The Solo Traveller
Your independence, passion, and lifelong memories.
Fellow Travellers
Sharon Williams OAM
The first time Sharon travelled solo was on a German school exchange. “I had never flown before, so I spent most of my time staring out of the window at the clouds in sheer disbelief at how beautiful they were. It was like heaven!”
“The second was when, at 21, I moved to Crete to be a holiday rep. for eight months. My true solo adventures began 20 years ago, after my marriage ended – a time when I started to put myself first and savour the exhilarating freedom of exploring the world on my own.”
What kind of research did you do before your first trip?
My first travel trips were pre-Internet and iPhones, so we used Encyclopedias and stories from people we knew. Lonely Planet books were our Bibles, and we used American Express offices and the ‘Post Restante’ network as bases for advice on local information and to guide me with where I was going next.
What do you love the most about travelling solo?
I find peace with travelling solo. There is no one to please or worry about, no one to look after, and no one to derail or change plans. When you travel alone, you can deal with things on your own terms, and I also find that you are more likely to meet people and find your tribe. Things always happen in the most unexpected way – for example, I met my daughter’s future Godparents at a bus stop in Hong Kong!
What lessons you have learned about life by travelling solo?
I discovered that I am capable and at peace in my own company. I’m likeable, people want me around, and I can navigate challenges and tough moments with grace. On the road, I practiced resourcefulness and even found ways to share that spark with others. The lessons didn’t end when I returned home, either. My solo adventures gifted me fresh perspective, and even now I see the world back home through a lens of curiosity, wonder, and gratitude.
“My solo adventures gifted me fresh perspective, and even now I see the world back home through a lens of curiosity, wonder, and gratitude.”
Is there a destination you keep returning to, and why?
I love England, my home, but as an English girl at heart, living in Australia still feels like a permanent adventure. What I enjoy most is travelling around this incredible country, and it remains my number one destination even after 30 years here. Crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and seeing the ocean still feels exhilarating, and I truly believe Australia is the most amazing place to live and explore. I love Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley for their calm and the sense of peace they bring. Both are perfect for a quick getaway … charming and soothing at the same time … a little local surf and turf to recharge the soul.
I would also love to return to Africa and Italy, and one day, soak in that picture-perfect view of the Maldives. I am very excited to be doing the Ponant Paspaley adventure cruise to Indonesia in March where I plan to dive, snorkel, and discover the vibrant marine life.
Did you make friends that you met while travelling solo that remain in your life?
Oh yes! Travelling solo is amazing for meeting new people – hearing stories from across the world, engaging with different cultures, and sharing glimpses of life’s tapestry. These encounters always open my mind in new ways, and it’s also a wonderful way to discover ideas for future adventures and get firsthand recommendations from people who have lived them.
Who inspires you in travel or in life more generally?
I’m inspired by people who travel with no check in luggage! But seriously, I look up to people who have created change or build calm common sense in the world. As an entrepreneur who cares deeply about uplifting others, I love meeting people who radiate the same quality.
Travelling solo has given me the gift of connecting authentically with people from all walks of life – hearing their stories, sharing a laugh, and seeing the world through their eyes. Those encounters inspire me, and I hope I leave a little of that spark behind too. In a world where grace and respect can sometimes be rare, I look for those who carry both – quietly, beautifully in everything they do.
What is on your ‘Bucket List’?
Returning to Africa is at the top of my bucket list. I’m hoping to visit Kenya next year to take in the stunning landscapes, experience the vibrant culture, and go on a safari.
What causes are you passionate about, and why?
I’m passionate about animals and the health of our oceans. As someone who enjoys ocean swimming regularly, I’m deeply concerned about how marine life is treated – the rising levels of rubbish and the lack of sustainable practices are alarming. It’s frustrating to see the contrast between Australia’s strict environmental laws and some neighbouring countries, where waste is often swept straight into streams that eventually flow into the ocean. While I recognise that no system is perfect, I focus on doing what I can, which is supporting sustainable practices, reducing my impact, and raising awareness, because every small action counts toward protecting our planet.
Can you share your top 3 tips for solo traveller success?
1. Travel light. Then travel lighter.
2. Do your research.
3. Respect the local culture and be a good example to those around you.