WANDERLUST PRO TIP – 6 MYTHS ABOUT TRAVELING ALONE (AS A FEMALE)

I put “as a female” in parentheses because this post may be a little more geared towards debunking the myths of my personal solo travels.  Nonetheless, these myths of traveling alone is applicable to anyone! I’ve had a number of people ask me “How the hell did you travel alone?!” followed by a common theme of questions and concerns. Here’s what I have to say.

Myth #1: It’s weird and you’re a loner!

So false. Generally speaking, I definitely consider myself more of an introvert, but that doesn’t mean that I enjoy staying at home with my 10 cats watching Netflix (not that there’s anything wrong with that if that’s your speed). A lot of people travel alone for a number of reasons.  The primary reason I started traveling alone was because frankly, my schedule and budget didn’t work out with other people and I wasn’t going to forgo an experience overseas to explore. I first traveled alone in Paris when I had a few day layover on my way to Bangalore. I had the time off…and was already going overseas, so why not? I’ll be honest, it was a little scary at first and lonesome, but I quickly adapted and realized with proper planning, it was possible and not that scary at all. Traveling alone doesn’t equate to being completely segregated from other people – you’re in the perfect position to meet people! I met so many people traveling alone, and that in and of itself, debunked the myth for me.

Since then, I’ve traveled to Paris, Barcelona, Sevilla, Toledo, Madrid, Greece, Milan, Rome, and Venice by myself. Some of it’s been because I had more vacation time than others, and some of it was because I just wanted the experience. In any case, I’m never willing to sacrifice the experience if the opportunity presents itself.  I may never get another chance. Plus, the experience in your 20’s is such a unique experience.

Myth #2: It’s so dangerous! You’re going to get kidnapped.

In the last 10 years, I’ve lived in Orlando, FL and Los Angeles, CA. According to neighborhoodscout.com, Orlando, FL is #99 of 100 most dangerous cities in the Nation. The chance of becoming of victim of violent crime is 1 in 109. Oddly enough, Los Angeles isn’t on this list (Compton is though).  The point I’m making is we live in a dangerous world and you have to be careful anywhere you go. Unfortunately, bad things happen all the time. Accidents occur and certain choices we make lead us to a not so happy ending. This shouldn’t deter anyone from living the life they want and doing what makes him happy. I used to be scared walking around Hollywood every so often, but that doesn’t stop me from meeting friends out. I just walk on busier roads when it’s light out, or take an Uber from home.  It’s the same concept here, you just have to open your eyes and be cognizant of your surroundings. Don’t accept rides from people you don’t know, if you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and get away.

Anytime I travel alone, I never drink that much and I’m always in control of my situation and aware of my surroundings.  Bring your cell phone and let people know where you are going.  The first time I traveled alone, I asked a friend to call the hotel if I didn’t check back in with him after a certain hour. Might sound like overkill, but I wanted to be safe.   Watch that movie Taken, and make sure to do the complete opposite of whatever it is they do.

Also, leave your jewelry at home and don’t flash around anything that could make you more susceptible to getting pick-pocketed.

Myth #3: It’s only acceptable to do this when you’re in high school or college.

Granted that most of the people I met during my overseas travel were in the 18-25 age group, I definitely met many people that fell outside that age range.  And what does it matter? Age is really just a number, and if are willing and able to do it, then the world is your fucking oyster.

Myth #4: It’s too expensive (to room by yourself).

That’s ok.  Compromise on a less extravagant hotel, or even consider a hostel/couch-surfing/AirBnB.  I’ve stayed in hostels before and used hotel points (earned through work and earned through playing the points game – signing up for a card with bonus points after spending a certain amount within the first 1-3 months). Booking in advance also helps you book great hotels at a good rate. The point is there’s going to be a level of compromise and flexibility you’ll need in relation to how much you can afford. And lots of planning.

Myth #5: You’re limiting what sort of things you can do.

I don’t even understand what that means.  Visit restaurants, attractions, bars, etc. by yourself.  It’s not weird, and people do it all the time.  Invite new friends you’ve made along the way to join!  Join tours, meet people in hostels, or look up “meet ups” in other countries.

Myth #6: You’re not going to have fun – It’s always better to travel with someone.

There are plenty of places I’d love to experience with my significant other, best friends, or family. There’s absolutely no doubt about it, but it doesn’t mean that you’re not going to have a good time without them.   Be open-minded yet cautious with what trips you book alone and where you stay.  But you can meet like-minded people your age that are willing and ready to go explore and do fun and amazing things. In the end, you’ll be more equipped with travel stories and tips when you go back to your loved ones. 🙂