Resuming from our last blog post, in this post I will turn the focus on how to strategically select the right travel period and implement effective strategies, so you can avoid crowds and navigate social interactions more comfortably when you are on vacation.
Off-Peak Traveling Options
If you want to avoid crowds, you should really take into consideration the exact period you plan to travel. When you have chosen your destination, look on the internet when it’s the peak tourist season there and avoid it. Generally, the peak seasons for most places are when the schools are closed. So, if you do not have children, the perfect time to plan for holidays is on mid-September or early May for example.
However, choosing the off-peak period is not enough. There are places that are always full of tourists or there are other places that during the off-peak season are completely closed. So sometimes you will have to withstand the crowds.
Start Early or Finish Late
In this case, you should try to have a daily schedule that is different from the crowds. As per my advice to wake up as early as possible to enjoy your hotel breakfast in peace, you should also start your daily exploration as early as possible. If you get a head start from the crowds, you will probably see the most popular attractions with less people around. Also, when starting earlier, you will want to eat or rest for a coffee before everyone else, so the chances are the place you will sit, will not be packed.
If you are not a morning person, try it differently. Start as late as possible so you will finish your day as late as possible. Thanks to google maps, you can check for the peak times in the attractions you want to visit and plan accordingly.
Generally, another tip is to try to find the hidden “gems” or off the grid attractions to visit when you are overwhelmed with the crowds. Most popular places have them, you just have to look for them.
Lesser-Known Destinations
On the same note, you can select a destination that is not so popular. I understand that most destinations that are worth visiting, are popular and crowded for a reason. I believe that it is worth compromising some beauty for serenity.
Sometimes, exploring lesser known destination offer a glimpse into the local culture, traditions, and way of life that may be less influenced by mass tourism. By venturing off the popular tourist routes, you can discover untouched landscapes and gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s essence.
With fewer people around, you can explore at your own pace, taking your time to absorb the surroundings and indulge in quiet moments. We, as introverts, can savour the luxury of having a destination almost to ourselves, allowing us to embrace our introspective nature and find joy in our own company.
If you are in a popular destination, sometimes the peaceful “spot” can be just a place next to a more famous one that people do not prefer because it is quiet or a bit harder to visit. Whatever is the reason, try to find these places. One way to look for them is by check on google maps if a place has the label “Busy area” when you zoom into it.
Talkative strangers while traveling
Unless you are going on vacations with your own car to a place where there are no tourist attractions, you should be prepared to meet those cheerful talkative strangers that just want to chat and share their experiences. If you cannot avoid them for any reason, follow my guide on small talk.
If you are with another person in your vacation, then the job is very easy to accomplish. It is very rare for talkative strangers to start talking to you, if you are with a company. However, that is not always the case.
Most of the times, strangers find their easy prey in the case of the lone travellers. You should follow the below to make it as obvious as possible that you just want to be bothered during your trip:
- Wear Distinctive Headphones: Opt for over-the-head headphones rather than in-ear ones. This choice will make it clear to others that you prefer not to be disturbed.
- Carry a Book or Notepad: Keep a book or notepad handy and engage with them when approached by talkative strangers. This gesture sends a signal that you’re occupied and not open to conversation.
- Use Privacy Filters for Screens: If you work on a laptop while traveling, invest in a privacy filter for your screen. This accessory blocks the view of anyone trying to glance at your screen, discouraging unsolicited interactions.
- Polite Excuses: In some cases, individuals may persist in engaging in conversation despite your cues. In these situations, it’s acceptable to politely excuse yourself, stating that you’re feeling tired and need rest. Put on your headphones, close your eyes, and hopefully, they will take the hint and move on.
Another way to avoid this kind of people is to excuse yourself for to go to the toilet and then switch seats if this is possible. This method is not very easily executed if you are on an airplane or carry a lot of baggage with you.
By considering off-peak travel options, exploring lesser-known destinations, and implementing strategies to avoid crowds and manage social interactions, your introvert self will enjoy more peaceful and fulfilling journeys!
