A woman taking a photo of her meal at a cozy café window, with a notebook, sunglasses, and a bag on the table, capturing the essence of solo travel and enjoying local experiences.

Traveling Alone: How to Build Confidence and Enjoy Solo Adventures

Beth Glosner  | 

There is a strange expectation in our world that we should always have someone with us. Someone to grab dinner with, someone to explore with, someone to share every experience with. But what if no one is available? What if the only person ready to say “yes” to the adventure is you? As an introvert, I have always valued my quiet time, fewer distractions, and the freedom to move at my own pace. Growing up in a large family taught me to appreciate moments of calm, and growing up in a small town taught me independence. If you are someone who has been waiting for the “right person” to travel with, this is your reminder that adventure does not have to wait. 

I have always believed some of the best adventures happen when curiosity wins over hesitation. You do not have to jump on a plane tomorrow and spend two weeks exploring a country you have never visited (although I would never discourage that either). Sometimes confidence starts with something much smaller: a coffee date with yourself, dinner at a restaurant you have been wanting to try, or a weekend getaway close to home.

 Let’s Dig In.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.See full disclosure here

Quick-Glance Guide: Building Confidence for Solo Adventures

Best for introverts:
Learning how to enjoy your own company without feeling like you are missing out.

Best first step:
A solo meal at a restaurant or coffee shop.

Best confidence builder:
A staycation close to home.

Best travel preparation tip:
Keep a personal packing list and update it after every trip.

Best mindset shift:
Stop waiting for someone else’s schedule and start exploring when curiosity calls.

Best reminder:
Most people are focused on their own lives—not watching you.

Growing Comfortable Being Alone Starts Early

I was lucky that independence came naturally to me.

Growing up in a small town meant walking everywhere—the pool, the corner store, and around town just because. If I were bored, my mom would give me chores to do. (Although I sometimes wonder if those little corner stores still exist or if they have become another nostalgic memory from childhood.)

Being able to walk around my hometown, explore, and entertain myself helped me become comfortable being alone. I did not always think of it as independence at the time. It was simply life.

My first real challenge came later when I had to sit with myself in a new way.

Small-town adventures taught me that exploring does not always require a crowd. Sometimes curiosity is all you need.

The First Solo Meal: The Moment Many Travelers Fear

Let’s talk about one of the biggest hurdles for solo travelers: eating alone.

For many people, walking into a restaurant by yourself feels intimidating. It did for me too.

Growing up, going out to eat was a family experience. There were conversations across the table, someone to share a dessert with, and familiar faces sitting beside me. When I moved away from home and took a gap year, I quickly learned what it meant to be somewhere new without knowing anyone.

That was when I learned something important:

Being alone does not mean being lonely.

At first, I wondered if people noticed me sitting by myself. Were they looking at me? Maybe. But the truth is, most people are busy thinking about their own conversations, their own meals, and whether they remembered to order extra sauce.

(And honestly, if someone is paying that much attention to my solo dinner, I hope they at least appreciate my restaurant choice.)

The more I did things alone, the easier it became.

Your own company can be pretty wonderful when you give yourself the chance to enjoy it.

Stop Waiting for Someone Else to Be Available

After college, I moved again and found myself rebuilding my routines. I had family nearby, but my curiosity always seemed to win over my fear.

I wanted to try new restaurants.

I wanted to explore new places.

I wanted to see what was around the next corner. I still do.

Waiting for someone else’s schedule meant waiting to experience things I was excited about. Eventually, I had to decide whether to miss out or go anyway.

The answer was simple.

Go.

Solo travel is not about proving you do not need anyone. It is about realizing you are capable of creating meaningful experiences on your own.

Sometimes the best adventures begin when you stop waiting for the perfect travel companion.

Start Small and Build Your Solo Travel Confidence

If traveling alone feels overwhelming, do not start with the biggest adventure possible. Build your confidence gradually.

Think of it like building your “comfort zone muscles.”

Here are a few ways to start:

Go Out to Eat Alone

Choose the restaurant you have always wanted to try, but nobody else wants to visit.

Go.

Bring a book, journal, or simply enjoy the experience. Notice the atmosphere, the food, and the freedom of choosing exactly what you want.

Take Yourself on a Local Adventure

Visit a nearby town, museum, bookstore, hiking trail, farmers market, or coffee shop.

Pretend you are a visitor exploring your own area.

You might discover hidden gems you have driven past for years.

Book a Local Overnight Stay

Stay at a hotel in your hometown or the next town over.

This is a great way to practice solo travel without being far from home.

You will learn how comfortable you feel:

  • Checking into a hotel alone
  • Finding places to eat
  • Exploring without a companion
  • Solving small problems independently

And if you forget something? You are close enough to pick it up.

Where to Stay in the San Bernardino Mountains
A local getaway is the perfect way to practice solo travel confidence before a bigger adventure.

Create Your Personal Travel System

One of the best things about taking shorter trips is learning what works for you.

I have learned that every trip teaches me something.

Forgot your favorite shampoo?

The hotel probably has some, but if you are like me, you have that one product that makes your hair look fantastic, and you do not want to risk a bad hair day while traveling.

Forgot a sweater?

Add it to your packing list.

Forgot a charger?

That one goes on the “never forget again” list.

Keep a running travel checklist on your phone, in a notebook, or inside your luggage. Update it after every trip.

Your packing list becomes a personal travel guide created from your own experiences.

Here is a packing list to get you started https://canva.link/57mrh0o8ndkausf

There is a blank template https://canva.link/s0ua7ntq3s4jk9h

The best packing list is the one you create from your own adventures.

Learning to Trust Yourself With the Unknown

The biggest lesson solo travel teaches you is how to handle uncertainty.

Would I encourage someone to take a two-week trip somewhere completely new?

Absolutely.

But if that sounds overwhelming, start where you are.

Take a day trip.

Stay one night away.

Explore a place you have never visited close to home.

Every small adventure builds confidence.

The unknown becomes less scary when you realize you can handle unexpected moments.

Missed a turn?

Maybe you found a new place to explore.

Restaurant closed?

Maybe you discovered a better one nearby.

Forgot something important?

There is probably a store or pharmacy nearby.

Travel does not require perfection.

It requires curiosity.

The unexpected moments often become the stories we remember most.

The Little Things Are Usually Not the Things That Matter

Before a trip, we often worry about the smallest details.

Did I pack enough clothes?

Did I bring the right shoes?

Did I forget my sweater?

Did I remember my favorite shampoo?

Those things matter, but they are usually fixable.

The moments that truly matter are bigger:

Did I experience something new?

Did I try something outside my comfort zone?

Did I create a memory?

Did I follow my curiosity?

My travel style may be a little “go with the flow,” but I have learned that stressing over every tiny detail can take away from the adventure itself.

Sometimes the best memories come from the wrong turns, unexpected stops, and moments when you simply decide to see where the road leads.

You Are Capable of More Adventures Than You Think

Traveling alone is not about being fearless.

It is about being willing.

It is about saying yes even when you feel a little nervous, while also staying safe on your travels.

You do not need to wait for someone else’s vacation schedule, their interests, or their availability.

Start small.

Take yourself out for coffee.

Visit that restaurant.

Plan the weekend getaway.

Book the trip.

Because sometimes the best adventures happen when you realize the person you have been waiting for was you all along.

For more solo travel inspiration, check out my other adventures:

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


–Beth
Close-up of reading glasses reflecting an open book, emphasizing travel and adventure reading materials.

10 Travel Reads That Will Make You Want to Pack a Bag—or at Least Open a Map

Beth Glosner  | 

When I have some downtime and am not traveling, I still like to explore—just in a different way. I explore with my mind.

A good travel book can take me to places I have never been, introduce me to people I may never meet, and send me down a rabbit hole researching a destination I had never even considered visiting. Sometimes I am hiking a trail through the wilderness. Other times, I am traveling down a forgotten road, exploring a new country, or learning about a culture from the comfort of my favorite chair.

There is no packing involved. No airport security. No checking to see if my luggage made it to the same destination I did.

Just a book, a little imagination, and a willingness to see where the journey takes me.

Let’s Dig In.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here.

Travel Tales That Take You Somewhere Unexpected

Travel stories are more than tales about destinations. They can be funny, inspiring, thought-provoking, adventurous, and occasionally make you question the decisions of the person holding the map.

Some tales make you want to book a flight immediately. Others remind you that you might be perfectly happy experiencing that particular adventure from the safety of your couch.

Either way, these reads offer a chance to explore the world without leaving home, are cheaper than a distant getaway, and maybe motivate you to save for your next trip.

1. A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson

Perfect for: The traveler who enjoys adventure with a side of humor.

Cover of 'A Walk in the Woods' by Bill Bryson featuring a forest scene with a bear's face in the foreground.

Bill Bryson’s attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail is not exactly a perfectly organized outdoor adventure.

There are ambitious plans, questionable preparation, physical exhaustion, and plenty of moments when you may wonder why anyone voluntarily walks that far.

That is part of what makes the tale so entertaining.

A Walk in the Woods combines history, nature, travel, and humor as Bryson and his friend Stephen Katz attempt to tackle one of America’s most famous long-distance trails.

It is a great reminder that travel does not have to go perfectly to become a memorable story.

Travel takeaway: Sometimes the best adventures are the ones where everything does not go according to plan.

And sometimes reading about someone else’s 2,000-mile hike is adventure enough.

2. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

Perfect for: The traveler looking for a journey that is about more than just the destination.

Book cover of Wild by Cheryl Strayed featuring a worn hiking boot with red laces, symbolizing adventure and wilderness exploration.

Cheryl Strayed’s memoir follows her solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail.

But this is not simply a story about hiking through the wilderness.

It is a story about grief, loss, healing, and trying to find your way forward; one step at a time.

The physical journey is challenging, but the emotional journey is just as important. Strayed’s experience shows how adventure can sometimes give us the space to think, process, and begin again.

It also makes carrying a backpack seem like a much more serious commitment than simply throwing a few things into a carry-on.

Travel takeaway: Sometimes you do not need to have everything figured out before you begin.

3. In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson

Perfect for: The traveler who wants to laugh while learning about a destination.

Book cover of 'In a Sunburned Country' by Bill Bryson featuring a kangaroo and a donkey in an Australian landscape.

Australia is a country of incredible landscapes, fascinating wildlife, unique history, and, apparently, a remarkable number of ways for nature to kill you.

Bill Bryson explores Australia with his signature humor, taking readers through cities, landscapes, history, and some of the country’s more unusual characteristics.

The book is entertaining without feeling like a traditional travel guide. You learn about Australia while feeling as if you are traveling alongside someone who is constantly amazed, amused, and occasionally concerned about what might be lurking nearby.

Travel takeaway: A good adventure tale can teach you about a destination while making you laugh out loud.

And if you finish the book and immediately start researching flights to Australia, I take no responsibility.

4. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner

Perfect for: The adventurer who has ever wondered, “Where are the happiest people in the world?”

Book cover of The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner featuring a hand holding a folded map paper airplane against a blue background.

Eric Weiner sets out to explore happiness around the globe.

His journey takes him to different countries as he investigates what makes people happy and whether happiness is connected to where we live.

This tale combines travel, culture, psychology, and plenty of curiosity. It is not simply about finding the happiest place on Earth. It also asks what happiness means and whether you can actually travel your way toward it.

Although I am not sure a plane ticket automatically comes with happiness included. If it did, I would like to know which airline offers that upgrade.

Travel takeaway: Adventure can change your perspective, but you still have to bring yourself along for the journey, so make sure happiness also begins with you.

5. The Art of Travel by Alain de Botton

Perfect for: The explorer who likes to think about why we travel.

Cover of 'The Art of Travel' by Alain de Botton featuring a blue sky with clouds and elegant gold accents.

Why do we get so excited about going somewhere new?

Why can we spend months dreaming about a trip, only to find ourselves tired, distracted, or annoyed by the hotel room once we arrive?

The Art of Travel explores the emotional and philosophical side of exploration. It examines anticipation, airports, hotels, landscapes, sightseeing, and the way travel changes our relationship with the world around us.

It is a thoughtful reminder that travel is not always about checking attractions off a list. Sometimes it is about paying attention.

And sometimes, admittedly, it is about finding a decent cup of coffee.

Travel takeaway: The way we experience a place can be just as important as the place itself.

6. Blue Highways by William Least Heat-Moon

Perfect for: Road trippers, small-town explorers, and wanderers who prefer the scenic route.

Book cover of Blue Highways by William Least Heat-Moon, featuring a blue-toned landscape with a winding road and trees.

Instead of following the major highways, William Least Heat-Moon takes the back roads of America, those blue lines found on old maps.

The result is a journey through small towns, forgotten places, local communities, and the America that exists beyond the usual tourist stops.

This book is perfect for anyone who believes that the best travel experiences do not always happen in the biggest or most famous destinations.

Sometimes they happen at a roadside diner.

Sometimes they happen in a tiny town you almost drove past.

And sometimes they happen when you take a wrong turn and decide to see where the road goes. Because really, what’s one more mile down the road going to hurt? Well… maybe five or ten more. But by then, you might as well see where the road takes you.

Travel takeaway: The scenic route is often where the stories are.

This is also the kind of book that may have you opening a map and thinking, “I wonder what is over there?”

7. The Old Ways by Robert Macfarlane

Perfect for: Wanders who love walking, nature, history, and the stories hidden in landscapes.

Scenic mountain trail leading through rugged landscape under a blue sky, inspiring outdoor adventure and exploration.

Robert Macfarlane explores ancient paths and walking routes while examining the relationship between people and the landscapes they travel through.

This is a beautifully written tale that encourages readers to slow down and pay attention to the world around them.

A path is never just a path. It can hold history, memories, stories, and generations of explorers who walked the same way before us.

You may never look at an ordinary walking trail quite the same way again.

Travel takeaway: You do not always have to explore far to discover something extraordinary.

Sometimes adventure begins with simply noticing what is around you.

8. Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck

Perfect for: The person who loves a good American road trip.

Book cover for 'Travels with Charley' by John Steinbeck featuring a stylized landscape with mountains, sunset, and a person with a dog in a car.

In 1960, John Steinbeck set out on a road trip across the United States with his dog, Charley.

The journey allowed Steinbeck to explore the country and meet the people who lived in it.

The journey is fascinating not only as a travel story but also as a snapshot of America during a particular moment in history.

Of course, one of the biggest questions is whether Charley was a better road-trip companion than most humans.

I suspect the answer is probably yes.

Travel takeaway: A road trip is about more than the miles you drive. It is about the people, places, and conversations along the way.

9. The Lost City of Z by David Grann

Perfect for: The person who enjoy adventure, mystery, and history.

Book cover of The Lost City of Z by David Grann featuring a dense jungle scene with moss-covered trees and a mysterious atmosphere.

This book follows the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who disappeared while searching for a legendary lost civilization in the Amazon.

David Grann combines exploration, history, mystery, and adventure into a fascinating tale that reads almost like a thriller.

It is the kind of book that makes you think, “What an incredible adventure.”

Followed quickly by, “Actually, perhaps I would prefer a hotel with indoor plumbing.”

The Lost City of Z is a reminder of the incredible risks early explorers took in their search for places that had never been mapped by Western explorers.

Travel takeaway: Curiosity has always been one of the greatest reasons to explore.

10. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Perfect for: The reader who needs a little inspiration.

Cover of Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist' featuring a misty landscape with a castle and cypress trees, inspiring travel and adventure.

While The Alchemist is not a traditional travel memoir, it is built around a journey.

The story follows Santiago, a young shepherd who treks across the desert in search of treasure. Along the way, he learns about dreams, purpose, courage, and following his own path.

It is the kind of story that can inspire you to think about the journeys you have taken and the ones you have not yet begun.

Sometimes the adventure is across the world.

Sometimes it is across town.

And sometimes it is simply deciding that you are finally going to try something new.

Travel takeaway: The journey can change you just as much as the destination.

For the Food-Loving Traveler

Of course, I could not write about adventure inspiration tales without including food.

Food is one of my favorite ways to experience a place. It tells us about history, culture, traditions, geography, and the people who live there.

A few stories worth adding to your reading list include:

A Cook’s Tour by Anthony Bourdain

Anthony Bourdain explores the world in search of food and the stories behind it. As always, he brings curiosity, humor, and an appreciation for the unexpected. 

I thoroughly miss him and his TV shows.

My Life in France by Julia Child

This is a wonderful story of food, travel, France, and discovering a new direction in life.

The Gastronomical Me by M.F.K. Fisher

A thoughtful exploration of food, memory, adventures, and the experiences that shape our lives.

The Food Explorer by Daniel Stone

This fascinating tale explores the journeys that brought many familiar foods to different parts of the world.

Because apparently someone had to travel very far, take considerable risks, and bring back a plant before the rest of us could enjoy it on our dinner plates.

Book cover of The Food Explorer showing a lemon with leaves on a yellow background, highlighting the book's focus on culinary adventures and global food stories.

Exploring Without Leaving Home

One of the things I love about adventures in print is that they remind me that exploration does not always require a plane ticket.

When I am not wandering, I can still explore.

I can open a book and find myself walking through a forest, driving along a back road, crossing a desert, learning about a new culture, or following someone else’s journey into the unknown.

I can discover places I may someday visit.

I can discover places I may never visit.

And sometimes, I can discover something about myself along the way.

That is the magic of stories. They allow us to explore with our feet when we can and with our minds when we cannot.

So the next time you find yourself with some downtime between adventures, pick up works on explorations.

You never know where it might take you.

Just be warned: You may finish the last page and immediately start looking at flights, road maps, hiking trails, and small towns you had never heard of before.

And if that happens?

Well, welcome to the adventure.

What travel story has taken you somewhere unforgettable? Tell me in the comments. I am always looking for my next armchair adventure and possibly my next real one, too.

Continue Exploring

If this bookish journey has you ready to explore beyond the pages, you might also enjoy:

Whether you are exploring a new destination, discovering a small town, visiting a local farmers market, or simply opening a book and letting your imagination wander, there is always somewhere new to explore.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

–Beth
Outdoor dining table with wine glasses, cutlery, and a small floral centerpiece, perfect for a cozy meal in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

Where to Eat in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania: Cozy Cafés, Local Favorites & Vegetarian-Friendly Finds

Beth Glosner  | 

One of my favorite ways to experience a new destination is through its food.

After a morning spent wandering historic streets, riding a scenic train through the mountains, or browsing locally owned shops, there’s nothing better than settling into a cozy café or discovering a restaurant the locals love.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, may be known for its Victorian charm and spectacular fall foliage, but its dining scene is just as inviting. From casual pubs and coffee shops to upscale restaurants and international cuisine, you’ll find plenty of places to refuel during your visit.

As a pescatarian, I’m always happy to find destinations where eating out doesn’t mean settling for just a salad. Fortunately, several restaurants in Jim Thorpe offer thoughtful vegetarian, vegan, and seafood options, making it easy for everyone to enjoy a delicious meal.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just visiting for the day, here are some of the best places to eat in Jim Thorpe.

Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here.

Stone Row Pub & Eatery

One of the most highly recommended restaurants in town, Stone Row Pub & Eatery has earned a loyal following for its fresh, scratch-made menu and welcoming atmosphere.

Housed inside a beautifully restored historic building, it offers elevated pub fare with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Guests frequently praise the seasonal ingredients, creative menu, and friendly service. It’s an excellent stop for lunch, dinner, or even weekend brunch.

Perfect for:

  • Lunch after exploring downtown
  • Vegetarian-friendly dining
  • Date night
  • Craft beer lovers

Moya

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, Moya is often considered one of Jim Thorpe’s premier dining experiences.

Located inside a restored Victorian home, Moya serves an internationally inspired menu that changes with the seasons. Travelers consistently rank it among the town’s best restaurants, noting its intimate setting, attentive service, and beautifully prepared dishes. Vegetarian diners will also find thoughtfully prepared options on the menu.

Perfect for:

  • Anniversary dinners
  • Romantic evenings
  • Fine dining
  • Foodies

Broadway Grille

Located right in the heart of downtown, Broadway Grille is a convenient place to relax after a morning of sightseeing.

Its menu features American favorites alongside lighter fare, making it a good choice for groups with different tastes. Outdoor seating during the warmer months lets you enjoy the energy of historic Broadway while you dine. This place will be challenging for finding meatless options, but pescetarians will be fine for lunch and dinner.

Try it if you’re looking for:

  • Casual dining
  • Outdoor seating
  • Family-friendly meals

Molly Maguires Pub & Steakhouse

Housed in a historic building full of Irish character, Molly Maguires has become a Jim Thorpe tradition.  

While it’s known for hearty comfort food, the lively atmosphere, historic setting, and local brews make it a fun stop even if you’re simply enjoying a drink or lighter meal, but vegetarian options are limited.

Great for:

  • Historic ambiance
  • Casual dinners
  • Local beers
  • Groups

Myst Asian Restaurant

Craving something different?

Myst offers sushi, hibachi, noodle bowls, and Japanese-inspired dishes in a modern setting. Reviewers appreciate both the quality of the food and the availability of vegetarian options, making it a welcome alternative after a day of traditional comfort food.

Perfect for:

  • Sushi lovers
  • Vegetarian meals
  • Lunch or dinner

Union Publick House

This relaxed neighborhood pub has become a favorite for brunch and casual meals.

Visitors often recommend its welcoming atmosphere and creative menu, including smoked salmon dishes, sandwiches, and hearty comfort food.

Don’t miss:

  • Weekend brunch
  • Sandwiches
  • Local atmosphere

Muggles’ Mug

Coffee lovers—and Harry Potter fans—will want to stop at Muggles’ Mug.

Known for its whimsical wizard-inspired décor, specialty coffees, breakfast sandwiches, and baked treats, it’s a cozy place to start your day before heading out to explore Jim Thorpe.

Perfect for:

  • Morning coffee
  • Breakfast
  • Sweet treats
  • Cozy vibes

Marion Hose Bar

If you’re looking for a laid-back meal with outdoor seating, Marion Hose Bar is worth considering.

Its relaxed atmosphere, pub menu, and convenient downtown location make it a popular stop after hiking or shopping.

Vegetarian & Pescatarian Tips

One thing I always appreciate while traveling is finding restaurants that make it easy to eat well without feeling like an afterthought.

Jim Thorpe pleasantly surprised me.

Several restaurants—including Stone Row Pub & Eatery, Moya, Myst, and Broadway Grille—offer vegetarian-friendly lunch and dinner options, but will be fine for breakfast.

That means you can enjoy your getaway without spending hours searching for something that fits your dietary preferences.

A Few Dining Tips

To make the most of your visit:

  • Visit popular restaurants early during peak fall weekends.
  • Reservations are recommended for fine dining, especially at Moya.
  • If you have dietary restrictions, check menus online before you go.
  • Save room for dessert—many local cafés and bakeries offer seasonal treats like pumpkin desserts and apple pastries.

Final Thoughts

One of the best parts of traveling is discovering local restaurants that become part of the memories.

Maybe it’s the cozy coffee shop where you warmed up after a chilly morning walk.

The little pub where you shared stories after riding the scenic railway.

Or the elegant dinner that capped off a perfect day in the Pocono Mountains.

Jim Thorpe isn’t just a destination for beautiful scenery—it’s a town where good food, welcoming hospitality, and historic charm come together. Whether you’re searching for a relaxing brunch, a memorable date night, or vegetarian-friendly dining, you’ll find plenty of delicious reasons to linger just a little longer.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!

— Beth