First time solo trips . . . how to keep from going crazy?

[MizlurksaLot]

I'm considering planning a solo trip for some time in September, because well, I'm home sick and it's just been too long. The only thing that's stopped me from planning a solo trip in the past is that I worry I'll get a little stir crazy if the only person I really have to talk to is myself ! So my question for those of you who regularlly do solo trips is: how do you keep yourself entertained? I've been to the parks by myself before, but back then I could just go home and have someone to talk to. I'm not the type of person who walks up to random strangers and starts a conversation so, that's out of the question. Advice please, are solo trips not for everyone? What would you say are the pros and cons of going alone? Is the experience worth the money spent? For the last few years I've had a difficult time finding anyone who wanted to go along and/or wanted to (or could) spend the money and I don't think I can wait much longer.

TIA

Jules

 

[snykymom]

I'm in the same boat, but going in December. And I have the same questions!

 

[Simba's Mom]

I've gone solo about once or twice a year for about 10 years (besides going with DH every year or two). Do you like to read? I bring a book or two, and sometimes read in resturaunts. Also, I love sudoku, so Ibring my sudoku puzzle. And I keep notes of my trip, which rides I did, where I ate, which I update once or twice a day. When I get home, I tuck it away with other mementos and souveniers-years later, it's fun to read. You might try one thing before you go-eat out by yourself-even at a fast food place. That might give you some ideas of what to do when your solo. I guess because I was raised an only child, I'm quite used to amusing myself when I'm alone because I'm used to it.

 

[GaRain]

Solo trips are great!!
I am not a shy person, so talking to anyone isn't an issue for me.
But take one of the backstage tours, then you aren't alone.
Sit at the bar at a restaurant.
Take a book and your ipod....
You will be fine~!

 

[j9000]

while i cannot comment on going solo in the world, (first solo trip coming up this november) ive travelled to LA,Germany and Tennessee alone.

During the day you are somewhat distracted (wandering around, going on rides, driving, eating, wondering where the man ends and mobility scooter begins)

The only times travelling alone can get to you (for me anyway,) is when you have nothing to do, ie youre sat in the hotel alone, waiting for your flight or food. personally i take a bunch of books and dvds Ive not watched in a while, (Sitcoms are great as you dont need to invest hours watching them, Father Ted i always watch while on holiday.)

solo travelling is not for everyone, but if you can spend time alone and not be bothered by it, you will be fine.

 

[Forevryoung]

It sounds kinda creepy but I find families to talk to- interacting with "bored" kids (in line, on a bus, waiting for something...) is always entertaining. Ask if they have ever been on the attraction before, ask them what their favorite thing to do so far has been, ask them if they went on any "scary rides", ask them what you should do next... Whenever I get tired of not talking to anyone, I find a way to make a conversation- I'm not gutsy enough to talk to other adults but kids are a lot less intimidating!

I've found their parents are usually thankful for the break of the "how much longer?" whine!

 

[Simba's Mom]

It sounds kinda creepy but I find families to talk to- interacting with "bored" kids (in line, on a bus, waiting for something...) is always entertaining. Ask if they have ever been on the attraction before, ask them what their favorite thing to do so far has been, ask them if they went on any "scary rides", ask them what you should do next... Whenever I get tired of not talking to anyone, I find a way to make a conversation- I'm not gutsy enough to talk to other adults but kids are a lot less intimidating!

I've found their parents are usually thankful for the break of the "how much longer?" whine!

If it sounds creepy, I'm creepy too because I do the same thing. I've actually had parents say thank you to me, or mouth "Thank you" over the heads of their children. It's so sweet how they love to tell people about the exciting trip they're on.

 

[pdchris]

If it sounds creepy, I'm creepy too because I do the same thing. I've actually had parents say thank you to me, or mouth "Thank you" over the heads of their children. It's so sweet how they love to tell people about the exciting trip they're on.

Yeah, that'll work if you're a woman. Single guy talking to kids? No way, that's just asking for security to have a chat with you. Sad, but that's the way society is these days. However, having said that, when I did solo I would (and did) talk to the parents first.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Yeah, that'll work if you're a woman. Single guy talking to kids? No way, that's just asking for security to have a chat with you. Sad, but that's the way society is these days. However, having said that, when I did solo I would (and did) talk to the parents first.

Yeah, good point. With my bifocals and grey roots, I look rather grandmotherly. A single guy-not so much. I feel bad when a guy has honest intentions-hadn't thought about that.

 

[skelooch]

Yeah, that'll work if you're a woman. Single guy talking to kids? No way, that's just asking for security to have a chat with you. Sad, but that's the way society is these days. However, having said that, when I did solo I would (and did) talk to the parents first.

I go alone 2 or 3 times a year and a couple of times with my sons and their families.
I usually play golf several times each trip and have met some wonderful people doing so.
I'm a single gentleman not very outgoing, but I too really enjoy striking up a conversation with kids, be it on the monorail, the bus or at the bus stop, asking them all the same things as the PP, but always with their parents or grandparents present, the next thing you know your talking with them also, and sharing your experiences and helping them out if they're new to Disney.
Most people are pretty friendly, after all they're on vacation too.

 

[MizlurksaLot]

Yeah, that'll work if you're a woman. Single guy talking to kids? No way, that's just asking for security to have a chat with you. Sad, but that's the way society is these days. However, having said that, when I did solo I would (and did) talk to the parents first.

To be honest I tend to get just as uncomfortable talking to kids I don't know as I do talking to adults that I don't know, but for different reasons. I tend to be uncomfortable talking to random children because even as a woman, I worry what their parents might think, as in:who's this creepy weirdo and what does she want with my kids?. I agree that it's more of a concern for a guy, but I think a lot of people tend to be over protective of their children in general nowadays, and often, sadly, rightfully so.

 

[Jillinwonderland]

Grew up an only child so being alone is nothing new. Have done many solo trips and let me say solo trips are nothing to fear! And can be very relaxing and wonderfully fun! Here are a few suggestions for you (and anyone else who’s never gone solo before)

Have iPod ready at all times.
-This is for those times where it looks like a never ending wait and you’ve looked at everything around you and you need to keep yourself entertained.

A good book
-It can do wonders while you have a QS or its meal and you don’t feel like people watching. Though people watching is half the fun. Of course this also helps you unwind after a day in the parks.

People watch
-Sit on a bench with a yummy snack and watch the people walk by.

Be friendly and outgoing!
-Even if you are shy step out of you’re comfort zone and try starting a conversation in line with someone. You will never know whom you will meet and where the conversation will lead! I once went solo for 5 days. The first day while on The Land in Epcot I met a very nice guy who happened to work at WDW. He and I got to talking and became friends and soon after even dated for a while! I also had tea at The Garden View Tea room (for my 21st birthday) and a woman who was also solo overheard the waitress and bought me some champagne and we talked for 2 hours enjoying each others company and she gave me really great life advice! So like I said you will never know whom you will meet and what conversations you will have.

Do rides/eat in places you normally wouldn’t go.
-Be adventurous! You will never know if you like something till you try it! Do rides you’ve maybe always wanted to try but never have for whatever reason. Eat at places for the same reason.

Have a pad and something to write with
-For trip report notes here on DIS of course! Or anything else you can think of.

Instead of a meal at a restaurant why not try the bar?
-The bartender (depending on how busy they are) will gladly not only serve you a meal and a drink but also engage in some great conversation. If you are worried about looking silly while dinning alone ask the host(ess) at the front when you check in with your ADR if you can be seated in the back. Yes people are going to look but just remember the more confidant you look while doing anything alone, the less people will stop and stare.


Try a tour
-Take a tour that you find interesting. Never know what you will learn/see/do

Look for hidden mickeys

Wear a button.
-Even if it isn’t your birthday/first time/ whatever stop by and get a button. It’s a conversation starter. You can always get the general “I’m Celebrating” and when people ask you what you are celebrating reply with “My first solo trip!” most people will ask you why you decided to go solo and what you have seen/done and how you are enjoying yourself.

Agreed with Forevryoung talk to families as creepy as it sounds. Maybe you could provide the parents that brief moment where you are entertaining their children for them. Also help those who may seem lost, once found a couple in MK looking for hotdogs over in frontierland pointed them in the direction of caseys corner (at the time best hot dog in mk).

 

[Forevryoung]

I tend to be uncomfortable talking to random children because even as a woman, I worry what their parents might think, as in:who's this creepy weirdo and what does she want with my kids?. I agree that it's more of a concern for a guy, but I think a lot of people tend to be over protective of their children in general nowadays, and often, sadly, rightfully so.

I would usually agree but I keep the questions "trip oriented" so it's "limited creepiness"

What is creepy about asking a kid if they are having fun or if they think space mountain is too scary for you to go try it (even if you've been on it 3 times earlier in the day).

I see questions about where they live, how old they are, who they are there with... as being higher up on the creepiness factor.

 

[Missytara]

I love, love, love to go alone. I love my friends and I love my family, but my alone trips are usually my favorites.

Got one coming up really soon!

I have only had one horribly awkward moment in all the times I have gone.

I am an only child and have lived alone for a long time, so I relish my time alone doing whatever I want.

 

[MizlurksaLot]

I would usually agree but I keep the questions "trip oriented" so it's "limited creepiness"

What is creepy about asking a kid if they are having fun or if they think space mountain is too scary for you to go try it (even if you've been on it 3 times earlier in the day).

I see questions about where they live, how old they are, who they are there with... as being higher up on the creepiness factor.

Personally, I do agree. I don't find it creepy, I'm just parinoid enough that I worry that other people will

 

[MizlurksaLot]

Grew up an only child so being alone is nothing new. Have done many solo trips and let me say solo trips are nothing to fear! And can be very relaxing and wonderfully fun! Here are a few suggestions for you (and anyone else who’s never gone solo before)

Have iPod ready at all times.
-This is for those times where it looks like a never ending wait and you’ve looked at everything around you and you need to keep yourself entertained.

A good book
-It can do wonders while you have a QS or its meal and you don’t feel like people watching. Though people watching is half the fun. Of course this also helps you unwind after a day in the parks.

People watch
-Sit on a bench with a yummy snack and watch the people walk by.

Be friendly and outgoing!
-Even if you are shy step out of you’re comfort zone and try starting a conversation in line with someone. You will never know whom you will meet and where the conversation will lead! I once went solo for 5 days. The first day while on The Land in Epcot I met a very nice guy who happened to work at WDW. He and I got to talking and became friends and soon after even dated for a while! I also had tea at The Garden View Tea room (for my 21st birthday) and a woman who was also solo overheard the waitress and bought me some champagne and we talked for 2 hours enjoying each others company and she gave me really great life advice! So like I said you will never know whom you will meet and what conversations you will have.

Do rides/eat in places you normally wouldn’t go.
-Be adventurous! You will never know if you like something till you try it! Do rides you’ve maybe always wanted to try but never have for whatever reason. Eat at places for the same reason.

Have a pad and something to write with
-For trip report notes here on DIS of course! Or anything else you can think of.

Instead of a meal at a restaurant why not try the bar?
-The bartender (depending on how busy they are) will gladly not only serve you a meal and a drink but also engage in some great conversation. If you are worried about looking silly while dinning alone ask the host(ess) at the front when you check in with your ADR if you can be seated in the back. Yes people are going to look but just remember the more confidant you look while doing anything alone, the less people will stop and stare.


Try a tour
-Take a tour that you find interesting. Never know what you will learn/see/do

Look for hidden mickeys

Wear a button.
-Even if it isn’t your birthday/first time/ whatever stop by and get a button. It’s a conversation starter. You can always get the general “I’m Celebrating” and when people ask you what you are celebrating reply with “My first solo trip!” most people will ask you why you decided to go solo and what you have seen/done and how you are enjoying yourself.

Agreed with Forevryoung talk to families as creepy as it sounds. Maybe you could provide the parents that brief moment where you are entertaining their children for them. Also help those who may seem lost, once found a couple in MK looking for hotdogs over in frontierland pointed them in the direction of caseys corner (at the time best hot dog in mk).

Thank you, that was very helpful . I was actually thinking about starting up a list of things I've never had a chance to do, and trying to do them while I'm there!

 

[FergieTCat]

I always travel by myself and have never had that problem. I've come to enjoy not having anyone else to answer to, setting my own schedule, etc. At one point, I did hate eating at sitdown restaurants by myself, but I managed to overcome that.

I also manage to end up in conversations with other people. I'm never alone for long at Disney. I dont know what it is about me. I seem to send out "Talk to me!!" signals. Which is odd because I am hesitant if I'm the one starting the conversation.

I'm still debating going in December so I am open to some company if anyone wants to join me!

 

[snykymom]

I always travel by myself and have never had that problem. I've come to enjoy not having anyone else to answer to, setting my own schedule, etc. At one point, I did hate eating at sitdown restaurants by myself, but I managed to overcome that.

I also manage to end up in conversations with other people. I'm never alone for long at Disney. I dont know what it is about me. I seem to send out "Talk to me!!" signals. Which is odd because I am hesitant if I'm the one starting the conversation.

I'm still debating going in December so I am open to some company if anyone wants to join me!

Hi, Fergie! Let me know if you're going, and when. I'd love to meet up for a few hours and/or a meal!

 

[Disney_Jill]

I went on my first solo trip the first week of June and LOVED it!! I had been to WDW many times before, so before I left I thought about what I wanted to do that I haven't gotten to before because my kids or friends didn't want to. It was great!! I had 1 TS meal a day and enjoyed the time to eat and people watch. I also had my I-phone, so I played games or read the news, etc.
I had so much fun and really enjoyed it. I may alternate between trips with the kids and solo trips.
Just relax, enjoy being on your own schedule and even though you are shy, you'll probably meet some interesting people.

 

[CareBear05]

Your personality sounds a lot like mine. I'm shy as well. I've done 2 solo trips for pretty much the same reasons as you described...my vacation schedule in my career does not bode well with friends schedules, add that to the money issues and/or finding fellow disney lovers and it turned into a couple of solo trips. I really thought I'd struggle with it, but it wasn't so bad at all! It was great being on my own schedule. I did try a couple of TS meals, which was hard at first, but I just brought a book with me to read which helped a lot. I enjoyed meandering around the parks not rushing from ride to ride, enjoying the details I usually miss when others, popped into shows occasionally, etc. If I did ever get lonely or bored, I picked up my phone and called a friend or family member to say hi and tell them about my trip. I found that sometimes a 10min phone call pulled me out of my funk immediately. I went to the spa at Saratoga Springs, bought a ticket for Cirque du Soleil, etc. I cruised around the threads here before I left and found a fellow DISer whose trip overlapped with mine and met her for a TS dinner. There are endless things to keep you entertained, even solo. I found those trips to be the most relaxing of all of them. Even now when I go with family or friends I still take at least one day and go off by myself. I hope that you give it a try!!