Solo
travelling or soul searching is often a preferred choice of many
globe-trotters. Back packers are seen indulging in it more regularly than
package-deal travellers. Travelling alone can be the ultimate experience of
self-indulgence. However, taking into the account the perils of such a form of
travel like safety concerns and loneliness, a few tips about the same can make
the experience a pleasant one.
 |
| Photo by Flickr user fortherock |
The
foremost concern of a single traveller is safety. He is more vulnerable to scam
artists than people travelling in a group. Also, he has to deal with the
simplest of the health worries on his own with no companion to watch his back.
Small tips like knowing the exact distances and modes of commute between
airports, stations and the destinations can prevent him from being
“taken-on-a-ride”. If travelling alone, avoid travelling in the night and read
more about places of visit for issues of safety, if any. A thumb rule is to
trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.
It
is advisable to keep a low profile if you are a lone traveller. Attracting
attention by wearing flashy clothes or coming across as an obvious tourist can
mean some tricky pickles. A few white lies don’t hurt either. “I have to meet a
friend at the station but don’t know the way. Could you help please?” is a
safer option than poring over maps.
Being
in touch ensures you a sense of belonging when you are travelling alone and
peace of mind for your loved ones. Leave them a copy of your itinerary and
check in periodically. International
texting
these days has become dearth cheap. If you are travelling with a pc, making pc to phone
calls
is another way of getting rid of solitude especially in the evening or during
meals.
Solo
dining may not be as amusing as it sounds at times. Sitting at a counter seat
or at the bar in a restaurant may help. Sometimes when
traveling we get stressed , tired and fatigue . We have to remember
that part of traveling is exploring new things , like for example if your in
Hawaii pamper yourself by going to a resort , sitting by
the beach and just taking in all the beauty. Bring a book you don’t mind leaving
behind. Writing a journal is also a great way of savouring your travel memories
later. It is important to eat well. Have a laid-back coffee or a decadent
dessert once in a while. The constant vigilance needed whilst travelling alone
can wear you down.
Lastly,
in case you start feeling lonely, you could cut short your ambitious itinerary
and kick back for a while. You could even consider joining a group of fellow
travellers or spend time in youth hostels where you could end up with some
interesting company and activities to do.
A
thing to remember always, be it solo or in a group, the sole purpose of
travelling should be that experience of gratification at the end of it all!
