April 30, 2026, 3:17 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Traveling alone? You often read about how liberating, encouraging, and empowering it can be. TRAVELBOOK author Katharina Regenthal tried it–and can’t fully recommend it. For her, the positive aspects don’t outweigh the negatives. Find out why here.
To get one thing straight: I know, of course, that everyone is different, has different needs, and vacations differently. After spending four days alone on a cruise ship (where you’re never really alone), I’ve concluded: It’s not for me. And I don’t think that’s a bad thing. My reasons are varied, and I’d like to explain them here in more detail.
Traveling Alone Is Challenging
The main reason against solo travel for me is a personality trait that many might not see as entirely positive. I admit it: I’m quite clingy. Sure, I like being alone sometimes. Especially at home, that’s not a problem. I make myself comfortable, eat my favorite food, and enjoy a fun drink. But outside my four walls, I can’t enjoy it as much. I’d never think of just going to the city on the weekend and eating a piece of cake alone. Why? Because it simply doesn’t bring me any joy.
And it’s the same on vacation. I don’t want to experience new things alone; I prefer to do it with my favorite people. Only then can I truly enjoy it. Why is that? I think there are several reasons.
For one, I love to talk (most people around me can probably confirm that). You might think: Talking is great when traveling alone. But small talk isn’t my thing, and I prefer chatting with people I know. It just takes more effort, and I’m never as free and relaxed when I’m not close to the person I’m talking to.
Don’t get me wrong: Of course, there are conversations with people you’ve just met that are a lot of fun. And I was lucky to quickly find myself in good company during my mini-cruise. Still, the perfect vacation looks different for me.
Also interesting: Why I prefer going on long hikes alone
Vacation Looks Different for Me
When I experience new things on vacation, I want to share them immediately–with my husband, my family, my friends. It dampens my joy if I “have to” experience the stunning cliffs, the beautiful beach, or the charming town alone.
I can, of course, understand the advantages many see in solo travel. Being independent, making all decisions based on your own needs. And I do feel independent and truly “grown-up.” But I simply derive much more happiness and joy from shared vacations and experiences. With the people I love, I can enjoy everything better. I admire people who embark on big journeys alone and explore the world–but I’m also quite happy with my decision: to vacation together again in the future.
The trip was supported by “MSC Cruises.” Our standards of transparency and journalistic independence can be found at www.axelspringer.de/unabhaengigkeit.