Hello my fearless female traveler! Are you ready to conquer your fear of solo travel and take on the world? Of course, you are! You're independent, confident, and you know what you want - a Margarita on a Beach in Bali!
But let's face it, the thought of traveling to a new destination alone can be scarier than accidentally swiping left on your soulmate. Don't worry, though, I've got you, and I promise not to judge you for that Tinder mistake.
So, let's dive into some tips on how to overcome your fear of traveling solo, shall we?
Step 1 - Start Small
First step in any journey is to take a baby step. You don't want to go from binge-watching Netflix in your pajamas to suddenly scaling the Great Wall of China. Go out and have dinner by your self in your own city. Or take a weekend trip to a nearby town or city, like the cool hipster one, where everyone's a barista and a poet.
Step 2 - Do Your Research
Next, do your research! Know what you're getting yourself into before you get there. Trust me, the last thing you want is to end up in a sketchy part of town with nothing but your phone and a no cell service to use that trusted Google Maps app. I am a huge fan of just winging it these days, but that comes with over a decade of solo traveling the globe. But even I will do research about the sketchy parts and common tourist crimes so I know what to expect (granted this research usually happens when I'm sipping a glass of bubbly in the lounge right before my flight -- don't be like me, and do your research ahead of time, you'll thank me later).
Step 3 - Plan Ahead (to the extent possible)
If you're not a winger like me, who shows up to a country or a city and then figures it out, do some planing ahead of your trip, but do leave some room for spontaneity. My favorite thing to do is create a list or a Pinterest board of all the potential things I can see or do in the destination I'm headed to, than pick and choose what I want to do on a particular day once I'm there. Remember, you're traveling solo for a reason, to live your life on your terms. And while it's nice to have a plan, you also want to make sure you have the freedom to say "yes" to any adventure that comes your way. Except for that sketchy dude offering you a ride on his motorcycle. Just say no, ladies.
Step 4 - Consider staying at a Hostel (in a private room)
As spontaneous as I'd like to think I am, I am also a creature of comforts, and I do want my own room and bathroom. Finding a Hostel or a Guesthouse that offers private rooms with an on suite bathroom is just the ticket for you if you want your own space, but also want to make some friends along the way. It's like college, but with more international accents and fewer beer pong tournaments. You'll meet people from all over the world, and who knows, maybe you'll even find a travel buddy for your next adventure. Plus, because of the hostel's communal nature, they oftentimes offer activities or local tours for the guests who stay there.
Step 5 - Get out of your Comfort Zone
Don't forget to get out of your comfort zone and say yes to some new experiences during your travels. Try new things, like eating at that street food cart or signing up for that bungee jump. You might discover a new favorite food or realize that you're braver than you ever thought.
“The journey of life is amazingly beautiful if you take it as a fearless adventure.”
– Debasish Mridha
Step 6 - Trust Your Gut!
I will never stop preaching this. Always trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. But don't let fear hold you back from experiencing life to the fullest. Remember, adventure is out there, and it's calling your name!
So, my fellow fearless solo wanderer, get ready to pack your bags and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. Just don't forget to bring sunscreen, a sense of humor, and your adventurous spirit.
Cheers and Happy Travels!
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