Traveling the world can be exciting, adventurous, entertaining and, sometimes, scary. The last is no reason to stay home, however.
If it’s not your style to join a travel group and have everything organized, that’s OK. With a little planning, you can safely traverse the sidewalks and trails of the world. But “I suggest taking a truly solo trip for the exhilarating experience of feeling independent, free to wander, and open to seeing for yourself what’s around the next corner,” travel journalist Patricia Doherty wrote for Travel and Leisure.
Here are some of her tips to make your trip safer and easier:
1. Do your homework
Once you decide where you want to go, start researching flights and hotels to find the best arrival times, locations and prices.
Although some travelers prefer to play it by ear, Doherty recommends reserving a hotel room for at least the first night.
“We all arrive a bit tired, and it’s pleasant and safe to have a destination to start with,” she wrote.
You should also research tour groups. Doherty booked a tour of the Vatican Museums through City Wonders, allowing her to meet other travelers.
2. Try new things
This doesn’t mean you have to become an adrenaline junkie. Instead of bungee-jumping or zip-lining, consider a cooking or painting class.
“In London, I visited the posh Burlington Arcade, one of London’s most historic shopping destinations,” Doherty wrote. “A Beadle in a delightfully British uniform greeted me with a bit of information about the arcade. From there, I went to cosmetics boutique Code 8, where a personalized lipstick shade was designed and created for me.”
3. Make a list
After doing your research, you’ll realize there is a lot to see and do in your chosen destination. Making a list of them will help you prioritize the “must see” from the “would like to see.” A list will also help you organize your sightseeing based on location. If there is a museum and a restaurant in the same area, you can grab a bite after seeing some art.
4. Carry a phone charger
Your cellphone can be used for more than taking photos as you explore a new locale. You can research a restaurant, translate signs, call an Uber or use GPS to find your way around. You can do none of those things, however, if your phone is dead.
