Solo, Together

There are plenty of things you can plan when it comes to travel. Flights, hotels, must-see highlights... even your seat on the plane. But some of the best parts, well - you simply can’t plan for those.

And for solo travellers joining a small group, it’s often the unexpected that ends up stealing the show.

When Strangers Don’t Stay Strangers for Long

Showing up to a tour on your own can be nerve-wracking. What if you don’t click with anyone? What if everyone else already knows someone?

But here’s the thing. When the entire group is made up of solo travellers, something shifts. Everyone’s starting from the same place; you left home alone. And that’s where the magic begins.

Picture this. A welcome drink in hand, surrounded by people from all over Australia (and sometimes beyond). Within days, you're swapping stories, and laughing over dinner like old friends. These aren’t just happy accidents. They’re the kind of moments that happen when a trip is designed for solo travellers. There’s no couple dynamic. No third wheel awkwardness. Just a fresh start for everyone.

What’s Not on the Itinerary

You’ll find the usual must-dos on the itinerary, like “explore local markets” or “visit the old town.” But what it won’t say?

Get swept up in a surprise local street celebration in the main square. Follow your guide on a little detour to their favourite lookout, just because the sunset looks promising. Laugh until your sides hurt over a shared meal with someone you met just yesterday. 

These are the kinds of moments that can’t be planned, Googled, or neatly slotted into a time block. And yet, these will be the memories that flood back long after the tour ends.

Familiar Faces, Unfamiliar Places

Travelling solo can be empowering. No doubt about it. But it can also feel a bit daunting. This is where  group travel for solo travellers hits a sweet spot.

You still have your own room, your own space, your own pace. But you’ve also got a built-in crew to share the adventure. The hard stuff like figuring out transport, where to eat, and what’s worth seeing is already taken care of.

And the rest? The unexpected interludes. A chat with a local in a café. A spur-of-the-moment group stroll after dinner. A few of you deciding to try something spontaneous and a little offbeat.

There’s comfort in knowing you’re supported, but still free to make the journey your own.

Find Your Travel Style

“This Wasn’t What I Expected... In the Best Way”

 “I came for the sights, but I stayed for the stories.” The shared stories over dinner, on walks, or during road travel time. Some funny. Some deep. All unforgettable.

Another traveller said she was nervous at first, but by day two it felt like she’d joined a group of long-lost friends. “We hadn’t even reached the highlight of the tour yet,” she said, “but I already knew I’d done the right thing.”

That’s what tends to happen. You start out solo and end up with a bunch of new buddies you can’t believe you didn’t know a week ago.

More Than a Holiday

Yes, we plan carefully. The routes. The hotels. The group size. The experiences. But some things just can’t be planned. And those often turn out to be the most meaningful.

Some travellers find lifelong friends. Others fall in love with travel all over again. Or realise they’re capable of far more than they gave themselves credit for.

These aren’t just travel memories. They’re reminders of who you are, and who you’re becoming.

We watched it happen again and again. Solo travellers show up a little unsure. They leave with full hearts, new friendships, and stories they never saw coming.

Because when the destination is great and the people are right, there’s no map for the kind of memories you’ll make. And that’s exactly what makes them so special.. 

CHECK US OUT
Encounter Travel is 100% Australian Owned. Since 2006, leading the way for solo travellers. Find out where you can travel with us. 
Multi Award Winners

Check Out Our Solos Only Tour Groups
For a full list of small group tours.

Getting Started For The First Time?
Check out my book, How To Travel Solo But Not Alone

Something To Share?
Have you got a story to share?  Send us your solo travel story, for inclusion on our blog page. Know anyone that could find some encouraging words from my story? Please share and be a voice for travelling solo.