The Silver Wanderers Traveling Solo with
Traveling solo wasn’t part of my original plan. My son was supposed to join me on this group trip with the Silver Wanderers, but work commitments made it impossible for him to come along. At first, the idea of joining a group on my own felt a little daunting. I wondered how it would feel to be far from home, surrounded by unfamiliar faces. In the end, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding travel experiences I’ve ever had.
From the very beginning, the Silver Wanderers made it easy to feel welcome. What starts as a group of strangers quickly turns into a circle of companions sharing meals, stories, and laughter. Traveling solo in a group setting pushes you to open up, to sit next to someone new on the bus, and to strike up conversations you might not otherwise have. Before long, those “new faces” start to feel like friends.
The itinerary itself helped bring everyone together. We explored iconic cities like Paris, soaking in its history, charm, and unmistakable energy. In Stuttgart, visiting the Porsche Museum was a highlight — even for those who weren’t die-hard car enthusiasts. Walking through decades of engineering and design sparked plenty of conversations and shared curiosity among the group.
We were also lucky with our timing. Our travels coincided with Oktoberfest, adding a festive layer to the journey. The traditional music, lively beer halls, and colorful local culture created moments that were best enjoyed together. It’s hard to feel alone when you’re clinking glasses and sharing a table with people who, just days earlier, were complete strangers.
Traveling solo with a group also gives you space to reflect. Being far from home, surrounded by different cultures and ways of life, naturally leads you to think about bigger questions. At times, I even caught myself considering what it might be like to move to Europe one day, especially as the American system continues to change in ways that feel increasingly uncertain. Europe’s pace, community focus, and balance between work and life can be very appealing when you experience it firsthand.
In the end, although my son couldn’t make the trip, I’m grateful I went anyway. Traveling solo with the Silver Wanderers reminded me that you’re never truly alone when you’re open to connection. It’s an experience that builds confidence, creates lasting friendships, and proves that sometimes the best journeys are the ones that push you slightly outside your comfort zone. www.tswanderers.com
