Solo Trip... To go or not to go?

[BeckWhy]

So I saw the 4 + 3/5 + 2 discount... And for the first time I have had the hardest time trying to find a travel companion. Usually my ex goes with me, but he's got some issues and can't go (well pretty much he just went on vacation). So I'm seriously considering a solo trip for the first time in my life. I decided the $300 more it costs isn't that big of a deal.

My question is more along the lines of... are solo trips bad? A lot of people around me support them and a lot of people say I won't have as fun of a time. Now granted I'm extremely outgoing so I'll make friends wherever I go. I guess I'm just looking for input from those who have taken the solo trips!

Thanks a bunch!

[mydisneykids]

Anxious to hear input from others as I will be taking my first solo trip for four days next week. Looking forward to it but am wondering what others have to say.

[The Hendies]

Some of our best family memories are doing Disney together.... but I would LOVE a chance to do a solo trip! Do what I want, when I want? I may have a chance in 2012 when DH has a convention in Orlando. Go for it!

[BeckWhy]

Some of our best family memories are doing Disney together.... but I would LOVE a chance to do a solo trip! Do what I want, when I want? I may have a chance in 2012 when DH has a convention in Orlando. Go for it!

Well.. the great thing about when my ex goes... is I still do whatever I want whenever I want. He let's me run the show (weird huh?). But I am thinking by myself I could move faster. And I do feel that having someone there to share the memories with is great. But what memories am I missing because I'm not a lone? That is a good question.

My other big question is to stay with my "home" resort (POP) or upgrade the trip to a moderate... (which would raise the price another $200 give or take). But that's a question for another board.

[maroo]

I loved mine!

I went in Feb with a few friends, but they had to leave early (and I had a half day before they got there) and I loved the time I had solo.

I am also outgoing...love to people watch...and loved riding whatever I wanted as many times as I wanted! :)

The solo lines are a great perk, too!

It is so much easier to deal with crowds when you can sorta wind through them without worrying if you lost your friends, too.

Eating in Disney is fun as a solo...You can enjoy lots of great Counter Service places. There are several table service places (50's Prime Time) that are fun and they will banter back and forth with you, etc. I also enjoyed Beaches and Cream's bar area (ordered from full menu or ice cream) and you get to watch them make the ice cream (and kitchen sinks!). I also had fun at Biergarten (Teppan Edo would be similar) because you can sit with people you don't know and share a table. :thumbsup2

I don't think people really pay attention to solos in Disney like they would if you went out to eat at home. I think people assume you are with someone that just doesn't happen to be there right then.


I loved going to the MK at night and just sitting around after the fireworks ended.

Just being able to go and do whatever you want. It's nice.

There were moments that I wished someone was with me to share X Y or Z...but for the most part I enjoyed myself...more than I thought I would!

[BillSears]

I love my solo trips! So go! GO! GO!!!!!!!

You never know how it will be for you until you try it. I was a little worried on my first one but it turned out great and now I do a mix of solo and group trips.

As for Pop or a moderate? I like done both solo but on my next solo trip I'll be staying at Pop Century. I personaly love CSR but sometimes I just don't feel like spending the extra money and Pop Century is great too.

[zackiedawg]

Solo trips ROCK! Of course it depends a bit on the person, and whether you enjoy some time alone - but if you do, and are socially capable, you should have a wonderful time. Way back the first time I tried one, I was a little worried it would be odd, or boring. But I loved it so much that I actually schedule 1-2 a year, much to the chagrin of family and friends who actually get angry that I would want to go without them even when they are more than willing to come along. I figure I go with them 3-4 times a year and have a fine and wonderful time, but for 1-2 trips a year, I just want the different vibe that solo provides.

1. I have absolutely no schedule. Totally wing it, wake when I naturally do, wander where I want, spend as much time doing or not doing whatever I want.

2. I can get on rides faster, and ride as often as I feel like...If I want to do Pirates 3 times in a row...I can! No friends or family signing, clucking, or putting their hands on their hips.

3. I meet more people. With friends or family along, even if you are a friendly outgoing person, you spend more time talking with them, or engrossing in your own conversations, and therefore are less prone to talk to others. When solo, you chill on a bench with a drink and someone sits next to you, you can say hi and see if a conversation starts up. You end up meeting very cool people from all over the world.

4. If you have a particular hobby, it frees you up to enjoy it. For me, I love photography, and solo trips let me shoot to my heart's content - even the details, the minutae, the slow set-up tripod shots, etc. Whether it's photography, character meets, pin collecting, searching for hidden mickeys, blogging, whatever - you can do it!

5. More time to relax can put the parks in a whole new light. With the family or group vibe, you do a lot of rushing here, meeting there, walking, walking, walking...standing on lines, getting tired and worn out. It's fun, but it takes a toll and sometimes leaves you with the memory of a particular park being big, hot, and crowded. When solo, you can take the Jimmy Buffett tour of the parks - laid back, walking easy, enjoying the bars or grabbing a snack, taking bench breaks to peoplewatch, throwing the feet up on the wall in the shade and listening to some tunes. You can spend the whole day, morning to close, in the parks and still walk out feeling refreshed and ready for more. Your feet aren't sore, your head isn't pounding, your skin doesn't feel hot, and you still have a smile on your face on the ride home.

6. Enjoy the journey. Soloing lets you take the long way there. Hop other resorts...check out the theming. Heading to the parks? Don't just hop the next bus to the park...try a novel way of getting there in which the journey is half the fun. Maybe you're staying at Port Orleans French Quarter and want to get to Epcot...try this: Take the boat to Marketplace, stroll to the bus stop to catch the bus to Hollywood Studios, then walk over to the boat to Epcot. Need to get to MK? How about boat to Marketplace, bus to Wilderness Lodge, and boat to MK! Take it all in, enjoy the journey, and explore a little.

Just a few suggestions that might make soloing the coolest thing you ever did. ;)

[jordancej]

GO FOR IT!!! :) Solo trips are the best trips!!! I have about 4 1/2 solo trips under my belt now.... and i love it!! Yes, people at my work think i'm super crazy.... but i always have the best time!! and they have never experienced the Disney Magic!

Single rider line rocks! You can do what you want, when you want! Eat whenever, or don't eat cause your having so much fun! Which is what usually happens to me! My favorite thing to do is see how many times i can ride RNR and EE as many times as i can in a row... (found its about 5 for each ride!)

I usually stay at POP, just because since i'm a solo traveler, i mainly stay at the parks, so i'm never at the resort, and by staying at a value vs a moderate, i can stay longer! Pretty much comes to for 1 night i can stay at POFQ, i can stay 2 nights at POP, so i'm all about staying at WDW as long as i can!! :)

Seriously, you will have a GREAT time! I'm always talking to new people in the lines, and also to CM's.... so technically you are never alone!

[OB1]

Definately worth it. I have gone to WDW 25 times, 3 times solo. Now, I miss my travel partner, but still enjoy the trip.


No day time breaks when I'm solo.
Ride the attractions that my wife does not enjoy.
Stay out later than she wants to.
Eat at location of my choice.
No extra shopping.
Lots of people to chat with while waiting in line. Always meet some fun people, and often continue to run into them during the stay.
Willing to stay off site and a lesser location for a lesser price.


THE BAD

Sometimes an hour or more of no conversation, depending on what/where you are.
Nobody personal to share the magic with.
I have to make all the decisions.
More difficult to get sit down ressies for 1 person.

[GaSleepingBeautyFan]

Solo Trips Rock!

I took my first one at the end of April 09 and can't wait to do another.

I got up early every morning and ate what I wanted for breakfast without having to argue with my family to get up or having to eat what they wanted. I stayed out until the parks closed every night which I can't do when the kids are along.

I met some of the nicest people. At the bus stops, in the bar at POR, waiting for my Boma reservation. I even got invited by the family I met at Boma to join them on the Illuminations cruise they won. I wasn't able to go since I was leaving the day of their cruise. Boo Hoo.

I got to eat at places my family wasn't interested in. Boma and Teppan Edo.

I even rode HM 7 times in a row (my family would NEVER have gone for that and it's my fav. ride at MK). I went to Rafiki Planet Watch and wandered down every path I could find at AK.

I took a gazillion pictures. I love to take pictures but normally my family is too impatient to wait for me while I do it and ended up with some fabulous ones like this:

http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff207/Momofdoom/Solo%20Disney%20April%2009/SoloTripatDisney818.jpg

It was a fantastic vacation and I'm planning on going in Early Dec. 2010 all by myself. :woohoo: I can't wait.

[mulderxcoltrane]

I went on a week-long solo trip in march of this year.

I wouldn't say it was "better" than going with others, but "different."

I definitely missed my wife and kids while I was there (on business) but I did have more freedom than normal. I never realized how much time kids' naps take out of a day. :)

I was able to take things at a more relaxed pace.

While I would ALWAYS rather have my family with me - it was a nice experience.

[Joolish1313]

I say book the trip! If I really wanted to go and had no one to come with me, I'd go. I've traveled alone before and am comfortable chatting people up. You've gotten lots of great advice and here is mine - your trip will be what you make it. Take your time, relax, enjoy it.

[cbg1027]

Do it! Do it! Do it!:cheer2:

I've never been solo to Disney, but I've been solo to in various places in Europe. I had a great time and am glad I went. Sure, sometimes I wish there was someone to share a meal with...but if I had fun going solo in countries where I didn't even speak the language, I'm sure Disney, with it's friendly, English-speaking CM's will be a blast!

Think about it - no one to confer with on where to go or what to do. No waiting on someone else while, no having to think about where to eat that so-and-so will like....you can do exactly what you want, when you want! And you can use single-rider lines!

Oooh another thing - when your in line for a ride and see that a vehicle has an empty spot, speak up and tell the CM's! They will let you ahead so you can ride!

[padisneylover]

Planning my first solo trip since the death of my DH. I loved Disney to much to give it up so am meeting sister in law for 1 week then getting my feet wet as a solo for another week. Can't wait for these last few days to pass:banana::banana:

[Jill in Chicago]

Book it! Have not traveled solo to Disney, but have traveled solo to other places. It is a much more intense experience. You do not have someone else to buffer sounds, smells, and tastes. Everything just seems intensified. I love the experience.

I have also found that servers are so attentive and kind to the solo traveler. Often they will spend a bit more time chatting with you, and making sure you are comfortable. (Again this was at non-Disney locations.)

You make all your own decisions which is very cool.

[vettegirl]

I am just decided yesterday to do a solo 3 day 2 night trip on Oct 26th because I have 2 days left on my military ticket and an entry for a water park. My DH cannot go as he is in the military and just can't leave work, but I am self employed have not children so why not! I think it will be fun to do what I want, eat what I want, and just have have some me time. I have decided to stay at CSR, I wanted the Poly but $750 for 2 days with no dining plan, no thanks. So I say go for it!

[Wonders10]

I'm all about solo trips. I did my one and only so far in May of 2008. 4 nights. I will not lie - I did have some lonely moments, and I don't think I would like if all my Disney trips were solo, but it was a great trip and I was actually planning on doing it again this November, but a friend ended up being able to join me.

What I liked about the trip was I was doing whatver I wanted. I sort of run the show when I go with my family, but this time I truly did not have to answer to anyone. I could get up super early and hit rope drop, which my family is never able or willing to do. I ate at restaurants that my family doesn't care for. Rode the cheesy rides I like, without grumbling from my travelmates. Walking through the shops and taking my time, even if I don't end up buying anything.

It was one of my most favorite visits to WDW - and I have had many!!!

Here is the link to my (unfinished) trip report from my solo trip, if you're interested:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1815131

[BeckWhy]

I just wanna say to everyone who has commented! THANK YOU! I was so excited to go... then found out I have no travel companions and was getting mildly excited to go by myself. Then I got to work and started to feel really sad about it... for a lot of reasons. But you guys have really lifted my spirits!

BillSears: I think I'm going with Pop to save on the money! Amongst other reasons I have inside my head!

zackiedawg: All your input! Amazing! I really needed to read that after the day I had!

OB1: I <3 shopping! ;)

Wonders10: Thank you! I'll read it as my schedule allows me! (Once I start posting my pre-trip you will understand!)

I do really appreciate everyone's input! Today I started to think about what the trip would be like by myself. I talk non-stop. And started to think what would it be like to be in Disney World with no one to talk non-stop with? Well I guess if it turns out that way... I'll be the one on the cell phone the whole time! I won't lie. I prewarned my friends to expect massive amounts of texts from me for my boring times! Will it happen? Who knows! I make friends so easily (my personality has changed greatly in the almost two years since my boyfriend and I broke up).

A lot of you comment on how you can do what you want without moaning and groaning. I wish I could say the same, but my past trip my ex totally let me run the show. Occasionally he'd complain... but I always got my way. And I can see how I could be at the park at rope drop like I always wanted! Of course that's assuming I'm ready in time! ;)

And I do like the idea of being able to eat where I want. With my mom I'd be able to eat where I wanted (as opposed to with my ex) but my mom has her own idea on what time to get to the park. So there are a few places I might like to try seeing how I don't have my ex to hold me back.

Though I have decided I won't be doing any table service meals... I do expect it to be amazing fun.

There are a few things I decided would make my trip better, but we'll have to see how it goes.

I'm not really worried what people think of me being alone... generally I could care less.

I do have a few more questions for those who have traveled.
When you want pics of yourself and senery or a a character... is it a problem? Are you worried about someone running off with your camera (yes I'm uber paranoid)?
I'm also worried about how I'd deal with "rude" visitors... Generally when I'm with a companion I have someone to help defuse me. I'm not saying I explode right away... but I don't talk a lot of stuff from people.. and I don't keep my mouth quiet. What is your guys' experience with it?

In regards to the last question my last trip we had the chance to meet amazing people and families! I really wish I got email addresses or something. And that is something I'm going to try to do this trip... if I have a great connection with the family sitting next to me at the parade (because their adorable son gives us glow bracelets cuz we don't have em) I'm gonna take pics of them and/or us together. These are people I would like to remember for the rest of my life!

Thank you all again!

[RustManFan]

I have had a couple solo trips as extensions of business trips. They were delightful! I met marvelous people....particularly a couple from Great Britain while we waited together for Illuminations. Never felt uncomfortable about answering the "how many" question on rides either. Was a great opportunity to make all the decisions myself and go at my pace! Also a good opportunity to take it slow and use my camera more. Check out the architectural details that I have missed before. Also solo trip was only time I got to rope drop at MK. What fun!

[zackiedawg]

I talk non-stop. And started to think what would it be like to be in Disney World with no one to talk non-stop with? Well I guess if it turns out that way... I'll be the one on the cell phone the whole time! I won't lie. I prewarned my friends to expect massive amounts of texts from me for my boring times! Will it happen? Who knows! I make friends so easily (my personality has changed greatly in the almost two years since my boyfriend and I broke up).

Good to have a backup plan so you don't feel like you've got noone to talk to...but I suspect it's not going to be a problem once you get there and see how friendly everyone is and how many people there are to talk to. BTW - a lot of CMs love to have a chat about things too - when I solo, I find a surprising number of them will come up and initiate conversations that end up going on for 10-15 minutes...you wouldn't believe how many guests just take them for granted and don't really talk to them.

Though I have decided I won't be doing any table service meals... I do expect it to be amazing fun.

In case you decide differently, there are some great table service places for solos that I always go to. I have no stigmas about being alone up there - I spend much of my life surrounded by people, so some time without them is nice and nothing to be embarassed about. I get a little tired of counter service all the time, so I prefer to hit some real restaurants while up there. Rainforest Cafe & Raglan Road in Downtown Disney are both great, as they have bar seating that usually has no wait even when crowded...you can eat at the bars. Maya Grill in Coronado Springs has great food, and though you'll have a table, it's usually pretty spread out and almost never has a wait. Jiko in Animal Kingdom Lodge is excellent if you want to treat yourself to a 4-star meal on the high end - they have the 'cooking place' chef bar if you want to eat solo but have others to chat with, in a bar type seating.


When you want pics of yourself and senery or a a character... is it a problem? Are you worried about someone running off with your camera (yes I'm uber paranoid)?

No problems at all! Actually, most of the characters usually have a 'handler' that travels with them, and they will usually offer to take the photo for you, so you don't even have to deal with guests. If you did, Disney is probably the one place in the world I'd never worry about someone running off with a camera. First, most people wouldn't even think about it in such a happy place, and second, Disney has so many cameras and so much security that the person would be lucky to get 50 feet...plus, they're closed in with gates all around the park. It would take a brazen and rather stupid thief to try that!

I'm also worried about how I'd deal with "rude" visitors... Generally when I'm with a companion I have someone to help defuse me. I'm not saying I explode right away... but I don't talk a lot of stuff from people.. and I don't keep my mouth quiet. What is your guys' experience with it?

To be honest, I can't really remember having dealt with rude visitors at Disney very often, if at all. And I think running solo, you're even less likely to run into any. The bigger the pack, the more personalities within, so sometimes conflict involves you even if someone else in your group started it. When solo, it's only you. Be happy, kick back and don't rush, go with the flow, and there's no reason anyone would have a problem with you and no reason anyone should get under your skin.

In regards to the last question my last trip we had the chance to meet amazing people and families! I really wish I got email addresses or something. And that is something I'm going to try to do this trip... if I have a great connection with the family sitting next to me at the parade (because their adorable son gives us glow bracelets cuz we don't have em) I'm gonna take pics of them and/or us together. These are people I would like to remember for the rest of my life!

Good idea! I have met a few people at Disney that I have had communication with afterwards...some from random meetings, some from the Dis, some from other online communities. I think you're going to have a great time!

[JiminyGuyMaine]

I say absolutely you should go!

I've been on SEVERAL solo trips to WDW, and they've all been great! You don't have to worry about when anyone else is ready to do anything (visit an attraction, eat, even stop for a potty break), it's all up to you!

And everyone is there for the same reason, to enjoy WDW - you already have something in common with EVERYONE there......if you're gettin' a little lonely, just turn around in line and strike up a conversation! I've met some truly awesome people in line! :woohoo:

[MOmousefan]

I took my first solo trip in Sept and had a great time. I did whatever I wanted and saw things my family normally doesn't want to see.
What i saw for the first time:
FOLK - What a fantastic show!
Beauty and the Beast - Once is enough
Impressions de France - A good movie in air conditioning and comfortable seats.
Block Party Bash - This is more than a parade, it's a fast-paced musical with lots to see
Move it Shake it - A nice parade

I was on the DDP and being alone posed no problems. I ate with a nice family at Teppan Edo and had a great time. The group I was with at Beirgarten hardly spoke and this was rather awkward. Otherwise I had a table to myself.

I won't admit this to the family but going solo allowed me to do wahtever I liked. On rides like GMR and Ellen's I always sat on the outside and once at Soarin' they came down the line looking for a single, I skipped ahead several flights.
I did miss sharing experiences with the family.
Try it once for yourself.

[BeckWhy]

Thank you everyone again!

My biggest concern is the lonely concern. And most of you have touched base on that! It makes me feel so much better to know that it shouldn't be an issue!

Many of the other things you guys said are things I already do. Even though we (my ex and I) are at the parks at opening and leave at closing... we only ride the rides I want to (and if he doesn't I ride by myself and he'll chillax with a brew or something). I also already take a ton of pics.. around 1200 on my first trip, I can't remember how many on my second. I'm starting to get nervous that I'm gonna come home with 6.5 gigs of pictures! We also almost always went back to the room for a nap/swim every day. This is something I wanna continue (or I assume so at least).

Can I add another question? For you solo travelers how to you apply sunscreen to your back? I know I'm so random. But I have to worry about this. This summer was the first summer I burned and PEELED!

zackiedawg: First of all is your name Zach or Justin? It's a weird question I know but I'm curious. Second of all, thanks for the input on the table service restaurants. I'll keep it in mind for when I'm down there. I don't really have a problem eating a long in a TS because well, I'm a New Yorker and lots of people eat alone at TS. We ate at Teppan Edo last year and I actually was just at a hiabachi last week. I always like to try something new when it comes to TS. Maybe I'll try Maya Grille. I skimmed through a lot of the menus and didn't find much that sparked my fancy. That's kinda why I've decided to do the QS meal plan. But we'll see how it goes!

[disneyfav4ever]

Six of my last seven trips were solo, and I love it that way. I do like meeting up with friends while there, but I also like to be able to not have to stick to a plan, and be able to do whatever I want, without thinking about anyone else.

[glo]

go for it. I have done a couple of trips where I met up with people down there part of the time, and have done family trips too. I love being able to do both. You will have a blast. Maybe once or twice you will get the nostalgic feeling of sharing it with someone, but then you get to also feel like it is all yours. Have a great time, do not pass it up!

[Missytara]

I have been solo - both just in the parks and on the land/sea package and I absolutely love, love, love it.

I normally eat out all the time at home and eat at the bar, so I do the same thing at WDW. My fav is the lounge at WL......

I always save one day for just laying around in bed or lazing out by the pool and such. And I spend one day just touring the other resorts.

It is so much fun and you meet so many interesting people when you go alone.....

[TLinden16]

I'm going to move this over to our adult and solo travellers board. You'll get lots of great information over there.

[ttester9612]

I love going solo. In May I spent 12 days as a solo and stayed at SSR. Now I did meet up with other DISners on a few days and evenings but otherwise I spent most it by myself. Could do anything I want when I want...it was so relaxing...the BEST vacation I have had. :goodvibes

[Claudia Kellenberger]

This December I will be on my 11th annual solo trip to WDW. I absolutely love it! I am now 56 years old, and I don't have children or grandchildren. I don't have any sisters, and my two brothers would never be WDW fans.
Once, I did meet up with girlfriends because our trips overlapped by one day.
Quite a few times I met up with a DIS woman, around my age group, for a wonderful character breakfast. Other than that ... I tour the parks alone.
It becomes a TRUE vacation when you go alone because you are not required to adhere to someone else's schedule. I use my cell phone and call my DH about twice a day - and especially to say goodnight. I call my Mom in the morning, after breakfast. I need to know that my DH and my Mom are OK. THEN , I just enjoy everything in the parks - all the rides and shows.
The very best solo restaurant for me is The Sci-Fi Dine-In at DHS.
The past few years I have made ADR's for some great sit down restaurants.

When you are in a restaurant, it helps a lot to have a small something to read, like a park map. Carry a small notebook to make notes in case you feel self concious. AND .... it really helps to visit the bathroom BEFORE you are seated solo in a restaurant. ( You would not want the CM's to think you have left and accidently clear your table )

You really owe it to yourself to at least try WDW solo. I'll bet you come to really like it !

[Straughn]

I have done a number of solos trips, including, for the first time last year, Food & Wine. I loved that so much, I am going again this year solo the last week of the Festival.

I have occasional momentary bouts of gosh, it would be nice to have someone to share a particular event with, but then I remind myself of all the other things I would have to share with them and the feeling goes away quickly. As many of the PP have stated, you can do what you want, when you want, as many times as you want. No one says "Do we have to ride (fill in the attraction) again?" or" I don't want to eat there."

There are plenty of people to talk to in the lines, in the bars and generally in the restaurants. I have more interaction with people in a TS restaurant than I do in a CS location. My server will talk to me and, often, when the folks at a nearby table realize I am by myself, they will talk to me for a while. At a CS location, you get your food and you sit down and no one pays any attention.

Go and have fun. Solo trips can be addicting as is clear in many of the above posts.

[Wonders10]

My biggest concern is the lonely concern. And most of you have touched base on that! It makes me feel so much better to know that it shouldn't be an issue!

Can I add another question? For you solo travelers how to you apply sunscreen to your back? I know I'm so random. But I have to worry about this. This summer was the first summer I burned and PEELED!


I am a burner too! Bad for a native Floridian! I would suggest getting the spray sunscreen, if only for your back. It works pretty well for me and I can typically reach all the hard to reach places.

I just wanna say to everyone who has commented! THANK YOU! I was so excited to go... then found out I have no travel companions and was getting mildly excited to go by myself. Then I got to work and started to feel really sad about it... for a lot of reasons. But you guys have really lifted my spirits!

Wonders10: Thank you! I'll read it as my schedule allows me! (Once I start posting my pre-trip you will understand!)

I do really appreciate everyone's input! Today I started to think about what the trip would be like by myself. I talk non-stop. And started to think what would it be like to be in Disney World with no one to talk non-stop with? Well I guess if it turns out that way... I'll be the one on the cell phone the whole time! I won't lie. I prewarned my friends to expect massive amounts of texts from me for my boring times! Will it happen? Who knows! I make friends so easily (my personality has changed greatly in the almost two years since my boyfriend and I broke up).

And I do like the idea of being able to eat where I want. With my mom I'd be able to eat where I wanted (as opposed to with my ex) but my mom has her own idea on what time to get to the park. So there are a few places I might like to try seeing how I don't have my ex to hold me back.

There are a few things I decided would make my trip better, but we'll have to see how it goes.

I'm not really worried what people think of me being alone... generally I could care less.

I do have a few more questions for those who have traveled.
When you want pics of yourself and senery or a a character... is it a problem? Are you worried about someone running off with your camera (yes I'm uber paranoid)?
I'm also worried about how I'd deal with "rude" visitors... Generally when I'm with a companion I have someone to help defuse me. I'm not saying I explode right away... but I don't talk a lot of stuff from people.. and I don't keep my mouth quiet. What is your guys' experience with it?

In regards to the last question my last trip we had the chance to meet amazing people and families! I really wish I got email addresses or something. And that is something I'm going to try to do this trip... if I have a great connection with the family sitting next to me at the parade (because their adorable son gives us glow bracelets cuz we don't have em) I'm gonna take pics of them and/or us together. These are people I would like to remember for the rest of my life!

Thank you all again!

Thanks for stopping by my now old and closed report. Looking back I wish I had finished it because I remember only snipits of the rest of my trip. I do remember that I did the Keys to the Kingdom Tour and LOVED it! Another suggestion for someone traveling solo is to try a tour if they are interested. No one I've ever gone to WDW with has ever wanted to do a tour, but me.

As for taking pictures, I am not one to have solo pictures of myself taken. Just a personal thing, but I still would not hesitate to ask a fellow guest or CM to take a picture of me. It's really no different, IMO, than asking someone to take a picture of your whole family, right?

I am a true homebody, I'm independent and like to keep to myself. Outgoing is probably not a word that most people would immediately use to describe me, but I still really enjoyed my solo adventures. I don't think anyone even noticed I was traveling alone most of the time.

Let us know when you Pre-TR is up!

[zackiedawg]

zackiedawg: First of all is your name Zach or Justin? It's a weird question I know but I'm curious.

Not a weird question at all! My name is Justin. The screenname was named for my dog, Zack (long since passed on, but I kept the screenname).

Second of all, thanks for the input on the table service restaurants. I'll keep it in mind for when I'm down there. I don't really have a problem eating a long in a TS because well, I'm a New Yorker and lots of people eat alone at TS. We ate at Teppan Edo last year and I actually was just at a hiabachi last week. I always like to try something new when it comes to TS. Maybe I'll try Maya Grille. I skimmed through a lot of the menus and didn't find much that sparked my fancy. That's kinda why I've decided to do the QS meal plan. But we'll see how it goes!

Sounds good. The only thing I'd add on the menu issue, is to be willing to try a few things that don't sound familiar. Jiko is a pricey place, and reading the menu might just confuse most people with the odd spices and some strange-sounding pairings...but my goodness does it all work! I took my friends from Texas there last month as they hadn't been to Disney in over 10 years...they are not unused to good food and good living (yep...they got money!)...both declared it was their finest meal in memory, ever. Of course, I knew just the right appetizers, wines, and courses to recommend. ;)

Can't help you on the sunscreen issue - I'm a Floridian, and even though I have traditional pale, untannable white irish skin, I've long since burnt and peeled anything there is to burn and peel, and my skin has adapted to living down here. I don't tan much, but I don't really burn anymore.

[BeckWhy]

Not a weird question at all! My name is Justin. The screenname was named for my dog, Zack (long since passed on, but I kept the screenname).



Sounds good. The only thing I'd add on the menu issue, is to be willing to try a few things that don't sound familiar. Jiko is a pricey place, and reading the menu might just confuse most people with the odd spices and some strange-sounding pairings...but my goodness does it all work! I took my friends from Texas there last month as they hadn't been to Disney in over 10 years...they are not unused to good food and good living (yep...they got money!)...both declared it was their finest meal in memory, ever. Of course, I knew just the right appetizers, wines, and courses to recommend. ;)

Can't help you on the sunscreen issue - I'm a Floridian, and even though I have traditional pale, untannable white irish skin, I've long since burnt and peeled anything there is to burn and peel, and my skin has adapted to living down here. I don't tan much, but I don't really burn anymore.

Well Justin... There once was a couple of brothers who grew up down the street from me. One's name was Justin Miller. So... IDK where I was going with that.

I thought I was passed the burning stage until this summer. I never thought I'd burn again. I guess I was wrong.

Anyways... as for the menus... I try lots of things... I've done Greek, to Indian, to Japanese, Korean, to ALLIGATOR! So it's not about trying something new or not knowing about the stuff... it's more for the I'm just not in the mood for it. Does that make sense?

Well I'm gonna start my pre-trip here shortly... though I have received some news today that may in fact prohibit me from taking my allowed vacation. But more about that on my pre-trip!

Wonders10: Keep in touch! I'm gonna try to finish this one!

[zackiedawg]

Makes sense indeed - I'm not always in the mood for certain foods, even though I like them. You can decide on that when you get there, and see what strikes your fancy.

I did grow up a bit in New Jersey and New York, but never farther west than Suffern...and when I was very young. My parents moved from England to New Jersey, then to New York, before they split and my mother and I moved to Florida near my Grandmother. I split away to Louisiana for college, then California for 5 years, before settling on Florida about 15 years ago, to get back near family. I've got my mother, grandmother, stepbrother, maternal uncle, paternal aunt, and several cousins all living in Florida, so we can all see eachother and get together for big holiday gatherings and such. When I was in California, I rarely saw any relatives for the whole 5 years! Sorry...all that to basically say I'm a different Justin Miller for sure...I don't have any brothers.

Anyway...good luck with pre-trip planning. Any other questions on soloing...ask away.

[BeckWhy]

Makes sense indeed - I'm not always in the mood for certain foods, even though I like them. You can decide on that when you get there, and see what strikes your fancy.

I did grow up a bit in New Jersey and New York, but never farther west than Suffern...and when I was very young. My parents moved from England to New Jersey, then to New York, before they split and my mother and I moved to Florida near my Grandmother. I split away to Louisiana for college, then California for 5 years, before settling on Florida about 15 years ago, to get back near family. I've got my mother, grandmother, stepbrother, maternal uncle, paternal aunt, and several cousins all living in Florida, so we can all see eachother and get together for big holiday gatherings and such. When I was in California, I rarely saw any relatives for the whole 5 years! Sorry...all that to basically say I'm a different Justin Miller for sure...I don't have any brothers.

Anyway...good luck with pre-trip planning. Any other questions on soloing...ask away.

I didn't actually think you were the same guy because mine still lives around here. He's massively beefy too! I'm glad you get to see your family a lot. That is something I will miss when I move to Florida.

The trip is to be continued!

[zackiedawg]

Well sounds like the other Justin Miller and I share some things in common. I'm beefy too...if we're talking the Pooh persuasion, not the George Clooney type of 'beefy' some women might refer to. I mean I'm definitely in shape...I'm round...that's my shape. :)

[BeckWhy]

Justin... you crack me up... and lately I need that so thanks!

I haven't seen George Clooney in a while but the one I know is like... maybe like Mark Wahlberg in Shooter... at least from the last time I saw him.

And as a matter of fact, there is another Justin Miller in my area. Though he's more like a string bean cuz he's like 7' tall.

[BeckWhy]

Here's the link to my pre-trip!
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=33872410#post33872410

[DFD]

My question is more along the lines of... are solo trips bad? A lot of people around me support them and a lot of people say I won't have as fun of a time. Now granted I'm extremely outgoing so I'll make friends wherever I go. I guess I'm just looking for input from those who have taken the solo trips!

Thanks a bunch!

Beck... at this point my input is useless already since everybody had given you great advice and also at this point even though I call my solo trips solo well they usually end up not solo after meeting friends from the DIS... my only input would be... when I was doing solo I enjoyed every single one of them "going on 4 years doing solo now" ... even prior to Meet and Greet from DIS.. my Solo usually ends up with a friend that I have come across the park.. the pool... the food court... and eventually I ventured out in meeting Disers from the board... I guess what I am trying to point out is... that if you are concern about being "lonely" have a back up plan of joining a dis meet... in between your vacation days... the way I see it it is not obligatory for you to show up... but it is a good back up plan...





I do have a few more questions for those who have traveled.
When you want pics of yourself and senery or a a character... is it a problem? Are you worried about someone running off with your camera (yes I'm uber paranoid)?
I'm also worried about how I'd deal with "rude" visitors... Generally when I'm with a companion I have someone to help defuse me. I'm not saying I explode right away... but I don't talk a lot of stuff from people.. and I don't keep my mouth quiet. What is your guys' experience with it?



Thank you all again!

CM for one will not mind taking a picture of you esp'ly with character pics.. the handler usually is ready to do it for you...

regular photo op.. you will be amaze sometimes they themselves will offer to ask if you want your picture taken when they find you taking pictures and realized you are by yourself...


Good luck!!!:goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

[norybell]

I love this thread, because I'm leaving for my first solo trip in eight days! And now I'm even more excited than I was before (which is hard to believe, because I was already awfully excited).

I second the suggestion for spray-on sunscreen...it really does the trick. The only problem is that you can't pack it in your carry-on, but I suppose an overpriced WDW bottle of sunscreen is a small price to pay for a burn-free vacation!

[DFD]

I second the suggestion for spray-on sunscreen...it really does the trick. The only problem is that you can't pack it in your carry-on, but I suppose an overpriced WDW bottle of sunscreen is a small price to pay for a burn-free vacation!

cheap suggestion for those spray sunscreen... you can buy this 2-3 oz empty spray bottle at CVS... buy your regular coppertone spray thingie.. fill that spray bottle.. and if you have those shampoo container from disney they are about 2 oz... fill 2 or 3 of those and you can bring them with you on your carry on:thumbsup2 "again just a suggestion" :p

[BeckWhy]

Thanks guys!

[TinkrLiz]

Beck I just wanted to second the spray on sunscreen. I'm very fair, I'm of Irish decent.. freckles and everything ;). We went to the Dominican Republic this past April and I used the waterproof sport spray on sunscreen every day. I didn't even burn at all and I was swimming in the ocean, in the pool, on the pedal boats, kayaking, snorkeling, playing water volleyball. Not just sitting in the shade kwim? We used it on my very fair 18 yr old son too and he didn't burn at all.

Enjoy your solo vacation :) I'm from WNY too. I live in Buffalo.

[jamstew]

Solo trips ROCK! Of course it depends a bit on the person, and whether you enjoy some time alone - but if you do, and are socially capable, you should have a wonderful time. Way back the first time I tried one, I was a little worried it would be odd, or boring. But I loved it so much that I actually schedule 1-2 a year, much to the chagrin of family and friends who actually get angry that I would want to go without them even when they are more than willing to come along. I figure I go with them 3-4 times a year and have a fine and wonderful time, but for 1-2 trips a year, I just want the different vibe that solo provides.

1. I have absolutely no schedule. Totally wing it, wake when I naturally do, wander where I want, spend as much time doing or not doing whatever I want.

2. I can get on rides faster, and ride as often as I feel like...If I want to do Pirates 3 times in a row...I can! No friends or family signing, clucking, or putting their hands on their hips.

3. I meet more people. With friends or family along, even if you are a friendly outgoing person, you spend more time talking with them, or engrossing in your own conversations, and therefore are less prone to talk to others. When solo, you chill on a bench with a drink and someone sits next to you, you can say hi and see if a conversation starts up. You end up meeting very cool people from all over the world.

4. If you have a particular hobby, it frees you up to enjoy it. For me, I love photography, and solo trips let me shoot to my heart's content - even the details, the minutae, the slow set-up tripod shots, etc. Whether it's photography, character meets, pin collecting, searching for hidden mickeys, blogging, whatever - you can do it!

5. More time to relax can put the parks in a whole new light. With the family or group vibe, you do a lot of rushing here, meeting there, walking, walking, walking...standing on lines, getting tired and worn out. It's fun, but it takes a toll and sometimes leaves you with the memory of a particular park being big, hot, and crowded. When solo, you can take the Jimmy Buffett tour of the parks - laid back, walking easy, enjoying the bars or grabbing a snack, taking bench breaks to peoplewatch, throwing the feet up on the wall in the shade and listening to some tunes. You can spend the whole day, morning to close, in the parks and still walk out feeling refreshed and ready for more. Your feet aren't sore, your head isn't pounding, your skin doesn't feel hot, and you still have a smile on your face on the ride home.

6. Enjoy the journey. Soloing lets you take the long way there. Hop other resorts...check out the theming. Heading to the parks? Don't just hop the next bus to the park...try a novel way of getting there in which the journey is half the fun. Maybe you're staying at Port Orleans French Quarter and want to get to Epcot...try this: Take the boat to Marketplace, stroll to the bus stop to catch the bus to Hollywood Studios, then walk over to the boat to Epcot. Need to get to MK? How about boat to Marketplace, bus to Wilderness Lodge, and boat to MK! Take it all in, enjoy the journey, and explore a little.

Just a few suggestions that might make soloing the coolest thing you ever did. ;)

:thumbsup2 DITTO!!!! (Justin always puts into words almost exactly what I'd say if I were to take the time to say it!)

[jamstew]

This December I will be on my 11th annual solo trip to WDW. I absolutely love it!

Claudia -- When in December? We have a whole slew of DISers ranging in age from 20-80 who are having dinner together at Boma on 12/13. Here's the link to our group if you're interested and will be there at that time: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2205580