The idea of traveling alone, especially in a foreign place, can feel intimidating, but it’s actually a liberating, self-discovering, and potentially life-changing experience. It’s liberating because it allows you the freedom to design and execute your trip as you wish, giving you the opportunity to have a unique and deeply personal experience.
Follow these six pieces of advice to make the most of your trip.
Planning
Know before you go. Of course., there are prominent places to go and sights to see, but also the customs and one of my must-knows, the cuisine.
It’s very important, especially as a woman, to get the lay of the land and understand how to navigate it. A safer option is to have your airport transfer upon arrival prearranged.
Do a lot of research on your destination and the areas you will frequent.
Pack Light
In almost all of my tips, I urge you to pack light. If you’re bogged down with luggage, you’re more preoccupied with that than your surroundings. When you’re alone, you want to be able to manage all your belongings so you’re not dependent on others for help. In most cases, you should be able to cope with one small piece of luggage, preferably a carry-on and a tote or backpack.
Have A Flexible Plan
Have some freedom in your planning. Build an itinerary that combines making it up as you go with planned elements that require more expertise or guidance, like those far away or difficult-to-navigate places.
Travel Like A Local
Having breakfast at a local spot is a great way to view everyday life. I’m a late riser, so that’s often an early lunch for me. Another way to connect with locals and do as the locals do is to check out neighborhoods. They’re filled with local shops, restaurants, and parks to do people-watching and soak up local culture.
Get Caught Up In The Moments
When you travel, in general, and especially to a new place, you give yourself the gift of learning, exploring new cultures, tasting life in new ways, and opening your mind to new perspectives.
Connect With People And Make Friends.
There is always a travel tribe to be found—other travelers who are just as adventurous as you are, albeit in different ways. Don’t be afraid to talk to and meet other travelers and locals. You already have something in common with other travelers. A great way to find a travel tribe is to follow your passion, maybe in a cooking or art class, museum, photography, or walking tour. Check local bloggers for areas to visit and freelance guides who conduct local tours. As mentioned, a local breakfast spot could also find other travelers taking in the vibe.
Solo travel can be unnerving and empowering at the same time—it can introduce you to yourself and some of your innermost emotions.
Traveling alone will be your life’s scariest, most liberating, life-changing experience. Try it at least once and embrace the beauty of solo travel, giving yourself the opportunity to follow your heart and gut.
Ja’Vonne Harley, aka, The Traveling Culturati