traveling solo in a group: is it really alone?

I’ve got two big trips lined up over the next eight months—one week in Quebec, then two weeks split between Italy and Spain. Here’s the kicker: I was supposed to go with a close friend, but now I’m stuck as the odd one out in a group of strangers. I’m not backing out—I’ve been looking forward to this for ages—but I can’t help but wonder what it’ll really feel like to travel “alone” even when I’m technically with a group. I keep picturing myself at the end of the day, winding down in a hotel room with people I barely know, or wandering through a city square by myself while everyone else pairs off. It’s a little intimidating, honestly. I’ve never done this before, and I’m worried about feeling left out or awkward. At the same time, I’m excited about the freedom to do what I want, eat where I want, and maybe even make some new friends along the way. I speak English, French, and I’m nearly fluent in Italian, so chatting with locals isn’t a problem. But I can’t decide: should I try to stick with the group and force some connections, or should I embrace the solo moments and go off exploring on my own? Part of me wants to just wander the streets, people-watch at a café, or get lost in a museum, but another part wonders if I’ll regret not making more of an effort with the group. It’s a weird mix of excitement and nerves—almost like being a kid on the first day of school, but with more jet lag and better food. Anyone else ever get that feeling? #solotravel #grouptravel #travelquestions #Travel