Travelling is a passion . everyone is carrying with them these days. And more to that, Solo travelling is the first preference for anyone. Everyone, most of everyone , wants to know and enjoy their own company first, before they get to any other person. With is in fact, a great realisation.
Few days back, I too decided to do a solo trip. For I have already read so many articles that motivated me to travel solo. They all promised a new version of me, a new mind, a new heart and yes of course, that changes everything. I too, wanted to know myself better. In general, I am a very confused person and that is what always left me with two answers to everything. But I wanted to know the better side of mine and I just started.
You hear a lot of things along , when you hear SOLO. But i am here to tell you that it's not the best of your trip in the beginning. You might love whole of your experience or you might end up hating to travel alone forever. Both of which are not an issue. Since everybody is different , everybody has their own limits and strengths . so take it easy anyway.
In India, travelling solo is of course an easier task for guys then a girl. They can go much more easy for everything but not the girls. They have to take care of themselves more carefully.
So, I learnt a few things while I was on my travel that I would like to share with my girls here, who are planning or might plan a solo trip in sometime...
Do a research on your destination
Whether you are planning a trip within your country or to a different country, it's important to know the placed you are going. Read about the place, it's art. it's culture . It's important for both, packing your clothing and accessories accordingly and also, to prepare yourself as what you gonna get there. You don't want to get into trouble unprepared.
Take responsibility of your own safety
Being a girl brings you a responsibility of taking care your own self. There are times when you find yourself walking on a road all alone and there are threats of animal attack and other things. For those time, be well prepared and carry a pepper spray and some self defense tool with you. This allows you to travel with peace since you know you are prepared along with being cautious.
You always have a boyfriend
While you are travelling alone, there are more chances of attracting attention. You came across so many people for so many reason and you are being nice with everyone because you don't want any trouble to yourself. Hence, you might end up people approaching you, asking you out and what not. Be cautious and just keep "I have a boyfriend"thing with you. So they know, you are not available anyways.
Drink to enjoy, but don't get drunk
Since you are in a different part of your country or some different part of the world and you are there to explore, why not experiments with drink there too. But having drinks comes with a caution. You should definitely try and drink things you like but to a limit. You definitely don't want to end up exploited. Never lose your conscious in a foreign land.
Women look after women
With my experience, I have learnt that it's more trust-able and worth to ask a local women for advice then men. Though you should trust your instinct and go with it, but at times, when you find yourself stuck somewhere in between, try talking to women there too. Chances are they will guide you much better and more genuine.
Avoid after sun tour
While travelling to a unknown place, before knowing that place some extent and knowing locals, avoid going out much after the sunset. Unless you are sure and have known the place already, don't take risk of going out late. Try talking to locals, taking references from travel guides and then go for it.
Learn to say NO
Keep track of your finances
You might want to end up thinking you want to be a traveler all your life after your first trip which is a fantastic thing but then you will be needing more money to travel more. Or there may be time when you wish to stay long but you are not having enough cash. Try to avoid such situation because you don't want end up out of your hotel in the middle of night with no cash. Also always keep cash handy.
These were a few things that I find a MUST CHECK before and while travelling solo for a girl. But don't get in any worries , everything would be easy and so beautiful. People are so generous though but then too, you should be prepared for most of the things. SO just stay cautious and safe and travel as much as you like.
Feel free to ask for a company :D