Traveling Solo

For women, planning and embarking on a solo journey can raise a host of different emotions.  It may initially feel daunting and scary, but with the right preparation and support, solo travel can be incredibly rewarding and empowering, fostering a profound sense of confidence and independence.

My solo trip to Malaysia and India was an absolute game-changer for me.  I’ve frequently traveled (often alone) to locations I considered “safe” spaces- Western Europe in particular.  Places where the culture and language looked and sounded familiar to me.  So, when I purchased a fantastic air deal on a whim, I now had to deal with the planning of a trip to two countries whose colors, flavors, and sounds were truly foreign to me and where women traveling alone is not the norm.

Initial fear and anxiety aside, the whole experience was an affirmation of my capability and independence.  I met some incredible people, locals and fellow travelers, who shared their stories and made me feel right at home (literally) during my homestays. One of my favorite memories is sitting in the kitchen of a homestay having breakfast with an 85 year-old homeowner, as she shared memories of her husband and family during the 1948 India-Pakistan war and the effects it had on her family and life going forward.  These are the types of solo travel experiences I treasure.  My interest in providing information to other women to help them embark on their solo travels with confidence is based on the connections and unforgettable adventures I have personally experienced, like my history lesson over breakfast. 

The most common reply from women when I share my travel adventures is: “I could never do that.”  I disagree!  Traveling solo just takes extra planning and the right mind-set.  It’s normal to feel anxious or apprehensive.   I personally have used all or some of ideas below while planning and traveling solo.

Here are some practical tips to get started:

·         Knowledge is power.  Extensively research your destination including safety, local norms, best modes of transportation, geographic areas.  Use a travel consultant as needed to help plan an itinerary, coordinate ground transportation, activities and day trips.

·         Start Small.  Travel solo to a place you feel safe.  Even a city or area in your own country.  As your comfort level increases, add more challenging adventures.

·         Stay Connected. Validate your cell phone and messaging will work where you are going.  Maintain regular “check-ins” with family and friends.

·         Backup essentials.  Keep digital copies and a physical copy of documents like your ID, passport, credit card information in a safe location.

·         Trust your Instincts.  If something doesn’t feel right, it usually isn’t.

·         Connect with other travelers.  There are a host of solo traveler forums and groups on the internet.  I belong to a couple that are age-specific, but a more general Facebook group is girlabouttheglobe.

·         Blend in.  In many locations, being a tourist is obvious, but avoiding unwanted attention depends a lot on how we dress and act.  Dressing conservatively and leaving expensive jewelry at home is a good first step. Focus on respecting local customs and culture.

·         Ask locals.  Locals will often share recommendations and advice.  They are typically very helpful and welcoming of tourists; don’t be scared to ask questions.

·         Overcome language barriers. Translation apps on cellphones make this an easy solution.  I use a combination of Google Translate and Papago.  Learn key words and phrases before traveling with Duolingo.  Make notecards.

·         Embrace new experiences.  Be adaptable and open-minded.

Take that first step, and let your solo journey be the start of a personal adventure that will likely shape the rest of your life.  It’s your journey.  Make it want you want it to be.