Travelling Alone – A Woman’s Perspective

I have pretty much always been in the position of travelling by myself and have found it is a great way to go as you meet more people, you can plan your own day and choose what you want to do. In other words, you can please yourself. When I was 18, I had my first trip away to Australia. My parents were concerned, as I am sure is the situation for many families. They were worried about my safety, which I suppose is only natural, but nevertheless they let me go and didn’t check up on me too much. Since then, I have travelled extensively in Europe, Asia, Africa and North and South America. I have always stuck to these tips, and to date have never had any problems.

1. Do your research Read up on your planned destination and learn about local customs. Look for tips that will help you know what to do and what not to do as this can help you to fit in and not stick out like a sore thumb. Decide in advance what you want to do and where you want to see as this allows you to be more confident when you are out walking about. Try to learn a couple of local words and phrases as it always goes a long way if you put in the effort. It is always much appreciated by the locals and allows you to get off to a good friendly start with anyone you meet.

2. Dress Appropriately Comes into the above section too, find out what is deemed appropriate to be seen out and about in. If you are travelling to an area of the world where ladies generally cover up more, then try to adhere to this yourself. This will not only help you to blend in but can also help you to avoid any unwanted attention. You will also feel more comfortable. The one thing I always carry with me is a scarf, it can be so versatile, as well as being used as a headscarf it can also be used to cover shoulders or as a sarong, when it is appropriate to cover up.

3. Be aware of your surroundings It goes without saying but just being observant will avoid getting you into any awkward situations. You don’t need to be walking about fearing everyone, just be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your bag. Invest in one that you can wear to your front, and that zips up, so that you can keep your hands free.

4. Trust your instincts If you have an uneasy feeling about something, just go with your gut instinct. If you aren’t happy going out and about yourself then go on an organised tour or get your hotel to book you a taxi rather than picking one up on the street. If you don’t want to take your chances with restaurants, then speak to your hotel as they can recommend places that they know are going to be good. If you don’t want to go out and eat by yourself, just get room service and don’t beat yourself up about it.

5. Google Maps I often whip my phone out to make sure I am going the right way; it can save you so much time wandering around trying to find somewhere. Just be sensible as to where you are taking your phone out and who is around you. The other benefit of this rather than a guidebook or a map is that you aren’t walking about screaming tourist.

6. Have Fun I think nowadays there is an assumption that everyone is bad. And yes, there are some bad people out there, but the majority are good people. As I said above, I personally believe that confidence is so important in successfully travelling alone and not worrying about every place you visit, every hotel you stay in and every person you talk to is the best way to make this happen. Most importantly don’t have regrets, if you don’t enjoy something or don’t like a place, then put it down to experience and do something different next time.

The world is an amazing place so don’t wait for someone else to come along to go and explore with, just do it, enjoy yourself and who knows who you will meet.