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With everything that is going on in the world right now, we need to take a break wherever we can get it. It is harder than ever to meet up with our friends and family, let alone plan a gathering or holiday together. That being said, if it is within your means and safe to do so, there is not much stopping you from taking a little trip away by yourself!
Solo travel can be nerve-wracking, but it can also be exciting, great for the mind, and give you more confidence and skills than you would have thought possible.
However, traveling alone is also a different experience, which is why we have compiled these tips for solo travelers to take into consideration.
Research, Research, and More Research
When you’re traveling with others, you can afford to be a little more lax in getting information about your chosen destination, but for those who are embarking on a solo mission, it is better to have more information than less. This won’t spoil any of the fun, but will more than likely take a lot of anxiety or stress away, especially if you find yourself in a situation you need to move away from.
Research on your chosen destination can be anything from where you would like to visit, how you want to get there, how to get to your hotel, what is in your surrounding area, and what the emergency numbers are if you need help.
There are also some great online sites that help you plan and book everything in advance such as Parkon.com, so you know exactly where you are going and what you are doing.
Trust Your Gut
Sometimes we have just eaten something a little questionable and our stomach is doing somersaults, other times, our gut is trying to warn us not to do something or that something is not right. Do not ignore the feeling either way, because both probably will not end well.
Do not feel forced into doing anything you are not sure about and always ask for clarifications if you are uncertain about something.
Fake it Until You Make it
Confidence is a fantastic skill that can often allude us, especially in new or strange situations. Unfortunately, lack of confidence can be spotted a mile off which makes those who are looking to con someone or worse see you as a perfect target. If you appear lost or confused it can make you look vulnerable, whereas even if you are lost or confused, you can walk confidently into a shop and ask a shop assistant for directions or assistance.
Arrive During the Day
Everything is somehow less intimidating in daylight, which can also include finding the right road or attempting to speak the local language. Arriving in the day ensures there are plenty of people around who can help and that there will be public transport available. In more rural towns, it is likely that transport will be shut at night-time and there will be much less hustle and bustle. Arriving in the daytime will give a decent amount of time to get your bearings and use to your surroundings before nightfall.
