We’re approaching 50 members, and I want to set an intention that actually benefits you. Instead of pushing content harder or growing louder, I’d rather grow intentionally. 🎯 Goal: Reach 100 members in One Step Away Travelers📅 Why: Because 100 unlocks something meaningful When we hit 100, here’s what happens: - A live group planning session focused on choosing your next trip with clarity - The official creation of a New Orleans group trip for this year - First dibs on that trip for everyone who’s part of the first 100 This isn’t about selling or pressure. If you’ve found value here and know someone who would genuinely fit this space, inviting them helps shape what we build next. No leaderboard. No quotas. Just momentum. If you invite someone, feel free to comment “Invited ✔️” — not for points, just for energy. Let’s see what we create together. [MILESTONE | ROAD-TO | 100 | GROWTH → TRIP | MOMENTUM | 45 | 2026-01-XX]

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.

What Do you think for a couple of promotional ads for this group? Which is your favorite? [SIGNAL | VISUAL-PREFERENCE | BRAND | INSIGHT-MINE | 2026-01-XX]

Wishing you a Christmas filled with joy, peace, and that familiar itch to start planning the next adventure (even if it’s just in your head… for now). This community exists because travel isn’t just about destinations — it’s about confidence, connection, and knowing you’re never one step away from something new. Whether you’re actively booking trips, dreaming big, or quietly watching and learning, you belong here. As we head into the new year, here’s to: - new stamps (real or future), - smoother planning, - fewer travel “what ifs,” - and more “I’m glad I did this.” Thank you for being part of One Step Away Travelers and for helping make this space supportive, curious, and adventure-ready. Merry Christmas, safe travels (always), and cheers to where 2026 takes us next ✨🥂 — Michael 🎅🌍 [CULTURE | SEASONAL | GRATITUDE | COMMUNITY | HOLIDAY | 2025-12]

Anyone traveling early 2026? If so, where? I will start; going to fly to Florida with a couple of friends, we are renting a car and driving through and stopping at the Florida Keys. I have been to Florida before but not the Keys, excited! In February, taking a short driving trip to Monterrey, Mexico with family. May, I have a Western Caribbean cruise in May. Anyone want to join me?