Although it is always nice to have company when setting out on a vacation, sometimes those folks that you planned on traveling with have to cancel for one reason or another. Or perhaps you can’t find anyone who can take the time off when you’re planning to depart. However, you shouldn’t cancel your plans or put them on hold just because you’ll have to go by yourself. Anyone can not only survive solo travel, but also enjoy doing so when keeping the following tips in mind.
(Image Source: Flickr)
It is always a good idea to pick a place where you will be able to blend in with the local populace and it’s even better if you can speak the language. New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, and the United Kingdom are all considered relatively easy destinations for travelers that speak English. The aforementioned places are also considered good choices for solo travel. You should still keep in mind all the safety rules that you would follow at home such as not going down dark, creepy alleys alone at night and not brandishing wads of cash at every opportunity.Dressing as the locals do is another way to avoid standing out as much. However, doing so probably won’t help you remain totally unnoticed if you’re blonde and traveling through a country where dark complexions are the norm (and vice versa).
Keep your money in a safe place. Don’t wave it about in public. (Image Source: parttime- job.com)
There are naturally some special safety rules for those that are traveling on their own. The most important ones are to always appear as if you know where you’re going even if you don’t, to pay attention to your surroundings, and to keep an eye on your valuables. You should always go into a store to consult with maps or guidebooks before venturing back out on the street because checking directions on the street marks you as a vulnerable tourist as well as an easy target for petty thieves. It’s also a good idea to purchase locks and apply them to all the compartments on your luggage so that your gear doesn’t get stolen pr pickpocketed.
(Image Source: Wikimedia)
Of course, if you really hate the idea of solo travel, there are plenty of tour groups that you can sign up for that are suitable for just about every budget and age bracket. This allows you the benefit of traveling with other people and go on vacation whenever you please without the bother of finding a friend to go along for the ride. Cruises are another good option for those who can’t find travel buddies as long as you’re careful about it. While some of these ships do charge extra for those going by themselves, there are some cruise lines that offer solo cabins and others that will pair up solo travelers with someone of the same gender to share a cabin for the duration of the trip. After all, it is your vacation, why not enjoy yourself and cross a dream destination off your list even if you are a solo traveler?
Bon Voyage!
(Image Source: Pixaby)
Sources: Travel & Leisure; Independent Traveler
