What does it feel like to travel alone on a group retreat? InRetreat curates transformative, life-defining retreats that attract like-minded guests from around the world. Each retreat is unique and every detail on retreat is thoughtfully planned and carried out with the utmost care. All guests are invited to connect, to slow down, to rejuvenate and to soak up the wonder and awe of travel. Many of the guests are traveling alone and this can be intimidating. We find that group retreats are absolutely wonderful for solo travellers because the group dynamic is positive, calming, fun and welcoming. There is also always the right amount of alone time. We asked a repeat InRetreat guest, Bine, to tell us about her experiences as a solo traveller.

*Bine in Northern Italy 2024 on retreat!*

Article chapters:

Bine’s story: ‘It’s not just a retreat’.
Which InRetreats are suited to solo travellers

Solo travelling on retreat in Bine’s words: “It’s not just a retreat”

I’ve never really been the solo-traveling type. I did study abroad, and I loved meeting people from all around the world and embracing the adventure (eventually), but going on a trip by myself brought me a lot of anxiety. Too much uncertainty would throw me off balance, which kept me from traveling for quite a long time. At some point, though, I realized that if I let my anxiety and circumstances dictate how much of the world I would see, I would definitely regret it later in life.

So when my burnout occurred, I knew I needed to get away. As scary as it was for me to go alone, I needed a break, and quick. When I came across Inretreat, I was sold. It offered everything my nervous system was craving: a beautiful setting, thoughtful organization, nourishing food, like-minded people, yoga and mindful practices, and a carefully curated program that provided both connection and the freedom to retreat into my own space when needed. Guided by an experienced group leader, it felt like exactly what I was looking for.

“So when my burnout occurred, I knew I needed to get away. As scary as it was for me to go alone, I needed a break, and quick.”

*Bine (right) on retreat in Tuscany with other solo travellers and Nina (centre)*

My first retreat was at Vila Lena in Italy in 2022. My second was in Croatia in 2023, my third at Manshausen in Norway in 2024, and my fourth in Northern Italy later that same year.

When I arrived at my first retreat, I felt anxious (shocker), but that feeling disappeared as soon as I met my fellow Inretreaters at the airport. Everyone was incredibly kind and open. Some were solo travelers, some came with friends, and others were couples. The ages varied, but everyone connected effortlessly and my anxiety slowly faded. I immediately felt included.

Bad transportation could’ve been a trigger for me but it was seamlessly organized, and before I knew it, we had arrived at our destination. I can honestly say that every location was even more beautiful in real life than in the photos. Each place sparked my creativity in a different way and I left every retreat feeling relaxed and inspired.

*Bine (centre left) on retreat in Croatia.*

Not only did my creativity return, but I also made incredible international connections. Thanks to social media, many of us have stayed in touch. I feel very lucky to have met so many wonderful people and to have heard their stories.

Apart from the beautiful connections and renewed creativity, I also reconnected with myself during these retreats. Nina shares insights, writes her own poetry, and draws inspiration from thoughtful books and teachings. Her words make you pause and reflect.

How am I feeling? Really, how am I?
Why am I here?
What is there for me to learn or gain?
Where do I feel resistance or blockages?

“Not only did my creativity return, but I also made incredible international connections. I feel very lucky to have met so many wonderful people and to have heard their stories.”

*Bine (centre) on retreat in Northern Italy.*

Yoga creates space for release in both body and mind, which is beneficial for everyone. The other activities help you reconnect with your creativity, your curiosity, or your sense of purpose. And that is exactly what keeps bringing me back to InRetreat, again and again.

So when I say it’s not “just a retreat,” I mean it. It’s a chance to reconnect with yourself, with others, and with what truly matters.

*Bine (left) with Nina on retreat in Norway 2024*

Which InRetreats are suited to solo travellers?

The answer to this depends on whether you are looking for companionship as a solo traveller, or if you are seeking solitude as a solo traveller. InRetreat curates both open group retreats and private customised retreats. Here is an article with the breakdown of the differences between an open group retreat and a private retreat. Relevant to solo travellers is the point that open group retreats (like the ones Bine attended) are comprised of a group of 10-12 like-minded travellers who don’t normally know each other before the retreat. Many are travelling alone, or just in a couple, or 2 friends. This is perfect if you’re seeking companionship and want to meet new people. However, sometimes you may want to travel completely alone and experience solitude in a location. In this case, private retreats are suitable because they are customised to your exact specifications.

“So when I say it’s not “just a retreat,” I mean it. It’s a chance to reconnect with yourself, with others, and with what truly matters.”

Ask Nina which InRetreat is suited to you

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