6 Tips for Introverted Travelers - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / 6 Tips for Introverted Travelers - Introvert Whisperer 6 Tips for Introverted Travelers Kayla Matthews January 15, 2019 Adaptability, Communication No responses 6 Tips for Introverted Travelers If youre an introvert, traveling can sometimes be a bit, well, exhausting â€" the constant interaction with a traveling companion and the outside world is enough to wear on the heartiest of souls. It might be easier just to stay home, but traveling opens a world of fresh experiences and perspectives. So before you decide to skip that once-in-a-lifetime excursion, take a look at these six tips to help you step out of your comfort zone and embrace adventure as an introverted traveler. 1. Go It Alone Because theyre comfortable doing their own thing, introverts make the best solo travelers. There are many benefits to traveling alone, too, such as: Setting your own schedule Spending less money Learning about yourself Gaining self-confidence Stepping out of your comfort zone Having more control and less stress When you travel alone, though, you also want to be safe. Be sure to: Research and plan before you go. Having a plan gives you an idea of where to go and what to do when you get there. Plus, it makes booking hotels, restaurants and experiences easier. Tell family and neighbors where youll be and how long youll be gone. For introverts who shy away from opening up about their plans and talking to neighbors, it can be tough to find the courage to knock on their door â€" but its necessary. Keep your home and possessions safe by taking some home safety precautions and notifying a neighbor that youre traveling. Doing this means they can watch your house, care for your pets, and retrieve your mail for you. 2. Stay off Social Media Its fun to update your friends and family about where youve been and what you did, but social media is still social interaction and drains your energy. Instead, try to stay off social media and stay in the moment. Take the time to disconnect. It will make reconnecting later much more rewarding. 3. Choose Local Surroundings High awareness makes introverts perfect for absorbing the sights and sounds of their trip, creating a more authentic experience. Because they want more from their travels than loud crowds and tourist attractions, introverts should find places off the beaten path. Here are some ideas: Go into local neighborhoods and walk around. Seek out thrift shops instead of chain stores. Eat at mom-and-pop restaurants and street vendors. Research and find secret spots in towns and cities. Get out and go to the countryside. These places can offer fewer crowds and unique experiences. 4. Find Time to Sneak Away Talking to people and seeing the sights can be exhausting, so to keep up your energy, make it a point to sneak away for some quiet time throughout the day. You could have a meal in your room instead of a crowded restaurant or opt for visiting a quiet museum instead of a popular tourist attraction. Even if youre around people, there are ways to have solitary moments: Carry a book with you to read. Theyre useful on the train, in the car or on the bench in the park when you want to be left alone. Pack a journal to write in. It helps you process everything youre experiencing and can provide a distraction. Slip headphones into your ears. Wearing them alerts people youre already engaged. If you do listen to something, download audio tours or podcasts about the places youre visiting. 5. Plan for Privacy When you book a hotel, Airbnb or hostel, check to see if they have single-rooms or privacy options. To get away from the large crowds, schedule a private tour or make a reservation to ensure you have a spot with a smaller group. Then, even if there is a crowd, you wont be surrounded for long. Some museums and galleries also offer audio tours of the building and collections, which detail the history and let you explore at your own pace. 6. Be Willing to Make Friends You will have to talk to people and make friends. Its one of the best things about travel, and its inevitable, especially if youre part of a group or interacting with locals. This can be uncomfortable and awkward, but its also the perfect opportunity to come out of your comfort zone for a bit, socialize and then disappear for some alone time to recharge. Keep an Open Mind Whether you decide to go with a group or set off on your own, traveling will change your life. Keeping an open mind to all the possible adventures can help you enjoy the experience and ensure you have plenty of stories to bring back. It may even make an introvert a bit more extroverted. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer