Embracing the Joy of Solo Travel
Tracee Ellis Ross has likely turned down countless free drinks over the years. But when she does so on her latest show, “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross,” it’s not because someone recognized her from “Girlfriends” or “Black-ish.” In a restaurant in Marbella, Spain, she was simply another elegant woman enjoying a solo meal. For Ross, dining alone is not just a preference—it's a powerful statement. At one point, a group of women seated nearby offered to buy her a drink, which she politely declined. The red wine she sipped with her ribeye steak was more than enough for her. Still, after finishing her meal, she made a point to thank them for their kind gesture. One woman responded by saying that seeing Ross eat alone made her think, “You’re sitting there on your own. It’s not good for you!” Ross gently corrected her, explaining that being alone is very good for her and that even a little solo travel can be beneficial for everyone.
The Stigma of Solo Travel
Modern society still struggles with the stigma surrounding women choosing to move through the world by themselves. Single women face this most often, but even those in relationships may encounter pitying glances while dining alone in public. Taking charge of one’s own contentment is often seen as an act of heroism, almost as if it were comparable to battling a serious illness. Throughout “Solo Traveling,” Ross addresses this issue with curiosity rather than frustration. She took her first solo trip in her 20s, and at age 52, she remains determined to showcase the joy of traveling alone. “So often I look around and I’m like, why are there not more examples of owning your singleness and owning your childlessness with joy and with abandon, or also with choice?” she reflects. “Like, it can’t just be Joan of Arc or cat ladies. There’s gotta be something in between!”
Normalizing Solo Travel
“Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” doesn’t offer safety tips or travel hacks, which are readily available elsewhere. Instead, the show focuses on the emotional and personal benefits of solo travel. Ross chose her destinations—Mexico, Morocco, and Spain—because they are safe for solo travel, especially for Black women. For many Americans, the idea that these countries are safe might come as a surprise, given the media’s focus on unrest in regions with diverse populations. However, Ross emphasizes that the fear of traveling alone is often based on outdated perceptions. Her approach is to normalize the experience rather than dwell on fears. To her, solo travel is a celebration of personal freedom. “I get to build my life for myself,” she says.
A Life of Abundance and Joy
Ross is in a unique position to enjoy the luxury of solo travel. She is single, wealthy, a fashion icon, the daughter of Diana Ross, and the founder and CEO of a successful haircare company. While her wealth may not be accessible to everyone, her message is universal: finding joy in small moments, whether it’s a dip in the pool, a rainy day, or a rogue drink at dinner. Her emphasis on preparation and self-care is evident in her vacation routines, from packing beautiful clothes to carrying a tuning fork for comfort. “I pack for the beauty. I pack for the joy. I pack for the clothes,” she explains. “And I pack for the disaster.”
The Growing Trend of Solo Travel
Solo travel is becoming increasingly popular, especially among younger adults. Experts suggest that the pandemic has shifted attitudes toward being alone, making people more comfortable with their own company. According to American Express’ Global Travel Trends Report from 2024, 76% of Millennials and Gen Z respondents planned a solo trip for that year. Additionally, 66% of all respondents centered their vacations around self-love and treating themselves. This trend reflects a broader shift in how people view personal time and independence. In 2024, solo travelers contributed $482.5 billion to the industry, which is expected to triple by 2033.
The Emotional Journey of Solo Travel
While Ross embraces the joys of solo travel, she also acknowledges the emotional challenges. During an episode in Morocco, she admits to feeling lonely despite enjoying her meals and meeting new people. However, she approaches these feelings with curiosity rather than sadness. She questions whether loneliness and sadness are the same and realizes that happiness and joy are distinct emotions. “Happiness is slicker, bouncier. Joy is wider, deeper,” she reflects. She finds solace in the small pleasures of her journey, such as shopping the next day. Her example shows that solo travel can be both empowering and deeply fulfilling.
“Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” is streaming on the Roku Channel.
