Where I can find a mature traveling companion?

Dear Editor,

Is there a place online where I can find a mature traveling companion? I’m not seeking romance, just a friendly person who’s willing to share travel experiences and expenses.

– Reader

Dear Reader,

There are several organizations that can help you find like-minded travel partners online, including Travel Chums and the Connecting Solo Network.

Travel Chums, a travel-companion matching site, has more than 31,000 members, 40 percent of whom are ages 46 or over. You can join for free and create a detailed personal profile that contains information about your travel interests. You’ll then be able to search through other members’ profiles to find a suitable match and receive email notification when a new member joins who matches your search criteria. You can also post queries on 39 active message boards organized by regions and interests. In order to send messages to other members, you’ll have to become a “subscriber,” which costs $15 for one month.

You should also check out Connecting: Solo Travel Network, an organization dedicated to helping single travelers, particularly women ages 50 and up. A one-year online membership costs $30 and includes a subscription to Connecting: Solo Travel News, a newsletter featuring solo travel tips and stories, singles tour listings, and ads for travel companions; a copy of the online Single-Friendly Travel Directory; and unlimited travel companion advertising in the newsletter and on the website. There are currently about 1,800 members.