English 
One of the most beautiful gifts travel offers – especially in midlife – is the chance to connect. With new places, new perspectives… and most importantly, new people.
But let’s be honest: the thought of meeting strangers on the road can feel intimidating, especially if you’re stepping into solo travel for the first time – or for the first time in a while. You may be wondering, “Will I feel lonely?” or “How do I even start a conversation?”
The truth is, loneliness can happen anywhere – at home or abroad – but so can meaningful connection. In fact, travel often creates the perfect conditions for it. When you’re out of your routine, a little vulnerable, and open to the unknown, magic happens.
Why Connection Matters More Than Ever in Midlife
By the time we reach midlife, many of us have experienced loss – of a partner, a parent, a job, or even our sense of identity. We’ve raised families, navigated careers, and sometimes lost touch with the version of ourselves that craved adventure and meaningful connection outside the roles we’ve always played.
That’s why travel at this stage of life is so powerful. It’s not just about where you go – it’s about who you become along the way. And often, it’s the people you meet who make the journey truly transformative.
Whether it’s a fellow solo traveller you share a community dinner with on the Camino de Santiago, a local who teaches you how to cook the perfect national dish (unattractively titled “Oildown”) in Grenada, or a kindred spirit you meet on a yoga retreat in Cuba – connection is the soul of travel.
And it’s never too late to find your people.
Top 10 Tips for Meeting People While Travelling (Especially in Midlife)
Here’s how to open the door to connection while still honouring your independence and inner world:
Join a Group Tour (Even Just for a Day)
Day tours or multi-day adventures attract people with similar interests and provide a natural structure for connection. Whether it’s a food tour, hiking trek, or sailing trip, the shared experience is an instant conversation starter.
Choose Social Accommodation
Hostels aren’t just for twenty-somethings anymore! Many now offer private rooms with communal spaces for travellers of all ages. Boutique guesthouses, co-living spaces, or eco-lodges often attract likeminded explorers.
Attend a Retreat
From wellness retreats in the Dominican Republic to writing workshops in Italy, themed retreats are a powerful way to connect with others who are in a similar life phase, seeking the same kind of renewal you are.
Volunteer Abroad
Volunteering with wildlife, conservation, or community projects adds purpose to your travels and surrounds you with people who care deeply about making a difference.
Use Connection Apps (Yes, Really!)
Apps like Meetup, Couchsurfing Hangouts, or even Bumble BFF can help you find local events, walking groups, or other solo travellers nearby.
Take a Class
Cooking classes, dance workshops, language lessons – anything that brings people together around a shared skill is fertile ground for connection and often laughter.
Stay in One Place Longer
Slow travel gives you time to become a familiar face. Shop at the same market, sip coffee at the same café, and soon, conversations will naturally unfold.
Say Yes to Small Invitations
If someone invites you for a drink, to join their table, or go on a short walk—say yes (when it feels safe). It’s often those spontaneous moments that lead to the most memorable connections.
Travel with a Purpose
When your journey has meaning – healing, growth, discovery – it radiates from you. That energy draws people who are on a similar path.
Be Open, But Don’t Force It
Smile. Make eye contact. Ask questions. Connection doesn’t always require deep vulnerability; sometimes, it just takes a little courage and curiosity.
Always Remember…You Are Not Alone
You carry a lifetime of stories, wisdom, and strength. You’ve lived through highs and heartbreaks – and that makes you deeply relatable. You don’t need to impress or perform. You just need to show up as you are.
And when you do? You’ll be amazed at who you meet.
People you were meant to cross paths with. People who reflect a part of yourself you forgot was there. People who remind you – you are not alone on this journey.
Travel is one of the most powerful ways to reconnect – with yourself and the world. But it doesn’t have to be a solo emotional expedition. Let it be a door to community, companionship, and joy.
So, if you’re craving meaningful connection and wondering if it’s still possible in this season of life, let me reassure you: it absolutely is!
Midlife is not the end of connection – it’s the beginning of conscious, soul-nourishing relationships. And some of the most beautiful friendships you’ll ever have might just be waiting for you across the world.
Let the adventure and the connection begin.
If you’re ready to connect with yourself and others through transformational travel, you’re in the right place. I help women turn midlife into their most powerful, adventurous chapter yet. Let’s take that first step together. Hit reply to this email or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) if you want to know more.Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
Ever wondered what it’s really like to sleep in an Ice Hotel? I braved a night at the iconic Hôtel de Glace in Quebec—and it was colder, more beautiful, and more surreal than I ever expected!
In this week’s short video on YouTube, I take you on a whirlwind tour of Canada’s only ice hotel. You’ll see the breathtaking ice sculptures, explore my frozen room, sip a cocktail at the legendary ice bar, and hear my honest thoughts about what it’s actually like to sleep on a bed made of ice. Spoiler: it’s an unforgettable experience – but it’s not for the faint-hearted! Check it out for yourself HERE.
Did you find this email useful? If so, why not forward it to a friend?
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…
Blog – How to Meet People When Travelling – An Ode to Yoga Retreats
Blog – Travelling Independently vs Small Group Tour – Which is Best for Your First Solo Trip?
Video – Slept at Ice Hotel Quebec! Here’s What Happened…
And finally, just for you…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., but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
🏠 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.
Download a PDF VERSION OF THIS NEWSLETTER
Just click the 5th icon in the grey tool bar below (with the down arrow) to save the pdf to your computer.
