GOING IT ALONE
Tips for solo travel
Travelling alone can be extremely rewarding but it’s also daunting for first timers. Here are some handy tips to help you have a fabulous and safe solo holiday.
THE RIGHT PLACE Single travellers need to be very sure of their accommodation and its surroundings. You’ll need to make your way back alone at the end of the day so stay in an area that’s safe and well-connected through public transport. Pay extra attention to hotel reviews marked ‘solo traveller’ on sites like TripAdvisor and Booking.com – you’ll find real information on relevant points such as whether the streets are well-lighted at night and if the attitude of hotel staff towards solo guests is friendly or creepy.
ENROL COMMUNITY Even though you’re holidaying alone, you may want to meet fellow travellers or local residents. One way to do this is to avoid staying in a traditional hotel; instead, book an Airbnb with a friendly local host who has many paying guests. Join a group activity like a sightseeing tour, or a cooking or photography class. These activities can also help you to enjoy shared experiences. If you’re on a tight budget or feeling adventurous, try staying in a hostel – the preferred accommodation for budget travellers across the globe. Hostels have come a long way since the early years and many offer private rooms with en suite bathrooms these days. DO PACK SMARTER Ensure that your luggage is light and flexible enough for you to carry easily on your own. Can you walk downstairs with it? Can you raise it above your head the way you would need to do in order to place it in an overhead compartment? Also remember to pack a reliable power bank and an extra charger since you’ll be entirely reliant on your own devices (there’s no ‘travel buddy’ backup!).
SAFETY SECURITY What makes solo travel most intimidating especially for women is the sense of risk it carries. However, if you’re well prepared and cautious, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a holiday by yourself. Leave a copy of your detailed itinerary with family or friends – and make sure to mention this fact to your host and fellow guests. Get a local SIM card and save relevant emergency numbers on your phone so that you can reach for help quickly if you need it. Keep your wits about you when you’re out partying and have fun; but watch your drink like a hawk!