Have you been postponing your dream trip because you can not find anyone
to go with you? Or do you have a secret desire to see the world alone
but you are overwhelmed and do not know where to start? This is a good
introductory guide for the woman who is traveling alone.
Steps
1. Do a realistic self assessment of your personality and your sociability.
- Do you prefer to be alone or to socialize with others? A tour group can be a good
- This is your adventure. Your best trip will be the one that suits your own personality and travel style.
2. Choose where to go. Do as much research on your destination as possible.
- Exhaust
the free information on the internet, especially the United States,
State Department's warnings. Although you should be as open minded as
possible, do not forget basic personal safety. Remember that while there
are hazards to traveling anywhere, there are some places where solo
women travelers must be especially cautious.
- Research the average weather conditions for the time of year you will take your trip.
- Know where your local embassy is located.
- Find
out if there are any special events such as festivals that will occur
while you are there. Remember that events can be wonderful to see, but
they can also fill hotels and local facilities and draw crowds. That's
fine, as long as you expect it and plan accordingly.
3. Decide how long you want to travel.
Now
that you know your ideal travel style and you have decided where you
want to go, you should be ready about it. A three-week adventure sounds
great, but if this is your first time traveling alone, three weeks
without the comforts of home and without loved ones can be difficult.
Start small. Three to five days is a great start. After your first trip,
you'll have a better idea of how long you are comfortable traveling
alone.
4. Be aware of your budget.
Yes,
it is a dreaded idea, but you must do this before and after you
schedule your trip. You should know exactly how much you want to spend
each day on meals and lodging, and you should allocate some splurge
money. Don't forget transportation (including side trips) and admission
fees to points of interest and events. There are many simple things you
can do to keep your budget in check while traveling.
- Understand
the exchange rate. Be aware of what basic things, such as a restaurant
meal or train ticket, tend to cost at your destination, both in your
home currency and in the local currency. A pocket calculator can help.
- Ask before you go about the fees to change money, use an ATM at your destination, and to use a credit card.
- Cook
for yourself. Depending on your facilities, you may be able to prepare
meals, or at least an occasional sandwich, for yourself.
5. Find or make friends while there.
Staying in hostels,
taking part in a tour group, or attending shared events can mean that
you don't have to go everywhere alone.
6. At this point, the only thing left is for you to be prepared for a wonderful trip!
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