English 
Do you ever dream of travelling solo but find yourself held back by fears and doubts? We all carry limiting beliefs that could stop us from taking the leap into transformative travel experiences. But the truth is, these fears are just stories we’ve been told—or told ourselves. It’s time to break free!
Limiting beliefs and fears can be the biggest barriers standing between you and that travel experience you’ve been dreaming of. Many women in midlife hesitate to travel solo due to common concerns like feeling too old for adventure, worrying about safety, fearing loneliness, not knowing where to start, believing travel is too expensive, or being afraid of things going wrong. But these fears are often based on outdated narratives rather than reality.
By shifting your mindset—recognizing that age is no barrier, that smart planning ensures safety, and that solo travel is an opportunity for deep connection and self-discovery—you can break free from these limitations. Every challenge on the road strengthens your resilience and confidence.
Overcoming these limiting beliefs isn’t just about travel; it’s about reclaiming your independence, expanding your world, and proving to yourself that you are capable of more than you ever imagined. Addressing these fears is crucial because staying trapped in them means missing out on the personal growth, joy, and empowerment that travel—especially solo travel—can bring. Want to know more? Read all my benefits of travelling alone HERE.
So, this week I delve into six of the most common limiting beliefs women in midlife face about solo travel, how to reshape your mindset, and what you can gain by overcoming them. Here goes:
“I’m too old to travel solo.”
Travel has no age limit! There’s no expiration date on adventure, discovery, or self-growth. Many women in their 50s, 60s, and beyond are embracing solo travel and finding it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. For example, did you know that the largest and fastest growing cohort of solo travellers is women over 50? You are not alone. There are women your age travelling just how you want to. You just need to find them, follow them and be inspired by them. If they can do it, so can you! Obviously, I include myself in this group, now 55, I don’t see my adventures stopping any time soon.
Stepping outside your comfort zone can make you feel more youthful, energetic, and open to new possibilities. You’ll gain confidence and a renewed zest for life.
“It’s not safe for a woman to travel alone.”
While safety is a valid concern, solo travel can be safe when you take the right precautions. Researching destinations, trusting your instincts, and staying aware are key to feeling secure. I have travelled solo extensively and have loads of tips to share on how to stay safe. Check them out for yourself HERE.
While it’s important to be cautious, fear shouldn’t hold you back from exploring the world. By overcoming this fear, you’ll become more self-reliant and empowered. You’ll learn to navigate new environments with confidence and grace.
“I don’t have anyone to share the experience with.”
Solo travel doesn’t mean being alone! It’s an opportunity to connect with locals, meet like-minded travellers, and even enjoy the pleasure of your own company. One of the first articles I ever wrote on my blog was about “how to travel solo without actually being on your own” where I share five inspirational ideas. In addition, check out my ode to yoga retreats as a way of meeting like-minded travellers HERE. I am also a big believer that being alone and being lonelyare NOT one and the same thing but if it is a concern of yours, then click THIS LINK for all my solo travel tips to avoid loneliness.
Although it sounds counterintuitive, I always meet more people when I travel alone. You’ll develop deeper connections with people from different cultures and walks of life. Plus, you’ll rediscover the joy of spending quality time with yourself.
“I can’t afford to travel.”
Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. There are countless ways to travel affordably, from house-sitting to budget-friendly destinations and slow travel options. I have loads of tips and tricks to help you save for that next adventure or just travel more economically. Check out my top 20 ideas HERE. I can even make the Caribbean more affordable if you click THIS LINK.
Travelling solo helps you learn resourcefulness and budgeting skills and discover that meaningful experiences don’t always come with a high price tag. Stay tuned next week for more on how you can travel even on a tight budget.
“What if something goes wrong?”
Things can go wrong anywhere, even at home. Having a plan, travel insurance, and emergency contacts can help you handle unexpected situations with ease. For example, the time I sprained my ankle when I was about to explore the Brecon Beacons solo in Wales. It left me stranded a long way from home and with a car I couldn’t drive! The experience taught me a lot of lessons about resourcefulness, using your network and much more besides. You can read all the gory details HERE.
Trust me, through solo travel you’ll develop resilience and problem-solving skills that will serve you in every aspect of life, not just travel.
“I don’t know where to start.”
Start small. You don’t have to book a six-month adventure immediately. Try a weekend getaway or join a women’s travel group for your first experience. Alternatively, consider my latest programme, Find Your Way: The Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Travel Journey. If you’ve ever felt unsure about where to start, overwhelmed by planning, or hesitant about travelling solo, this step-by-step programme is your roadmap to adventure. I have specifically designed the course to empower you with all the tools, tips, and confidence you need. Check out all the details via THIS LINKor hit reply with any questions you may have.
Taking that first step builds momentum. The more you travel, the more confident and comfortable you’ll become in planning and navigating your trips.
Letting go of these limiting beliefs opens the door to incredible opportunities. Solo travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about discovering yourself, gaining independence, and embracing a world of possibilities. Take that first step, and you might just find that solo travel is the most empowering thing you’ll ever do!
So, {{ subscriber.first_name }} , what’s holding you back? Which of these resonates most with you? Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threadsor LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
This week, over on YouTube, you get a glimpse into one of my most epic solo adventures – five months going “wherever the wind took me” in the Caribbean. In just 90 seconds, I’ll take you on a whirlwind journey through some of the most breathtaking Caribbean travel spots—soaking up the sun in the Dominican Republic, diving into the culture of Cuba, exploring the rainforests of Costa Rica, and relaxing in the turquoise waters of the Cayman Islands. Plus, I set sail through the British and U.S. Virgin Islands and discovered the beauty of St. Martin. Watch it HERE and get inspired to take your own adventure.
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Until next time,
Safe Travels
Sue x
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Join my Find Your Way Course
Blog 5-Great Ideas on How to Travel Solo, but NOT Alone
Video – Solo in Paradise My Caribbean Journey
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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