Many of us are scared about travelling alone or even the idea of actually doing it seems almost impossible. But how difficult is it really to jump on a plane and travel to a new place without anyone else? Not as much as it would seem. Most of the things we worry about could still be possible if we were travelling with a friend and we all spend time on our own in our home country, so why is it any different abroad? It’s important to keep your wits about you and be cautious, but other than that, travelling alone is one of the most rewarding experiences you can get.
The fact that you dare to travel alone does not mean you are unwise, it just means you are adventurous! Here’s a list of the best countries to travel alone
1. Canada
Travelling alone close to home doesn’t count. You should try and travel far away to really get out of your comfort zone. Canada has some incredible attractions and the people are so friendly that you will feel at home wherever you are.
2. New Zealand
New Zealand is an incredible travel destination home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. You will definitely have infinite tranquillity here which is part of the enjoyment of being alone here.
3. Italy
If you are looking for a place to travel alone without breaking the bank this is the best place. Take a tour of the most beautiful cities, eat pizza and pasta every day and enjoy huge amounts of wine without anyone to judge you.
4. Ireland
If you’re going to do a tour around Europe, Ireland should be included in your list. The happy attitude of the people will make you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
5. Costa Rica
OK, so it is a little bit far, but if you’re looking for an exotic destination to get lost in there is no better place than Costa Rica.
6. Iceland
Iceland is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. If you don’t know it yet, you definitely have to find it out for yourself. Going alone is ideal because you will definitely meet many interesting people.
Travelling alone: 10 tips
1. Make the most of social networks and travel apps to get around safely. That doesn’t mean you should spend your days tapping away at your phone, just that you keep your friends and family updated of your whereabouts. Also apps such as Google Maps will help you to find your way around and avoid getting lost.
2. Don’t be afraid to say NO. This applies to all aspects of life. If you don’t feel like doing it then be firm and say no.
3. Mix with the other cultures and learn as much as you can. Travelling enriches the soul and if you don’t make the most of these other cultures and experience abroad, that’s a wasted opportunity. One of the best things about a solo trip is that you have more chances to meet people and interact with them, because you force yourself, whereas if you’re travelling with a friend, it’s easier to socialise with them.
4. Trust your instinct. There are times when you get a gut feeling about making a decision or putting yourself in a situation, most of the time you are probably right. Or sometimes when you meet a person you get a certain vibe from them within the first 5 minutes, you’re probably right about that too. So don’t be afraid, but be aware.
5. Act like a local. I recommend that for several reasons. The first one is because it’s fun and the best way to immerse yourself into their customs. It will also help you to meet local people and for them to understand you better. Another reason is that it will help you to go unnoticed and avoid things like pick pocketing or scammers, blend in with the crowd rather than walking around with a big SLR camera and socks with sandals.
6. Hide your wallet, hide everything
Pickpockets know what they’re looking for and you need to be aware. Never store your wallet in your outer pocket or the back pocket of your jeans. Make sure its deep inside your bag or bum bag so that it’s practically inaccessible.
7. Improvising is alright for but not for everything. Be prepared for sudden change. Don’t forget to pack extra medication, hygiene products, plasters and anything else you might need. Certain countries are more difficult for finding these things.
8. Carry a book, music and a diary. If you’re alone you’ll probably have more time to do things, like write about what you do every day, thinking deeply whilst listening to music or getting lost in a book for those homesick moments.
9. Take copies of travel documents. If in the unfortunate case you manage to lose your passport, it will help to have something extra when getting home.
10. Don’t panic when things go wrong. Because they probably will at some point, you might miss your plane, run out of money, or just get completely lost in an unknown city. Just don’t get panicky or start stressing out because then you won’t think straight. Stop and think for a minute about the best way to solve this problem and ask for help if necessary.
