How to travel alone -Essential tips

The shared travel experience can be extremely satisfying but on the subject of solo travel, one can never go wrong either. Specifically, travelling by yourself does have its fair share of perks as you won’t have to share accommodation, a seat on the train or a coffee table for that matter. Simply put, you will have all your holidays to yourself which would be quite the motivating factor to keep adventuring. For any prospective single traveller out there, why not have a look at these essential tips?

Stay away from social media

solo travelling woman referring to her route | Image via freepik

While snapping up picture after picture and posting up on your favourite social media channels will enhance your image, you may run the risk of missing out on the very essence of your holiday. Whether it is a trip to the Himalayas, an escape through Thailand or a journey ‘Down Under,’ there will be plenty of nooks, crannies and popular landmarks that would warrant putting your phone away, at least for a few minutes.

Do not only believe the first person you meet

As an add-on to the above, it is crucial that you never put yourself in a compromised situation by hanging onto every word said by the first person you meet on your travels. While a local cab driver may come off as being ‘entertaining,’ he may not be the best source of knowledge when you want to find local restaurants to eat out of or an attraction that would involve ‘moving off the beaten path’ so to speak. This is why a considerable amount of time ought to be devoted towards researching and fine-tuning your itinerary long before you board your plane. For example, travel blogs and articles are of immense benefit for those wanting a more personal account of what it means to enjoy the Cherry blossom season in Japan or what using public transport in Kuala Lumpur feels like.

This is why a considerable amount of time ought to be devoted towards researching and fine-tuning your itinerary long before you board your plane. For example, travel blogs and articles are of immense benefit for those wanting a more personal account of what it means to enjoy the Cherry blossom season in Japan or what using public transport in Kuala Lumpur feels like.

Opt for a restaurant with communal tables

Even if you have checked into a luxury resort hotel such as any property belonging to the Pan Pacific Hotel Group, this should still not deter you from making every opportunity count, especially when in a foreign nation. In this light, it is wise to step out of your comfort zone and scour the local area for the nearest restaurant that contains communal tables. 

With this approach, you can give yourself the best chance to meet and strike up a casual conversation with a local or two who would perhaps, point you in the right direction and en route towards enjoying your time in a better manner.

Zone in on pastimes that suit your interests

Making it to the earliest gym session of the day or signing up for some late-evening yoga can do wonders for you and in turn, provide ample space in which to talk to new people. 

The more you end up discussing, the more you will learn which is sure to propel you onwards and beyond any boundary. The last thing you need is to be seen cooped up in your room with only cable TV and junk food to while away the hours.

Avoid creating too much attention

Arguably, the best way to get around this would be to carry or bring along equipment that will seldom see you placed under the spotlight. For instance, having an expensive, branded camera around your neck for the better part of the day will make it extremely difficult to be spontaneous. 

Therefore, opt for your phone’s camera or if you still require a camera, then do invest in a pocket camera to serve you along the journey. Ideally, capture each and every moment in your mind where you can store it for safekeeping and reminisce long after the sun sets on your solo vacation.