My father encouraged us from a very young age to travel. The lessons you learn from it are priceless, he says. I have travelled alone to numerous locations and have come out richer with world experience and friends from all over. Some people have marvelled at my courage. But my secret? A lot of prayer and just enough sense of wonder to keep me going and going.
So whether you're travelling on a shoestring budget or like to have a big travel blowout, when it comes to travelling solo, here are key things to keep in mind. By Mari-An C. Santos for Yahoo!Southeast Asia
Travel is best enjoyed when you look with eyes filled with wonder.. but equip yourself with enough knowledge about your destination before your arrival, so that you will not end up going around in circles and wasting time. The internet is a rich resource of ideas from travel agency and city tourism websites to fellow travellers' blogs, you'll find great ideas to tailor-make your itinerary considering your interests, time, and money.
The belt bag or fanny pack is great for travelling because it keeps all your valuables close, thereby ensuring that they are always safe. Aside from this, you can bring a handbag or a backpack or a sling bag. Just always remember to be aware of your surroundings and of your belongings.
This is a tip that has been on from my grandmother. Don't keep all your money in your wallet. Distribute your money among different compartments of your bag, fanny pack, wallet, cargo shorts ... Yes, even your bra! Pickpockets (as far as I know) don't go there!
Don't lug all your important documents around. Leave your originals in the hotel safe or hostel locker but make sure to bring photocopies of your passport, driver's license, and other important IDs on your person. You never know when you'll need them.
Not being very good with numbers, I cannot honestly recommend having a list or table of expenses. Though a lot of people find that helpful. I simply determine how much budget I allow myself to spend for the day (considering, for example, entrance fees to museums or performances, or shopping for souvenirs) and bring only this amount of money in my wallet or pocket. But I hide some extra amount for emergencies.
In Thailand, they give away free SIM cards, in Spain, there are hours for free museum entrance, there are even free walking tours in different European cities. some of the best things about travel can still be obtained at no cost to you. So, keep your eyes peeled for different offers - bearing in mind to read and understand any fine print.
It may be a concert or a festival .. find out if there are any important events happening in the place that you're visiting. This will give your visit added value. As well, check the calendar for any holidays or observances during your stay so you can plan your visit accordingly.
Even if you don't think of yourself as a talented writer or artist, you should write down or draw your impressions of places in a small journal that you can carry around in your pocket or handbag. This will immortalize thoughts and feelings from very specific moments and places.
Not only is it environmentally-friendly, but it's cheaper to have a water bottle that you can simply refill than buying bottled water at the store every time. Also, bring snacks like bread and fruit that can tide you over or constitute small, frequent meals, especially when you're keeping to a budget. Also, bring sugar-free gum for fresh breath!
I always joke "if you don't talk to strangers, how will you make friends?" But the truth is, a single woman, especially one who is travelling alone (either you looks or your manner of dressing or the map/guidebook you have on-hand will give you away) is experiences, but listen to that little voice inside you when you get a little too uncomfortable with words or gestures
I have had the most wonderful angel-encounters with strangers while travelling alone. From a Thai man helping cross the street to an Austrian guy who let me tag along to change trains as we were going to the same city to a Portuguese girl who went out of her way to look for the hostel where i had made a reservation. Drop any negative suspicions and just welcome the kindness of strangers.
Whether you're trekking to the highlands of lfugao or strolling the streets of Krakow, learn a few phrases. Usually, most handy are "hello", "excuse me", and "thank you". Even if you don't get the pronunciation right, the locals will appreciate your effort and be more willing to help you.
I believe that smiling opens up a part of your heart. This way, you get maximum enjoyment out of your holiday. Keep your eyes peeled for even the littlest things that will interest you-a bee settling on a folwer or a street performer keeping perfectly still, for example. What makes your travel unique, after all, isn't how many pictures you took at the famous tourist landmarks, but what experiences and insights you gather along thr way.
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