Travelling solo as an introvert, extrovert and ambivert.

How Understanding Your Personality Type Can Shape Your Solo Adventure.

“Are you an introvert or an extrovert?” one of the lovely locals asked me during a recent community lunch at the bistro here in Neffiès.

We were discussing the joys and challenges of traveling solo, and the conversation quickly turned to the different ways we recharge—how some thrive on solitude, others on social interaction, and still others somewhere in between.

“It’s all about balance, isn’t it?” I replied, thinking about how I fit somewhere in the middle of the spectrum.

I’m naturally an introvert, yet I possess strong social skills that allow me to connect deeply with others and take on roles like inspirer, leader, and motivator.

That’s when I realized: perhaps I’m an ambivert.

So, what does it mean to be an ambivert? According to the Cambridge Dictionary:

Ambivert: a person who has features of both an introvert (= someone who prefers to spend time alone) and an extrovert (= someone who prefers to be with other people) in their personality:

• Ambiverts are sometimes also called outgoing or social introverts.

• An ambivert typically enjoys other people, but needs time alone.

---

For me, identifying as an ambivert means walking a fine line between finding contentment in my own company, lost in books, photography, and deep thoughts, and seeking out meaningful connections and experiences with like-minded souls that draw me outward.

The idea of traveling solo is the perfect embodiment of this balance. I love being alone, and I never feel lonely—just alone, which is very different. It’s a space where I can recharge, reflect, and dive deep into my creativity. If I go several days without the option of stepping through the "revolving door" into my own inner realm to reconnect with myself, nurture ideas, write, and stimulate my creativity, I can feel a bit "out of myself," "frayed," and sometimes even a little sad.

But I also seek adventure, connection, and the stimulation that comes from exploring new places, meeting new people, and creating memories. As a hostess and teacher of travel-based workshops and retreats, creating an atmosphere where people feel heard, seen, and appreciated is something I absolutely thrive on.

I’d say the perfect mix for me is about 70% alone time, 30% socializing. That’s where I find my sweet spot.

As we chatted at the table, I realized how true it is that each of us has a unique balance of introvert, extrovert, and ambivert qualities—and that’s exactly what makes traveling solo such a personal and enriching experience. Whether you crave quiet reflection or seek energetic exchanges with new people, the beauty of solo travel is that you can curate your own journey.

It’s not about fitting into one box—it’s about understanding where and how we gain our energy and honoring that need as we navigate the world, solo or otherwise. For me, traveling solo has become a way to honor both my need for reflection and my love for adventure, just as I am.

Now, I’m curious: what about you? Are you more inclined towards introversion, thriving in solitude and personal reflection? Or do you find your energy and inspiration in the company of others, embracing the vibrancy of social interactions? Perhaps, like me, you navigate between both worlds, finding joy and fulfillment in a balanced mix. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this!

If you're curious to learn more or even take a short test to discover your own personality type, you find a very interesting test by Adam Grant, an associate professor at Wharton School here. It leads to an eye-opening article that resonated deeply with me and sparked thoughtful reflections.

With warmth and gratitude,
Sif

P.S. In my next letter, I’m excited to share my best recipe for homemade croissants—easy to make and oh-so-delicious. Cooking and baking in the cozy kitchen of Maison Violette brings me immense joy, and I'm eager to share my culinary creations with you. After all, with over 20 cookbooks under my belt and seven international cookbook awards, I consider them as prestigious as Oscars within my field—haha!

Also, I'm currently working on a food-oriented e-book packed with a handful of recipes, along with photos and videos from my visit to the vibrant local food market. This exclusive content is for my paid subscribers on Substack. If you haven't joined yet, now might be the perfect time to jump aboard🎉