Group travel isn't for everyone, but now and then I come across someone who can definitely benefit from it based on the information and concerns that they share with me in planning a trip.
I came across a friend who was looking for an enriched travel experience - we'll call her Susan although that is not her name.
So Susan never had children of her own. She was married for all of 2 years when her husband left her for another woman (and has since gone on to several other women whom I pity one by one). She has a good job and great sisters and friends to hang out with but she hasn't taken a holiday in years because she does not want to travel alone. Sure she would love to meet someone and has considered a "Singles" tour but she doesn't really care to be labeled and she doesn't want it to appear as if she is desperate in any way.
So she has been searching for an opportunity to travel as part of a fun, warm group that perhaps offers some connection. And guess what? The particular Club Med group I was organizing seemed like the perfect trip for her.
In Susan's case, it wasn't just about going on a trip or taking a vacation and it was more about not being lonely and an interesting point she brought up - not having to eat alone. She wanted to eat, laugh and share stories while sitting on a beach or by a pool or visiting a local market. She wanted to connect with others even those that may be of romantic interest without the pressure of being on an actual date or a set-up.
I am talking about a vibe that you catch like a boomerang - it comes back full circle - the warmth, the friendship, the feeling of being a part of something.
It's tough to be on your own and feel it every minute of every day outside of working hours and being with people. Group travel not only resolves this isolation, it soothes it and puts people like Susan in the right place and the right time with the right people (I said "right" 3 times in the sentence but hey it's my post).
We wanted you to know that everyone is welcome to join us in our Ideal Group Travels. We don't care if you are tall or short, gay or straight, fat or thin, single or married. We believe that travel is about sharing, it's experience by movement and movement is life and no one should have to move alone.
Yours in Ideal Travel and Social Media ,
Lisa Audrey Cohen
Comments
Thanks for your feedback Donna. I had the same exprience when I was single and so I can relate. We have plenty to offer to all sorts of travellers and I am sensitive to the fact that everyone has different needs/desires. Keep reading and sharing - thanks
I haven't traveled with your group, Lisa, but I know what you mean. As a single woman traveller it's sometimes been easier for me to travel with groups than by myself. In addition I have made friends on these trips who are now good friends.