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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

CORFU: Going Solo on my 1st holiday since separation & anxious about travelling solo

101 replies

CleanCityBird · 11/08/2025 13:45

I’ve booked a 2 week holiday to Corfu and I’m travelling solo. Just me! I felt so good when I booked it, I thought I was so brave & courageous, & I’m so devastated that these doubts are creeping in. I’m a 53 year old woman & I went through a separation 7yrs ago. He left. It’s taken me years to get over it, I was devastated. My only daughter is 30 now & lives abroad with her partner. I don’t have much family & it’s been a huge adjustment living alone. I took in student this year & I’ve loved having them, breathing life into the house. It’s the money they brought in that’s paying for this holiday. I was beginning to feel like I’ve come out the other side (or I think I am).
So in March I booked this holiday to Corfu for 2 weeks in September. It’s my first holiday in 8 years. It’s almost upon me now. I’d imagined strolls on the beach at sunset, peacefulness, reading, swimming in the sea, beautiful food, wonderful locals.
The closer it gets to C Day the more anxious I become. I’m afraid I’ll get there, be paralysed by irrational fear, never leave my accommodation & count down the days until I come home. Worse, I’m afraid I will get to the day & won’t get on the plane, almost sabotage myself.
It’s the fear that is so powerful, but I don’t even know what I’m afraid of. I think it’s the sadness of what life is like now compared to what it used to be.
I’ve booked accommodation in Messonghi ( which I can cancel up to a week before travel). I’m nervous I’ve booked the wrong location for a solo traveller looking for peace. I’ve a very limited budget so I’m nervous about it. I read about Agios Gordios being beautiful but it’s pricier. Recommendations anyone has for a peaceful place beside a beach I’d be very grateful. But also, moral support would be wonderful for me to lean on to bolster my confidence & help me to grab hold of this holiday with both hands and begin to feel alive again.

OP posts:
soupycustard · 28/08/2025 13:42

How lovely to have an update!! I loved travelling alone the few times I've done it. Have a brilliant time!

Lifealwaysgetsbetter · 28/08/2025 13:43

CleanCityBird · 11/08/2025 13:45

I’ve booked a 2 week holiday to Corfu and I’m travelling solo. Just me! I felt so good when I booked it, I thought I was so brave & courageous, & I’m so devastated that these doubts are creeping in. I’m a 53 year old woman & I went through a separation 7yrs ago. He left. It’s taken me years to get over it, I was devastated. My only daughter is 30 now & lives abroad with her partner. I don’t have much family & it’s been a huge adjustment living alone. I took in student this year & I’ve loved having them, breathing life into the house. It’s the money they brought in that’s paying for this holiday. I was beginning to feel like I’ve come out the other side (or I think I am).
So in March I booked this holiday to Corfu for 2 weeks in September. It’s my first holiday in 8 years. It’s almost upon me now. I’d imagined strolls on the beach at sunset, peacefulness, reading, swimming in the sea, beautiful food, wonderful locals.
The closer it gets to C Day the more anxious I become. I’m afraid I’ll get there, be paralysed by irrational fear, never leave my accommodation & count down the days until I come home. Worse, I’m afraid I will get to the day & won’t get on the plane, almost sabotage myself.
It’s the fear that is so powerful, but I don’t even know what I’m afraid of. I think it’s the sadness of what life is like now compared to what it used to be.
I’ve booked accommodation in Messonghi ( which I can cancel up to a week before travel). I’m nervous I’ve booked the wrong location for a solo traveller looking for peace. I’ve a very limited budget so I’m nervous about it. I read about Agios Gordios being beautiful but it’s pricier. Recommendations anyone has for a peaceful place beside a beach I’d be very grateful. But also, moral support would be wonderful for me to lean on to bolster my confidence & help me to grab hold of this holiday with both hands and begin to feel alive again.

Kassiopi is lovely and busy enough to be anonymous but small enough to be friendly. I find Greek people really lovely and never experienced any sleazy or creepy behaviour. Always felt v safe and I’d def travel there alone. Two weeks would be too long for me anywhere though. Maybe someone else can comment on the resort you’re going to.,

TwistedWonder · 28/08/2025 13:46

Hi OP - if you’re on FB it’s worth joining a Corfu forum as there’s often solo travellers posting.

Im flying out on 19th so I’ll miss you by a few days

CunningPlanMaster · 28/08/2025 13:50

Jenny!! I’m so excited for you! I have two toddlers and dream of the day when I can book a solo trip (and leave DH behind!).

Have you got your kindle stocked full of good reads? Have you got any holiday clothes bargains at the end of season? A few nice sarongs and beautiful billowy hat?
ohhh I’m so jealous!

please do post one of those classic ‘drink by the pool’ photos when you arrive 🍸 🌊 ☀️

Unexpectedlysinglemum · 28/08/2025 13:54

Hello, I’ve been there! It’s a lovely place!
I would say don’t think of it as two weeks just do a day at a time.
there is a bus that goes the length of the island you can go to Corfu town and explore the castle etc or book onto a tour there, book onto a boat trip if you can. You’ll be totally fine - book massages in your hotel some days get your hair cut and blow dried in the hotel spa it’s cheaper than London etc etc

Ihad2Strokes · 28/08/2025 14:46

Jenny, what a lovely update! I'm so pleased you're excited niw! I hope you have an amazing time!

all updates & photos welcome!

you've picked a good time to go, it's set to be very wet here!!

🍹🍹

Didshejustsaythatoutloud · 28/08/2025 14:46

Omg, im well jealous. This is my dream holiday-solo.
Keep in touch with us during your holiday and you will never feel alone.
Embrace and enjoy
🫂

ShodAndShadySenators · 28/08/2025 15:05

Thanks for the update, I'm so glad for you that you're looking forward to it now! You'll honestly have a whale of a time and it'll be so good for you.

(I used to panic a bit at the thought of managing at the airport as my DH had always sorted everything, but I've had turns at being the lead passenger and it was fine. Even when things didn't go as smoothly as I might have hoped, I did cope and we had lovely breaks.)

I really envy you for Corfu, it's one of my favourite places ever. Bon voyage!

Titasaducksarse · 28/08/2025 15:22

We normally go to Kassiopi in the north but last year stayed in Messonghi. Nice small resort with some lovely restaurants. Corfu is somewhere I'd happily go on my own.

Whatareyoutalkingaboutnow · 28/08/2025 15:43

Corfu is lovely, my favourite place is Paleokatsritsa, (maybe spelt wrong) there is a small but perfect and cute beach, lovely little beach cafe and bars.

Pickledpoppetpickle · 28/08/2025 16:20

I find solo holidays incredibly therapeutic. I was unravelling in a big way in June this year, really stressed, climbing the walls and no idea what was going on for me. A few days away in the sun, no one to bother me, no need to talk to anyone unless I wanted to….well, it all worked its way through. My brain got a rest and was able to work out what was happening and I have been able to put in place strategies and other stuff…am great now! Highly recommended. I have been away multiple times in the past on my own - similar age to you. It has always been a positive experience.

mrsjoyfulprizeforraffiawork · 28/08/2025 16:49

Oh good- glad to read the update. Will be thinking of you on Tuesday and I am sure you will have a great time . I have a little house in mainland Greece and it was the first overseas country I travelled to alone 50 years ago.

JaceLancs · 28/08/2025 17:26

So glad we helped and thank you for updating
You are making me consider Corfu next year!

Lovetosurf · 28/08/2025 17:54

Have a wonderful trip to beautiful Corfu!

Absolutely normal to feel some anxiety before you go. I first travelled by myself aged 17 (took myself off to an archaeological dig) now mid-50s and still get pre-travel jitters when I'm travelling solo! It's always fine though, I've never had any issues in Greece, S of France or Portugal. Corfiots are particularly known for their warmth and hospitality too.

Just one tip, If you plan to go on any longish walks, make sure you're well equipped and tell/send someone your route before you depart.

WonderingWanda · 28/08/2025 17:59

I am quite envious op. I am not single but this summer with dh working the whole time and acting as a taxi for the grumpy teens I did wonder if I should just book a solo trip for myself. Maybe next year!

BSky4 · 28/08/2025 20:51

@WonderingWanda I hear you!

@CleanCityBird I hope you have a totally fabulous trip. Sounds like you’ve booked something really nice that will give you the break you need and hope for. Pop back & let us know how your trip goes.

Jeska7 · 28/08/2025 21:16

CleanCityBird · 28/08/2025 13:34

Hi everyone.
i wanted to send an update on my upcoming trip to Corfu.
So many of you responded to my original post. I was overwhelmed. And utterly thrilled. I took real strength from the messages of support & encouragement & stories of your own. They truly spurred me on. So everyone who responded had a part to play in getting me this far.
one user responded with such excellent pointers as to where to stay it cemented for me what part of the island I would love & their location & hotel recommendations helped me choose and book a perfect location. Instead of dread I’ve butterflies of excitement & I have not had those for years. It feels wonderful. I leave next Tuesday (2nd Sep) and now it’s full steam ahead.
i was nervous putting my fear & anxiety out there into the world, and I’m so glad I did. To every one of you- thank you. 🙏 Jenny.

Edited

I have been reading a lot of these comments and they are lovely. I’ve never done solo travelling (except in he time I was early 20s and had never been on a plane before and had to go solo to a work event abroad). Not been abroad much at all really. So cannot offer advice but others have been plentiful in their advice.

However, I just wanted to say it’s great that you feel more confident travelling by yourself, and I wish you have an amazing and relaxing time. Enjoy!!!

Let us know how it went when you get back!

Wonderbug81 · 28/08/2025 21:24

I went to Corfu as a solo traveller (similar age to you). It's a very friendly place and the culture is family-orientated. There are lots of restaurants where you can sit on your own.

One tip when eating alone - I took a book but also airpods and my phone for dinner. Yes it's normally antisocial but it meant I could listen to an audiobook or music while eating. I didn't do it all the time but sometimes it just gave me a bit more confidence.

It's a larger island which actually works better because there's plenty of transport options and amenities.

It's a beautiful place and once you're there and settled, I expect any nerves will melt away.

hellsbells99 · 28/08/2025 22:50

Have a fabulous holiday! @CleanCityBird

Upsidedownagain · 28/08/2025 23:24

Please go OP! If you don't, you'll never know what you missed and you'll be thrilled with yourself for the achievement. I haven't exactly been on holiday solo, as I've always had someone to go with, but a few years back I had 4 nights away with one of my dc. They spent the days with a friend staying nearby and I had three wonderful days all by myself. I didn't link up with anyone but I could see how it could happen as on several occasions I had little chats with complete strangers. It felt liberating.

PS just realised you have updated. Have a great holiday!

Lanzarotelady · 04/09/2025 19:02

CleanCityBird · 28/08/2025 13:34

Hi everyone.
i wanted to send an update on my upcoming trip to Corfu.
So many of you responded to my original post. I was overwhelmed. And utterly thrilled. I took real strength from the messages of support & encouragement & stories of your own. They truly spurred me on. So everyone who responded had a part to play in getting me this far.
one user responded with such excellent pointers as to where to stay it cemented for me what part of the island I would love & their location & hotel recommendations helped me choose and book a perfect location. Instead of dread I’ve butterflies of excitement & I have not had those for years. It feels wonderful. I leave next Tuesday (2nd Sep) and now it’s full steam ahead.
i was nervous putting my fear & anxiety out there into the world, and I’m so glad I did. To every one of you- thank you. 🙏 Jenny.

Edited

I think I might have had a little cry

Please come back when you're home and let us know how it went

Monster6 · 04/09/2025 19:26

aw lovely op

1970svintageshop · 04/09/2025 20:01

I went to South Corfu for the first time last year, Kavos
Last minute booking
Hotel b&b, flights & bus transfer
Short walk to beach
Did trip to capital
Did a trip with boat ride, sea swim & small town
Did 2 slow horse rides, one with sunset.

Best night was a Greek restaurant with traditional food, singing, dancing & plate throwing

A little bit of heavy rain

No complaints, good food & friendly people

Hope you enjoyed your holiday !

willstarttomorrow · 04/09/2025 20:02

OP, corfu is lovely and the people are friendly. If you go to a small taverna or find a family run hotel with a pool to spend the day (most welcome you of you buy drinks etc). you will find someone to chat to if you feel like being sociable.

I have am also about to embark on my first solo trip. I have been widowed for a while when DC was 8 years old and always travelled together. DC has now moved on and is at uni with their own life. I am flying into Burgas is about 2 1/2 weeks, have a hotel booked in Nessebar for a night then on to a thermal spa for 2 nights, then overnight train to sofia and 3 nights booked in Skopje. After that, who knows! I keep changing my plans and in theory I can be away for 3 weeks. It will either make or break me 😂

Bluddyellfire · 06/09/2025 18:08

CleanCityBird · 11/08/2025 13:45

I’ve booked a 2 week holiday to Corfu and I’m travelling solo. Just me! I felt so good when I booked it, I thought I was so brave & courageous, & I’m so devastated that these doubts are creeping in. I’m a 53 year old woman & I went through a separation 7yrs ago. He left. It’s taken me years to get over it, I was devastated. My only daughter is 30 now & lives abroad with her partner. I don’t have much family & it’s been a huge adjustment living alone. I took in student this year & I’ve loved having them, breathing life into the house. It’s the money they brought in that’s paying for this holiday. I was beginning to feel like I’ve come out the other side (or I think I am).
So in March I booked this holiday to Corfu for 2 weeks in September. It’s my first holiday in 8 years. It’s almost upon me now. I’d imagined strolls on the beach at sunset, peacefulness, reading, swimming in the sea, beautiful food, wonderful locals.
The closer it gets to C Day the more anxious I become. I’m afraid I’ll get there, be paralysed by irrational fear, never leave my accommodation & count down the days until I come home. Worse, I’m afraid I will get to the day & won’t get on the plane, almost sabotage myself.
It’s the fear that is so powerful, but I don’t even know what I’m afraid of. I think it’s the sadness of what life is like now compared to what it used to be.
I’ve booked accommodation in Messonghi ( which I can cancel up to a week before travel). I’m nervous I’ve booked the wrong location for a solo traveller looking for peace. I’ve a very limited budget so I’m nervous about it. I read about Agios Gordios being beautiful but it’s pricier. Recommendations anyone has for a peaceful place beside a beach I’d be very grateful. But also, moral support would be wonderful for me to lean on to bolster my confidence & help me to grab hold of this holiday with both hands and begin to feel alive again.

I'm on holiday by myself right now and bluddy loving it, I've done exactly what I've felt like doing since I got here (loads, or fk all, have a little snooze, go to the museum, don't go to the museum, have a beer or an ice cream, it's all up to meeee!!!) and I won't stop until I get back on that minibus for the airport. I hope you're having a blast! 🍻🌞🏖