Solo Travel

Travelling alone can feel intimidating to some people. Most individuals don’t really enjoy it unless they are deliberately seeking solitude. I consider myself an extrovert, so it might not come as a surprise that I also appreciate some alone time. However, having a companion to travel with can significantly enhance your overall experience.”

It’s not my first rodeo

I’ve traveled to Paris many times over the years, and honestly, spending three days on my own is a no-brainer. Armed with my list of things to do and places to visit, I didn’t really miss anyone—except when it comes to dining out. The dreaded experience of sitting alone at a table, staring at your iPhone for the hundredth time, can be uncomfortable. I’ve learned to improve this experience with small adjustments, like asking for a seat at the bar or counter, where there’s usually someone to talk to, or at least the bartender (lucky them). In Paris, try to snag an outdoor table, as most face outward, making it feel less awkward and perfect for people-watching. Plus, it’s très chic!”

Navigating dining alone

It’s shoulder season in Paris. When I arrived at a hip little restaurant called ‘Aux Prés’ on Rue du Dragon (love the street name), I was surprised they couldn’t accommodate a table for one. Really? But I get it—a table for one usually seats two, and the bar had an even number of chairs, making me the odd one out this evening. Knowing my way around, I decided to head towards Rue du Bac. It was a quick walk to “Les Antiquaires,” a restaurant that has always been great in the past. Choosing my seat outside wisely, I made sure to avoid sitting next to the women chain-smoking or the old man clearing his throat.

You never know who you’ll meet

By the time my glass of wine arrived, the woman sitting next to me and I had already discussed where we were from, the purpose of our visits to Paris, the weather, and shopping. We both enjoyed our meals and more wine, talking about a wide range of topics, including family, work, politics, and life in general. Laughing, we remarked, “It’s as if we were meant to meet—synchronicity!” I love when this happens! Our evening ended with plans to meet the following day for some shopping and dinner. “It’s a plan!” It was then we realized we didn’t know each other’s names and immediately added each other to our contacts with a laugh.

My new friend and I met the next afternoon at “Galeries Lafayette”. It seemed like we were in sync with each other’s shopping habits. Is it a girl thing? After spending a couple of hours, we were both satisfied, having made a few purchases and saying no to some expensive ones. It was time for food and drinks.

Our hotels were just 5 minutes apart, so we walked to Cinq-Mars on Rue de Verneuil. It’s a delightful restaurant where I didn’t have to strategize about where to sit for dinner. We had a wonderful evening. I couldn’t help but think that if I hadn’t been traveling alone, I might never have met her. This raises the question: perhaps it’s not who you travel with, but who you meet during your travels that truly shapes your experience, n’est-ce pas?

LC

xo