Travelling alone is a wonderful experience that everyone should do at least once in their life. I have been travelling solo for a couple of years now and I won’t ever stop doing it. Every trip has taught me something valuable about myself that I have gone on to use in later life. Before I did this, I was unable to explore fully the places I was in, or to appreciate the unforgettable memories I was creating. When in solitude, everything around me looks clearer, and as I wander, I pay close attention to my surroundings, becoming completely immersed in my journey.
There are other advantages. In a country where people speak a language different to yours, you have no choice but to communicate to those around you somehow, which will bring you out of your shell if you are a shy person.
Travelling solo will have you making connections and keeping in contact with people of all backgrounds and ages who you wouldn’t normally talk to if you were back home: the coconut guy from the beach; the old man smoking a cigar whilst he watches the world go by; other like-minding travellers you find on the way; friendly locals eager to find out about you, your culture and your story. Talking to locals is the best way to find out about the history and legends of each place, so do not be afraid to mix with them and have lengthy conversations. You will be surprised at the things you’ll find out – these people know a lot more about the place than Wikipedia!
However, as a lone female, attracting attention (and not always the best kind) is inevitable. A lone female traveller should know beforehand that at some point in her journey she’ll experience some sort of harassment from men. The best way to start dealing with this is to be prepared for it. Fortunately, the more you travel the more you are ready for sticky situations. You acquire a sixth sense which means you are ready to get away almost before the situation has fully emerged.
So that you too can see what’s coming in advance, here are my tips:
1) Research the city you are going to, find out if there are any illnesses going around so you can prevent getting sick. Certain travel destinations will require specific vaccinations before travelling, so ensure that you are aware of which ones are needed before you take your flight.
2) Do not disclose too much personal information or say that you are alone (when unsure about someone). Some people will be on the lookout for vulnerable women so don’t engage in small talk with the handsome man chatting to you because his intentions may not be pure. Remember to keep in mind that you are alone and you are your only help.
3) Be careful when consuming alcohol and make sure to watch your drink, as you never know who you can trust. Someone who seems friendly, may have ulterior motives.
4) Make sure you know who you can contact and when, so that if you find yourself in a dangerous situation you have effective lifelines. Make sure to tell family or friends the location of where you will be staying and your flight information. Giving those back home knowledge of your whereabouts and movements, so that, God forbid, if anything should happen, they have information that the authorities may find useful in locating you.
5) Look at reviews of the accommodation you plan to stay in. Make sure that the places you intend to stay for the duration of your trip have lots of good reviews. This is important because you need to have a safe space to go back to every night. I myself opt for Air BnB’s as I find it useful to have a host who can be a source of information of the best places to go and how to stay safe. It also provides me with an extra contact within the country.
Obviously, there are some situations that you cannot prepare for. However, it is vital that you take as many precautions as you can, so that you feel safe and can enjoy your travels to the fullest extent.
Bon Voyage my fellow female travellers!
