I always have an empty suitcase in my bedroom within my sight. It has been said that if you want something, create space for it. I love to travel, but don’t get to as much as I want but that empty suitcase waiting to be packed has led me to take several trips. Alone. Traveling solo has gained popularity in the last few years, and I have been an enthusiastic participant. It takes a lot more planning and to help you, here are 5 non-negotiable things. It has taught me things about myself that I never realized I had.
- Research, Book and confirm your room ahead of time
Always look for destinations that are listed as safe for women traveling solo, and pick based on your budget, and your vacation days.
I found a great stay on Airbnb that fit my budget and not far from everything I wanted to see and do. Brimming with nervous excitement I headed off to my home for the next 5 days. A quaint, gorgeous rooftop room owned by artists. Good location. Family run. Private. Safe. It was perfect for me. Most places have the option of an airport pick-up, but I did fine with Uber. I always make sure I reach my destination during the day. With almost everything, accessible online, was able to study the neighborhood before I confirmed my reservation.
2. Pack light
Baggage. Not just my clothes and shoes. But the internal baggage we all carry. Traveling solo forces you to leave a lot of that behind. The guilt of having someone else care for your pets or your children, or both. The apprehension of spending money just on yourself. The fear that I would be a woman alone in a strange land. And a big what if something bad happens here while I am away. But I pack anyway. Essentials first and then a few extras. I get into that cab and I head to the airport, get on that plane and leave. The flight takes off leaving behind familiar grounds, cityscapes. My fears turn to specks like dots on the ground till it completely disappears under the clouds. Always pack light, you don’t want to be hauling heavy bags if you have to make a quick stop before leaving, and packing to return will save you a ton of time.
3. Go Local
I explore the city like a local. I walk wherever and whenever I can…One, I save a ton of money, and two, I have often chanced upon hidden delights, like an offbeat cafe or an antique store.
I study the map quite a bit, so I have a fair idea of what to expect. This also help me pick my hotel. I stick to the main roads, ask friendly cops for directions if I am stuck. There is always the option of Uber. The cheapest, quickest way to get around if you get tired. I was hungry after all the walking, so I usually ask the cab to drop me off at a good restaurant that serves good local food. Most places suggested by locals are not listed on travel sites and so far, I have had some amazing food without paying a fancy price.
4. Be Smart and Stay Safe
Holidaying in places that attract throngs of tourists, it did not surprise me to be waved across by rickshaw drivers offering to take me around the city. My thumb rule however is never to jump on a ride that calls out to me.
There will be one or 2 auto drivers who will offer to be your guide throughout your stay for a reasonable price. While it is tempting, never oblige. Take a fresh ride every day if you must.
I lost my way trying to get back on the main street. Note to self: Google maps don’t work everywhere. So I always make a mental note of things I pass on the way. Shops, signs, funky colored buildings .. anything that could help me.
I always make sure I get back to base by 6 pm.
A hurdle that I had to overcome was social anxiety. Talking or starting a conversation with anyone is a task. However, on this trip, I talked to so many people and learned a whole lot about those people. Their dreams, their families, their lives. I even got invited to a birthday party. I politely declined of course, but it was so nice to be included. I have always been wary of people and their intentions ..but traveling solo taught me I can have a fulfilling conversation with strangers and never see them again. In a beautiful engaging satisfying way. There is no see you later, or exchanging numbers, or planning. Just a short conversation and move on.
5. Make a list!
The great thing about Traveling solo is that your plans are yours. Make a list of the places you want to see and the things you want to do. Guess what! When you travel solo, you can do exactly what YOU want to! No conversations no negotiating. I would never have been able to hit the streets at 630am just to enjoy a cup of roadside tea had I not been alone. Neither would I have had the opportunity to jump on a local tin bus to go to places that are too far to walk.
People need people, that’s for sure, but once in a while, grab that backpack and head out by yourself. I got to spend time with me. In a new city. No television. No people. Just me.
Any holiday can dent your wallet and the local markets are something you absolutely cannot miss. However, I walk around and soak in all the colors and the abundance surrounding me. I spend at least 2 hours just strolling, taking photographs, and admiring the fare.
Of all the lessons I continue to learn from traveling solo, my best takeaway is just how much I enjoy my own company.
I come home every time, lighter in my head, with a truckload of memories. These travels take a seat in my happy place. I have that to go to when life gets grim.
