People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. Traveling alone gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully. Of course, single travel has its perils too – such as safety concerns, loneliness and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots. These six tips will prepare you for a solo adventure :-
- Meet new People and be curious –
When you travel alone you accept the responsibility to reach out, be extroverted and strike up conversations with strangers. Talk to anyone and everyone who looks friendly. You’ll find that the most travelers are happy to strike up a conversation with you. And being middle-aged or having white hair is an added advantage in foreign countries because mature people are respected and offered assistance in many ways.
- Ensure your Safety –
To anyone who fears that traveling alone invites danger, remember that you could (but hopefully won’t) just as easily be robbed or assaulted when getting about alone in a town or city at home. Foreign places aren’t necessarily more dangerous. Statistics show that serious incidents rarely befall travelers. Statistics on incidents affecting single travelers specifically are hard to find, but according to Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs, for every one million of its citizens traveling abroad, five are assaulted or killed.
- Stay Connected –
Those days of being without cellphone, smartphone and Skype seem almost quaint. Before you leave home, find out whether your mobile phone has roaming capabilities at your destination. If not, or if the roaming cost is prohibitive, rent a phone once you arrive (or buy international SIM cards if you have an unlocked GSM phone) so you have a lifeline. Smartphones outfitted with GPS or online maps are good options for drivers.
- Keep Others let know Your Daily Travel Routine –
Regularly let people know where you’re going  including friends and family back home and your innkeeper or hotel concierge. When traveling alone into parkland or wilderness, always let someone know when you expect to return as well as your exact route  and then stick to it.
- Keep Most Important things in Separate and Safe Places –
Keep some money and credit cards in your wallet or purse, and additional money and cards in a pocket or money pouch. When sightseeing, carry only a copy of your passport’s data page, keeping your passport locked in your hotel safe. (It’s also good to leave a copy of the data page with someone at home.) On travel days, carry your passport separately from your money and credit cards.
- Research on Your Destination –
Be aware of safety concerns as well as of local customs and etiquette, especially with regard to dress. When in doubt, opt for conservative. Women travelers should know in advance if harassment is an issue and both men and women should get the safety lowdown on public transportation. Talk to locals about neighborhoods to avoid, especially after dark. Know the local number to call for emergencies.
– Pratiksha Trivedi
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