I'm not looking for sympathy in any way, as this is something I'm considering doing out of choice, and have always wanted to try, but never have out of fear of causing worry or offence to my loved ones.

I've had a pretty rough year which included a very difficult break-up amongst other personal issues. I'm in my 30's/m and have no children, nor a desire to have any. I have offers from siblings to stay for Christmas, which I do really appreciate and I do love them, but there is always a tension in the house around that time of year, as well as a pretty outrageously materialistic and stressful atmosphere. I just don't think I'm up to putting on a brave face and playing the part of "fun-uncle" this year.

I have a bit of spare cash and I was considering booking into somewhere along the coast for a few nights, do some sea-swimming, hiking and writing. It might sound boring as fuck to some but to me it sounds like just what I need.

I consider myself very lucky for the fact that of the things I do struggle with - loneliness doesn't tend to be one of them. I enjoy my own company and have plenty of hobbies that reflect this.

I guess I'm just writing this because I feel I'm going to be seen as "weird" and I just don't want to have people worried, or feel offended by this decision, and maybe someone here is or has been in a similar position... If so, how was it and how did you spend your time?

...

Edit: Jesus, thanks for all the encouragement. I did have a feeling it sounded weirder in my own head, but I wasn't expecting all of this kindness and understanding. It's really comforting to know that I'm not alone in being alone.