trip in 30s

30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Home » 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s – Worldwide Best Travel Destinations

Welcome to your 30s, a decade that promises adventure, self-discovery, and unforgettable travel experiences. As you step into this new chapter of life, the world becomes your playground, and there’s no better way to embrace it than by exploring these 30 trips to take in your 30s. 

From ancient wonders to tropical paradises, from thrilling adventures to serene spiritual sojourns, each continent has something unique to offer. So, pack your bags, set your wanderlust free, and get ready to embark on Framey’s journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the world. Your 30s are your time to shine, and these top 30 destinations will make this decade one to remember.

Table of Contents

A. South & Western Europe: History, Culture, and Mediterranean Splendor

• Paris, France: Wander the romantic streets and indulge in world-class art and cuisine.
• Barcelona, Spain: Experience the vibrant culture and stunning architecture of Gaudi.
• Florence, Italy: Renaissance art and marvelous architecture.

1. Paris: The City of Love and Lights – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre

Paris, the capital of romance, holds a special place in the hearts of travelers seeking love and enchantment. The Eiffel Tower stands tall as a symbol of the city’s charm, inviting you to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Seine River. Louvre Museum, home to timeless masterpieces like the Mona Lisa invites you to explore. And let’s not forget that Paris is a synonym for delectable pastries in quaint cafés, strolls through Montmartre’s artistic streets, and the artsy vibe of the Seine River.

2. Barcelona: The Architectural Marvel – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Gothic Quarter, Barcelona 📸 _ksu_erm_

The colorful, youthful, and artistic spirit of Barcelona makes the city of the best travel destinations in your 30s. Admire the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudi, including the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Wander through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, filled with history and charm. Enjoy tapas and sangria at lively local bars, and soak in the Mediterranean sun at Barceloneta Beach. Barcelona’s unique blend of culture, art, and beachside bliss makes it a top choice for travelers of all ages.

3. Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Museum of Illusions Florence 📸 miry_clay_

Immerse in the artistic wonders of Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and admire the intricate facade of the Florence Cathedral. Explore the Uffizi Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Wander through the charming streets, stopping at cozy cafes for a cappuccino. Florence’s cultural heritage and artistic treasures create a captivating journey through Western Europe’s rich history.

B. Central and Eastern Europe: Hidden Gems & Old Charm – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Transylvania, Romania: Explore fairytale landscapes and legends of Dracula.
• Krakow, Poland: Wander through historic streets and experience Polish charm.

4. Transylvania, Romania – A fairytale of folklore and myths

Bran Castle, Transylvania 📸 thetravellingfrenchy

Venture into the enchanting landscapes of Transylvania, a region steeped in folklore and myths. Discover fairytale castles, including Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. Explore the medieval streets of Brasov and Sibiu, picturesque towns frozen in time. Immerse in the Carpathian Mountains’ beauty, dotted with charming villages and stunning vistas. Transylvania’s hidden gems and rich history create a captivating journey through the heart of Eastern Europe.

5. Krakow, Poland – The city with a rich past and bright future

Piec Piekarnia Bakery, Krakow 📸 piekarnia.piec

Wander through the historic streets of Krakow, Poland’s cultural capital, where history comes alive. Visit the magnificent Wawel Castle, home to centuries of royal history and legends. Explore the haunting remnants of the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, and pay tribute at Auschwitz-Birkenau, a poignant reminder of humanity’s past. Krakow’s architectural wonders and vibrant atmosphere offer a journey into the heart of Eastern Europe’s rich cultural heritage.

C. Western and Northern Europe: Art, Architecture and Majestic Fjords

• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Explore world-class museums and historic canals.
• Tromsø, Norway: Witness the magical dance of the Northern Lights in the Arctic Circle

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Q uirky architecture and lively nightlife

Damrak, Amsterdam 📸  @jessicachaw

Discover Amsterdam, a cultural capital teeming with world-class museums and historic charm. Visit the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Explore the iconic Anne Frank House and learn about the city’s rich history. Cruise along the picturesque canals, admiring the elegant canal houses. Amsterdam’s artistic heritage and vibrant atmosphere offer a cultural journey like no other.

7. Tromso, Norway – Aurora Borealis Extravaganza – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Embark on a journey to Tromsø, Norway, where the magical dance of the Northern Lights illuminates the winter skies. Join a Northern Lights safari, chasing the celestial spectacle across snow-covered landscapes. Experience dog sledding or reindeer sleigh rides, connecting with the Arctic wilderness. Tromsø’s remote location and stunning natural phenomena make it a top destination for travelers seeking an otherworldly experience.

D. South Asia: Home of oldest civilizations and tallest mountains – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

• Varanasi, India: Experience the spiritual energy along the sacred Ganges River.
• Bhutan: Discover the land of happiness and explore ancient monasteries.
• Maldives: Indulge in the ultimate romantic escape in luxurious overwater bungalows.

8. Varanasi, India: Spiritual Awakening 

Journey to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, where life and death intersect along the banks of the Ganges River. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunrise and sunset, filling the air with divine energy. Take a boat ride on the sacred river, observing the rituals and ceremonies that play a central role in Hindu traditions. Varanasi’s mystical aura and spiritual significance will leave you with a profound sense of self-discovery and enlightenment.

9. Bhutan: The Land of Happiness

Tiger’s Nest, Paro, Bhutan 📸 angelydub

Uncover the secrets of happiness in Bhutan, a kingdom nestled in the Himalayas. Embrace the country’s unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness, where the well-being of its people takes precedence. Explore ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, including the iconic Tiger’s Nest. Immerse in traditional Bhutanese culture and witness colorful festivals that celebrate the nation’s rich heritage. Bhutan’s untouched beauty and spiritual ambiance offer a transformative experience for travelers in their 30s.

10. Maldives: Paradise on Earth – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Escape to the paradise of the Maldives, a haven of luxury and tranquility. Stay in opulent overwater bungalows, waking up to the sound of gentle waves. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, encountering colorful coral reefs and marine life. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, under the starlit sky. The Maldives’ secluded beauty and world-class hospitality create a dreamy escape for travelers seeking a luxurious retreat.

E. East Asia: Island Hopping in one of the earliest cradles of civilization

• Kyoto, Japan: Find inner peace among serene temples and traditional tea houses.
• Bali, Indonesia: Discover the island’s spiritual essence and lush rice terraces.

11. Kyoto, Japan – Serenity and Tradition

In Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, find tranquility amidst traditional wooden temples, immaculate gardens, and the grace of geishas. Experience the meditative Zen culture by participating in a tea ceremony or practicing meditation in serene surroundings. Witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring and the vivid colors of fall foliage. Kyoto’s profound spirituality and cultural richness offer a unique and reflective experience for travelers in their 30s.

12. Bali – The Island of Gods

Diamond Beach, Nusa Penida 📸⁠ mariefeandjakesnow

Discover the spiritual essence of Bali, where ancient temples and lush rice terraces await. Visit the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Experience the cultural heart of Ubud, attending traditional dance performances and exploring art galleries. Unwind in luxury resorts surrounded by lush jungles or rice paddies. Bali’s unique blend of spirituality and natural beauty creates a soulful island-hopping experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

F. Western Asia – Best Cultural Exploration in the Middle East 

• Petra, Jordan: Explore the ancient city carved into rose-red cliffs.
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Experience the opulence of futuristic architecture and luxury shopping.

13. Petra, Jordan: The Rose-Red City – 30 Trips to Take in Your 30s

Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan – 📸 thewayfaress

Step back in time and explore the ancient city of Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Wander through the narrow Siq, a natural gorge that leads to the Treasury, Petra’s most famous monument. Discover ancient tombs, temples, and theaters carved into the rose-red cliffs. Petra’s archaeological wonders and rich history offer a cultural journey like no other, where you can imagine the lives of the Nabateans who once thrived in this desert oasis.

14. Dubai, UAE – A Modern Marvel 

Experience the futuristic marvel of Dubai, where innovation and opulence converge in a desert metropolis. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and take in the breathtaking city views from the observation deck. Indulge in luxury shopping at Dubai Mall and experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional souks. Dubai’s modernity and traditional charm create a cultural fusion that captivates travelers seeking unique experiences.

G. North America: Unparalleled mountain scenery and exquisite diving 

• Banff National Park, Canada: Hike through pristine wilderness and spot majestic wildlife.
• Yosemite National Park, USA: Marvel at breathtaking waterfalls and granite cliffs.
• Bahamas: Snorkel in the clear waters of the Exumas and explore the vibrant marine life.

15. Banff National Park, Canada – Nature’s Playground

Solo Travel In Your 30s – here’s 5 alternatives to staying home

by Steven Dillon | Apr 26, 2019

This post was written by Steve Dillon, founder of   Other Way Round , a group travel company specialising in adventure trips for 25-45 year olds. He’s passionate about encouraging fellow 30 somethings to give solo travel a try, and he shares 5 ways to go about it.

(or “vacations” for my North American friends).

If you’re anything like most people it’s what gets you through the day-to-day grind.

Looking forward to that next trip – the opportunity to relax, to disconnect, to experience something completely different.

It doesn’t get much better.

“Where are you going this year”?

If you would have asked me that when I was in my 20s I would have reeled off a list of upcoming trips with friends.

There was always something going on and the main challenge was finding the cash to get involved.

But the first time it happened to me I had just turned 30…

I had resigned from my job and had managed to wangle a 1 week break before starting my next role.

I was in need of a break.

Desperate actually .

And I knew I would be useless at my next company without recharging my batteries first.

The problem – I couldn’t find anyone to go with.

At such short notice neither my girlfriend or friends could get the time from work and I was faced with the daunting prospect:

GO ALONE, OR DON’T GO AT ALL.

Solo Travel in My 30s

As I’ve progressed through my 30s I’ve realised that this was just the start of things to come.

People get married, have kids, get saddled with huge mortgages.

It becomes near impossible to align schedules and finances with those closest friends.

If this sounds all too familiar, the good news is that you are not alone.

It is way more common than you think and many of us are facing the same challenge.

So what do you do?

You could decide to stay home and miss out (and sadly many people do).

But honestly, in this day and age it’s SO unnecessary.

“Solo Travel” is absolutely booming, especially for people in their 30s, and there are endless possibilities out there.

In this post I’m going to share with you 5 alternatives to staying home if you find yourself in a similar situation.

(See also:   Group Holidays for Solos Over 30 )

1. Hardcore Solo Travel

By this I mean really go all in and fully embrace the solo aspect of “solo travel”.

Plan out your own trip in full, based entirely on what YOU want to do.

There are SO MANY resources available online to help.

(some good places to start are Nomadic Matt , Adventurous Kate , Lonely Planet , Conde Nast Traveler but really if you just type your destination into Google you’ll find there’s a ridiculous wealth of information available). 

Go where you want, when you want.

Don’t worry about pleasing anyone else.

Enjoy the time alone to think, get perspective on life, and renew your sense of purpose (sounds a bit cheesy I know, but it often happens).

Embrace the flexibility and freedom that comes with this option and after a while you may just wonder why you’ve never done it before.

It’s definitely character building stuff and you will likely emerge from such a trip with a new found level of resilience and independence which you can carry forth on into your daily life.

2. The Hybrid Approach to Travelling Alone

This combines the best of both worlds.

Again, plan your trip independently – book your own flights, accommodation, plan a rough itinerary etc… but put yourself in places where you are likely to meet other people along the way.

You could stay at a hostel where there’s likely to be a bunch of other travellers in their 30s sharing a similar mindset.

You could also book yourself onto day tours so you still get to go visit places with other people, but leave plenty of ‘alone time’ with the flexibility to venture off and do your own thing.

Or you could even hook yourself up with a local and really get to know the place you’re visiting on a deeper level.

Platforms like Couchsurfing and Airbnb Experiences are great for connecting you with such locals for a more ‘authentic experience’.

The great thing with this approach is that you don’t have to plan too much in advance.

Most Hostels / Hotels / Airbnbs will have relationships with the local tour operators and you can typically just land, see what’s available and book something at the last minute.

3. Join an Online Travel Group 

The internet is full of online communities (or travel groups) specifically catering to people in this very position – single people looking to travel solo.

They typically provide an abundance of useful information, in-depth resources and helpful tips for those thinking to travel alone.

And better still, some even organise trips which members can join.

Some great examples of such groups are:-

• Solo Travel Society
• Girls Gone International
• Travelettes
• Girls Love Travel

(these groups all also have huge social media followings)

Go search for something in your particular area of interest and you’re bound to find something that resonates with you.

(there are many which will specialise in bringing together singles in their 30s)

4. Get Social

This is a bit more of a long game with regard to solo travel but in my opinion it’s one of the absolute best things you can do.

Here it is…

JOIN A SOCIAL CLUB IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

If you’re struggling to find friends to go on holiday with then chances are you’re also facing a similar challenge in your day-to-day life (and we all need someone to go grab a beer with on the weekend).

And yet the perfect solution is available to most of us within our local communities which typically have ‘social clubs’ for almost every interest out there.

For example, in recent years I’ve been a member of the following clubs:-

• RBS Football (London – football team)
• One Element (London – outdoor fitness club)
• Y Tri (Washington DC – triathlon club)
• La Ruta Outdoor (Medellin – hiking club)

(yeah, I’ve gotten around a little)!

And without exception, in each of these communities I have met great friends, found people to hang out with on weekends and – most relevant to this blog – ended up going on HOLIDAY with other solo travellers from the group.

Sometimes it was part of an organised group trip (most social clubs do them) and other times just directly with friends I have met through these clubs.

And although these particular groups lean more towards the active side, you can bet there’s a group somewhere that covers you own personal area of interest whether that be music, dance, languages or whatever.

Go check out Meetup which is a great resource for finding such groups.

5. Go With a Tour Group

Last but not least is the option to join a tour group.

Now, I know that some people have the image of tour groups being a bit stuffy or rigid but these days there are definitely some WAY more modern versions out there.

(in fact check out this blog: Debunking 9 Myths About Small Group Tours )

Going back to the story I talked about in the intro – where none of my friends were available to holiday with me – I ended up ‘traveling solo’ for a week of ‘Spanish and Surf’ in Fuerteventura.

It was a fantastic trip, I met a bunch of fun people, and I got that much needed time to disconnect.

Fast forward a couple of years and I joined another tour group called Medsailors for a week of ‘Sun and Sailing’ in Croatia (it was so good I went with them again to Greece the following year)!

Inspired so much by these awesome trips I then went on to create my very own tour company – Other Way Round – specialising in group tours for 30 and 40 somethings solo travellers.

These days there are tour groups for absolutely everything .

Whether you’re into yoga , skiing , meditation, dancing, hiking, biking, literature, museums, adventure or just want to party for two weeks – there’s an option out there for you.

Just type your interest and desired destination into Google and you’ll be spoilt with a bucket load of choices.

(Read also:   Why I Started a Group Travel Company for 30 Somethings ) 

The “Right Way” to Do Travelling Solo in Your 30s

SPOILER ALERT – there is no “right way” to do solo travel in your 30s.

There is no one size fits all.

For some people the thought of Option 1 (Hardcore Solo Travel) will fill them with dread while for others it will sound like paradise.

At the other end of the scale I know people who could think of nothing worse than going on a 2 week group tour with a bunch of “strangers” while for others it’s what they enjoy most.

It all comes down to what you’re more comfortable with as an individual and what better suits your personality.

I tend to lean more towards Option 4 (Social Clubs) and Option 5 (Tour groups).

I like meeting new people and sharing experiences together.

It always takes me a bit of time to get to know new people so I prefer spending a longer period with the same group rather than meeting new people every day.

I like the bond it creates within the group and usually find that on such trips the banter is the best part.

But that’s just me and everyone is different.

The most important takeaway here is that if you’re a solo traveller in your 30s there’s definitely an option out there for you. There’s no need to miss out.

With that in mind…

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE – Don’t Miss Out !

If I can get only one thin g across in this blog it is to tell you not to hold yourself back.

I’m extremely passionate about this subject because I see so many single travellers in their 30s missing out because they don’t take that initial first step .

Yes, it can be tricky.

Often awkward.

Eating at a restaurant alone.

Trying to make friends in a hostel when it feels like everyone else is travelling together.

Meeting up with a new tour group or social group for the first time when you don’t know anyone.

But if you push yourself through those initial moments of pain (torture for some I know) then you will open yourself up to a whole new world of possibilities.

Go on, give it a try!

(Read also:   What You Need to Know About Group Travel In Your 30s & 40s )

Like the Idea of Travelling Solo With Other 30 Somethings?

If you are open to the idea of ‘travelling solo’ as part of a group then it’s worth checking our itineraries at Other Way Round.

You will travel some of the world’s most exotic destinations, meet other solo travellers in their 30s, and we have a way more immersive approach to travel than traditional tour groups.

Below are some of our most popular itineraries.

11 Days in Mexico. Breathe in the pulsating Mexico city, roam the charming streets of traditional Oaxaca, and hit the beach in sun-drenched Tulum.  See Itinerary

15 Days in Colombia. Dance salsa. Meet coffee farmers. Sail tropical islands. Hike lush jungles. Taste the finest Caribbean rum.  See Itinerary

12 Days in Peru. Cook ceviche in Lima, sail the Amazon, hike to Machu Picchu and become awestruck by the Sacred Valley.  See Itinerary

Im very interested in joining your trips Please could you keep me posted

That’s great to hear, we’d love to have you!

The easiest way to keep up to date on our trips is to sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of our home page: https://www.otherwayround.travel/

It’s also worth following our socials.

FB: https://www.facebook.com/otherwayroundtravel

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/otherwayroundtravel/

Thanks Steve

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Over30Experiences

Join our solo travel community for people in their 30s and 40s!

Over30Thailand

-Royal Grand Palace Bangkok -Exploring Sticky Waterfalls in Chiang Mai -Learning about conservation at an elephant sanctuary -Island hopping through the Andaman Sea -Feasting on Thai cuisine

Over30SouthAfrica

-Live with the locals in a village homestay experience -4x4 Excursion in a private game reserve -Opportunities to observe the Big Five in Kruger National Park -Staying in a safari lodge -Visiting Boulder’s Beach to view the African Penguins -South African winery tour

Over30Morocco

-Experience the Blue City of Chefchaouen -Guided tour through the Fes medina -Discover the Erg Chebbi sand dunes -Camping experience in the Sahara Desert -Shopping in the Marrakech Medina

Over30India

-Experience the Taj Mahal -Safari drives in Ranthambore National Park -Exploring markets and historical neighborhoods in Old Delhi -Heritage Tour in Jaipur -Dining on incredible Indian cuisine

Over30Greece

-Walking tour of Athens -Breathtaking whitewashed villages of the Cycladic islands -Local Greek delicacies and a private cooking class -Hiking the volcanic crater of Santorini -Visiting black, red, and white beaches -Sunset kayaking in Santorini

Over30Portugal

-Day trip to Sintra -Hike to Castelo dos Mouros -Visit Capela dos Ossos, the Bones Chapel -Wine tasting in Alentejo  -Kayaking to Ponta da Piedade -Beach time in Lagos and Culatra Island

Over30Prague, Vienna, Budapest

-Visit 3 countries in Central Europe -Experience Prague, Vienna, & Budapest -Drink beer from microbreweries in Prague -Visit museums and palaces in Vienna -Taste the best Hungarian wines -Relax in thermal baths in Budapest

Over30Croatia

-Experience Diocletian's Palace -Full day speedboat tour around Vis island -Indulging in delicious Croatian cuisine -Tasting locally produced wines -Uncovering Croatia's unique history

Over30Egypt

-Camel ride to the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx -Sail the Nile on a traditional felucca boat -Experience the Abu Simbel Temples -Visit tombs at the Valley of the Kings -Share meals in local family’s homes -Cycle the west bank of Luxor

Over30 Iceland Trek

-Trek otherworldly landscapes -Breathtaking views away from tourists -Volcanoes, glaciers, & canyons -Experience lava fields & ash deserts -Camp in the Valley of Thor -20 hours of daylight while trekking

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE

Want to travel abroad, our brands have been seen in....

Quick Links

© 2022-2024 Shadow Concepts LLC. All rights reserved. "Over30Experiences", “Under30Experiences,” “O30X” & all associated proprietary marks are trademarks of Shadow Concepts LLC & its related entities. Other third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Privacy Policy | Terms of Service

• Switzerland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Singles vacations ideal for over 30s

Solo tours ideal for 30 to 40 year olds.

All of our inspiring small group adventure tours are ideal for single travelers over 30, from walking trips to safaris, cycling adventures to cultural and foodie trips. And you’ll be in good company – around half the people in our small groups are typically traveling solo. You'll have all the excitement of traveling solo, but you'll never be alone as our small group trips are designed to offer authentic and often action-packed experiences with like-minded people of all ages, plus an expert group leader who takes care of all the day-to-day details for you. That means all you have to do is arrive and enjoy your trip, whether you want to be active and adventurous on one of our  Multi-Activity trips  or a scenic and challenging Cycling adventure or  Walking tour , or you want to get to know a new corner of the world and meet the locals on a  Discovery  trip. Even if it's your first time traveling solo, you'll fit right in with your group and have an adventure to remember! New to Explore? Read more about traveling solo with us in our blog, which answers some of the most-asked questions. Please note our tours are not limited to 30 and 40 year olds - there may be a wider range of ages on the trip.

Adventure tours ideal for singles over 30

At Explore, adventure tours are our speciality. That includes  adventure tours for single travelers , as we offer a variety of trip styles, themes and paces to suit every taste and energy level. Our Cultural Discovery trips are extremely popular for over 30s solo's as we plan your itinerary with daily activities, accommodation and transport, plus many meals, so you can focus on the adventure. Our faster-paced cultural trips include European group tours, such as the Journey through the Balkans trip, a 12-day tour around one of the world's most intriguing areas with plenty of opportunities to discover history, nature and Balkan city culture too. Foodies won't want to miss our  Classical Sicily  trip, where in between visits to spectacular and well-preserved archaeological sites there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in exquisite local food and wine. Fancy venturing further afield? Explore Imperial cities, breathtaking mountain ranges and vast gorges on the  Highlights of Morocco  group trip, or enjoy a slower pace on the Walks and Wine Tasting in Spain and Portugal as you combine wine and culture while winding through the Douro Valley, national parks and bustling cities.

Active adventures ideal for solo travelers in their 30s

If you're in your 30s and above and have endless energy, you can consider one of our group Active Adventure Holidays where you can canoe, kayak, climb, or cycle to your heart's content! Our  Active Turkey!  trip includes a sea kayaking trip to the 'Sunken City' of Kekova, as well as swimming and snorkeling so you can truly get under the surface of this fascinating destination, or explore new heights by bike or raft on our scenic  Alpine Lakes of Slovenia  group trip. We also offer unforgettable trips for solo travelers over 30 that are ideal for keen walkers, trekkers or cyclists. Our Walking the Western US National Parks  trip includes the dramatic landscapes of the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. Or perhaps you'd like to join our walking  Adventures in Patagonia , as we make our way through the unbelievably varied and beautiful terrain of Argentina and Chile, or hop on two wheels to Cycle Saigon to Hanoi with fellow cycling enthusiasts - we'll even provide your bike.

Popular tours ideal for 30+ year old solos

Jordan discovery.

South Africa and Eswatini

Toubkal Climb

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Walking in Madeira

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

Why take a solo travel tour in your 30s with Explore?

Unforgettable experiences

From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

Expert tour leaders

Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

Small group tours

Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

Responsible at heart

How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

Other solo trip ideas

Solo tours for over 40s, solo tours for over 50s, solo tours for over 60s, solo adventure tours, solo walking trips, solo cycling tours, ready for your solo adventure.

Read more about our solo travel adventures

Top 10 trips for solo travelers

10 unusual places to visit as a solo traveller

First solo trip with Explore? Top 7 questions answered

Solo travel guide for women

Where to go? Our recommendations by month

7 questions answered for your first small-group adventure tour

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel in Your 20s & 30s: Budget, Luxury & Gap Year Tips

There are many reasons why people travel solo in their twenties and thirties.

• Some go with something to prove – that they are strong and capable people.
• Some go for adventure, knowing that the experience will drop more surprises into their life than if they were with others.
• Still others travel solo reluctantly because there is one in their circle with the time and money to go.

Whatever the reason, whether the trip is on a tight budget or a more expansive one, whether it's a weekend getaway or a full gap year, traveling solo in your twenties and thirties is a life-altering experience. It may also be the first time that a person travels without someone else handling all the details.

Traveling alone for the first time is wonderful but it can also be daunting. We have hundreds of how-to posts offering solo travel tips and advice. This is a guide to them and an overview of the most enriching experiences that solo travel in your 20s & 30s can offer.

Before diving into the guide, you might want to read the following for a bit of inspiration.

• Travel Solo and Practice 3 Essential Life Skills
• Travel Solo for the First Time: Complete Guide for Newbies
• Top 10 Films about Solo Travel

Table of Contents

Solo Backpacking: Budget-Friendly and Empowering

There are so many ways to travel solo. You can spend a lot or a little.

Often budget-friendly trips can be empowering as you will have more aspects to manage on your own. By contrast, more luxurious trips, while expensive, may have all the details handled for you by others, so all you have to do is show up.

I tend to like the former. I like backpacks and hostels and negotiating trains and buses and figuring out how things work in foreign destinations. This is the way for many solo travelers in their 20s and 30s.

As a backpacker, you can use money carefully so that you can travel farther, longer, and more often. As a solo backpacker, without anyone along for the ride suggesting ways to spend money that might not be important to you, you get all three.

We have hundreds of posts on budget and backpacker travel. Here are some posts you don't want to miss:

• Backpacking Solo: How to Plan an Exhilarating & Safe Budget Trip
• Walking the Camino Solo: Life-Changing for Body, Mind & Spirit
• The Hostel Experience for Solo Travelers: What to Expect. How to Stay Safe.
• Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers: 2023 Shortlist

For more, use the search bar at the top and simply put in the word “budget”.

Luxury Solo Travel in Your 20s and 30s: Sustainable and Authentic

Luxury travel is great but not at any cost. It's difficult to enjoy luxury if it damages the environment and culture of your destination.

Fortunately, that needn't be the case.

At the Hacienda Tres Rios resort on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, I watched a worker watering the plants along the beach that had been planted there to avoid erosion. He was watering them individually. Water was not being wasted on the sand between plants. Hacienda Tres Rios is known as an environmentally responsible luxury resort. Sustainability is considered in all aspects of its operations. Plus it offers authentic experiences in Tres Ríos Nature Park.

Luxury and all three boxes – sustainability, responsibility, and authenticity – are ticked. Luxury travel for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s is much different than that of their parents.

Here are some posts to help you find the right kind of luxury on your solo travels.

• Adventures in Glamping: Georgian Bay, Ontario
• The Importance of Travel to Developing Countries
• Luxury Solo Travel: Planning Your Trip of a Lifetime
• Carbon Offsets for Travel: Important? Yes. Expensive? No.
• Luxury Travel on a Budget: 32 Tips You Need to Know

Taking a Gap Year Solo

Traveling long-term offers a special reward to solo travelers in their 20s and 30s. Before settling down (if that is indeed the plan), a grand adventure of a gap year is planned to capture all the joy that travel has to offer.

Planning for a gap year is a little more involved than your standard trip. It takes saving and a better sense of geography than most people have. Because the trip is long, communications and managing access to money is more important, as well as pacing its use. And then, you also need to know yourself. Do you have goals for the trip? Do you want to schedule things or are you fine with sudden decisions to change plans?

Pacing the entire trip is important. It's important to be aware that you can't travel as quickly for a year as you do for a few weeks. You'll need to slow down. Sometimes, you even need a break from navigating and negotiating every detail yourself. This is when a tour, for a week or even more, may be very valuable. You'll also likely want to travel with someone for a period of time. The company, for a while, will be refreshing.

Here are some relevant posts for you to read.

• Long-term Travel Guide: Slow Travel One Destination or Tour Many
• How to Find a Travel Companion: Safe Options and Some to Avoid
• Need a Break? 11 Options for a Great Solo Holiday
• Where to Go? Great Destinations for First-Time Solo Travelers
• Solo Travel Safety: 50+ Proven Tips to Keep You Safe

Solo On a Group Tour

I have been asked a number of times: how can you be solo if you're traveling in a group?

The fact is that there are many ways to travel solo. By my definition, you are traveling solo if you leave those people who define you, who have expectations of you on a daily basis, behind. You can do this traveling independently and you can do this if you pick up with a group or cruise.

Traveling solo in a group or escorted tour means you have the freedom to be who you want to be. There is no need to accommodate a partner or friend. It also means that you have the support of the tour company to manage all the details and, in many cases, you'll make new friends.

Tours come in many shapes, sizes, and prices. There are hub and spoke tours during which you stay in one spot and take day trips out to other places. Traditional tours move from one destination to another. Small groups usually involve fewer than 15 people. Coach tours can have more than 40 passengers. As for the cost, you can spend as much as you want.

The big deal for solo travelers is the single supplement. This is a premium that some companies charge for giving you your own room. In reality, it is cheaper for a company to sell to a couple but have to pay for only one room on the tour. However, with the rise of solo travel and our campaign to get more companies to drop the single supplement, more and more companies are adapting to the needs of solo travelers.

Make sure you check out our list of tours with no or low single supplements. Or sign up here and we'll send you the new list as soon as it's updated each month.

• How to Choose a Tour for Solo Travelers: Top Tips for Savings and Fun
• Group Tour in Iran: A Solo Traveler’s Dream Trip
• 10 Reasons Tours are Great for Solo Travelers
• Benefits of a Coach Tour: My Morocco Trip
• Self-Guided Tour: The Pleasure of Your Own Pace

Top Tips for Solo Travel in Your 20s & 30s

There is so much to be said about how to travel solo. Here are some great how-to posts that dig into specifics in different areas.

• How to Plan Your Travel Budget: Luxury or Frugal Two ways to plan your travel budget.
• Solo Travel Mistakes and How to Avoid Them If there's a mistake to be made I've made it. Learn from my experience.
• Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations You need this so that you can securely go online to use a credit card or manage money in your bank while you're traveling.
• Solo Travel Safety: Expert Advice This post covers some broad travel safety advice. You can also read our 50 Tips and 5 Fundamental Solo Travel Safety Principles .
• A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers This is one that people try to avoid, but definitely shouldn't. It's really important.
• Night Safety for Solo Travelers: How to Have Fun and Be Safe Going out at night is recommended but so are these safety tips. Here's another post on that subject: Travel Solo and Enjoy the Nightlife: 18 Tips for Going to a Bar Alone .
• Road Trip Alone with Confidence: 10 Tips for a Great Trip Road trips are particularly popular right now but it is wise to prepare for them properly.
• Eating Alone is Easy When You Know How There are so many options for eating alone. Reading a book is the least interesting of them.
• Safe and Easy Hiking Destinations for Solo Travelers Adventure travel is more popular than urban travel for solo travelers. Here are some destination suggestions.
• The Wits & Wonder Travel Course If you want advice without bouncing around the site, this course is for you.

Want to hear what solo travel is like? Watch this video.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

• Login to Your Advertiser Account
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Media & Speaking
• Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

• Search for:

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

• TRAVEL PLANNING SERVICES
• The Caribbean
• South Carolina
• Eastern Europe
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL
• PRIVACY POLICY

Solo Female Travel , Positive Lifestyle , Travel Inspiration

9 reasons solo travel in your 30s is (still) incredible.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Solo travel in your 30s is incredible.  Yes, my friends, the worldly adventures don’t stop once you hit the big three zero. I speak from personal experience here.

After turning 30, I decided I wouldn’t slow down my travels, even though I knew I’d still have to go on most of my trips alone.

Yup, just a single (gulp) plane ticket for me, myself, and I.

What can I say? Not everyone in my social circle has the same number of vacation days available throughout the year, nor does everyone have the same desire to travel the world for weeks on end. It’s cool.

Yet, despite all this, I have to say that I’m happy to see that 30 something solo travel has gained popularity in recent years. I don’t feel  alone even though I still solo travel – if that makes sense.

For example, reading about “flashpackers” as well as participating in women’s travel groups make me feel like less of an outcast for going to new places without anyone else joining me.

At this age, a lot of people travel with spouses and kids, which I’m not even close to at this point in my life. 

Although, really, when have I ever cared about following the crowd? Ha. Never.

Anyway, enough about me. So are you in your 30s and debating on traveling alone at this very moment? Then I have great news for you.

Table of Contents

The Many Reasons Solo Travel in Your 30s is Amazing

This week I wanted to write an inspirational post about solo travel.

After all, it was a solo trip to Scotland that changed my entire life for the better. I was hit with the realization that I didn’t need to wait for anyone to see the places I wanted to see. It was groundbreaking news. 

So, for this dose of “wanderlust happiness,” I wrote about the nine reasons why solo travel in your 30s is a wonderful experience. I  firmly  believe everyone should go on a trip alone at least once. 

Think about all the benefits.

In our busy world, we rarely take the time to learn about ourselves. Going to a brand new place is a great way to connect with our inner goals and dreams, as well as figure out life’s lessons. I know that all sounds insanely deep and thought provoking, but I promise it’s the truth. 

Onward with why solo travel in your 30s is incredible! Let’s do this.

1. You Probably Have More Money to Burn

Let’s talk about dollar signs, ya’ll.

Now I realize having more money in one’s 30s isn’t the case for everyone. Some cities have much  higher costs of living than others. Not every 30something year old has disposable income to throw at travel expenses. 

However, for some people, material wealth increases in one’s 30s compared to his or her 20s.

Needless to say, if you’re better off financially, then it’s much easier to build trips into your yearly budgets, and then actually enjoy the experiences without worrying about depleting your savings to 0. 

Not to mention, you can also stay at swankier hotels and charming AirBnbs rather than settling for an eight bed dorm located on the outskirts of town. 

As you get older and (hopefully) reach more financial stability, plenty of trips appear in your future. 

2. Eating Alone Doesn’t Bother You … As Much

Ahhh, one of the best things about traveling in my 30s is letting go of my shyness in restaurants.

What. A. Challenge.

You guys, you guys. I’ve always had a fear of eating alone in public , but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve stopped caring about the opinions of complete strangers.

I don’t know what specifically made my change my mind. Something just mentally clicked.

I mean, when I actually thought about it, I realized that these waiters and bartenders probably see solo diners every day. Why would they waste time talking trash about me eating by myself?

Honestly, I used to think requesting a “table for one” at a restaurant was the hardest thing in the universe. 

I thought people would judge me for being alone. Feel sorry for me. Pity me. Now I realize that most people are too busy enjoying their meals and talking to their own companions to notice what I’m doing. 

However, I admit that I have much less anxiety eating lunch or dinner at the bar. Lots of business people, locals, and other travelers are doing the exact same thing all by themselves. I feel less alone.

A solo meal at a romantic and fancy restaurant with white tablecloths, on the other hand, still intimidates me. 

3. You Appreciate the Beauty of Slow Travel

Remember the days of people comparing passport stamps and bragging about all the different countries that they’ve visited last year?

Ugh, it wasn’t the best trend in the travel space. Boasting about one’s “country count” is an embarrassingly self-indulgent conversation, no matter how you look at it. 

But I have some good news. To tell you the truth, checking off countries appeals much less to me in my 30s.

Yup, it’s true. For instance, if I want to go to Scotland ten times, you better believe that I’m booking those tickets and not caring what anyone else thinks about my decisions. 

In your 30s, you appreciate slowing down your trips so you can experience a country or region on a deeper level. Not to mention, less time in transit means more time to sleep at night and eat exquisite dinners.

Slow travel is always the best travel (in my humble opinion). Embrace it now.

Read More:  How to Travel Alone for the First Time

4. You’re More Assertive About Your Needs

As you get older, you’re much better at setting boundaries , and have probably cultivated a stronger sense of self-love and self-worthiness. 

This means confidence, baby. Nowadays I speak up a lot more when I’m feeling bothered or overwhelmed. And this straight-forward attitude benefits me on my trips.

I’m not even kidding guys. You need to act in an assertive manner when you’re traveling alone. ESPECIALLY when you’re traveling alone.

Why? No one else is looking out for your best interests, meaning you’re required to speak up when you’re lost in the middle of Madrid or dissatisfied with your accommodation in Prague. 

If you’re unhappy, then you need to use your voice and express your thoughts. In your thirties, you’ve developed the confidence to vocalize your problems. Great job for putting yourself first!

5. You’re Willing to Stray Off the Backpacker Trail

In my twenties, I stayed close to the biggest tourist destinations and most popular cities, because I didn’t want to wander too far from where all the other backpackers congregated in hoardes.

Haha, I actually used to plan my trips around destinations that had the highest concentration of social hostels. Yup, I’d go to hostelworld and decide my cities based on the reviews I found there.

Not anymore! Now I go wherever my heart and interests take me. 

For example, on my solo trip to Italy, I stayed overnight in destinations such as Parma and Camogli instead of strictly staying in Milan. I wanted a true mixture of cities and towns.

In your 30s, you’re ready to try new places. Which means you don’t mind if you’re the only single tourist in town. Look at you and your bravery! 

6. You Value Your Own Company

At 30, you’re perfectly fine keeping your own company. I actually like having alone time to replenish my energy. 

In my 20s, I purposely stayed at the most social hostels possible so I’d always have new friends to entertain me. Sometimes I’d even skip dinner because I didn’t want to venture out by myself. Isn’t that sad?

Nowadays, I’m fine if I don’t meet anyone else on my solo adventures. I learn about my new destination on a much deeper level if it’s just me. I’m not distracted. I can simply exist in the moment.

Without a doubt, in your 30s, valuing your own company is essential for happiness, and it’s even better to fall in love with yourself in a new and exciting destination. 

7. You Care Less About Naysayers and Nonsense

Receiving criticism for traveling alone? Luckily, you’re now at an age when you don’t care about what other people think. 

I used to take it very personally whenever someone judged me for my solo travels. This didn’t happen a lot. I have a very supportive family and wonderful friends who understand that travel means the world to me. They accept me. 

However, I would sometimes encounter naysayers who simply couldn’t believe that a woman would want to travel instead of focusing on finding a man or buying a house. Say what?

In your 30s, you’re better at ignoring any criticism. You realize that your life belongs only to you. You don’t have to sacrifice your happiness to make your existence acceptable to near strangers.

8. You’re Less Likely to Succumb to Peer Pressure

Solo travel in your 30s is great, because you won’t tolerate peer pressure.

After all, with your new added confidence, comes less willingness to follow the crowd. In my 20s, I eagerly participated in the activities that newfound pals at my hostel wanted to do. Not the case in my 30s!

If I want to check out a new restaurant or world class museum and no one else wants to go, oh well! I’m fine on my own! 

I’ll admit that I did some stupid things traveling in my 20s that I wouldn’t repeat today. I wanted people to like me. I want to impress others. 

Now I care a lot less about what near strangers think of me. … uh, are we sensing a pattern here? 

Honestly, this lesson is wonderful even when you’re not solo traveling, but staying at home.

Consider your needs. If you feel pressured to go someplace and act in a certain way, then think long and hard about the situation. Don’t stay around people who exert mental force on you. They’re not your friends. 

9. Let’s Face It: You’re Still Young!

Last but not least, you should do solo travel in your 30s because you’re still young. Yes, I promise you’re still young.

Due to a plethora of reasons, society has us convinced that once you hit your 30s somehow you’re officially old. Done. Discarded. Useless.

I think this awful “used up” feeling is even worse for women due to the whole idea that your fertility (supposedly) jumps off a cliff at 35. 

However, you need to ignore what society tells you and embrace logic instead. Life expectancy is almost 79 years old in the United States . So unless you have a horrific accident or succumb to a rare disease, you’ll likely live that long.

Mathematically speaking, in your 30s, you’re probably not even halfway through your time on earth yet.

So how exactly is this decade considered “old?!” GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE! Now! Right now!

So why do you think that solo travel in your 30s is an awesome endeavor? What places have you traveled in your 30s? What are your top destinations for this decade? Share all of your thoughts in the comments. 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Group Travel in Your 30s and 40s: How to Choose, Book, & Go

Posted on Published: April 19, 2022  - Last updated: October 11, 2023

Small group travel is a great option for people who want the experience of travel with the support of a group and trustworthy guide. Even though I love  solo travel , group travel has helped me safely explore parts of the world I’d never go alone.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• Expert tips for finding tours just for adults in their 30’s and 40’s ,
• Advice on choosing a tour company (and 🚩 red flags to avoid!)
• How to hack the perfect trip by combining group travel, solo travel, and day tours.

For the last few years, I’ve been trying group tours with various small-group travel companies. In this article, I share what I’ve learned:

Why People like Small Group Travel

Small group travel is one of the best ways to truly vacation while traveling internationally. Often, international travel (especially solo!) is really hard. Staying alert to your surroundings, navigating transportation, and planning each day takes a ton of time and energy.  While rewarding, it’s rarely a vacation .

Sometimes, international travel can be a little too much 🚋🏰🏃🏽‍♀️📅, and not enough 🏝️🍹🌞 🌺 . Small group travel can be the best of both worlds.

Small group tours offer a solution. By offering travelers a tried-and-true itinerary, expert guides, and pre-paid transportation, travelers can focus on just  enjoying themselves .

The key is finding the right small group tour- and believe me, all group trips are not the same!

In the next section, I share how to find epic small group trips and recognize the red flags of a bad small group trip.

Before you Book: Choose your Travel Style

Picking the right small group tour is a little art and a little science. Here’s an example of why:

💬 Say you’re in your mid 30’s and see an amazing adult small group trip for people “ages 18-35”. You might think, “Hey, that’s me! I could get in on that trip!” However, you might find yourself on the road with a dozen college spring breakers focused exclusively on nightlife. That’s less than ideal for most 30-something travelers!

That’s why it’s important to know what you want and how to find a good match among the thousands of options. Here’s what to pay attention to:

Choose your Age Range

Small group travel for 20-somethings tends to have a nightlife-oriented vibe. On the other hand, group tours targeted towards retirees would be a snoozefest for most of us.

Look, instead, for tours that say they’re for people who are your age. Today, many modern group tours are designed especially for mature adults at the peak of their professional careers who want to enjoy an amazing trip that they don’t have to plan.

Choose your Activity Level

Sure, you could probably make it through that hiking-focused itinerary, but would it be fun ? Are you fit enough to enjoy yourself or would you struggle to keep up and stress that you were slowing the rest of the group down? Choose a group with an activity level that fits your lifestyle.

🚴🏾💨 I like to choose group tours that sound challenging for my fitness level. Then, getting ready for the trip serves as a motivation for me to hit the gym in the weeks leading up to the trip.

Insider Tip: According to my insider connections in the industry, on Intrepid tours, physical rating isn’t just distance walked, it factors in altitude and number of scheduled hikes. In some cases, especially city tours, tours rated a “1” may actually include more walking than many “2” trips.

Choose your Level of Amenities & Inclusions

A budget trip will partner you with people who value experience over amenities. On the other hand, a more luxurious trip may connect you with other professional adults who want an exciting vacation without the stress of planning.

Picking the right activity, comfort, and age level will not only shape your trip, will also shape what kind of people will book the trip. Choose wisely! One of the best ways to do this is to book a group tour through a tour company that prioritizes your travel tastes.

Pro tip: According to my contact at Intrepid corporate, the average age of small group travelers tends to rise with the comfort level: budget trips are filled with students and 20-somethings, while premium-comfort trips skew towards mid-career adults.

With group travel tours designed for adults in their 30s and 40s, you’ll be able to explore with an expert local guide.

Choose What is Important to You

Before you select a tour company, decide if you’re looking more for adventure and cultural experiences, or relaxation and entertainment. Knowing this will help you pick the group tour best suited to you.

Choosing a Tour Company

There are major group travel companies for people in their 30s and 40s. While it’s true that there are countless companies organizing group travel, these are the most popular tour operators that curate trips specifically for young professionals and middle-aged adults. 

Intrepid Group Tours

Intrepid Tours has an impeccable reputation for tours that offer adventure, cultural experiences, and custom add-ons. Intrepid has over a dozen trip “themes” to choose from on their website, from “expeditions,” to “retreats,” to “wildlife.” Intrepid focuses on providing travelers with community-based tourism that brings locals in as an active component of the experience. They believe in sustainable travel .

Finding the Perfect Intrepid Tour

Want to see the wild animals of the Kenyan Savanna with other travelers, but wouldn’t know where to start planning? Intrepid can handle this for you, and provide you with local connections that would be impossible to discover on your own. When I decided to visit the Day of the Dead festival in Mexico in 2022, I specifically chose to travel with Intrepid because I knew I’d have the opportunity to be more than a spectator.  

You can also narrow down your search based on the length of your trip, the date of departure, and the budget you’ve set for yourself. For example, if you only want to spend up to $2,000 and travel for no more than 10 days, you can filter for these options in the right hand column.

Intrepid focuses on “small group” tours- and keeping the max number of travelers around 12. This number allows friendships to form and, by the end, for you to be traveling with friends.

G Adventures Group Tours

Similarly, G Adventures provides its customers with various travel styles and emphasizes cultural education and environmental consciousness in its values. G Adventures highlights its authenticity and sustainability in its mission. 

💡 I first learned about G adventures from a fellow traveler on my second-ever international trip. The seatmate on my flight to Dublin explained that she was returning home from her 12th trip with G Adventures! It was quite an endorsement!

G Adventure’s tour types range from region-specific, to age-specific, to transportation-specific. Want to go on a spiritual wellness retreat in Bali? Dare to bike around Iceland’s fjords? G Adventures has you covered. Like Intrepid, their tours are sorted by age, comfort level, and activity level.

Contiki Group Travels

While Intrepid is known for being the option for serious travelers, and G-adventure’s younger tours are generally a split between travel and nightlife, Contiki tours fall on the far end of that spectrum.

In my experience, Contiki’s adult small group trips are larger and skew younger, with an emphasis on nightlife and pubcrawls. Contiki tour groups may include several dozen people! Read more unbiased reviews on Contiki on Reddit .

Picking the Right Travel Package

Once you’ve picked a tour operator, it’s time to choose a specific trip to take. When booking, there are a few hacks you can use to increase your odds that you’ll be grouped with people of a similar age. 

Go a Li ttle Upscale .

Travelers in their teens and twenties are more likely to choose budget tours. Paying a little more for a group tour will increase your likelihood to be traveling with people closer to your age who are thriving professionally . 

Often, group tour companies offer different tiers of comfort with their tours. For example, “styles” like basic, original, comfort, and premium. Basic offers simplicity and more free time, but the higher tiers provide more upscale accommodation and food options, as well as more in-depth travel experiences with locals.

Value other factors over specific age r estrictions.

By not filtering out anyone, you’re actually more likely to be around solo travelers in your age group . Here’s how:

As much as you want to avoid traveling with partying college students, they want to be around other partying college students even more.

Tour companies that also offer age-restricted tours for ages 18-29 are better tour companies to book with for group travel in your 30s and 40s. Why? Because younger adults looking for a nightlife-focused trip will usually book those options rather than an all-age tour. The same goes for families, who are likely to choose family-focused tours. 

The folks who remain in the “all ages” tour? Well, they’re often average travelers in their 30’s and 40’s interested in vibrant travel experiences.

Be Open to Day Tours: 

If you’re anything like me, being around new people 24/7 while traveling can be really exhausting. On the other hand, I like to have the opportunity to meet others while I’m traveling solo. 

Short excursions and planned day tours can be the perfect balance for solo travelers who wants to branch out.   Airbnb has options for one or two-day trips that could be a part of a larger vacation or a short weekend excursion. Say you’re trekking around Australia and want to learn some hardcore survival skills. You could join a two day “bush survival adventure” with Airbnb Adventures. Looking for more cultural enrichment? Try learning Japanese Printing at an artist’s studio in Tokyo. 

Airbnb Adventures offers a wide variety of tours and experiences that range from one day to over a week. These tours and mini-tours can be a great enrichment opportunity during a self-guided trip. Always consider, though, the impact that Airbnb has on communities. If there are local alternatives to corporate Airbnb, choose local first.

GROUP TRAVEL PRO TIP: Have a Bucket List and be ready to do small solo excursions

When you’ve chosen the tour that’s ideal for you, compare the itinerary with your personal “must see’s” in the destination. Scroll through the trip itinerary and view all of the sites that are included with the tour price!

The itinerary defines how many days you will stay in each location, what you will do as part of the tour group, and how much free that you will have!

💡 NOTE: On budget trips, tour groups usually break up each day for solo/free time. Some travelers may use this time to rest, but I recommend sightseeing extra things you want to see. Everyone has a bucket list of items they want to visit when traveling, and these may or may not be included in the itinerary that your tour company has put together for you.

Final Tips: Keep an Open Mind

If you’re an experienced traveler in your 30s and 40s, you know what you like. It’s nice to be around people who are the same. It’s possible to find other similar travelers through group tours and planned excursions. You never know who you may befriend!

Learn more about small group travel through my guide to small group travel in 2023 and my review of an Intrepid Premium trip to Morocco .

Lynli Roman’s unique approach to travel is informed by decades of experience on the road with a traveling family and, later, years spent as a solo international traveler. When she’s not writing about Seattle from her Pike Place Market apartment, Lynli writes on-location while conducting hands-on research in each destination she covers. Lynli’s writing has been featured by MSN, ABC Money, Buzzfeed, and Huffington Post. She is passionate about sharing information that makes travel more accessible for all bodies.

• Bucket-List
• For First-Timers
• Off the Beaten Path
• Short Stays
• Safari Adventures
• Ambassador Adventures

Trip Styles

• Bucket List

Trip duration

Collections

• For First Timers
• Active Adventures
• Beach Escapes
• Winter Getaways
• Wildlife Trips
• Group Bookings

New and trending

• Alcohol-Free Adventures
• New Adventures
• Coming Soon
• Bestselling Adventures
• Browse by Experience
• Meet Your Travel Experts
• Meet your Pack Leaders
• The Flash Pack Foundation

How it works

• Payments, deposits & instalments
• Travel Extras
• About Solo Travel
• Careers at Flash Pack
• Partner as a Travel Agent
• Trip terms and conditions
• Safety with Flash Pack
• Flash Pack’s privacy policy

Latest deals

• Our September Offer
• Your latest travel offers
• Your last chance to book

Insider trips

Sorry no insider trips are available right now, check back soon.

• Feed your inspiration with all the latest stories from our content hub.
• Relationships
• Career Tips

Top stories

Friendship Tips

Travel Tips

• See all articles

Destinations

• Travelling in your 30s and 40s is best – here’s why

Matt Risley 24th Nov 2023 7 min read

When I was younger, I made many, many mistakes. From the mullet that launched a thousand Facebook Memories, to the hours I spent obsessively learning the lyrics to Sir Mix-a-Lot’s Greatest Hits, we all have our own personal eye-rolling sins to bear. But with age comes wisdom (or so they tell me) and hindsight that makes you appreciate the value in those oft-facepalming learning curves.

I hadn’t realised this quite as much as when noticing the difference between travelling in my 20s and then in my 30s and 40s. Youth may be wasted on the young, but adventure, experience and travelling only gets better with age. Here’s why I believe that travelling in your 30s and 40s is better than in your 20s.

5 reasons to travel solo in your 30s and 40s

1. You don’t rely on a drink to find your comfort zone

I imagine most of us who drink alcohol can relate to the cringe-worthy morning after, and the attempt to piece together a litany of embarrassing escapades from the night before. The combination of social anxiety, backpacker booze culture and thrifty living meant that boozy nights at 7-for-1 bars were a common occurrence during my 20-something travels.

But as an older, wiser traveller in my 30s, with a decidedly more delicate liver, I don’t feel the need to rely on a drink to find my comfort zone anymore. Walking into a group of strangers is nowhere near as worrisome when you know you’re all there for the same shared experience. Even better, when you’re travelling in your 30s sober, you can soak up each new place undiluted, allowing for a more ‘in the moment’ holiday and memories you can actually remember.

2. Solo travel is a form of self care

Something I’ve learnt with age is that it’s important to treat yourself every now and again. Travelling in my 20s, I didn’t have cash to spare. But travelling in my 30s and 40s there was a little fiscal wiggle room – something I wholeheartedly embraced. In ten years’ time, I guarantee I won’t remember what I spent on that hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia , private boat trip and local hammam in Turkey . I’ll only remember the happy, joyful feeling of what it was like to live it.

I’ve found that taking a breather from the madness and monotony of a professional and personal life becomes ever more important the older (and more responsible) you get. Which means that when I travel to a new location and soak up all the new sights, smells and sounds, I appreciate every second all the more. Contentment is about balance, perspective and living in the moment, and travelling in your 30s and 40s allows you to experience each and every one of those in surprising harmony.

3. You are more assertive

It doesn’t matter how high your IQ is, there are some common sense life lessons you only learn through trial and error. That innate sixth sense for knowing when ‘going with the flow’ has slowly morphed into ‘oh whoops, what have I done and how do I get out of this predicament’. I’ve found that it factors into your travelling experience on a daily basis and becomes a finessed self-preservation instinct the older you get.

Next time, I won’t follow a complete stranger to a bar purely because they’re offering a margarita BOGOF deal. Next time, I won’t hitchhike with an overly smiley stranger because they reckon they know a quick shortcut that’ll shave minutes off my travel time. These all provided such beautiful interactions with strangers but I now, as a traveller over 30, find other ways to do that. And yes, I will live to a riper old age with many more stories to show for it.

4. You make your own travel memories

For me and many others, the fear of leaving the pack to follow your own path is an anxiety-sparking issue in your 20s – especially when you’re travelling with best friends or significant others. But when travelling in my 30s and 40s, I’ve realised that while having someone else to do something with is lovely, you don’t need anyone else to make the memory – just the confidence and happiness to blaze your own path.

If you’ve always wanted to explore the sights and delights of Japan or Peru but you don’t have anyone ready to join you on the adventure, then it shouldn’t stop you from doing it anyway. Especially when companies, like Flash Pack , which specialise in group travel for 30-40-year-olds , exist and are ready and willing to pair you up with other like-minded people equally as excited to explore.

5. The people you meet are more interesting

Not only did I find it easier to connect with others the older I got, but – shhh, whisper, and definitely don’t tell the best friend you’ve had since primary school – the people I’ve met on my trips are usually infinitely more interesting. When travelling in your 30s and 40s, everyone’s lived a life. Everyone has a backstory (or ten) and multiple reasons for joining the trip in the first place. While the ‘I’m just out of uni’ conversation starters I endured when I was younger were all well and good, as a traveller in my 30s I’m now more likely to meet people with fascinating jobs, eyebrow-raising life situations or Pulitzer-worthy travelling tales of their own.

Because of travelling in my 30s and 40s, I can now count the owner of a billionaire member’s club, an ex-yogi to the Hollywood stars and an ultra-marathon runner as friends – something I never saw coming. But they are all relationships that have brought a lot of laughter, happiness and opportunity into my life as a result.

How to embrace solo travel in your 30s and 40s

There’s no doubt that solo travel in your 30s and 40s is enriching – but there are still several ways to approach it depending on the experience you’re looking for. Here are the two most common routes you could take.

Go it alone

Committing to ‘ going it alone ’ entails planning the whole of your trip (flights, accommodation, excursions, the itinerary – everything) by yourself. Truly putting the ‘solo’ in solo travel. This means you can enjoy the freedom of not having to please anyone else, but it may also be a daunting prospect if you’re travelling alone for the first time.

Join a guided solo travel group

Another way to experience solo travel in your 30s and 40s is by joining a solo group with Flash Pack, where the hassle is taken out of travel planning, giving you access to unique experiences that are difficult to arrange on your own. You’ll also be paired with a small group of like-minded adventurers so you can make lasting friendships .

Explore our adventure trips .

Experience the freedom of travelling in your 30s and 40s

Thinking of taking your next solo trip in your 30s or 40s? Join Flash Pack today to go on an adventure with other like-minded travellers.

Got a story or adventure that could inspire a solo traveller like you? Tag @flashpack on social or email [email protected] to be featured.

Images: Flash Pack

Big joy: how to light up your life with “micro-acts” of kindness and connection

By Anna Brech

FLASH PACK STORIES

Your latest travel inspiration

“Solo travel is the opposite of addiction. You’re present in the world”

Celebrity sober coach Bob Marier says quitting alcohol has transformed his life, opening up a whole new world of adventure and connection.

Bob Marier 30th August 2024 7 min read

Sober curious? The unexpected joys of travelling alcohol-free

After giving up alcohol, writer Maggie Downs welcomed in a world of early morning yoga and geothermal swims.

Maggie Downs 29th August 2024 7 min read

Mental Health

Hiking in the hills of Cumbria turned me from an addict into a fell-loving foodie

Camp-stove cook, Harrison Ward – aka “Fell Foodie” – describes how hiking in the great outdoors helped him kick the booze for good.

Harrison Ward 29th August 2024 7 min read

“Living abroad as a blind woman, I felt accepted for the first time in my life”

Blind since birth, Heather Hutchison spent a year living in Lima, Peru – and discovered a newfound sense of belonging with the local community.

Heather Hutchison 22nd August 2024 7 min read

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to our newsletter.

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else.

Be the first to hear about exclusive Flash Pack offers.

Access exciting competitions.

Receive weekly inspiration and travel stories from solos just like you.

You are browsing our US website.

Please choose your current location below:

You are browsing our UK website.

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

10 Bucket List Trips to Take in Your 30s

By Jennifer Dombrowski 31 Comments

I have celebrated my faux 29th birthday again and again…and again. When I officially entered my mid-thirties, it was time to just embrace it. If you’re like me with your 20s undeniably in the rear view mirror, you probably have more money in your bank account, a better sense of who you are, and more importantly, you’ve discovered your travel style . I know I have, so I’ve put together a list of 10 bucket list trips to take in your 30s for adventurers who love a little bit of luxury at the end of the day:

1. Go on an African Safari in East Africa

A bucket list trip I’ve already taken twice in my 30s, going on an African safari in Tanzania and Kenya tops the list of most amazing trips I’ve ever been on. Aside from spotting all of Africa’s Big Five , we watched a pack of hyenas hunt, zebras and wildebeest as they migrated on the Serengeti Plains and giraffes crane their necks just for a drink. We combined adventure with luxury by sleeping in tented camps and 1000 year old baobab trees all while traveling by private plane on a SkySafari in Tanzania and at boutique luxury camps in Kenya .

2. Camp in Antarctica

The seventh continent has been on our bucket list for a while and we WILL make it there in our 30s. Not all Antarctica cruises are created equal though. When we go to Antarctica we not only want to step foot on the continent, we want to camp on it. It would be the highlight of my 30s to wake up to a curious penguin checking me out while cocooned in my sleeping bag. Quark Expedition s, the leader in Polar travel, offers the option to camp on the continent and when we go, we’ll be going with them. (Unless I get that job at the Penguin Post Office.)

3. Glamping in Moab

I like the fancy form of roughing it. Tim likes a bona fide camping experience. Glamping is a great compromise to make both of us happy – he’s out in nature and I still get to be squeaky clean every day. Moab Under Canvas sits right at the edge of Arches National Park, allowing you to commune with nature’s bizarrely beautiful formations and sleep under the stars. We’d love to spend a few days glamping and wetting our appetite for adventure while white water rafting the Colorado River, hiking in Arches and Canyonlands National Park and hot air ballooning over Moab.

4. Dive in the Maldives

It be cliched to say, but the Maldives truly are paradise on Earth. The 1100 islands that make up the Maldives are home to some of the largest coral atolls on Earth. Swimming right off your over water villa is like diving right in to a life-sized aquarium. The over water villas with private plunge pools, underwater restaurant where you can dine on aphrodisiacs like lobster, couples massages and pristine white sand beaches at Anantara Kihavah Villas make for a sexy holiday best shared with your special someone.

The Colorful Underwater World of the Maldives

5. Explore the Alaskan Wilderness

Alaska. The last frontier full of untamed, untouched wilderness. We think it’s the perfect adventure for a thirtysomething; after all it’s been an adventure destination since the times of Captain Cook. With only 20% of Alaska accessible by roads, we think Un-Cruise Adventures is the way to go. Massive floating resorts, er cruise ships, aren’t our thing. But a small expedition style ship that can navigate small inlets and passages and hosts an itinerary full of adventure activities from kayaking to hiking and even SUP is right up our alley. And we’d just be tickled pink to get up-close with Alaska’s brown bears!

6. Go Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

We retired from the club scene years ago and moved on to the art of eating well and enjoying the finer things in life, like wine. Meandering through the lush vineyards of Bordeaux , sipping some of the most highly coveted wine blends in the world, blending our own wine and taking a cooking lesson to prepare the perfect meal to pair with the wine are just some adult ways to have fun in Bordeaux .

Blend Your Own Cognac at Camus Cognac

7. Swim with the Bahamas’ Swimming Pigs

Once upon a time we planned to honeymoon at the brand new Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. That was 13 years ago now and it never happened. But now that we’ve been to the Bahamas twice, we’re so glad we opted for the lesser known islands to seek out pristine beaches and exotic nature. The Exumas, where you can call ultra-exclusive luxury resorts home at the end of an adventure filled day, make us go googly-eyed. And you can swim with the Bahamas’ famous swimming pigs !

8. Drive the Ring Road in Iceland

Iceland is a great destination to go to no matter your age and we’ve seen the twenty-somethings hitch hiking, surviving off of nothing more than the $2 gas station hot dogs and pitching a tent wherever the wind took them that day. But in your 30s you can splurge on amazing experiences like a helicopter flight over glaciers and volcanoes , luxury accommodations like the stunning  Hotel Ranga and feast on Iceland’s fantastic cuisine. Honestly, after a day of hard core adventures like trekking to the summit of a glacier , wouldn’t you prefer to soothe your tired muscles in a hot tub under the stars before indulging in lobster bisque and filet of lamb?

Iceland’s Ring Road in 1 Week

9. chase the northern lights in lapland.

Northern Lights tourism is still a relatively new trend, though the Northern Lights themselves are not. The Aurora Borealis, and its southern counterpart the Aurora Australis, have been dancing in the Polar Night for at least as long as the Earth is old. Over the last two or three years as the sun reaches the peak of its solar cycle, spectacular photos of green, red, purple and sometimes even blue curtains have intrigued people enough to travel to the far north in teeth-chattering temperatures for a chance to witness the phenomena in person. Taylor made holidays to Lapland combine Northern Lights tours with other adventure activities from dog sledding to sleeping in an ice hotel . It truly is a trip of a lifetime, albeit an expensive one, and worth the splurge.

Why Abisko is the Best Place in Europe to See Northern Lights

10. Explore Easter Island on Horseback

I’ve wanted to visit the remote speck of an island in the middle of the Pacific, known as Easter Island, since I saw Matt Lauer report from there in his ‘Where In the World is Matt Lauer’ series on the Today Show . Though only a few flights each week carry adventurous tourists to Easter Island, it’s certainly not an undiscovered place. But some of Easter Island’s most spectacular Moais (the weird statues) are accessible only by trail and best explored on horseback. It’s even possible to arrange multi-day horseback excursions around Easter Island, which sounds like the perfect adventure to me.

This article contains affiliate links. When you book on Anantara , Booking.com or Viator through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

March 6, 2015 at 4:13 PM

I’m in my 30s too, and although I have no bucket list to speak of, I do want to go to Antarctica. I didn’t know you could camp out there though. I wonder what its effect will be on the “locals”? Based on this list, I also want to explore Lapland, see the northern lights, and of course set foot in Rapa Nui. Maybe I should write about my own bucket list…LOL

Jacomijn says

March 6, 2015 at 4:48 PM

I’m 40 now and did a lot of great travels in the last decade…..and planning on to do somd more 😉

March 6, 2015 at 5:24 PM

You are still so young – and these bucket lists will only get longer. I am heading to Maob at the end of the month. That part of Utah is one of my fave places on the planet. We’ll be staying at the Sunflower Hill Inn – a place I love. Good luck getting through this list.

March 6, 2015 at 8:16 PM

There are two that stand out for me in this list. Swimming with the pigs in those gorgeous clear waters! And the Ring Road trip in Iceland. I would love to see both of these even though It won´t be in my 30´s ; )

Sarah Harkness says

March 6, 2015 at 7:29 PM

I have already done the Bahamas, glamping in Moab (not all it has cracked up to be unless you spend the extra money for a large tent), and explored Alaska. Norway is on my list this year for Northern Lights, and I have always wanted to do a safari. I guess that isn’t bad for someone who is still 28!

Matthew Hirtes says

March 6, 2015 at 9:06 PM

I’m in my 40s now. But would still love to visit some of these places. Thanks for the recommendations.

Catherine Sweeney says

March 6, 2015 at 9:09 PM

Let me tell you about life beyond the 30s! It’s awesome. 🙂 And actually, still feels like 30 for me. Love these bucket list trips, although I might be able to skip swimming with the pigs. But Bordeaux? That’s right up my alley.

March 7, 2015 at 10:36 PM

I love the idea of swimming with pigs in the Bahamas! Easter Island is my ultimate bucket list destination, I am fascinated by the whole mystery. I had the most amazing time on safari in Tanzania

Jessica says

March 8, 2015 at 10:26 PM

Ahh your pictures of the Maldives definitely makes it look like paradise! I’d love to go there, and checking out the Northern Lights is on my bucket list too. I’m not sure about camping in Antarctica though – much as I like penguins, I hate both the cold and camping, so perhaps not. 🙂

Vanessa says

March 17, 2015 at 4:27 PM

OMG I literally want to do all of those but swimming with PIGS?! My favourite animal ever – gonna have to go immediately 😉

April 3, 2015 at 5:00 AM

I love this. Definitely makes me look forward to my 30s that are right around the corner. A few of these were already on my list like the Northern Lights but there are a couple more I am going to have to add. Thanks for sharing.

Suzan Hall says

November 3, 2015 at 7:55 AM

Great list! I would love to visit these places in my 30’s as I am traveler and it really excites me.People sometimes think that traveling is something you have to do when you’re young. It’s not. Currently I am exploring San Francisco tours and trust SF is one of the best place to visit in your 30’s.

Edwina says

March 12, 2016 at 4:30 AM

I’ve got horseback riding in Iceland on my bucketlist, never thought about doing that on Easter Island as well! Also, the Maldives and swimming with pigs are definite items on my list.

Rhonda says

January 21, 2017 at 10:30 AM

Easter Island is on my bucket list. I figured I’d get to it when I do South America but there’s so much to do in S. America, I’m not sure I want to spend the time to get there and back.

Nat Deduck says

January 21, 2017 at 10:32 AM

This is probably the most epic bucket list I’ve seen! You’re right, most of those items are on our list! Alaska, Antarctica, Maldives and Iceland have been on our list for ages!

January 21, 2017 at 7:02 PM

As somebody past her 30s, I say that it’s never too late to chase luxurious adventures. That being said, I’m more into drinking wine than camping in Antarctica. Hopefully I’ll make it to Bordeaux the next time that I’m in France.

Marcus and Mel says

January 21, 2017 at 10:04 PM

Some great ideas for trips. We are going to Iceland for Mel’s birthday next month and can’t wait. We’ve got some really interesting hotels booked, unfortunately the Hotel Ranga was unavailable for our dates.

January 22, 2017 at 10:04 AM

An article like this just supports my ongoing saying – the more you travel, the more you realise you still have to see. So many wonderful places here. Would love to get to the Maldives and I’m hoping to get to Alaska this year. Lots of inspiration here.

Anne Klien ( MeAnne) says

January 22, 2017 at 11:51 AM

The bordeaux is definitely high on my list wine good food hopefully this summer. And eastern island to explore

January 22, 2017 at 10:47 PM

It’s true that age and experience does clarify you travel style and many other things so I’m OK embracing it. You picked 10 fabulous trips here wouldn’t it be fabulous if you could tick these (or even some of them) off in the next 5 years.

Joan Torres says

January 24, 2017 at 10:48 PM

That’s an amazing travel bucket list! It’s sad to say that i haven’t done any of those adventures, but I’m not 30 yet so, I still have a lot of time! Love the swimming pig. Is this a real thing in the Bahamas?

Catarina Leonardo says

January 25, 2017 at 2:36 AM

Excellent tips that you got here!! I am in my 30 and i want to try all of this. Swimming with pigs it would be amazing!!!

January 25, 2017 at 7:27 AM

These are great! I’ll be 30 next year so need a whole new bucketlist to celebrate the coming of age :D! I’ve crossed offthe Tanzania safari, and will be camping in Antarctica next week eeeek! So excited for that one!!

January 25, 2017 at 8:28 PM

Great list there! I’ve done some of them, but would love to go to Antarctica, swim with pigs in the Bahamas and see the Northern Lights.

Andrea Crain says

March 31, 2017 at 10:18 AM

Hey Jennifer, I’m in my late 20’s. Your bucket list is great, I’ve covered just one from this list. 😛 Last year I went to Maldives with my special one. Glamping in Moab is already on my list but, I have never heard of camping in Antarctica, would love to do that. African Safari in Tanzania also sounds great, full of adventure. Thanks 🙂

Jennifer Dombrowski says

April 1, 2017 at 1:34 PM

Glad to hear you’re already working on some adventures from this list and got some inspiration for your own bucket list!

April 26, 2017 at 5:20 AM

While I am in my late 30s, I never did create a “Bucket List” for this decade. Aside from visiting Machu Piccu and watching the World Cup in Brazil, I have really been slacking on my International destination bucket list this decade. Glad you created this as it has now gotten me to think about how I want to live my 40s soon! Going to start off by planning an epic trip for my Big 4-0 and go from there!

April 26, 2017 at 4:02 PM

Glad we could give you some ideas, Ray! Where are you thinking about for your big birthday trip?

Bob Miller says

January 14, 2018 at 6:52 PM

Will be 31 this year and it’s a shame I haven’t done as much traveling as I would have liked. Been postponing my whole life and now with the kids here, it seems I won’t be doing much traveling as I had initially planned.

February 4, 2023 at 10:27 AM

You’ve got to add swimming with sharks in Bora Bora to this list! It’s one of the best experiences ever. Great list though, making a million plans for the year right now haha.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travel in Your 30s: Tales From 31 Awesome Travel Bloggers

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure page for full details.

In just a few short weeks, I’ll be joining Nathan in the next exciting decade: I’m turning 30.  I’m really looking forward to bidding adieu to the 20s, not because they weren’t awesome, but because I love looking forward to new adventures. (I suppose you could guess that since we are travel bloggers!) I’m not fearing 30 at all, but rather am intrigued to see how the new decade changes me. In honor of celebrating this milestone birthday, I asked 31 (30 + 1 for good luck!!) adventurous travel bloggers to tell me about how travel in your 30s gets better or what they’ve learned after hitting the big 3-0. Read on to hear what they had to say!

Discovering Travel in Your 30s with 31 Travel Bloggers

For the last 6 years I have been continually traveling the Earth, in search for I know not what. Maybe something enlightening, or maybe just some damn good times. What ever the reason, I have haphazardly wandered to 80 countries on 6 continents so far, and the stories and memories are endless. In my 20’s I was known to get bored in say, Estonia, walk outside, stick out my thumb for a ride not caring where it was going, and end up in another part of the world. The rush of adrenaline from the unknown was unreal. My future, responsibilities, caution or ambition was a far off thought. I was living in the moment, and even the hard times ended up as fun stories.

This year I turned 30. That sounded old to me. All of the sudden I wanted even more. Not only did I want to maintain my crazy lifestyle, but I wanted to accomplish big things, create great things, and make it all sustainable long into my future. Scuba diving is my passion, so I gave myself the huge task of experiencing the best diving in the world . So I made the list and headed out to do so. I also wanted to get more out of my journey then before, so I taught myself underwater photography and hope to document each one. I also started writing a book about all my travels, remembering all my crazy times, from prison in Egypt to escaping the mafia in Thailand and more. Much more. The point is, in my 30’s, I am still crazy and not going to stop, but I am more focused on sharing these experiences with people and building this thing into a sustainable lifestyle. I am privileged to be able to explore the world, so just maybe its my responsibility to show it to those who aren’t.

When I was just a teenager I was convinced that in my 20’s I would have had the best of my life. I couldn’t have been more wrong! I actually started really living the life I wanted at 30, when I finally moved from Italy to England to learn English from scratch and I started traveling a bit more. I’m about to reach the next decade and I can now say that my thirties have been more than awesome. The craziest thing I did? (other than hanging to the edge of the Victoria Falls?!) What about quitting my well-paid job at the “tender” age of 35 to travel the world indefinitely ? That was the biggest & scarier decision of my life but I’m so glad I did it. I can now travel wherever I want, I set my base in front of a beach for months in the Philippines, discovered all SE Asia, southern Africa and I’m now about to move to Mexico. Yes, the thirties for me have been a hell of a ride! In my 20’s I was just tasting what travel was all about, now I know exactly what it is, and it’s amazing.

Heather & Peter, 35

Hubbie and I love travelling in our 30’s because we’ve now worked out exactly what our travel style is. Having spent our 20’s pretending to be backpackers (because it seemed like the thing to do), we now realise that isn’t us at all. We love a bit (ok a lot!) of luxury, and are no longer ashamed to admit it. We still do crazy stuff. We’ve been microlighting over canyons in South Africa; ploughed rice paddy fields with water buffalo in Laos ; and once got caught in a gun fight on a remote mountain pass in Lesotho. However now we have somewhere indulgent to spend the night afterwards. Private plunge pools, four poster beds and champagne for breakfast? Don’t mind if we do!

In our 20’s, we were firm believers of never visiting the same place twice. We wanted to see the rest of the world before going back somewhere we’d already been. Yet now we’re well into our 30’s (and have become pretty good at this travel lark), we have actually started returning to places we travelled to in our 20’s, because we know that now we can do it even better! Both thanks to another decade of experience, and yes, healthier finances. We’ve learnt that you can go back to the same place but still have a new experience. Morocco is a bit of an obsession for us, and we’re about to head back for the 8th time(!), yet we’re just as excited as we were on the first trip. Because we know what’s coming, and we know it’s going to be amazing! This time as well as trekking in the Atlas Mountains and haggling in the souks, we’ll also be checking out opulent riads, sleeping in 5* hilltop fortresses and even staying in a converted church by the sea.

Travelling in our 30’s rocks and we wouldn’t return to our 20’s for anything! Except maybe a little more hair and a few less wrinkles! 

I traveled a lot in my 20s and somehow had it in my mind that the way forward upon reaching my 30s was to quiet down and follow the path most people follow: career, mortgage, wedding, family, the whole shebang. I did settle down and made a great life for myself– in the conformist deluded sense of things – filled with shiny expensive things, a big apartment, a career I had worked hard for, a loving partner I was clinging onto for dear life as an externally derived sense of self, many unhappy people around me and the permanent feeling of running after something. Seeing time as the solution, thinking for the most part that happiness lived in the future. Desiring and acquiring things that never seemed to be able to fill an elusive gaping hole I could never quite pinpoint. But clearly, that didn’t do it for me, so two and a half years ago, I sold everything and left with a one-way ticket to Bangkok , knowing nothing of what the future would hold. Since then, I have lived in South East Asia nearly two years, crossed the Balkans by bicycle in the winter and recently settled in Berlin. There is no age to do what you love and happiness lives in the present.

Gemma, 31 & Craig, 32

30 is sooo the new 20! I was always a bit gutted that I didn’t do gap year travel after university but the beauty of waiting to take this epic career trip to travel the Americas and Europe in my 30s is that I am less interested hitting the bars, we had a pretty sweet combined income which helped us save, and I get to do it with my partner in crime, Craig! Name something crazy and we’ve done it! Cycled ‘the world’s most dangerous road’ in Bolivia, boarded down an active volcano in Nicaragua, got engaged in Vancouver AND married in Austin . The only downside? I am actually going grey! This career break is supposed to be relaxing…

I’m kind of new to the 30s travelling game, so I can’t comment vastly on how things have changed. I think the beauty of it is that my travels are remaining exactly the same. I’m not slowing down, I’m determined more than ever to achieve what I want and yes, I’m still staying in those 12 bed hostel rooms. Admittedly, I will have to treat myself more than I used to though: sometimes a girl just needs her space in a big bed! One thing I can say is I know who I am now: what I need, want and am aiming for in life. Age has given me clarity, determination and bucket loads of confidence. I’m driving from the UK to Mongolia in 50 days across 21 countries with four women this year to document and promote women’s rights. How about that? I’d say that’s a pretty cool adventure for your thirties!

Stefan & Sebastien, 35

I’ve never been one to consider age an issue, so when I turned 30 I didn’t think much about how this would suddenly change my traveling habits. I mean sure, I can’t deny that I’m starting to slow down a little on the party side of travel, but after a decade of giving it a decent crack, I’m ok with that. Other than spending every second or third morning hungover there really hasn’t been much difference between now and my first trip as an eager 21 year old.

One thing that is great about being a traveler in my 30s is being more confident with the life I’ve decided to live , as well as the partner I’ve chosen to live it with. In my 20s I had a lot of fun, but I was reckless and paid little attention to responsibility. Now, as my life starts to take a little more shape, I have goals and ambitions that I want out of a life of travel. But who knows, I could also say the same things when I get to 40!

Alouise, 31

The biggest change I’ve noticed about traveling in my 30s is I’m more selective in how I spend my time when I travel. In my 20s I’d try to “see and do everything” when I traveled, but that’s impossible, would leave me feeling stressed out. Now I just focus more on doing the things I want to do when I travel, instead of just doing something because it’s on some “must do” list somewhere. Travel is better in my 30s because I have a better understanding of who I am and I feel a lot more centred (as opposed to be scattered) when I travel.

Three friends and I decided to kick off our 30s right by celebrating on collective birthdays in New York City, and after I went to Las Vegas with another friend. Within my home country of Canada exploring Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan. Last year I went to Europe and visited Madrid, Spain and Helsinki, Finland. I also went to Asia spending a few days in Hong Kong and then a week in Tokyo, Japan (on my own as well) in March.

In August I’ll be moving to Ireland for two years on a working holiday visa. I’ve wanted to work and live abroad for a long time , but I never took that leap of faith until now. Who says adventure has to end when you’re 30?

Lina & David, 33 & 32

Well, I guess you could say travel in our 30’s has been epic. When I, Lina, turned 30 we decided to sell everything we owned , quit our jobs and set off traveling for a few years. It has been extremely liberating to break free from the societal norm and follow our hearts. People think we are crazy for doing this, that we should have done it when we were 18, etc, but honestly, I think traveling in your 30’s is just a better time. You’re more mature and having our background, can really appreciate the chance to have personal freedom after living the American dream so intensely for so many years.

Since entering my 30s, my travels now focus on photography and writing for my travel blog . This means that I’m not just traveling to play, I’m traveling to work. Of course, that kind of work is fun for me! It does require a lot more time and effort than the kinds of trips I took in my 20s though. I have to lug around heavy camera gear and a laptop now, and I have to stay in places where I feel that my equipment is safe enough. I have to take time to work, which sometimes means sacrificing leisure and social time. It’s all worth it to me now that I have the discipline to work while traveling.

Besides working while I travel, now that I’m older I definitely require certain creature comforts… at least some of the time. I want my privacy and alone time, which means I find it harder to stay in hostels now. I have a much lower tolerance for young, annoying travelers than I used to! I make sure that I plan for more than enough food and sleep during particularly long flights or bus rides. It’s probably just experience rather than age, but these things are important!

Traveling in my 30s feels much the same as it always has, despite the specific ways in which I choose to do so. I’m still in awe of the world and I still want to see and experience as much of it as I can in this life. I will continue to travel for the love of it, long after I am old and gray!

I started my travel adventures when I was on my mid 20s traveling every week to a different country across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. When I hit 30 I realised I no longer needed to hide my age, I was officially an adult. I also felt more secure, had a lot of experience on my back to get around any place and, most importantly the financial independence to get lost anywhere, to go anywhere without having to worry about money and the self-esteem and self-confidence to face any challenge. No mountain is too high, no valley too low that I cannot tackle them.

I would first like to thank my twenties self. At 26 I finally made the decision to move abroad. I was miserable and grumpy back then because my life was going nowhere, I hated my jobs, and I was overworked. Really? Miserable in your twenties?! I loved travel and learning about the world since I was little so I had to make this constant dream finally come true. The world kept calling my name . I knew I was meant go abroad! (Cheesy, but hey, it’s true!)

I just turned 31 and I can honestly tell you the last five years on the road have been the most challenging, rewarding, incredible, and the happiest of my life. Traveling in your 30s means you’re traveling even wiser than you once were. You start to realize how important it is that you’re doing something that you love and enjoy. You learned from all those silly mistakes you made in your twenty. You take things in more, enjoy and truly cherish those moments.

I feel younger than I did before I stepped on that one way flight when I was 26. I have no plans on stopping, in fact, my plans are only getting crazier and more challenging. I’m still living and traveling abroad and I’ll be doing it in my forties too!

It wasn’t till I turned 30 that I ditched my previous job adventures to pursue blogging full time. I had always been traveling like crazy already so that didn’t change but nowadays the focus is slightly different as I aim to document and share my explorations with our social media followers and blog readers. As a result, I was able to attempt stuff like parasailing in Indonesia and Malaysia, jumping off a stadium in South Africa, and trying out many other cool flight experiences around the world everyone should try at least once.

I couldn’t tell which changed my traveling more: turning 30 or getting married. I was 30 first, though, so we’ll start with that.

Right around 30, I began to feel a bit more value in planning ahead, in knowing how far away something was or in figuring out the best way to route my travels. ‘Going with the flow’ was still fine, but at some point I began to choose a more conscious time and place to go somewhere.

I also re-focused on quality over quantity. Give me 2-3 excellent, weird choices over 4-5 lukewarm places any day. That was already what I was doing, it just became a more strongly felt choice.

Getting married to a fellow thirtysomething meant we began to seek out a bit more comfort for a few more bucks. We might still stay at a hostel, but it’ll be a private room instead of a bunkbed.

Finally, your mileage will vary, but I didn’t feel the need to prove anything to myself. Travel is already enough of a challenge that creating extra challenge just for the sake of having it wasn’t necessary. If I want to reach the top of that mountain, I’ll get there – I’ll be taking the short, direct route instead of the longer, more circuitous one =)

It appears the older I get the more I enjoy traveling. That’s partly due to our better financial situation which allows us to treat ourselves more while on the road. It buys us cocktails in spectacular bars, helicopter rides over stunning landscapes, and luxury cruises in the Mediterranean. But I also appreciate the fact that with age travel has become more meaningful. I love to explore places and look into every aspect of a destination. I have the feeling that with maturity I am better equipped to grasp connections and understand backgrounds. At the same time I am still mobile and agile and able to climb and snorkel and do all the things that are fun. It’s the perfect age to travel the world!

Kim-Ling, 32

I have loved travelling in every decade of my life , but I certainly feel like our travels in our 30s has been the best! I think it’s because my husband and I have a better sense of ourselves and what we want to achieve from of our travels. We are more confident to do whatever we want to do and set our own itineraries. If I felt like taking off for the weekend to see a band on my own, I did it without hesitation. If I wanted to visit Game of Thrones filming locations, I made it happen! We are also in a better position financially to indulge in trips that we may not have been able to afford before. Last year, we saved up our money to live in Spain for eight months and travel constantly throughout Europe during that time, staying in unique accommodation ranging from castles to glass igloos.

Personally, I’m braver and more confident now than I was when I was in my teens and twenties. I even did the Finnish tradition of a naked sauna followed by a nudie run in the snow (something I don’t think I could have done when I was younger!)

When I was in my mid-twenties, I spent a good deal of my time in denial about edging closer to the big three-zero. As a matter of fact, once I hit 25 I told myself I was that very age for 5 years straight, until I hit 30. I spent a lot of time traveling and exploring all sorts of different varieties of travel. I visited both the tropics, and much cooler in temperature destinations. I stayed in a mix of hotels and visited different destinations, really getting a feel for travel and my preferences. By the time I hit the magic number of thirty not only did it not seem as large as before, but I had acquired an appreciation for a more refined sense of travel style, all my own. I’m sure as I approach the “big” four-zero it may change, and that’s fine by me. Life keeps moving on, and I don’t want it to pass me by at any age.

Brianne, 39

I spent most of my 20s focused on getting a master’s degree and carefully mapping out my career path. And although I did squeeze in some big trips – I spent a summer volunteering in Nepal during graduate school – I had student loans to pay off.

In my early 30s, I moved from Washington, D.C., to Boston in search of a better work-life balance. Soon after, a friend called me and said I had 24 hours to decide if I wanted to join her on a sailing trip in Croatia. I said yes, and that decision kicked off not only a new adventure but also a new attitude. Inspired by all of the laid-back, hard-partying Europeans I met – who held down careers back home – I realized I wanted to start prioritizing traveling over chasing achievements and promotions.

It took a lot of research and planning, but three years ago, I left a full-time job to become a consultant in order to have more time and flexibility to travel. Self-employment hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve since backpacked solo throughout Southeast Asia, spent two months working for a travel company in India, and made numerous trips to Europe, South America and around the U.S.

No I don’t make as much money as some of my friends do, and I live in a condo in the city instead of a big house in the suburbs, but I’m living life on my terms, and I’ve never been happier .

Matt and Alana, 33

Just before our 32nd birthdays we quit our jobs, sold our house and everything in it and set out on an 18 month around-the-world trip. Traveling in our 30s has been a better experience than our 20s, as we are doing exactly what we want to do, instead of what we ‘thought’ we should be doing. Our confidence and interests have grown and changed, and we don’t waste our time or energy anymore. When we want to do something, we do it. And if we think something is a waste of time, we avoid it. We’ve actually found ourselves being more adventurous now than ever before , as we are spending our money on experiences instead of partying/alcohol! From sand boarding to bungee jumping, we want to live life to the fullest, because nothing is guaranteed.

Jeanette, 30

As the 12th month of my 30th year is fastly approaching I’ve come to accept that traveling as a 30 year old has been the best travel year of my life . It all started off with a single trip to Mongolia to celebrate Nadaam and my 30th birthday. It soon included trips to – Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand. London, Denmark, Finland, Myanmar, Raja Ampat (Indonesia), Philippines and as a last farewell to 30, an upcoming trip to New Zealand. Unlike travel in my 20’s I now have a lot more emotional and financial freedom. I can choose to stay in a backpackers or I can choose to stay 5 star! Though in all honesty I now choose to stay in backpackers as you get to meet so many more fun people.

There’s so much less fear in the travel that I do now. Traveling in your 30s is so much more care free. There’s less expectations for you to have that one final, last hurrah and amazing adventure that seems to be attached with travelling in your 20s.

I have always thought that your age is just a number. However, the first couple of years into my thirties, I really believe that this has helped transform the way I travel. Long gone are the days of thinking about partying or worrying about studying for the next exam. Now I am able to focus on exploring the world and appreciating the inherent beauty that surrounds everything we experience.

How has my travel philosophy changed since I turned 30? As I mentioned, I think as you get older you gain a greater appreciation of what you explore. Moving to the States from England when I was in my early 20s was certainly an eye-opening experience, but today I think we frequently take our home countries for granted. You don’t realize what you have surrounding you until it’s gone…it’s an old adage for sure, but one that I think is very appropriate! I consider myself to be a much more culturally aware traveler but perhaps that is just from having different expectations and experiences over the last few years.

The ability to travel more has also happened since I turned 30. I am very fortunate to work at a university and have great benefits such as vacation time, not to mention earning a decent enough salary to pay for the travels around the world .

What do I love about being in my thirties? Everything! I really believe that being in this decade has opened up so many more doors than previous decades. Obviously I can’t comment on the future but what I can do is share my experiences on the road over the last couple of years. Heather will be turning 30 in a few months and I couldn’t have done any of my travels without having her by my side.

Rob & Nat, 35 & 32

We didn’t turn 30 on the road. We hit the road when we both were on the 30’s mark. Our love for travels started a couple of years back. Nat was 23 and I was 26, we traveled to Buenos Aires, Argentina and fell in love (for each other and for travelling ). Then we moved to Ireland and explored Europe. Back then our travels were party oriented, hostels were our primary accommodation, and on the menu sandwiches and cheap booze.

Now things changed! We keep a balance between party and sports destinations, good hotels and private apartments, and we drink better quality wine and cocktails. Can say that we are more picky with destinations, hotels and activities. We don’t waste time and money on places that we don’t believe it’s really worth the shot.

Growing up does not mean become boring. In fact it’s all about choices and how you feel! We got married in 2013 (in our 30’s) and our honeymoon was a bit different, 14 days in an electronic music festival in Ukraine. And we don’t believe we gonna stop hitting the dancefloors around the globe soon. We are getting wise (never say old) but our dance moves are still good! It’s all about balance, after months of madness in Bangkok followed by a detox period in Singapore, now it’s time to plan a season in Brazil, and then back to underground clubs in Europe and some really nice dine & wine.

John & Heather, 34

We are Heather and John from Roaming Around the World and have spent these past few years of our early 30’s on a nonstop trip around the world. We feel that your 30’s may just be the best years for travel, although we’re admittedly biased, both currently 34 years old.

For us, probably the most notable change of travel in our 30’s is the fact that we do much more of it! In our early twenties, travel was often limited by a lack of funds. In our late twenties, the funds developed, but travel was often restricted by lack of time due to our careers, which were a means to earn money for travel. Our thirties is when we finally developed the knowledge, experience, resources, and time to be able to sustain the freedom of fulltime travel. Meanwhile we still have the youth & drive to execute such a crazy plan.

Another change that has come with age and experience has been a progression of becoming more savvy travelers, having figured out many travel hacks & deals. This often enables us to travel like a wealthy retiree, using the budget of a broke college student.

Also in our 30’s, travel has evolved from seeking out exciting destinations to instead pursuing incredible experiences. In our twenties, we loved traveling to places like NYC, Bonnaroo Music Festival, Caribbean Islands, and Amsterdam. That was so 20’s John & Heather. In our thirties, we now relish authentic experiences such as navigating the Borneo jungle amidst native people, staying with local families while backpacking across Cuba, and crossing the Sahara desert on camel with nomadic Berber families.

A final change to our travel style is how staying out late no longer exists. Doing so now completely ruins our subsequent day. We still party though. We just start early! 😉

Amy Hartle   is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships , a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.

• Top things to do in london in 3 days
• Top 12 things to do in Berlin in 3 Days
• Top 10 things to do in Rome in 2 days. Backpacker’s Itinerary
• Top 12 things to do in Madrid in 3 days
• Top Things to Do in Paris. The Ultimate 3-Day Guide
• Interrailing Tips
• Solo Travel Guides
• Best Travel Apps
• Hostel Tips
• Budget Travel Tips
• Best Hostels Amsterdam
• Best Hostels Barcelona
• Best Hostels Belfast
• Best Hostels Berlin
• Best Hostels Dublin
• Best Hostels Edinburgh
• Best Hostels Lisbon
• Best Hostels London
• Best Hostels Malta
• Best Hostels Milan
• Best Hostels Naples
• Best Hostels Nice
• Best Hostels Paris
• Best Hostels Prague
• Best Hostels Seville
• Best Hostels Split
• Best Hostels Valencia
• Best Hostels Auckland
• Best Hostels Brisbane
• Best Hostels Cairns
• Best Hostels Christchurch
• Best Hostels Goa
• Best Hostels Hanoi
• Best Hostels Hong Kong
• Best Hostels Koh Phi Phi
• Best Hostels Koh Samui
• Best Hostels Marrakech
• Best Hostels Perth
• Best Hostels Singapore
• Best Hostels Cartagena
• Best Hostels Chicago
• Best Hostels Havana
• Best Hostels LA
• Best Hostels Medellin
• Best Hostels Mexico City
• Best Hostels New York
• Best Hostels Rio de Janeiro
• Best Hostels San Diego
• Best Hostels San Francisco
• Best Hostels Toronto
• Best Hostels Tulum
• Make a Booking

11 Reasons Travelling in Your 30s is Better than Your 20s

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 1, 2014 |

How is travelling in your 30s different from travel in your 20s? Find out in our 11-point guide to being a thirty-something backpacker…

When you’re 22, it feels like you’ll be young forever. Sadly, you won’t. You’ll get old. It sucks. But being older doesn’t mean you have to give in to Sandals holidays; you can still be about the cool hostels, local buses, street food and the whole independent backpacker thing. But things will be different. Here’s how…

1. Your travelling windows are way, way shorter

In your 20s, work fits in around travelling. But in your 30s things change. You probably have a career. Commitments. All that boring stuff you said you’d never care about. And you’re probably restricted to a few weeks to travel each year. True story. But there’s no point getting down about it. You’ve just got to make it count.

2. You finally figure out how to pack properly

Most first-time twentysomething backpackers take tons of unnecessary stuff. You see them bulking out their bag with 18 kilos of towels, toiletries and t-shirts; emptying an entire aisle of Boots over their dorm bed.

Over time, you learn how to pack smart . It probably helps that your mum isn’t around to insist you fit an entire A&E department in your First Aid Kit.

3. Boutique hostels suddenly seem preferable to 18-bed dorms

Party hostels are a great idea in your 20s. Sleeping’s for losers, right? Well, it turns out that when you’re older, sleep is actually pretty damn awesome. Hostels are still a great option for travelling in your 30s, but all-nighters have all but lost their appeal. Do we really need Avicii blasting out at 4am? Can’t we all just have a chilled beer and get an early night?!

4. You can’t hit the backpacker bar scene as hard as you used to

Exchange rates can be a wonderful thing. Especially when you’re a westerner bar-hopping in some exotic destination. But when you get older, hangovers get worse. Way worse.

Responsible drinking at Retox Party Hostel Budapest

So remember: just because a pint is 20p it doesn’t mean you have to drink the bar dry. Because waking up feeling nauseous in a tropical climate is not fun. At all.

5. You develop a surprisingly hardcore interest in museums

And galleries. And Cathedrals. And basically any other place where really interesting old stuff is kept. Why? Maybe it’s because you’re getting older and more interesting.

Or maybe there’s just a gene that kicks in at 30 that makes you appreciate this stuff – similar to the one that kicks in at 50 that makes you care about theatre and the National Trust.

6. A full-on day completely wipes you out

It might feel like your body will never wear out, but by 30 it’s already happening; the wheels haven’t fallen off yet, but the nuts and bolts are definitely coming loose. This means that an intense day of cramming in must-sees takes its toll. In your 20s you can do this stuff and then stay out all night.

In your 30s, you start thinking of days as either going-for-it-and-writing-off-the-evening days or chilling-out-and-saving-yourself-for-the-evening days. Which is kind of sad. But practical.

7. You’re less tolerant of backpacking bores

When you’re younger, you’re more open-minded when it comes to other travellers. You’ll probably talk to everyone. Make friends with anyone. But as you get older you can spot the annoying, bragging and competitive travel types from across the room.

This skill will help you avoid literally hours of being bored by someone who wants you to vicariously experience their amazing journey.

8. You feel more comfortable travelling solo

Most travellers are pretty terrified about going it alone when they’re young. Travel buddies. Travel mates. Whatever you want to call them, you usually feel a lot happier planning a trip if a friend’s coming along for the ride.

But once you’ve been around the globe a few times over a decade you realise that no matter how introverted you are, you’ve got what it takes to make it on your own. You’re more confident travelling in your 30s, you don’t always need people around you, and there are few situations you can’t handle.

9. You have to fight the urge not to compare stuff

There’s nothing like experiencing something mind-blowing for the first time. But once you starting experiencing your second wonder of the world, your third safari, your fourth continent, your fifth must-see monument, it’s hard to not compare them to something you saw 10 years ago.

But you know what? Don’t. Try to approach everything with fresh eyes. Don’t compare. And definitely don’t start comparing out loud. People will not like you.

10. You don’t freak out about not seeing everything

Most backpackers start their travelling careers with lists of all the things they want to see. Whether it’s a tick-box mentality or a genuine desire to experience everything, people can get obsessive over this stuff.

I have, at times. But when you get older, you realise you can’t see everything. You can’t go everywhere. So relax. Appreciate the stuff you do experience. Enjoy the ride.

11. Your wife/husband insists on travelling with you

Oh, yeah. You got married. Remember?

Andrew Tipp is a writer and editor working in digital publishing. He’s spent more than a year backpacking and volunteering around the world, and has previously worked as a content producer for a travel website. He writes on behalf of Original Volunteers , the UK’s leading independent volunteering organisation.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

10 trips to take for your 30th birthday

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If travel in your 20s looked like shared dorms, boxed wine and questionable facial hair, it’s a relief to know that in your 30s it comes with bigger budgets , better air-con and fewer queues for the shower. And turning 30 is a milestone worth celebrating – whether you want to party like it’s 1999 or welcome in the new decade like the adult you really are, we’ve rounded up the best places in which to do it.

Ibiza, Balearic Islands

Post-pandemic partying and temperatures to match your years – Ibiza in the summer is a sizzling mix of sun, sea and sexy people. The beating heart of the island is its music scene, with drum and bass, electronic dance and house beats pulsing through its veins: DJs David Guetta and Joel Corry have club residencies during the summer season – in 2021, you can find them at Hï Ibiza in Sant Josep de sa Talaia and Ibiza Rocks in Sant Antoni de Portmany, respectively. And the strong live-music scene means you can dine, drink and dance to a soundtrack of flamenco, Afrobeat and reggae at many of the beach bars and restaurants too. Check into pretty new hotel Petunia for the best rooftop views over the archipelago, or seek out Los Enamorados in Portinatx to escape the action.

Mykonos, Greece

Sometimes we crave adventure and the unknown, and sometimes we seek solid, reliable destinations that never disappoint. The Greek islands fit firmly into the latter camp – Europeans flock and dock here for the unparallelled Aegean Sea, the A-List inner circle and the pristine beaches where the two meet, so it’s the perfect place for a big bash or intimate trip for two. If you’re packing your party shoes, book a hotel in town such as Bohème so you can fall into bed without queuing for a cab after a night of dancing on the tables at JackieO’, or make the most of the island’s only private beaches at The Wild Hotel or Santa Marina .

Catskills, New York State, USA

What better way to kickstart a new decade than with a weekend of wilderness and wellness so you can reset and recharge? Upstate New York comes into its own once summer season is over, and brand-new boutique hotel The Aurum opens just in time for autumn at the foot of the Mount Tremper mountains, with a high-design hammam and spa inspired by ancient Rome. Hike through the park’s forest, go trout fishing in the Esopus Creek, canoe down the Delaware River and glamp at Eastwind Hotel where cosy A-frame Lushna cabins with views over Windham Mountain make for an intimate, uplifting experience away from the city.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Food and festivities are intrinsically linked in most cultures, and the Danes even season their singletons, sprinkling them with pepper when they turn 30 (a tradition dating back to ​​the 16th century, inspired by bachelor spice traders). The capital is the culinary home of the New Nordic movement, which has brought foraged and fermented ingredients to the finest dining tables, but you don’t have to join Noma ’s waiting list for a birthday feast to remember. And who says you can only have one? Reffen street-food market is where many internationally acclaimed restaurants started out, and every August , Copenhagen Cooking and Food Festival celebrates the city’s up-and-coming chefs and their innovative use of sustainable ingredients. Hotel d'Angleterre has one of the best restaurants in town and palatial bedrooms to boot.

Durban, South Africa

While Cape Town and the Kruger National Park draw the crowds in South Africa, Durban is the distinguished choice for those who like their wildlife wilder and water warmer (surfers can leave their wetsuits at home). Often mistaken as merely the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal, known as the Garden Province, with its old sugar towns, alpine landscape, savannah and seaside, Durban’s been quietly stepping up its game. Its own brand of house music, gqom, is infiltrating international festivals such as Kraków’s Unsound, while chefs including Zola Nene and Kevin Joseph have become big names. The latter heads up the kitchen at The Oyster Box hotel , where locals come for the curry buffet and stay for the Indian Ocean views . Not turning 30 until next year? Club Med is slated to bring a luxury beach retreat to the Tinley Manor neighbourhood, about 40 miles north of Durban, in 2022.

Ghent, Belgium

When you only have a weekend to get to grips with a place, it needs to be easy to navigate and small enough to get a sense of its spirit: enter Ghent ’s straightforward layout and cyclist-friendly design. Waterways wind beneath stone arch bridges and mirror medieval castles; cobbled streets lead to secret bars and hidden hotels (B&B The Verhaegen in the art district has four gorgeous bedrooms and plans to convert the stable in the courtyard); and humorous locals make you feel right at home. Restaurants fill up quickly, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, so book ahead. Pakhuis is a good bet for last-minute plans, while cocktails at 1898 The Post’ s terrace are worth queuing for.

Pantelleria, Italy

Italy ’s elemental island takes things back to basics – there are no beaches, so days are spent swimming off rocks, eating market-fresh food and diving for sea urchins. Giorgio Armani paid for the sound system at Cineteatro San Gaetano, but the landscapes here are so cinematic you won’t want to sit indoors for any length of time: swim in the lake at the Specchio di Venere, an ancient caldera, and marvel at the starry skies with a bottle of passito after dark. Host a supper party Luca Guadagnino -style at La Nicchia – just remember that in Italy, when you invite friends to your birthday, you pick up the bill – and sleep it off in Sikelia ’s traditional dammusi or surrounded by Zibibbo grapes and olive trees at Club Levante .

Split, Croatia

It's more affordable than Ibiza, less backpackery than Barcelona , plus Split’s size and proximity to the Adriatic Sea means it has something for everyone, whether you want to engage in fjaka (a relaxed state of mind) on Bačvice beach, island-hop from the harbour or tour the old town’s Roman architecture . Climb the bell tower at St Domnius Cathedral for views over the red-brick rooftops, take a picnic to Marjan Forest and find live music and literature at Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar behind Diocletian's Palace. Rumour has it that the locals’ favourite Academia Club Ghetto is under new management, but Zenta Club’s live acts are poised to fill the dancefloor once more, with foam parties and DJs to keep you dancing til the sun comes up. Hop in a water taxi to a villa on Slatine or an Airbnb in Čiovo.

Dublin, Ireland

Ireland ’s Wild Atlantic Way gets a lot of air time, but the Ancient East is just as worthy of a road trip with historical ruins, dramatic coastal views, the Waterford Greenway and, of course, a capital that knows how to have a good time. Plot your route to include a pit-stop or three in Dublin , where neighbourhood restaurants are earning Michelin stars , award-winning craft ales are available on tap and artisanal whiskey distilleries are generating some healthy competition. The centre of town might be best known for its Guinness drinking and poitín pouring, but it’s also home to some of the city’s best independent shops . Buy yourself a birthday present at Chupi, an ethically sourced, lab-grown diamond designer, or Parfumarija, which sources rare and unusual fragrances for men and women. Then treat your sparkly, scented self to a meal at Trocadero or The Winding Stair , both of which make the most of seasonal Irish ingredients .

Taghazout, Morocco

If 29 birthdays are more than enough for you, swerve the celebrations altogether and head somewhere low-maintenance and high-octane. Surf town Taghazout has heavy beach breaks for pros and gentler waves for those who want to correct their curve in a laid-back environment, plus a skatepark, horse-riding, sandboarding and hiking. Hotels, hostels, guesthouses and retreats that combine yoga , surfing and wellness have emerged along the coast (we like Paradis Plage and Surf Maroc’s beachfront boutique Amouage ), and this spot has developed a friendly community of wave-seekers and sea-worshippers as a result.

Like this? Now read:

Birthday ideas: 13 trips to celebrate

The best solo travel destinations

30 of the best honeymoon destinations

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Trips of a Lifetime

We all have our lists — what’s on yours?

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

A river cruise with 48 of your closest friends. Cage diving with great white sharks in Australia. Climbing the highest peak in the Americas. We all have our definition of a “trip of a lifetime,” but no matter what yours is, some experiences are so extraordinary, they change how we view the world. And while they're not always easy to reach, often requiring multiple modes of transportation (and even an adventurous spirit), the effort is always well worth the reward.

At Travel + Leisure , we’re devoted to turning our (and your) travel wishes into memories, so let this be the year you stop fantasizing about that once-in-a-lifetime trip and finally book it. Ready, set, get inspired.

Related Articles

Save Up to 30% on Disney Vacation Club Villas and 25% on Select Rooms for Stays of 5 or More Nights – and 25% on Villas and 20% on Rooms for Stays of 4 Nights This Winter

View All Special Offers

• Save 30% on Villas for stays of 5 or more nights
• Save 25% on rooms for stays of 5 nights or more
• Save 25% on Villas for stays of 4 nights
• Save 20% on rooms for stays of 4 nights

Travel must be completed no later than April 11, 2025. This offer is valid for consecutive-night stays from January 4 to April 10, 2025.

No matter how long you stay, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable vacation brimming with fun for the entire family.

Book Early to Enjoy a Resort Credit When you book through September 17, 2024, your stay of 4 or more nights will also include a $150 Resort Credit to use at select locations at Aulani Resort.

See Important Details

Where Island Magic Meets Disney Magic

Celebrate the beauty, people and culture of Hawaiʻi—with a touch of Disney magic—on a vacation that you and your family will remember for a lifetime!

Experience Paradise for All Ages

• Waikolohe Valley: Drift along the lazy river and ride the exhilarating rapids and waterslides—plus enjoy the Ka Maka Grotto family pool, Keiki Cove kids splash zone and the Menehune Bridge kids play area.
• Resort Lagoon: Relax, boogie board, go paddle boarding or set sail on a catamaran.
• Rainbow Reef : Snorkel in the only private snorkeling lagoon on Oʻahu.
• KA WAʻA – A Lūʻau : Enjoy a spirited celebration of the culture and history of Hawai‘i—featuring traditional dance, song and food.
• Disney Character Experiences : See some of your favorite Disney Characters at Aulani Resort, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Moana, the wayfinding princess.
• Disney Character Breakfast at Makahiki – The Bounty of the Islands : Start your day with delicious food and some favorite Characters.
• Sweet Treats: Delight in Mickey Shave Ice, Seasonal Dole Whip and Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars.
• Kids Activities: There’s so much for kids to do at Aulani Resort, including the Menehune Adventure Trail , where kids can discover enchanting surprises during a high-tech scavenger hunt.
• Laniwai – A Disney Spa : Relax and rejuvenate at this luxurious spa that features the only outdoor hydrotherapy garden on Oʻahu.
• Live Music : Each night, enjoy live entertainment at The ‘Ōlelo Room provided by some the most renowned musicians and performers in Hawaiʻi.

Beyond Aulani Resort, Oʻahu beckons you to explore . Behold lush rainforests and sparkling waterfalls, take a surf lesson or unwind on some of the world’s best beaches.

* Some activities require an additional fee.

Cathay Pacific's A350 fleet to fully resume operations by 7 September

Latest update: 04 sep 2024 14:45 hkt (gmt+8).

Cathay Pacific advises that maintenance activity on its Airbus A350 fleet continues to progress well. Fifteen aircraft were identified with engine fuel lines that require replacement. Of these, six have already undergone successful repairs and are cleared to operate. The remaining nine aircraft will be repaired and are expected to resume operation by Saturday (7 September). 

Further to flight cancellations announced so far, Cathay Pacific expects to cancel 11 additional regional return flights from 5 to 7 September.  All affected customers have been informed and provided with alternative travel options on Cathay Pacific and other airlines as appropriate. The airline has increased its resources at its Customer Care centre and at the airport to better look after affected customers. Please refer to cathaypacific.com for the latest flight information. 

Cathay Pacific does not anticipate any further cancellations will be required. In total, including those previously announced, the airline cancelled 45 return flights between 2 to 7 September. Apart from one long-haul flight on 2 September, all cancelled flights are for regional destinations. Cathay Pacific sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused and appreciates customers' patience and understanding.

Chief Operations and Service Delivery Officer Alex McGowan said: “This was a significant situation for Cathay to manage as the engine component failure was the first of its type to occur on any A350 aircraft anywhere in the world. 

“Completing thorough inspection and maintenance for all A350 aircraft within such a short timeframe has been challenging. The ability to safely deal with and resolve this issue reflects the can-do spirit of Cathay’s people. I would like to express my sincere thanks to our engineering and frontline teams, along with our partners, for their support and commitment to resolve the situation and minimise flight disruptions.

“I would also like to extend my apology to customers whose travel plans were affected by this incident. At Cathay, the safety of our customers and our people guides every decision we make."

The following flights have been cancelled:

Wednesday 4 September

• Hong Kong to Tokyo (Narita): CX 524
• Tokyo (Narita) to Hong Kong: CX 509
• Hong Kong to Osaka(Kansai): CX 566
• Osaka (Kansai) to Hong Kong: CX 597 / CX 503
• Hong Kong to Taipei: CX 464 / CX 466 / CX 494
• Taipei to Hong Kong: CX 469 / CX 461 / CX 495
• Hong Kong to Singapore: CX 659
• Singapore to Hong Kong: CX 714 / CX 710 / CX 658 / CX 692
• Hong Kong to Bangkok: CX 705
• Bangkok to Hong Kong: CX 750
• Hong Kong to Beijing: CX 332
• Beijing to Hong Kong: CX 331
• Hong Kong to Shanghai(Pudong): CX 368 / CX 360
• Shanghai (Pudong) to Hong Kong: CX 367 / CX 369
• Hong Kong to Kuala Lumpur: CX 723
• Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong: CX 722
• Hong Kong to Kaohsiung: CX 432
• Kaohsiung to Hong Kong: CX 431
• Hong Kong to Manila: CX 919
• Manila to Hong Kong: CX 918
• Hong Kong to Seoul (Incheon): CX 416

Thursday 5 September

• Seoul (Incheon) to Hong Kong: CX 417
• Hong Kong to Taipei: CX 400 / CX 494
• Taipei to Hong Kong: CX 443 / CX 495
• Hong Kong to Singapore: CX 691
• Singapore to Hong Kong: CX 690
• Hong Kong to Bangkok: CX 751
• Bangkok to Hong Kong: CX 708

Friday 6 September

• Hong Kong to Shanghai(Pudong): CX 368
• Shanghai (Pudong) to Hong Kong: CX 367

Saturday 7 September

• Hong Kong to Taipei: CX 494
• Taipei to Hong Kong: CX 495

We're waiving ticket change fees, so you can rearrange your plans easily. View our  special ticketing guidelines for A350 Fleet Inspection to learn more.

If you need help with your booking

Witt makes Royals history with 30 HRs in consecutive seasons

Kansas city heads back home on a five-game slide.

Jeremy Rakes

HOUSTON -- After defeating the Guardians on Tuesday, the Royals were tied with Cleveland for the American League Central lead. The past five days of the eight-game road trip were not kind to Kansas City.

• Be there at all Royals regular-season home games: Just $39.99/month!

Alec Marsh pitched well and Bobby Witt Jr. hit his 30th home run of the season, but it was not enough as Kansas City dropped its season-high fifth straight game, 7-2 , to the Astros on Sunday at Minute Maid Park.

• Complete coverage: Royals’ clinch scenarios, tiebreakers, key games and more

The Royals were swept for just the second time this season and swept in a four-game series for the first time since losing four straight to Boston on June 28-July 1, 2021, at Fenway Park.

“The whole series was frustrating,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “We didn’t come out of here with any wins. That’s what we play for is to win every day. That stinks. These guys are good. We knew that coming in, but I can’t sum it all up in one. Every game was different. We were in every game. They pitched extremely well. They got big hits, and we didn’t.”

Kansas City fell 3 1/2 games behind the Guardians in the AL Central .

“I think what’s important for us is to just flush the series and move on to the next,” Marsh said. “We have big ones coming up, so just get to that next game and focus on tomorrow, leaving this one behind us. We’re going to be playing better ball here moving forward.”

The Royals have six at home against Cleveland and the Twins starting Monday.

“This is tough,” MJ Melendez said. “It didn’t seem like anything was going right. … It’s a little bit of a tough stretch, but hopefully, we get back home, get back in our environment and do what we do at home.”

Marsh retired nine of the first 10 batters he faced, but the Astros got to him in the fourth.

Yordan Alvarez led off with a home run to right, and Jon Singleton hit a two-run homer to right to give Houston a 3-0 lead.

“He threw the ball well,” Quatraro said. “He got beat on two breaking balls for homers. They looked from the replay that they were down in the zone and guys put good swings on it. Overall, I thought he threw the ball exceptionally well.”

Marsh surrendered three runs on four hits and one walk with five strikeouts in five innings.

He mainly used a mix of four-seam fastballs (28 of 73 pitches), sliders (13) and curveballs (12), but he had a lot of success with his sweeper. Out of seven sweepers, the right-hander got six swings and four whiffs.

“It was pretty solid,” Marsh said of his outing. “I thought my command was good. All the pitches were shaping up the way they should be. Attacking the zone was nice. Really, it was just two good swings on two pitches that I thought were good pitches. … I thought my fastball was jumpy. Getting ahead of guys was great. Overall, I was a lot better in my eyes.”

Witt became the first player in Royals history with consecutive 30-home run seasons with his solo shot into the Crawford Boxes in the seventh inning.

Bobby Witt Jr. is the first player in @Royals franchise history to hit 30 home runs in consecutive seasons! 💪 pic.twitter.com/3HQOum2fBa — MLB (@MLB) September 1, 2024

Sign up to receive our daily Morning Lineup to stay in the know about the latest trending topics around Major League Baseball.

His two 30-homer seasons tie Danny Tartabull for most in franchise history, but Tartabull didn’t reach the milestone in back-to-back years (1987 and ‘91).

“We talk about him all the time,” Quatraro said. “We can’t take for granted what we are seeing there. The first guy in Royals history with back-to-back 30-home run seasons. At his age, the things he does playing every day, the grind of the season and how mature he is, everything he does stands out. Whether that’s physical, mental, leadership qualities, they’re remarkable, and we don’t take that for granted.”

The Royals also got production from two newcomers as Yuli Gurriel, in his first game with the Royals since being acquired Saturday, hit an RBI single in the sixth, and Tommy Pham had two hits in his debut after being claimed off waivers Saturday.

However, the Royals continued to struggle to drive in runs. Kansas City had at least one man on in every inning except the second and ninth and finished 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position.

“The opportunities were there,” Quatraro said. “We took some walks. We just didn’t come up with the big hit when we needed it.”