Sometimes travelling solo can be the best thing that can ever happen to a woman in her entire life. One of the most inspiring things about it is that you can live your life on your own terms without any judgements or restrictions. It is empowering to get to learn about yourself on a different level altogether, to enjoy your own company. But it also means that you'll be the only person looking out for your safety, the only one responsible for it. So here are some things you should keep in mind when leaving the country for a solo trip.
What to do before you leave for your trip:
1. Crowdsource your research on websites like TripAdvisor, where you can get complete information about the hotel and the neighborhood.
2. If looking for an Airbnb or other bed and breakfast housings, only opt for a place with a lot of good (and legit) reviews.
3. Give someone back home your complete itinerary, so that they can have a general idea of where you'll be and when, in case something goes wrong.
4. Take pictures of all your documents and put them on a password-protected site like Dropbox or Google Drive so that you can access them from any device.
5. Consider investing in an International phone plan (one that is recommended for the country you're visiting) and travel insurance for any unexpected costs.
6. Don't keep all your money in one place. Keep some cash and a cash card with yourself and some in your bag and some back at your hotel safe.
Bonus tip: Store your extra cash in the bottom of a tampon or pad box. People are less likely to look in there!
What to do once you're there:
1. Befriend female hotel/hostel employees. Ask them for tips about getting around the area and where NOT to go.
2. Take your bag with you to the bathroom every time, even on buses and trains. If you stop to buy tickets or anything where your attention is diverted, put your bag between your legs or in between your body and the counter instead of beside you.
3. Drink alcohol in moderation and remain aware of your limits.
4. Carry a whistle for an emergency, or any other safety mechanism that you feel comfortable with.
5. Dress to blend in because if you don't look like an obvious tourist, you won't be the first target of swindlers.
6. If you get lost, avoid looking at your phone or a map in the middle of the street. Just duck into a café or shop and check there.
You're all set you to enjoy your holiday to the fullest now. And we look forward to hearing how it went!
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