Although traveling with another person is often an unforgettable experience, it is not always achievable. In such a case, you might be left to wander the streets of a new city alone, which can be quite overwhelming. However, solo traveling can also have a variety of benefits, and who knows, maybe it will become your preferred way of seeing new places.
To ensure that you stay safe during your travels, you should make some much-needed preparations beforehand and remain vigilant while trying to find yourself in a new environment.
The do’s of solo travel to another city include studying the map, thinking about accommodation and transportation, learning a few key phrases in the local language, and chatting with locals. On the other hand, you should avoid rushing your decisions, blowing all your budget in the first few days of your stay, and limiting yourself to the city centre. Here is what you should and should not do to have a wonderful solo trip.
Do: Book Accommodation and Transportation
Not all travellers can afford to stay in a five-star hotel; however, it is important that you choose a decent place to stay. To this end, you should not rush into anything and should take your time to read reviews and compare prices.
Moreover, think about other expenses such as transportation and food because sometimes these can be quite costly. You might want to opt for a travel package instead of booking your next flight individually to save money.
If you already know where you will be staying and how you will get around, then you should book your accommodation and transportation as soon as possible. This will allow you to enjoy as much time as possible exploring the city and having fun instead of worrying about where to go and how to get there.
When it comes to moving around while on vacation, you need to consider all the options. How much will it cost you to rent a car? How much does Uber cost per minute? Is it better to rely on trains and buses? And if you want to walk and wander around, be sure that the area is safe enough for you to do so.
Do: Study the Map
Preparation is the key to success. To prevent losing your way and getting lost in a new city, it is recommended that you study the map of the city beforehand. Knowing where the major attractions are located will help you decide which neighbourhoods to avoid and which areas to explore.
When you plan to visit a new place, spend some time searching for the best places to go and the things to see. A good tip is to find a detailed map of the city and mark all the things you want to see and do. This way, you will avoid wasting precious time and energy on pointless things and can focus on enjoying your trip.
If you have a particular route in mind, such as visiting specific landmarks and museums, you can also use the map to plan your daily route.
Do: Learn Some Phrases in the Local Language
It is never a bad idea to learn a few key phrases in the language of the country where you are going to stay. Even if you have just a few words memorised, you can use them to help yourself when in need.
The locals will be happy to hear that you have made an effort to learn their language, which will probably grant you a warm welcome. Consequently, they will be happy to help you understand what is going on around you. As an added benefit, learning a few words and phrases can also come in handy when you need to communicate with your taxi driver or hotel staff.
Do: Chat with Locals
Getting in touch with local people is always a good idea since they will be able to tell you about the customs of their country, introduce you to their culture, and even offer you a place to stay. Engage in conversation whenever possible, wherever you are, whether it’s with a waiter, shop assistant, or someone you ask for directions.
Locals can be your best travel companions who can tell you about hidden gems of the city. They can also help you figure out the best places to eat, drink, and party without spending too much money.
Do Not: Rush Your Decisions
The number one rule of solo traveling is to take your time. When you travel alone, you do not have anyone to tell you what to do and where to go. You do not have anyone to ask if you are doing things right or wrong. Therefore, it is crucial that you think things through before making any decisions.
It is always better to spend a couple of hours reading reviews and planning your route than acting on impulse and ending up in a place you do not like. If you are visiting a new city for the first time, it is highly advisable to stay away from too touristy and crowded sites. Instead, opt for the quieter, non-touristy areas where you will be able to enjoy local cuisine and see the authentic culture of the city.
Do Not: Spend All Your Budget in the First Few Days
When you travel to a new place, one of the main goals is to enjoy yourself. However, if you spend all your money on food and souvenirs right from the start, you will have nothing left for later. If you want to avoid this, you should plan your budget wisely and make sure that you save a few dollars for a rainy day.
Do Not: Limit Yourself to the City Centre
When traveling alone, it is tempting to stay within the city centre because it is more convenient and safer. However, if you are keen on experiencing the local culture of the city, then you should venture beyond the city centre.
For instance, you can visit a local market, try a new cuisine, or find a hidden spot for a picnic. In addition, if you are on a budget, then you should definitely explore beyond the city centre since it is often more affordable.
Conclusion
Traveling alone is not always easy, but it can be gratifying. To ensure that you will have a wonderful trip, you should plan wisely, avoid rushing your decision, learn some key phrases in the local language, and chat with locals.
With the right attitude and preparations, you can make sure that your trip will be perfect. Nevertheless, if you are still unsure about traveling alone, then do not hesitate to go with another person.
