Embracing Solo Travel Again: Tips for a Safe and Fun Journey
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Chapter 1: The Journey Begins
After three years of staying put, I'm ready to hit the road again. The pandemic has subtly reshaped our lives, leaving many of us hesitant about venturing into the unknown. While some have transitioned from adventurous excursions to comfortable staycations, it's time to reignite that wanderlust.
As we transition back to traveling, it’s essential to prepare both mentally and practically. Here are some insights to help ease into solo travel.
Section 1.1: Choose Your Destination Wisely
Drawing inspiration from my father, a seasoned travel writer, I understand the importance of selecting the right place to visit. Once lockdowns lifted, he wasted no time booking his escape. His excitement was palpable, yet upon arrival in the UK, he felt underwhelmed, having spent too much time familiarizing himself with the destination during the pandemic.
Tip: Opt for a destination that feels safe but is still relatively new to you.
Recommendations:
Vienna, Austria
Taipei, Taiwan
Mallorca, Spain
Perth, Australia
Toronto, Canada
Section 1.2: Reconnect with Friends Abroad
In today’s globalized world, many of us have friends scattered across the globe. A fantastic way to ease back into solo travel is to plan a visit where you already have a connection. This not only provides companionship but also makes dining solo less daunting.
For instance, during a recent trip to Poland, I reconnected with an old friend who introduced me to the vibrant culture of Warsaw. We had a fantastic time, and her local insights made my experience all the more enriching.
Tip: Reach out to friends living in your travel destination!
Chapter 2: Navigating Technology on the Road
The first video, "THE Truth About Solo Travel from 29 YEARS of Female Solo Travel | Change Your Life Over 50 Series," delves into the realities of female solo travel, offering valuable insights for those considering their next adventure.
As someone who has been traveling since childhood, I’ve witnessed significant changes in how we journey. Despite my father's aversion to technology, he recently embraced using a smartphone during his travels, highlighting how crucial these devices have become.
However, I often question whether carrying a laptop is necessary. During my last trip to Algarve, I found myself binge-watching shows instead of exploring. For my upcoming adventure in Vilnius, Lithuania, I’ve decided to leave my laptop behind and focus on enjoying books and podcasts instead.
Tip: Gradually reduce your reliance on technology while traveling.
Book Suggestions for Your Journey:
The Book of Goose, Yiyun Li (France & US)
The Lemon Grove, Helen Walsh (Mallorca)
Mr Ma & Son, Lao She (London)
All the Lovers in the Night, Mieko Kawakami (Tokyo)
Big Summer, Jennifer Weiner (New York)
Let your eyes take a break from screens!
As we navigate our return to solo travel, I hope this guide helps you select the perfect destination and adapt your mindset post-pandemic. This is just the beginning of a series exploring how our travel experiences evolve as we reclaim our lives in a world that feels more normal.
Stay mindful of the changes we've undergone and make intentional choices to foster happiness and fulfillment in your travels. If you enjoy reflective travel content, follow along for more insights. For real-time adventures, check out my YouTube channel.
In the second video, "She Took a Break from Her Career to Solo Travel Around the World," viewers will gain inspiration from a woman who embraced the world while stepping away from her career.