I Finally Joined Disboards

I have lurked for quite a while, but decided to join because of this particular forum.
I will be making my first solo trip later this year and I am kind of nervous about it.

I have been to Disney more times than I can count, but always with somebody. This time, going alone is kind of the only option, but also kind of my choice.

~~My daughter will be starting college in August and therefore unable to go to WDW with me.
~~My husband loves me like crazy, but he is not a fan of Disney Parks. He would go, but I don't want him to do it just for me.
~~My sister who I have gone with several times is trying to get pregnant and wants to add on to her degree, so she is unable to commit until around September.
~~My mother-in-law wants to go with me, but I think it is a horrible idea since we really do not spend one-on-one time together here at home and I stay in a DVC studio and she is above sleeping on a pull-out and possibly even sharing a room.
~~A co-worker overheard me talking about it and she wants to go and I told her that although we get along well at work, spending 6 days with somebody you don't spent that much time with would most likely not end well.

So, for those who go solo, was your first time a challenge? I am not afraid of being by myself, but I do think I might get lonely after a few days. I always go with my family, anywhere from 1 - 8 additional people. I want to take a lot of pictures, like really use my DSLR in a way I have never used it before. I also have to admit that the idea of sitting in a restaurant and eating by myself is a little weird for me.

You'll be fine! You may even find that your solo trip is more relaxing. Just imagine...you can do whatever you want, & at your own pace! If eating solo at a table seems weird at first, maybe try dining at a restaurant bar initially. I've found that just by having a book, or browsing photos I took that day takes away any of the weirdness factor. Solo trip, ahhhh I'm a bit envious. Enjoy!

Some first-time solo travelers may totally enjoy their first solo trip, and others may find it sometimes lonely, especially at table service meals. Many of us solos make plans to meet up with other Dis-ers for some of the table service meals.

When are you going?

DaisyDuck001 said:

Some first-time solo travelers may totally enjoy their first solo trip, and others may find it sometimes lonely, especially at table service meals. Many of us solos make plans to meet up with other Dis-ers for some of the table service meals.

When are you going?

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I actually enjoy doing Disney by myself. When I go with other people, I always take time to tour as I would like without anybody else. Those are some of my favorite times. Dining.... that might be bizarre for me.

My first solo trip was a challenge for me only because I'd never vacationed alone and it was a Big Adventure for me.

I never mind eating alone (I do it in my "normal" life too), and have had plenty of nice TS meals at WDW. I've even done the Dis Jr breakfast at H&V (yes, for the characters).

I text my sister and send her a few pictures during the trip, and we talk sometimes in the evening, depending on how late I get back. Ask you family/friends what they'd like to see a pic of and text them.

I don't have any advice for you because I haven't done a solo trip...yet. But I anticipate one here in the near future. Similar situation...my youngest is graduating next year and starting college so that leaves no kids to go with me anymore. DH is willing to fund my trips but doesn't like Disney. I just got back from a trip (with my 17-year-old son) and I kept looking at things and places and experiences...thinking, "could I do this solo?" And you know what? I think I could! I did a 'trial run' one morning by myself for a couple of hours at Animal Kingdom. At first I admit it felt kind of weird, but then, I really actually enjoyed it.

I totally am with you on the whole DSLR camera thing. I would love to be able to really focus on photos without feeling like I'm inconveniencing others I'm traveling with. Also, when I've gone with the kids (which I've loved immensely...no complaints)...it's always go, go, go. I think a future solo trip could afford a more slower pace, more shows, parades, etc. I'm thinking I'm going to do more counter service meals and less table service when I go solo. It actually sounds like fun to just stop and eat whatever and wherever and whenever I feel like! One thing I'm wondering about is any of the thrill rides. That might seem awkward to me solo, but then again, maybe it will be okay?

Anyway, welcome to the DIS and have fun planning your first solo trip! I look forward to hearing of your adventures and how it goes for you.

I've gone on 2 solo trips. The most recent being in September. The first time I was a bit nervous as I had not been on vacation by myself. Once on Disney property there was really no reason to worry. There was always a cast member to help. Dining by myself, rides, character meet and greets all worked out fine. I had a couple of small things happen on my last trip but cast members went out of there way to go above and beyond to fix it. If u have more questions just ask. I will have a great time. These 2 solo trips were the best vacations Ive ever been on

I think the real positive for me is that I have been more times than I can count and I know the resort where I own very well. The familiarity will make it very easy.