Travelling alone for the first time can be a very daunting experience. Being away from the comfort of your home and throwing yourself out there in the wide world will always be a scary thought. Will i get kidnapped? Will i get lost? Will i be able to handle difficult situations on my own? Will i be able to go on a night out on my own? All these questions and more will be on your mind constantly, but after you experience your first solo trip you’ll notice how quick these worries will fade away!
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]But travelling solo may be the best decision you will ever make! You get to do what you want, when you want and wherever you want. Travelling alone gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully. You don’t need to worry about your travelling partner complaining about your choice of daily activities or restaurants etc. you have the freedom to choose anything. You will also learn a lot more and increase your independence skills which will make you a lot more confident in your travels and all other aspects of life. We’ve written up some tips that may help you out on your solo travels:
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”17167″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space][vc_custom_heading text=”1. Mentally prepare yourself ” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000|line_height:20px” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Before you start your travels you’ll need to be mentally ready.Keep in mind this is your first time so you need to stay strong and be mindful. Like any journey it won’t be perfect so expect to experience some drawbacks but don’t panic you will be able to handle it. Stay positive and don’t stress too much, this will be an experience of a lifetime you need to be able to enjoy it.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_custom_heading text=”2. Do a bit of research” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Just one more tip before you head out, do some research! You don’t need to be studying your destination day and night but it’s good to be aware of a few things so you don’t get taken advantage of. Research the average taxi prices, what type of commute is safe, areas you may have to completely avoid, some useful daily phrases in the local language, emergency phone numbers for the local hospitals and police etc.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”17168″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space][vc_custom_heading text=”3. Stay somewhere safe” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]When booking hotels or hostels make sure you check the rating of the place, you may feel more vulnerable staying at an unfamiliar place. You need to stay somewhere that has been recommended by others and is in a touristy area masking it more safe and easier for you as you’ll meet other travellers too!
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”20px”][vc_custom_heading text=”4. Stay on guard” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Stay aware of your surroundings wherever you are, you need to protect yourself. Having said that don’t be afraid to open up to new things, discover new places and meet new people but always stay on your guard for your own safety. If you want to go out at night stick to open and busy places. When you’re wandering around make sure you walk purposefully and exude confidence, you don’t want to look to much like a lost tourist as some people may see this as an opportunity to take advantage.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”17169″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space][vc_custom_heading text=”5. Your phone is your best friend” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Obviously when you’re travelling alone you’ll need something to rely on and most of the time that will be your phone! Make sure you insure it before you travel and also back it up at as much as you can just in case you lose it. Your phone will be you friend, it’ll have all the maps and numbers you’ll need. You may also want to update your family and friends back home regularly on your whereabouts and possibly your daily itinerary just for safety. Make sure you have a portable charger to so you can update them every now and then and not worry about your battery usage.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_custom_heading text=”5. Travel alone but not lonely” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]You might feel lonely or you might not but never the less make sure you go out there and socialise, make new friends! Why not a book a tour so you can meet people and enjoy activities together at the same time. You can also book shared accommodation or go to a local independent coffee shop where you will meet regulars, don’t be afraid to be the first to start conversations. Trust everyone and no one at the same time, all the travellers you meet are most likely in the same boat as you so tagging along will make your journey easier and fun. Having said that don’t trust them too much, you just met them so maybe avoid asking them to watch your money etc.
[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”17170″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space][vc_custom_heading text=”6. Make the most of it! ” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%23000000″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]
Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy! Like we said earlier this will be an experience of a lifetime so make the most of every opportunity when you’re out there. Be wary and cautious but not too much that you don’t have fun. Live for the moment and remember that being able to travel like this is an absolute luxury so be grateful and make the most of every minute.
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