Intimidating Solo Trip....

[Tink10]

Ok....I'm thinking about planning a solo trip for September but I'm a bit scared of going alone.....(Worried that I'll get bored or lonely)....Do any of you solo veterans have any tips or advice on going solo?

Thanks In Advance!

[rickc77]

Trust me you won't be lonely or board...... I have just recently booked by 4th solo trip to the world for the end of Oct'2002.

You are able to go on whatever rides you want and ride them as ofen as you wish. If you get hot or tired just find a nice ice scream stand and then relax on a bench and observe your fellow disney maniacs.

I initially found eating alone a night a issue, but after the fifth night I really did not feel out of place. I always found myself blending into the crowd.

Many of time if a find a single parent taking pictures of there child, I would always ask if they wanted me to take one of the two of them. That was a easy way to meet people.

In the evening when sitting at the outdoor bar, everyone treats you as if they have known you for a long time.

As for the rides.......well I must honestly say after the first few rides I was a little bit uncomfortable, but after that...look out I no longer had any concerns. The best part was that I could ride the same ride twice without getting anyone upset.

My DW is no longer a nut as myself, she just says "go have a good time, and I'll see ya when you get back".

I actually enjoy solo tripsnow because I can spend more time within areas that I am most interested in, exspecially epcot. I seem to spend additional time looking at other countries knick knacks.

What resort are you staying at?

If you have any specific questions, please feel free to email me.

Have a great trip, you won't regret it at all......

[Tink10]

Hi Rick....Thanks for the advice....

I've been to WDW 13 times with my family, so it's hard for me to imagine myself there alone. I haven't decided where to stay, because I figure if I'm alone, I wont be in the room as much as I would with my family.

My hubby said I should go if I want to, so now I'm just trying to get up the nerve to buy my airplane ticket.......

Thanks Again!

[rickc77]

Keep your eyes open for the good deals. I've noticed that the flight prices are just starting to come down again. Similar to last year.

wow 13 times.....that's great.....

I must be honest....my phone bill was a little high.....I only called home every other day, but I think for this Octobers trip I will bring my own cell phone. The cost may be in my favor.

[MdmMim]

On my solo trips, I like to treat myself to an expensive dinner or two. I always see other solo diners around. The CM's are great and usually spend time chatting a bit. It's great to have the freedom to do whatever I want. Sometimes I head for the bus stop, not knowing which one I'll get on--I go to whichever park strikes me at the moment! I like to grab a box of popcorn at the MK and sit on a bench and people watch. I like to have ice cream for lunch--Mickey bars! I like to pile all the pillows up behind me while I watch "Law & Order." I like to ride PoC 5 times in a row-- ("Again?" say the CM's with a smile as I get back in line...) I like to visit a favorite resort bar for a cold drink in the afternoon. I like to shop at DTD, just poking around in the stores taking as much, or as little time as I want. I like to stroll around Epcot at night, not necessarily to go on a ride, but just to enjoy the lights and lagoon and take in the sights. I love solo trips! :D

[Simba's Mom]

Hi!
I just booked my fifth solo trip. Just remember, even though you know you're solo, there are so many people around you, no one else knows you're solo. At first I was afraid I'd stick out like a sore thumb being alone, but then after doing some people-watching for a while, I saw so many other people who were solo for about 10-15 minutes while someone else got a meal or went to the rest room or went on a ride. You get used to it (translation: you love it) real fast!

[esmerelda51]

One other great thing: you only need to make bathroom stops when YOU need to.

[Claudia Kellenberger]

I am booked for my 8th WDW trip, but this will be my 4th time solo. It's easy to do WDW solo, especially if you already know where most everything is. I called my DH every evening before I went to sleep, just to say goodnight and to tell him what I did for the day. I did sit down restaurants, but NOT character ones.
It helps a lot to have a small notebook, and your park map when you have a meal. Even when I was on a ride, I wound up telling the stranger next to me how great the ride was. Try to be outgoing when you stand next to people in line. I found that senior citizens were the friendliest, and young lovers had no interest at all in talking to anyone else but themselves.
I enjoy my solo trips so much that I intend (hopefully) to go every year for the rest of my life !!

[RAMWDWFAN]

Tink10,

I have been to WDW once as a solo (March 2002) and will be going back in November for Super Soap Weekend.

I had a great time by myself in March! Yes, there were times when I missed my son and husband, but I quickly got over them. I was able to go to attractions I had never seen before. Even though I had been to WDW many times before, March was the first time I visted the Haunted Mansion!

Eating alone is no problem either. I even did a character lunch at the Garden Grill at Epcot. The characters would simply sit with me for a while and I talked with them. I never felt uncomfortable sitting by myself.

In the parks, I would carry a book in my backpack and when I needed a break, I'd get something to eat and sit on a bench to read. Riding the bus was no problem either. While at OKW and the Hilton, I was always one of the first to get on the bus, so I kinda blended in with the crowd.

So go, have fun, and let us know how much you enjoyed your trip.

[dahirsh]

I took my first solo trip this past May, and had a Blast.

Honestly the only time I felt even the least bit awkward being alone was when I made the hot seat in WWTBAM. They ask you who you are with. Other than that, I had a wonderful time.

I ate in "sit down" restaurants every day for lunch. Ended up having dinner in my room each night, but that wasn't a comfort factor thing, it was "too busy to eat" thing.

Rode what I wanted to, as many times in a row as I wanted to. Saw all the shows I wanted to, most of them twice!

And had to come home waaaay to soon!

Deb

[Simba's Mom]

Just wondering-how did you answer the question. That's the one thing I felt a little uncomfortable about when I went solo and did WWTBAM. What would I say if I made it to the hotseat and they asked who I was with? Oh, well, didn't have to worry about it after all! But next time I want to be ready!

[WebmasterBarry]

When you go and a CM asks "How many?" proudly raise one finger high! No, not your middle finger... :)

Actually, when you say you're a party of one, the CM seems shocked for half a second, looks around for an empty single spot, and points you that way. I've seen CMs at TOT regularly ask for single riders.

[spiceycat]

I just start back on my solo trips - and I love it!!!

Most of the time I have not had a problem getting people to talk to me - and I also take pictures of family - they want to return to the favor but I still don't like my picture taken (vanity - I am losing weight)

I don't tell anyone my name or where I am staying even if asked - there is no reason anyone should need it. and I stay in a DVC resort their studios are very single friendly - a queen bed, a double sleeper sofa, coffee table, regular table with seating for 2, a microwave, a under the counter refrigerator, and a balcony with seating for 2. So I don't need to eat out - unless I want to - and who doesn't at WDW.

I really enjoy my alone time at WDW - it recharges your life energy or it does mind - sometimes when I am with others this does not happen.

Come in December to the DisCon2 - there are several of us solos going then.

[dahirsh]

Originally posted by Simba's Mom
Just wondering-how did you answer the question. That's the one thing I felt a little uncomfortable about when I went solo and did WWTBAM. What would I say if I made it to the hotseat and they asked who I was with? Oh, well, didn't have to worry about it after all! But next time I want to be ready!

First of all, I sat there saying to myself as they posted the leader board "Please don't let it be me" Yes, I know, I could have kept my fingers off the buttons, but I never thought I'd make the hotseat.

I had read somewhere, either here or RADP, about another solo saying "600 of my newest friends" so I went with that. But I was so nervous I stumbled around that answer.

I attended three WWTBAM shows while I was there, and saw at least two other people who may or may not have been at WDW alone, but they were at the show alone, make it into the hotseat.

Next time my goal is to actually remember that I have lifelines <g>

Deb

[Otimon]

Would be glad to meet if you would like to

[PieInYourEye]

Some of the things I like to do. (I go solo often)

1. Offer to take pictures for people so they can all be in it. My record so far is 15 in one day at MK.

2. Stop at Customer Relations on your way out and tell them what a great day you had. They have lots of complaints throughout the day. Sometimes they'll even give me a pin or something. I've met CMs from all over the world when I do this.

3. Get an ice cream, sit somewhere and people watch.

4. In line at Buzz Lightyear, I tell some of the kids the secret places to shoot and get a high score... then they can beat their parents.

5. Buy something and give it to a kid. THIS IS GREAT!

Have fun, be spontaneous and remember NOBODY KNOWS YOU AND THEY'll NEVER SEE YOU AGAIN.

[Poohbear123]

I went on my first SOLO trip in 1999! Been going SOLO ever since!;) I LOVE it!;) I do what some of the other Posters above do, and really enjoy myself. I wait and people watch for the Parades, eating popcorn, and talk to some very Friendly People.:D

[grumpyandbashful]

and recommend it highly! We have no one to watch our kids so that we can go together :( , so DH and I started taking turns with solo trips - once a year. We also take one family trip a year (well, at least one :rolleyes:).
Sometimes I miss my family, but on the other hand, I don't have to take care of 4 other people (including 3 kids and DH!) - I can do whatever I want, ride what I want to ride, eat what I want to eat, people watch, lounge by the pool, etc. It is very relaxing. The only thing I still don't feel comfortable doing on solo trips is eating at a sit-down restaurant - so I stick to counter service and fast food.
Also, solo trips tend to be only about 4-5 nights - by then I'm ready to go home!

[elisebutt]

I went solo in 97 all the way from England and the flight was the most nerve wracking bit esp. as I had a really nosy family next to me who really wanted to know why I was going on my own (because I wanted to??) I'd had a really rough time recently so on the spur of the moment on payday, arranged for my DS to go to his dads and GPs, bpught a flight and went the next day. Found a hotel when I got there, then proceeded to really enjoy myself!!!

No having to time meal breaks in, bathroom trips, bedtimes - really cool - and everyone is sooo friendly!!

This year my DH bought me a trip to DLP for my birthday, so off I flew to Paris, caught the train to my hotel, and just totally chilled out with Mickey again. No-one to moan about leaving crumbs in the bed, watching Buffy in French(surreal). 2 days of being totally selfish - great - especially lunch at Maxims on my last day and riding space mountain 5 times in one go.

Also when you get back, you get to feel good, when all your friends go - WOW you went on your own?? You're sooo brave, i could never do that!!LOL

[Floundering Crab]

It always seems a bit daunting to go anywhere by yourself, but NOT at WDW. Was just down there earlier this year and was really looking forward to doing all the things "I" wanted to do, but my friend decided to take time off work and spend it w/me at the world. Don't get me wrong--we had a ball and got caught up on everything, but had no time to just wander and "smell the roses" all by myself. So don't be nervous--you'll have a great time!

[wdisneelvr]

I have a trip planned the first week of Dec and so far my family seems to be bailing out on me. I will have to drive to WDW by myself from NC...

I have never been there by myself and I'm not sure I can do it. I've always dreamed of seeing disney at Christmas time and wanted my family to see it too. I'm afraid that once I get there I'll miss them alot.

I'm nervous about this decision.

Any words of encouragement?

Thanks bunches :D

[Laurabearz]

I would love to take a solo trip...... (esp with Dan Murphy) :teeth:

Everyone I have gone with could careless about all the tiny little ityy bitty details.... the stuff I live for.... they can only see the big picture..... ANd they love it.... yet I long to walk down Main Street and study every window..... And MGM.... ahh the detailing there is just Marvy..... Plus to stroll around AK and spend as much time as I WANT watching the street perfromers... Man oh man....

It helps that I am a talker.... lol I can start a conversation with anybody. And Disney provides you with so many things to talk about, esp while waiting in lines.... Ooooooooohhhhhh I cant wait....

My dream trip, would be walking around with Dan M.... taking photos, and chatting with complete strangers........ something my trips now, with the kids, dont seem to afford.... well I DO take A LOT of pictures of them... and I do talk to a lot of strangers, but mostly about what rides their kids loved or thought were scary... lol

AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON FOR ME TO GO SOLO.........

Only going back to the hotel for a nap IF I wanted one!!!!!

Have fun!

[disneyispi]

This is my 7th solo trip to WDW! I can think of NO better way (solo) or place (WDW) to take a vacation! Everyone is SO friendly.

When I took my first solo trip about 12 years ago, I was a little daunted. But all the CMs were SO nice and I can honestly say I got asked out by a dog (the gentleman playing "Pluto" asked me out on a date)! The first couple of days I was really quiet and kept to myself - just doing the things I wanted. But gradually I spoke to other people, CMs at first and then strangers - and people were really nice and friendly.

I sort of started my own "Disney" tradition 4 years ago. I went to the Disney store and purchased 100 $1 Diney dollars. Then I wrote on them - a random act of kindness. I would give them to little kids I would see in restaurants or in stores that were either being especially good or looked like they needed a "break." I would ask the parent with them if it was ok before I gave them the dollar. I don't do it for thanks - just to see kids smile. It's a great thing and makes you feel good inside too.

Everyone's posts w/ advice is on-target. You'll have a GREAT time, enjoy everything, even if you experience a little problem now and then, enjoy it all. You may find a unique way to enhance your solo trip experience. Take care.

[wdisneelvr]

disneyispi---

You definitely know the feeling of disney *magic*....what a sweet thing to do for the children!!!

Your post has given me alot of encouragement in thinking that I could actually go solo too, thank you :)

[rickc77]

disneyispi....your tradition is great.......

I can only imagine the expressions you receive not only from
the children, but from the parents.

"Solo to Disney" has got to be one of the best kept
secrets. So many people just don't realize the fun and enjoyment
Disney has on a solo traveler.

[disneyispi]

Thanks to all about my little "tradition". Yes, it brings me a warm and fuzzy feeling.....and I even feel a little magical.

What's even more unique is when one of the disney dollars I gave I received back from a disney store as change. Apparently, that particular bill had travelled quite a ways. Not only had my little note about "A random act of kindness from Culpeper, VA" been on the bill but each time it was passed on, that person wrote the city and state. I've framed the bill - it went to Disneyland, Paris, Georgia, S. Carolina, and ended up back in McLean, VA which is where I got it. So I gained a little bit of geography. Pretty cool eh?

Going solo to WDW is a wonderful experience!

[Poohbear123]

That sounds cool!;) I would FLIP if that happened to me!:p :p Lauraberaz: That sounds like MY ideal trip!;)

[nativetxn]

Disneyispi, what a creative and magical tradition you have! I love it.

Tink10, I've done character meals solo, the best one was at Crystal Palace, and had a ball. The characters paid special attention to me and the CM took my photo using my camera.

I love offering to take photos for others. I think everyone should have at least one photo of their entire group, don't you? I love the little look of surprise and shock when I offer, then usually they gratefully accept the offer. It's a lot of fun.

I love touring wdw solo. In fact, I'll be there solo after my cruise in September. 9/22 thru 9/25. When will you be there? I'd love to meet you.

[WDW Poly Princess]

I had a great time on my solo trip! If you're there for more than a few days, you might want to consider meeting up with some people every now and then. Last time I went to MVMCP with some DIS folks, and did Epcot with the Passporter crew, which was just enough for me :) My main problem is that it gets a little lonely with nobody to crack jokes with or discuss what you're doing. So, seeing friends (that I'd never met before ;) )every day or two gave me someone to tell my stories to, and to have fun with. I loved having evenings alone though, I spent a lot more time back at the resort just relaxing, which I never get to do when Im staying with other people!

[Disneyfan63]

Hi,
I went solo to WDW from October 13 to October 20, 2000, the first time I'd ever gone alone where I didn't know anyone. I'd had a lot of misgivings about the trip because of mobility issues, for I do not drive.

I had the kind of blast you can't have with dynamite. Getting there from the Orlando airport using Mears, and using Disney transportation, I had no trouble getting around property during my eight-day, seven-night stay onsite at All Star Sports.

Though much of my vacation itinerary was planned (because of various Priority Seatings), I was able to secure one free day (Thursday, October 19, 2000) to go anywhere, anywhen I wanted. October 20, 2000, the day I came home, came too quickly.

In sit-down restaurants I felt fairly conspicuous as a solo diner, but I've found that most people are so into their own lives that they are unconcerned about the people next to them, to the extent of staring. As a person with cerebral palsy, I've been stared at enough to get used to it, although sometimes I feel like getting a t-shirt I saw in the local mall which says, "Keep staring. Maybe I'll do a trick."

I'd go solo again in a heartbeat. Solo travelers have the kind of freedom unavailable to couples, groups, or families. Because no one knows you (either when you're down and out, or even up and in), you can do and see things at your own pace.

If you have the opportunity for a solo trip to WDW, I say, go for it!!

Jim T.