Traveling Alone: Tips on How to Dine Solo

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Traveling Alone: Tips on How to Dine Solo

Whether you are on a business trip or are simply travelling solo abroad, dining on your own may seem like a daunting experience. But it doesn’t have to be. Plenty of people around the world do it, so you shouldn’t worry about the stigma that comes with it. If you are thinking about trying it out for the first time, here are some tips on how to find a restaurant that you’re comfortable eating in and what you could do whilst you’re there:

1. Research restaurants in advance

Even if you are the most laid-back person, heading into a restaurant without knowing anything about it can seem incredibly scary. Have a look on Google before you make your way to the restaurant and make a reservation in advance. Through research you can read some reviews on the best food spots (perfect for those foodies out there), see what the dress code is like, work out your route to the restaurant and discover what the atmosphere is like—this way you can be prepared for a relaxed vibe or a more formal one—whichever takes your fancy.

2. Try to avoid peak eating times

If it is your first time eating out on your own, booking a dinner reservation at peak time can be very intimidating. Perhaps try out eating breakfast or lunch solo first before diving straight in with dinner. This way you can get a feel of what it’s like, making you feel more comfortable and at ease before branching out to dinner.

3. Eat at places you would be comfortable in

For your first meal out, you also probably don’t want to eat in a really fancy restaurant. Maybe choose somewhere that’s more relaxed and quieter—even somewhere that is cozier with fewer tables. This will get you used to eating out solo without feeling like everyone is watching you (not that they would be anyhow, but it may initially feel this way). Walking into a loud, busy and large restaurant won’t make the best experience when it’s your first time dining solo and may make you want to leave to grab a casual meal to eat at your hotel.

4. Sit at the bar

When dining solo, sitting at the bar is a more relaxed way of tucking into some delicious food. This way you can enjoy your own company, without having the formal setting of a table. You can also chat with the bartender and to those around you—making it a great way of making new friends or meeting other local foodies.

5. People watch

Throughout your meal, take a look around you and people watch. Everyone likes to see what others are doing, and it’s a good way to pass the time whilst you are eating. This will make you feel more relaxed and less conscious of those around you. As well as people watching, you could also bring a book along with you to read or the 21st Century pastime of flicking through your phone.