Solo travel is exhilarating. You can explore a new place and do exactly what you want to do! Often people forgo trips if they do not have family or friends to join them. I am here to tell you…. GO ANYWAY!! In 2016 I went on over 50 solo travel trips and enjoyed every single one. Let me help you get ready for your first one! I promise you will love it…
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#1. Pick the right location.
The best bet for your first few solo trips is to research destinations with low crime rate and easy public transportation. Pick somewhere that speaks English so you do not feel alone, scared, and distant from home. Soon enough, you will enjoy going to places that don’t speak English! Last year I went on a solocation to a German speaking small Italian town and about 1% of the population spoke English. It was one of the most relaxing trips I’ve ever had, maybe because a simple smile makes communication very easy. Pick a spot that has activities that interest you… sightseeing, a beach, shopping, hiking. The options are endless, especially when you just have to please yourself.
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#2. Just book it!
The world is an incredible place just waiting for you to explore! Remember that timing will never be perfect. Can’t find a friend to go with you? It’s okay! Go alone! It is good to get outside your comfort zone, you are growing as a person by doing so. Until recently, I traveled alone at least 75% of the time and loved it. You can go at whatever pace you want. If you are worried about eating alone at a restaurant.. don’t be! A lot of people do it. Sit at the bar and strike up a conversation with those around you. People are intriguing and it is fun to learn other’s stories. Often I get feedback from the restaurant employees or other patrons about their favorites things to see, do, and eat in the city.. and then my plans are set for the rest of the trip!
# 3. Be well researched on the city
If you are going abroad then it is even more important to research prior. You want to be sure to know the basics before you get off of the plane. Research online, buy a book, and have notes. I’ve made the mistake before of not being fully prepared with local customs and dress codes, and believe me, it can be quite embarrassing (and humorous) to have scarves tied around your whole body. *You do not want to offend anyone so make sure to know ahead of time!
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# 4. Book your lodging
Decide if you would like to stay in a hotel, hostel, or airbnb and book well ahead of time. Make sure it has good reviews prior that have specific details about the host, amenities, and location. I never book lodging that has less than 20 reviews. For rental cars out of the country, you may not be familiar with the names, it is also important to read reviews so you don’t get scammed or overcharged based on how you look or act.
#5. Prepare yourself, friends and family.
Some loved ones may be concerned about you traveling alone. Assure them by providing copies of your passport, ID, addresses and phone numbers of places you will staying so they feel comfort in knowing where you are. If you would like to take further precautions then have a shared google calendar with a loved one and turn on “find my friends”. To prepare yourself have back-up ID’s, cash, and addresses to everything. Leave copies on your passport, ID, and an extra credit card back at your lodging in different bags so you always have one somewhere.
Read about our suggested trip to Thailand here
which includes a cost breakdown, budget saving tips, and an itinerary!
#6. Stay alert.
Be prepared and aware of your surroundings while on your trip. Don’t look at your phone all of the time while in public, and avoid headphones. Be friendly to people and ask for help when needed, just be sure others are around. Look confident. Remember to “fake it till you make it”… if you look like you know what you are doing then people are less likely to bother you.
# 7. ENJOY YOUR TRIP!!
This is a trip you will remember forever! You have freedom to do anything you want and traveling with never be the same again. Be proud of yourself for stepping out of your comfort zone. If you get nervous and start having fears then call a friend or step outside to the fresh air.. You will instantly be glad you didn’t waste your day in bed. Strike up conversation with locals and meet new friends! It is usually easier when traveling solo as people are curious and more inclined to lend a helping hand.
# 8. Reflect
You are now a more confident, inspired person. You just experienced something 100% to yourself and that is rewarding. Think about what you enjoyed on the trip and what you would like to do next then BOOK IT. The world is your playground, and recess is still fun even if you are the only one playing!
Thank you for adventuring with us! If you would like to get to know us more please join us!
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@seekelsgo from @TwoBlondesBoarding