You start planning a holiday to a new destination and think about having some friends join you, then, you realise no one else is going to get a few days off to go with you. Does it sound familiar? Maybe this is the time to hit the road alone and enjoy your own company.
The truth is that more and more people are travelling alone and enjoying the experience!
I am not going to lie. I had a trip in group experience once that was so chaotic that made me consider starting travelling solo for the rest of my life.
I was in my early-20s, and despite enjoying the idea of being abroad with my friends, it was almost impossible to do or see what I wanted, and it was quite stressful in the end.
So, I totally understand the benefits of travelling alone and lots of people prefer to book solo holidays nowadays.
Travelling alone is not just a trend, it’s a lifestyle where people have amazing experiences, make friends, live memorable experiences, admire the spectacular scenery and even have time just for themselves.
You live your comfort zone behind to learn how to deal with the unknown too. Another positive aspect of travelling solo is being able to make the plans or change them whenever you want at your own pace.
However, it is also important to consider facing some unpredictable situations on the road and be prepared to deal with these problems. It can be a bit scary especially if you’re a female travelling solo. That’s when planning your steps properly is essential.
For this reason, I have put together a few tips on how to start your solo travelling journey in a safe way.
Try a Staycation First
For some people, travelling solo means embarking on a journey to know yourself better. Experiment with the new and learn new things.
If you are going to start doing it without any company, why not start in familiar places? You can pick different destinations in your country. There is always a different type of staycation travel to join in.
Travelling to places that you probably have heard about before, you will probably know how to handle some situations. Gives you more experience and confidence to venture yourself abroad. It is also a great way of knowing more about your country as well.
Research About Your Travel Destination
For every type of travel, it is always important to research your destination. But if you are a travel solo beginner, it is essential to plan your trip.
Whether it fits your expectations if you have what you like to do, how is the security of that location, etc? Searching and having information make all the difference to the success of a trip! The more information you have, the better!
Enjoy Your own Company
I have heard about people that can`t do things on their own. I have no problem with it. I enjoy my own company quite a lot. And I guess there is no other better time to do it if when you are travelling solo.
So, make the most of it. Enjoy your own company – You can travel at your own pace, stop when you feel like it, read a book, sunbathe, or simply do none of these things and enjoy your company to meditate or relax from the hectic day-to-day. That is the perfect time to discover yourself too.
Interacting with Communities
I don’t think I would be able to travel solo without having a grasp of the language and local culture in the country I am visiting. You don’t need to be an expert but learning a few words in the local language will help you to have a better experience with that community.
It will be quite important in case you are travelling as a volunteer.
If you are visiting a small town, for example, the probability of seeing the same people several times a day is quite big.
Maybe that will be your chance to attempt to say a few words. Also, the bond with the people you meet will be greater, allowing you to make friends more easily.
If you feel a bit lost, you can always rely on Google Translate for extra help.
Learning Something New
In my head, every travel destination can bring you more than only beautiful photos to publish on your Instagram. You can always take advantage of being alone to learn something new.
Besides learning a new language, taking up culinary or photography classes are also great activities to go for. Be open to new possibilities.
This can be a great way to meet other travellers and share experiences, doing something entirely new. Don’t like to cook?
Think of other activities that have to do with the culture of the place you’re going to! There is always something interesting to learn from other cultures.
Share Your Itinerary with a Friend or Relative
To make sure you are on the safe side, always share your itinerary with a friend or a family member.
The tip is valid if you are travelling in a group or not, but it is essential for those travelling alone. It is always important to leave with a relative or friend a schedule of your trip and the hotels you will stay in so that in an emergency, they can find you.
*This is a collaborative post
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