From Late Night Google Searches to Greek Sunsets: Patrice’s First Solo Adventure with OWR

For Patrice, joining Other Way Round’s Greece trip wasn’t just about ticking a destination off the list. It was about leaning into something new, something a little scary—in the best kind of way.

After months of quiet hesitation, late-night Googling, and conversations with loved ones, she took the plunge and booked the trip. What followed was eight days of stunning islands, spontaneous connection, shared laughter, and unexpected growth. 

When I first discovered OWR travel group, I had been debating (in my head) for months. Casual, late-night Google searches… do I really want to do this… CAN I really do this… the desire was there for a new challenge, something that scared me.

It had always been in the back of my mind for years, wanting to try a solo group trip, and Greece was on my bucket list.

I then started talking about this group I found with friends and family – almost as a way to verbally commit – so I wouldn’t get scared and back out. The enthusiasm and excitement I received from those I love was incredible, which ended up pushing me to book it (about 2 months before the departure date!)

Fast forward 7 months post-OWR Greece trip, I still think about my experience on a weekly basis and consider it one of the best decisions of my life. I am so grateful for the friendships I made, the incredible food and scenery, and the liberation I felt after doing something so scary (at first), that ended up fully exceeding my expectations. 

“I REALLY WALKED AWAY WITH NEW FRIENDSHIPS FROM AROUND THE WORLD”

Our tour guide, Aris, kept telling us that by the end of the trip we would feel like family. We initially laughed at this – how can you form relationships over 8 days – but I really did walk away with new friendships from around the world, a bond shared over a love of travel and experiencing new things.

The food was incredible, the hotels were great, and most surprisingly – everyone was timely! With a group of 14, you always anticipate a straggler or two.

I can say everyone was respectful of our time as a group and overall, everyone was easy to get along with. Most of our group were first-time solo travelers, myself included, so that also made it a cool experience that we were on this maiden voyage together.

“THE ISLAND OF PAROS AND BLACK SAND BEACH ON SANTORINI WERE THE TWO HIGHLIGHTS FOR ME”

The island of Paros and black sand beach on Santorini were the two highlights for me. On Paros, one of our favorite activities was an organic farm tour overlooking the sea, followed by a feast that included samples of their own olive oil and oregano.

Walking through the town of Paros was so colorful and picturesque. Perissa (Black Sand Beach) had crystal clear water that we all decided to do together, even though it was a free day – which, again, speaks to the enjoyment of one another’s company after just a few days of being introduced.

“EVERYTHING WAS RELAXED, TAKEN CARE OF, AND WE JUST HAD TO SHOW UP”

We obviously had to do a photo op at the Three Domes in Santorini (very early before the crowds), and ended the trip with an amazing sunset cruise.

I enjoy experiencing new places like a local, which Aris did perfectly. He took us to great restaurants, ordered traditional and unique food we would never know to try, and was so knowledgeable with best known locations, activities and culture tidbits only a true local would know.

Everything was relaxed, taken care of, and we just had to show up. As a planner at work, it was nice to be on the other side!

My advice to anyone on the fence is – just do it.

You’ll never know unless you try, and if you enjoy travel, are not 100% comfortable going somewhere totally solo, and are looking to make new friends – this group is for you!