A guide to overcoming that awkward feeling of dining solo. Tips for solo travelers, digital nomads, and anyone else who's going out to eat alone.
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Natalie Rushing
Be careful out there, folks. I’m about to tell you about the 3 worst dates I’ve been on since I began my digital nomadic odyssey. These stories are funny to me now, but at the time I was less amused. Don't worry--nothing terrible happened, but still, look out. The last one is the absolute kicker. Ready? Let's get to it. Part of the Cathedral of Junk in Austin. It's kind of similar to dating--lots of junk out there, but you might find something good. Bad date #1: Rat Boy I met Chuck (not his[...]
You don’t need me to tell you that dating is hard. But if you’re a digital nomad who’s permanently traveling and moving every few months, it’s much harder. It’s easy to get swept up in some fantasy that you’ll meet the perfect person for you, and the two of you can nomad together, happily ever after. After all, we’ve all heard those stories of couples who met while on vacation, did long distance for a while, and then one or both moved and it all worked out. If you’re a single nomad r[...]
I told you about the benefits of being a digital nomad. Now for the less glamorous parts. I’m talking about the disadvantages of nomadic life. You see a lot of highlight reels on digital nomad life but not too much on the negative aspects. If considering this lifestyle, there are many pros and cons, but you have to decide if the negative outweighs the positive for you, or vice versa. So I’ve made a list of some disadvantages you may not have thought about so you can make the decision that’s best for yo[...]
Trying to decide if digital nomad life is right for you? I’m breaking down the benefits of being a digital nomad. Though there are many pros and cons, in this post, we're putting on our rose-colored glasses and only talking about the advantages. Don’t worry, I’ll address the disadvantages separately. But right now we’re eating dessert for dinner, so to speak. So pack your bags and let’s hit the road! I’ve got all the good stuff about nomadic life for ya. 1. No more post-vacation blues Y[...]
When I visited Asheville, North Carolina, I did something I never thought I’d do. I decided, pretty much on a whim, to hike the Mount Mitchell trail. If you know anything about hiking in the Asheville area, you know that this hike has a reputation. At 6,684 ft. Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Locals refer to it as "the big one." And I was an absolute beginner. I was going to hike roughly 6 steep, quad-burning miles to the summit and 6 miles back down, knowing next to nothi[...]
Though it has an infamous reputation as a party city, there are so many things to do in New Orleans besides party. The first time I visited was the last weekend of Mardi Gras, "Deep Gras," as it's called. And I had a blast all by myself. I had so much fun that I had to come back next Mardi Gras! If you enjoy music, food, culture, and a little cheekiness thrown in, you'll love New Orleans. For the best solo trip to New Orleans, don't overthink it. Pick a few "must-do" things, but otherwise, just explore and[...]
Howdy, folks, it's story time today! I traveled solo to New Orleans for a Mardi Gras experience and lived to tell the tale. At first, I was nervous. Part of me was dreading it. All the crime you hear about on the news can get to you. And there I was--a solo female traveler going into the middle of it all for one of the biggest festivals in the world. What was I thinking? But I wanted the experience. And I'm glad I had it because it was an absolute blast! And now I'll tell you my story in a series of photos.[...]
Updated January 12, 2025 Ahhh, Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Generally thought of as a party destination with friends, Mardi Gras is also fun for solo travelers. Wait, what? Solo? Isn't that dangerous?! No, not when done smartly! We'll get to the safety tips in a second. First--when you think of Mardi Gras, what comes to mind? Maybe you imagine drunken debauchery, neon-colored drinks, and shiny beads adorning the necks of topless women. Maybe you imagine exclusive Mardi Gras balls or elaborate parades wit[...]
Photo by Mike, Underwater Exploring I love Key West. Well, I love all the Florida Keys, really. But Key West has its own unique flavor… think chickens wandering around, six-toed cats, alcohol, key lime pie, and unusual, vibrant, very “Florida” art galleries. It’s 90 miles from Cuba and surrounded by ocean, yet doesn't feel “beachy.” Plus, it’s known for having a drinking and partying culture. I know, I know. This blog is an “introvert channel.” And Key West, the party city, doesn’t really[...]