Let’s Go Solo…

One of the BEST decisions I made for travel was going to Walt Disney World solo. My first trip solo was in December 2015. My husband was very supportive of me going for a short (5 day) birthday trip. After that, I was hooked! I have done at least one solo trip every year since, excluding the year that shall not be named.

Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE sharing my love of Walt Disney World with my friends and family, but going solo allows for that level of freedom you just don’t get when you travel with other people.

Now, I can understand how going to WDW solo maybe seem…daunting. WDW is HUGE and overwhelming! But the great thing about being solo is you are there on your terms. So, how to begin?

Speak to a travel agent that specializes in solo Walt Disney World vacations (*cough*cough*). You can discuss budget, likes and dislikes, what your main focus is and more. Together, you will come up with your perfect, magical plan.

Once your trip is booked, now the fun planning begins! This is where going solo really shines! Imagine not having to check with 5 different people, all of different ages, who have different wants, needs, likes and dislikes in order to plan your week. Always wanted to try a certain restaurant, but the family wont? No problem! Want to rope drop Magic Kingdom? Go for it! Want to spend the day lounging by the pool and have dinner at Disney Springs? You got it! The (Walt Disney) world is your oyster!!

Imagine taking all those fun magic shot or ride photos without wrangling your kids, or friends, for another photo! WDW photographers are everywhere and always happy to snap some photos. They will use their professional camera’s but will also take photo’s with your camera or phones. I personally have always had other guests offer to take photos for me, in return for me doing the same for them.

The benefits of going solo are amazing! Your room all to yourself, not having to share that bathroom in the morning. Eating whatever and whenever you want. Single rider lines are literally made for you!

Personally, I’ve been to WDW more times solo than with friends or family. I get bad travel anxiety, and while my husband and friends are understanding, they still get frustrated and annoyed when I shut down because of crowds, want to have an early night because of the heat or get cranky because I don’t know what to eat. Going solo means not having to explain this to anyone. I can process however I need to.

I will say that going solo is not for everyone. You have to have a certain level of self awareness and confidence. I take my book or eReader with me when I go to the parks so I have something to do while eating or waiting for parades. If you are not someone who can go out alone, it might not be for you.

If you want to give it a try, I strongly encourage it! Follow along on instagram at @adventure.away.michelle to see my solo adventures!