Would like to meet travel buddies

Hello all!

I hope everyone is well, enjoying the day and getting from it what you need.

So, yes, I have become a member because I am looking for help, ideas, advice, sign-posting etc etc etc

Here's my situation (briefly):

46 years young british male living in the UK. I quit work January 2023 to look after my mother who got fronto-temporal dementia (FTD). Thought I could get a handle on things and put the neccessary things in place for her to be OK for a period of time. It's never quite happened that way and I have not been able to find my way back to my career yet.

So, I want to spend 4-8 weeks this year in central and south america to have some "me" time. I have been fortunate to have travelled due to my career and I have also travelled in my personal time. I have travelled to countries alone and met up with groups (motorcycle bods), where everything is taken care of for the weeks I have been there. I have never travelled to a country and set off alone and I'm a little bit nervous, simply because its new.

Are there situations where someone like myself could meet up with other individuals or groups in the country and go on an adventure together? Or are my options limited to going it alone or booking with a tour company again? I wander if any websites exist where you can post and meet people online and get to know each other before agreeing to meet up and travel somewhere?...?...

A very special big thankyou for any thoughts you have. This is an idea I have had for a few months now and its a much needed break/escapism/opportunity to add something to my life.

Loving kindness
Mark

Hi Mark!

Sorry to hear about your mom, it is never easy when loved one is ill. Me- time is important for caregiver so cudos to you for taking the time you need!

I have never actively seek out travel company but there are several groups in Facebook, for example, for travellers, maybe one of them would be of help to you?

You said you have never travelled alone so it is understandably unnerving but it is also an option. You could find company on the way, on a day trips etc. But it is totally up to you, going solo is not for everyone

I hope your travel planning and the trip will be succesful!

Hi.

You have more travel experience than many people going solo for the first time. With your work related travel and your own travel where you met up with other people, you got a step up from ordinary solo travelers.

Go for it! Do some research and see what interests you in each place and go on your own if necessary. You may meet someone in your hotel or just by serendipity.

Your hotel may provide tours where you can meet other travelers. Going on your own might be easier than you think. You may meet someone by chance and hit it off.

Good luck.

Someone from back home might be your best bet! Perhaps someone from previous employment, someone you know from your pub, gym or club you belong to, even an old school friend.

But don't be afraid to wing it on your own!

Good luck.

Hi Mark,

Thanks for sharing! Where exactly are you looking to go?

I have some great tips for South America! Especially Bolivia, if you want me to send over some of the things I was researching before I went, just let me know!

Sounds like it could be the trip of a lifetime!

H

[ Edit: Edited on 10 Apr 2025, 15:13 GMT by Harmypo ]