolutely nothing. Non-independent people would be miserable going solo at Disney.

I don't mind being "bothered" at Disney. I often chat with the people in the line/crowd around me and have met some very interesting people from all over the world that I wouldn't have met if I had been there with family or friends.
I am so glad I clicked on this link! I sat here and read the entire TR and decided to join when I was done. Thank you for the insights!

I have a request for help/tips - I am taking my fist solo trip this Dec 22-29. I have heard many rumors about crowds, etc. esp on Christmas day itself. Any tips from anyone who has visited this time of year would be much appreciated.

Also, I saw some references to DIS Meets? I am in NW Virginia. Are three any groups around here, and if so, can anyone join and when do you meet?

Thanks!

[Schmoodle]

If you ever see me alone at WDW, don't feel sorry for me... I will have achieved one of my dreams and be in HEAVEN!
Some people are okay with alone and some are not. I think anyone that would do a solo trip must be okay with it. For me, I adore my alone time - what little of it I get. I travel alone quite a bit for business, and my DH is a Merchant Marine Captain, so gone for months at a time. So you can imagine I am quite independent. But I have 3 kids, and most of my spare time is spent on them. I've always said though, I've never met anybody whose company I enjoy quite as much as my own! :rotfl2:
Don't get me wrong, I love sharing WDW with my family. But a solo trip is definitely in the cards for me one day. And I will be happy to meet and chat with new people, but I won't be looking to hitch my wagon to anyone else's - I'll have my own plan for the day, and that would just slow me down.

[TinkTink78]

I have done 3 cruises solo, in a way

In Sept. 06 I did a 7 day DCL cruise 100% solo, and had a blast, I not sure how it would go, and almost pass on eatting in the dinning room, but went and all my tablemates were very nice, and I keep in touch with some of them, and that was almost 3 years ago.

March 07 I did a 7 day NCL out of New Orleans and in Oct. 07 I did a NCL 9 day out of LA, I was alone in my room, but had friends on the cruises, so I wasn't alone 100% of the time, which was nice to.

Go for it, there aways is so much to do on a cruise you can always keep your self busy.


:confused:How much more expensive is it to go on a cruise SOLO? I thought the rate was outrageous :confused3
I LOVE to cruise, that is actually first to Disney, but I thought SOLO ends up being more expensive then I can justify. :scared1:

[Donald is #1]

:confused:How much more expensive is it to go on a cruise SOLO? I thought the rate was outrageous :confused3
I LOVE to cruise, that is actually first to Disney, but I thought SOLO ends up being more expensive then I can justify. :scared1:


It is very expensive. For the DCV cruise that I am doing next month, the solo rate was 175% of the per person cost. Hence, I asked one of my sisters if she wanted to go and I would pay the difference.

For me though, I suspect that whenever I decide to go to Alaska (non DCL) then, that will be a solo cruise.

[TinkTink78]

Alaska's my next choice...and I would love to cruise to Hawaii.... Enjoy ur Disney cruise they are a lot of fun!!

[Missytara]

I love traveling alone and at WDW, I always feel so safe and secure.

I am an only child, and live alone with no children (well, the four legged variety), and I eat out quite a bit, so that is where I engage people in conversation. I usually sit at the bar to eat, so I never feel lonely.

I love lingering in bed in the morning and not being rushed out to the parks - or being able to bound out of bed and be out the door in 20 minutes. I love sitting at the quiet pool at the resort with my feet dangling in the water at 3:00 am. I love riding the same ride over and over and over again. I love engaging people in conversation while I am standing in line; especially the kids. I love taking a nap in the afternoon in my room before I head out to a nice meal. I love that I can spend as much money as I want, or not have to get out of bed all day if I don't want to....I did that last time.

So, yes, don't feel sorry for me either - I am having just as much fun as you are - sometimes even more.