Everybody needs a vacation, but what do you do if you’re on your own? Traveling solo can be very daunting, not to mention lonely. What do you do in the evenings? Will you end up sitting alone in your hotel room? There are solutions! Here are some tips on how to make traveling solo fun.
Photo Credit: aknacer
Check out the website couchsurfing.com. The idea is that people around the world offer their spare room or couch to visitors. You deal with the person directly, and can read reviews on what they were like as a host or guest. The advantage is that you can meet people who know the city, and don’t end up in a lonely hotel room.
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There’s a vast number of working holidays where you can volunteer, do something good, and meet people into the bargain. This might not be everyone’s idea of a holiday, but it will give you the opportunity to meet like-minded people. If you like being sociable, it’s the perfect option.
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If your grasp of foreign languages is limited, then why not try a stay with a host family. You will get the opportunity to experience life in a different culture, practice and learn the language, and will have people to talk to.
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If you are traveling alone, look for any opportunity to get chatting, whether with locals or fellow travelers. Naturally, you should exercise caution, but passing the time of day with someone can make all the difference to your trip. You may also find out all kinds of interesting things.
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Look for the positive elements of traveling alone, and make the most of them. You won’t have to debate with a companion about what to do, be dragged anywhere that doesn’t interest you, or end up doing what they want just to keep the peace. If you want to spend all day people-watching in a cafe, or just lounge on the beach, no one is pressuring you to do anything else.
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Look for other solo women travelers, whether you are on a long trip or two-week vacation. You may make a friend for a day, or for life. At the very least, you can find someone to spend some time with.
Here’s your opportunity to try something new! You can do something you’ve always fancied trying, like an extreme sport. Or just wander off the tourist trail, and check out the less well-known areas of a city. Strolling round looking at ‘ordinary’ life can be just as interesting as major tourist sights.
As a woman on your own, you might feel vulnerable. So take precautions, but don’t feel paranoid. Stay in reputable hotels, take taxis if necessary, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if anyone is bothering you.
Well, I hope I’ve given you some confidence that a solo trip can be fun! Have you ever traveled alone, near or far? What tips can you add?
Top Photo Credit: sosij