From Break Up to Glow Up: Brittany’s Solo Reset in Turkey

The word "breakup" is often associated with sadness, hurt, and many other emotions that we won't dwell on in this story. But it does start there. Because for Brittany—a badass attorney from NYC—that breakup became the catalyst to go and live her best life full of transformation, fireworks, and a new community of friends. All that and more on the crystal blue waters of Turkey with SurfYogaBeer.

What inspired you to book your first SurfYogaBeer trip to Turkey?

I had just gone through a tough breakup. We'd been together for five years, were engaged, and had a wedding venue booked, so when the relationship ended, it became the catalyst for an escape. 

I've been to over forty countries, most of them solo, and even backpacked across Europe. I've been on group trips before, but when my friend Hannah (who has traveled ten+ times with SurfYogaBeer) told me about a group trip to Turkey, it felt different. The small and intimate group size offered time for reflection and real connection, which was exactly what I needed at that time.

What surprised you most about this style of (group) travel?

While my goal for booking this trip was to have a meditative and reflective experience (which I definitely had), I didn't expect the people ot be so great. They helped me work through the remnants of my breakup and break me out of my shell again. I have to call out one of the leaders, Steph, who played a big part in that.

What was a #SYBTurkey highlight for you?

There were wine and karaoke nights, a chef on the gulet, and each day was so full, but one experience stands out. We had a theme day, where we got off the gulet in the morning and were put into groups of 3-4 people. With a couple of hours to create a theme with a matching drink and an activity to go with it, we scattered around this little Turkish village searching for props and landed on a "New Year's Eve" theme, despite it being September.

As part of our skit, we asked everyone to write down their resolution anonymously, and each group member had to guess who they thought the resolution belonged to. Because we knew each other so well at this point, most people guessed correctly. 

At the end, we lit fireworks, and I've held onto, "A new year can start whenever you want it to start." 

How did this trip impact you after returning home?

At the end of the week, I was awarded the "Lone traveler, heart gatherer award," which amplified the already heartwarming experience and the new friendships I took away from this trip. As soon as I returned home, I started to write down the things I wanted to do…and then started actually doing them. I got back into a gym routine, did my first-ever fitness challenge, and continued learning another language. Already learned over 1,000 Japanese characters! The shakeup of routine and the supportive people helped me start to feel like myself again.

What is the biggest takeaway from your first SYB travel experience?

Everything happens for a reason, and sometimes you need a getaway to help you reset and figure out what that reason is. Admittedly, I had some moments of sadness during the trip, but they were mixed with genuine connection, gratitude, and laughter, and being on this trip felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be. I was making new friends and memories as we slept under the stars, and with each moment, I was starting to see the version of myself that I had lost for a bit. 

Any advice for those considering a trip to Turkey with SYB?

Don't be afraid to go solo! Turkey is a cool trip because it's a small group size, allowing you to get to know everyone on such a personal level. I made so many new friends on this trip, many of whom live locally to me in New York, proving that once the trip is over, it's never really over!

Why social group travel?

Age, marital status, background, and location aside, we're all looking for connection, and social travel is a pretty fab way to meet awesome people and extend bonds far beyond your trip.

Zero hassle: Once you've secured your spot, we handle the rest. From a curated itinerary and ensuring safe navigation to trip logistics, we've got it covered.

Social connections: Social group travel fosters opportunities for you to get away (to really dope destinations) while also experiencing them with ambitious, open-minded, adventurous people just like you. 

Life lessons to bring home: Traveling with a group introduces you to different perspectives, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of other cultures and lifestyles.

Why travel to Turkey with SurfYogaBeer?

Picture this. Crystal blue waters, the sun kissing your face, and sailing along the stunning coast of Turkey to close out summer. This is not a dream, this is #SYBTurkey, and we're so pumped to welcome you aboard our private Turkish gulet! Get ready for an adventure that perfectly blends Turkey's enchanting views and history with mouthwatering local meals mixed with active days on land and in the sea. 

On this trip, the blue waters will mesmerize you, and the ancient tales of these lands will leave you feeling enchanted. Expect luxury, rejuvenating yoga and beach workouts, and a new group of friends for life you'll connect with as the stars twinkle above you on the gulet—all this and more on the Turkish seas.

SurfYogaBeer is an active and social travel company focused on global, local, and private adventures, offering group trips for people of all ages and fitness levels. We're all looking for adventure. Travel with us–change your life.