My first was a river cruise to visit the Christmas markets of Austria and southern Germany.  Here were my experiences that increased my enjoyment of my trip. Firstly I introduced myself to the river cruise director as a solo traveller.  They can be very helpful in helping you decide what tours you want to do and how to have the best experience.  I sat for breakfast in the same area most mornings so the staff knew my likes and I had a comfort level to start the day.  I also would go to the bar early in the evening so as not to be overwhelmed with walking into a crowded room, and be open to meeting people who arrived later.  For dinners I would ask politely the people who I had just met to join them for dinner.  I never was refused.  I listened carefully and asked where they were from and how they were enjoying their trip.  It always opens the conversation.  I did sign up for experiences that I knew I would enjoy no matter who was going on those excursions.  For instance, I love music and history so I signed up for a classical concert excursion where my shipmates were the only ones attending, and a historical tour in Nuremberg where I got to enter the famous court where the Nuremberg trials were held. I loved each experience even though I didn’t do it with someone else. I did have the comfort of fellow shipmates so I didn’t feel lonely.  Do what you want to enjoy and take from it your personal enjoyment of that experience.  

My second trip was to the island of Grenada where I stayed at an all inclusive resort for the first time.  I upgraded my room to the side that had butler service and exclusive use of a pool and beach area.  I was lucky to go down to the beach on the first day and sit with people who asked me to join them for dinner.  Be open to new people. I signed up early for an around the island tour and got to know more people from the resort since it was an all day trip.  For me , I liked the extra security and attention from the upgrade.  Dinner reservations were made and someone was checking up on me on a daily basis.  I believe it was worth the extra money.  You may have one or two lonely moments but I had books to delve into and time to refresh my mind, body and soul. 

Travelling as a solo may seem daunting however, I have loved each moment and experience and if you are a solo traveller, you can too!