The Hidden Cost of Loneliness: How Solo Travelers and Retirees Can Stay Emotionally Healthy Abroad
The Hidden Cost of Loneliness When Traveling Solo or Retiring Abroad — And How to Stay Emotionally Healthy Traveling the world alone—or retiring in a quiet apartment far away from family—can be one of life’s greatest freedoms. You set your own pace, choose your own destinations, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of independence. But with this freedom comes a quiet cost many people do not talk about: loneliness . And if left unaddressed, loneliness can affect your mental, emotional, and even physical health just as strongly as poor diet or lack of exercise. In today’s world, where retirees are exploring Mexico, Portugal, Colombia, Thailand, or Panama on their own, loneliness has become one of the biggest hidden challenges of the expat lifestyle. Understanding these psychological drawbacks—and knowing how to prevent them—can make the difference between a flourishing retirement and an emotionally draining one. The Psychological Drawbacks of Loneliness During Solo Travel or Retirem...