7 recommendations for going out alone
MISSION, Can., January 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — (Family Features) Whether you’re a lone wolf at heart or looking to expand your sense of independence, solo travel can be a richly empowering and fulfilling experience.
Going solo has many practical advantages. You don’t have to worry about accommodating someone else’s schedule, interests, or needs, and you’re free to decide what you want to do and when. Solo travel also brings some mental and emotional benefits as you experience a unique sense of freedom, liberation and self-sufficiency.
Photo courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel
If you’re considering solo travel, consider these tips from the book 101+ Tips for Solo Female Travelers, available from Overseas Adventure Travel in free digital and print editions.
Make sure your passport is up to date
Many countries now require your passport to be valid for six months after your return to United States. If you don’t have a passport or need to renew it, apply for one as soon as possible. Ideally, you should receive your application six months before you leave.
Search for trips without any add-ons
Prices often quoted are “per person based on double occupancy.” This is because tour hosts know that they can earn more from a traveling couple than from an individual. You can avoid paying a single supplement premium by being willing to match with a roommate or traveling with a tour company or cruise line with free or low single supplement fees.
Use the ATM
As an affordable and convenient way to get cash, you can avoid wasting time queuing at a bank or exchange office by visiting an ATM. Although you’ll likely get a fee for using an ATM that isn’t part of your bank, it’s often less than the fee you’d pay at a bureau de change. You can also avoid additional fees by calculating how much you’ll need for the trip and making one withdrawal instead of multiple smaller withdrawals.
Download entertainment before you leave
When you travel, Wi-Fi can be expensive, slow, or simply unavailable. Before you go, download music, e-books, podcasts, favorite TV shows or movies to enjoy on the go or during layovers.
Join group tours
Once you reach your destination, you may enjoy joining small tour groups or exploring the local cuisine. Or you can make your entire trip a group experience. There are many benefits to a small group adventure with Overseas Adventure Travel, and onboard dining companions are just one of them.
Take precautions in your hotel room
When checking in, ask the receptionist to write down your room number instead of announcing it so everyone can hear it. Make sure your room locks work on both the hallway door and the balcony. Never allow a maintenance person or staff member into your room without first confirming with the front desk. Wear a rubber stopper that makes a hotel room door almost impossible to open. Finally, have an exit plan: Know where the nearest exit is and the route from your room.
Make new friends
For some, making friends seems to happen naturally while traveling alone, by striking up strangers at a nearby restaurant table or striking up a conversation while waiting in line at a store. If these situations don’t come naturally, there are useful apps that can connect you with locals as well as other travelers.
Find more tips to prepare for your trip at oattravel.com.
Michael French
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1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com
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