Solo Travel

 "Solo" plainly means that you are not travelling with a companion, but you can go "solo" as a participant in a tour group. There are no hard and fast rules.

If you have never traveled alone, the first step is overcoming your fear. I have talked to many women who would not  consider doing a trip on their own, believing that they are not capable. YES YOU CAN! Technology has made doing this so much easier than in years past.  Remember the old days when you ordered maps from AAA? Travel opens up a new world and you will be so pleased that you took the leap.

Travel takes preparation, willingness to learn, and an open mind. You should be a "roll with the punches" type, because as we all know, nothing goes as planned. 

As a first-timer, you may want to choose a guided tour, where mostly everything is structured in terms of a schedule, hotels, meals, etc. In some countries, it is actually wise to travel in a group, especially as a solo woman, and I gladly choose this as the safer option in certain destinations. In places like Europe, getting around on their train system is fairly easy and doable, so you could start here for your maiden voyage if you want.

On tours, most people are friendly and sociable, but use your judgment and respect boundaries. More often than not, people will invite solos to join them at meals to learn more about them, but clearly they are not inviting you to be with them all the time.😶

When planning a trip preparation is key. Doing your research goes a long way in making the trip more relaxing. Of course, we can only control what we can control.

Even if you are on a tour, there may be days when you are on your own, so understanding the location, country's culture, and how to get around, are key to a great experience.

My Solo Travel Essentials

1) Passports - check your destinations' passport validity requirements before departure - many countries requires several months validity beyond your trip; that said, a lot of countries require that you have blank pages as well. 

I have found that six months prior to expiration date as a common requirement, but you still need to double check.

2) Global Entry - upon return to the USA, you can whisk through customs if you have acquired global entry access. You can find this on the homeland security website https://ttp.dhs.gov/

3) Visas - check the list of countries requiring visas and leave enough time to acquire before the trip. No visa, no go.

4) Vaccines -how this subject became controversial, I don't know, but I follow CDC guidelines especially in areas that carry insect-born diseases or water and food can become contaminated. 

5) Phone - I have succumbed and added an international plan after using e-sims and not being able to make voice calls. In an emergency, texting hotels and airlines doesn't work. I now have peace of mind. The data plan is also generous.

6) Google Maps - the first time I traveled without my daughter, can you believe I didn't know how to use Google Maps? I was really challenged! This has been a life saver in terms of getting around, and not getting seriously lost. 

If you use a taxi, you can follow its path easily with less stress. If you are not familiar, do yourself a big favor, and learn to use this app. You won't regret it.

7) Ride Share Services - most countries have ride share services now. Find out which one is available and download the app while you are still home. It is so much safer to do this than jumping in a cab at the airport or flagging down a random taxi.

8) Currency - make sure you have downloaded a currency conversion app before you leave. I like to carry a small amount of the local currency when I arrive, just to have on hand, which I order from my bank at home. 

Most countries now are cashless, so bring a couple of credit cards that do not have foreign transaction fees. Cash can be retrieved from the ATM once you arrive, but careful which ATM you choose (use only a bank ATM). Never accept the option allowing the bank to convert the rate for you. That is a very bad idea!

9) Packing - I try to take a carry-on and personal item, if possible, especially if there is a layover. The airlines have all sorts of size and weight restrictions, so be sure to check this before you pack up. 

There are a multitude of Youtube videos on packing strategies. They are sort of helpful, but I find that someone is trying to push a product in order to earn a commission. It still doesn't hurt to look at these and cull what is useful for you.

10) Google Translate - this app is a game changer. You can point your camera at signs and menus for translation. It is so empowering. It also obviously works with conversation. Really is useful in places where little English is spoken. Even learning some expressions, like "good morning" and "how are you" will take you far.

11) Adaptor Plugs - easy to forget these little items, but once you do, you will never again. Research the type of wall plugs needed and make sure you bring the necessary cables for your devices. Remember to charge all your devices each evening in preparation for the next day's outing.

12) Staying Organized - there are many apps to help, but I've been using "Tripit" to keep all of my information in one place. It really has been a tremendous asset for me in my travels.

My final comment about traveling independently, is obviously to keep up the radar and stay focused.  If something doesn't feel right, walk away. 

I always stay in a city center with lots of activity even if it is a few more dollars and it isn't as quiet. I know if I take a walk in the evening, my hotel will be close by. After having stayed in "Bed & Breakfasts", I prefer to stay in a hotel with 24 hour reception. 

... and don't forget to check that  the locks on the doors and windows work properly.

That's all for now. It's quite enough!

Thanks for reading,

Melanie