Me, Myself and I – The Art of Traveling Solo

I’m always quite surprised when I hear people say that they have never traveled alone, nor would they. The look on my face has to be priceless and then the journalist in me starts with the questions. The most obvious is, “Why?” The answers are: out of my comfort zone, not as much fun by yourself, don’t know where to begin with planning and dangerous.

So, let’s discuss these obstacles to you not venturing out on your own. Traveling solo can definitely feel uncomfortable because it is something new. The truth is, anything new is out of one’s comfort zone, but we have all tried new things. Good planning is key to easing the first time jitters, after that, it’s a leap of faith.

“Wouldn’t it be a better experience doing it with someone?” Uh…not really. I love traveling with me, myself and I, as it offers no distractions. When I am by myself it seems I am more focused on my surroundings and become more engaging with the locals. Too many chefs in the kitchen can be burdensome. When I travel with others, it’s always in the back of my mind to be aware of their likes and dislikes, their schedule and let’s not forget our traveling companion’s moods. Nothing puts a damper on a trip more than someone who is not happy about something. Check, please!

In terms of not knowing where to begin, well, you begin where you normally would. What type of vacation do you want? What do you want to do? Where do you want to go? Check out websites for solo travelers and Google Best Places To Travel Solo.

The last concern was the potential danger of traveling alone. Since I travel solo quite a bit, I have come up with some tips that are tried and true.

Due your due diligence when it comes to solo traveling websites and hotels. Look at reviews and make sure the hotels are in a safe, well-trafficked location.
Be aware of your surroundings, never leave anywhere with someone you just met no matter how nice they seem. Ted Bundy was a well-dressed, polite law student.
Don’t tell people you meet where you are staying.
Stay in contact with family and friends back home and make sure someone has your itinerary including phone numbers.
Lock your valuables up in the room safe, it’s provided for a reason.
Have a copy of your driver’s license and passport with you and keep the originals in the room safe.
Make sure you have enough cash and don’t carry it all with you. Again, the safe.
Arrive during the light of day. You will feel safer and be able to get a better foothold on your surroundings.
On that note, make sure you have reservations. It’s awesome to be spontaneous, but it’s even more awesome to have a nice, safe place to lay your head.
This next one sounds paranoid but it really is a good move. Leave a note in your hotel room each time you leave stating where you are going and with whom.
No need to bring that big Liz Taylor diamond. Keep bling to a minimum.
Nothing yells a sense of security more than knowing you can “phone home” at any time. Check with your service provider to set this up.
Keep your wits about you, so monitor your drinking.
Trust your gut! If something or someone doesn’t feel right, move on.

There is a big beautiful world out there just waiting for you, so grab that book, a hammock, no clock and enjoy!

Resources: worldnomad.com and solotravelerworlds.com