Meet @Adan Garza III 👋Adan brings a thoughtful, lived-in approach to travel — less about quantity, more about culture, experience, and capturing the moment. When he travels, he shows up fully… and yes, documents it properly 📸 Adan has been actively contributing across conversations from solo travel reflections to destination polls — sharing real experiences (including international travel) and adding depth to the discussion. That kind of presence helps shape the tone of this community. This group isn’t about rushing trips or chasing checklists. It’s about traveling in ways that actually mean something, and Adan embodies that spirit well. Adan, glad you’re here and appreciate you showing up the way you do. For the group: Do you travel more for the experience itself, the people you meet, or the memories you bring home? Welcome aboard ✨(And yes photos absolutely count as souvenirs 😄)

Meet @Mary Lyn Richardson 👋Mary Lyn is a retired graphic artist, which usually means she sees the world a little differently — noticing details, design, and the stories behind places, not just the landmarks. One Step Away Travelers is a space for people who enjoy travel as a form of expression and exploration, whether that shows up as photos, sketches, memories, or simply a quieter way of experiencing new places. Mary Lyn, we’re glad you’re here. When you’re ready, the pinned Start Here post will help you get oriented, but there’s no rush. For the group: Do you travel more for inspiration, relaxation, or discovery? Welcome aboard ✨(Creative eyes are always welcome here 😄)

If real confidence feels abstract, this is what it actually looks like in real life. 🔹 [INTRO: WHY THIS MATTERS] Most people think confidence has to come before solo travel. In reality, it usually shows up because of it. I’ve watched this play out again and again with travelers — especially those over 50 who spent years prioritizing responsibility, waiting on others, or telling themselves they’d travel “when the time is right.” When that first solo trip finally happens, something changes — internally. 🔹 [CONFIDENCE DOESN’T COME FROM PERFECT TRIPS] Confidence doesn’t come from flawless experiences. Flights get delayed. Plans shift. You make decisions without checking in with anyone else. That’s the point. Each small decision you make on your own reinforces something important: 👉 You can handle what comes up. That realization sticks with you long after the trip ends. 🔹 [WHAT ACTUALLY CHANGES ON A SOLO TRIP] When you travel solo, you stop outsourcing decisions. You choose when to rest. You decide what’s worth your energy. You adjust plans without negotiating or compromising. That autonomy builds real confidence — not bravado, not hype — but quiet trust in yourself. Many travelers don’t realize how much trust they’ve given away until they reclaim it. 🔹 [WHY SOLO TRAVEL MAKES PEOPLE MORE SOCIAL] Here’s the surprise most people don’t expect: Solo travelers often become more social — not less. Without a companion bubble, you’re more approachable. You notice conversations around you. Casual chats turn into meaningful connections. Friendships that start before a tour or excursion often deepen during it. Confidence grows from calm presence — not boldness. 🔹 [CONFIDENCE COMES FROM CALM, NOT BRAVADO] Solo travel isn’t about fearlessness. It’s about being prepared and attentive. Experienced solo travelers: Choose flights that protect their energy Respect timing and pacing Trust their instincts without panicking That kind of decision-making isn’t risky — it’s grounded.

Chain Reaction Comment Game ⛓️‍💥 Let’s try something fun. I’ll start a sentence below.👉 Add only ONE word in the comments to keep it going. No thinking too hard. No editing. Just one word. Let’s see where this ends 👀😄 The sentence starts with: “In 2026, I finally decided to…” ⬇️ Your turn — one word only. [ENG-MAG | LIGHT | IDENTITY | COMMENT-GAME | 2026-01]

If we put together a stateside group trip (no passport required), I want to make sure it’s something you’d genuinely enjoy. This would be a low-barrier, easy-planning trip — great for first-time group travelers, anyone who prefers staying domestic, or those who just want something simple and stress-free. Your vote helps me decide what we explore next, so pick the option that feels most like your kind of trip. And if none of these fit, drop a comment with what you’d love to see. [SIGNAL | DESTINATION | STATESIDE | GROUP-TRIP | VALIDATION | 2026-01-XX]