Traveling solo without feeling lonely - female traveler guide

I’m an Italian woman who has been traveling for 50 years. My very first journey was as a newborn, when my father drove my mother and me from southern Italy to the north, where he worked, just the three of us in his old Fiat 500. Every summer, we made that same 1,100 km trip, with a stopover in central Italy. Along the way, I visited the museums of Florence, saw the Leaning Tower of Pisa, learned about the life of Saint Francis, and, of course, explored the Roman history of Rome.

Later, as a mother, I started traveling with my family in a camper. I would plan our itineraries and choose the places to explore. But as time passed, I began to feel a growing need to be just Mariantonietta. By the time I turned 40, I longed to follow my own pace, satisfy my curiosity, and fully immerse myself in new places, without compromise.

But like many women, I was held back by some concerns: “Will I feel safe?” “Will I feel lonely?” “Will I miss sharing the experience with someone?”

When I finally took the leap, I discovered that traveling solo offers something deeply personal and truly empowering.

That’s how I began traveling on my own. I faced my doubts by turning to social media and searching for communities of women who travelled solo. Through them, I connected with other women my age who helped me explore places like New York, the Canary Islands, and other cities around the world.

I spent my moments of relaxation by the sea in Metaponto, in Basilicata near Matera, dreaming about my next destination, and on Instagram and Facebook my memories.

That’s how I ended up on an electric bike tour, discovering the Biella area where I live.

Mariantonietta’s Birthday in Bali | Photo credit: Mariantonietta

The most important moment for me came just before turning 50, when I decided to celebrate my birthday in Indonesia. I chose Bali as my first stop because I had read about a women-only residence, with a personal driver who would take me wherever I wanted to go, and a cook who would prepare anything I desired.

This is the kind of travel experience I love to share: being part of a group that allows me to connect with the soul of the country I’m visiting. Being able to experience local craftsmanship not just as a spectator, but by creating my own piece of jewellery, as I did. Receiving an unexpected gift after purchasing a traditional garment and being able to wear it on my birthday—these are the moments that make a journey truly special.

When I discovered Greether, I instantly felt it was more than just a travel platform: it’s a global community of women empowering each other to explore the world safely, confidently, and authentically. Greether connects you with verified local women, known as Greeters, who act like a trusted friend in a new destination.

Having a Greeter doesn’t just mean having someone to guide you, it means being welcomed, understood, and supported. It turns travel into something more human, more enriching. With Greether, I felt safe, seen, and inspired. I wasn’t just visiting a place: I related to its heart, its people, and its stories.

A Greeter makes each trip more valuable by offering personalized, local experiences while supporting women-led tourism. It’s a way of traveling that uplifts, empowers, and truly transforms the solo journey into something unforgettable.

As it says on the 1931 Italian sailing ship Amerigo Vespucci:

“Not he who begins, but he who perseveres.”

This resonates deeply with every woman who chooses to travel alone: not because it’s easy, but because it’s meaningful. Starting the journey takes courage, but it’s in the perseverance: in showing up for yourself, in continuing to explore despite fears or doubts. That the real transformation happens.

To all the women who dream of traveling solo: your journey doesn't have to be loud or perfect. It just has to be yours. Whether you’re cycling through the hills of your hometown or celebrating a birthday in Bali, every step you take is a reminder that you are capable, curious, and completely at home in the world.