Tips for Traveling Solo
Solo Traveling
Traveling solo offers you a sense of freedom that you can't experience when you travel with someone else. Your solo trip is all about what you want to do, what you want to see, and the experiences you desire to have. You can cross goals off your bucket list, explore deep within yourself, or simply immerse yourself in another culture. Lets say you bought flight tickets to Dubai and you're ready to go but you need to throw away overwhelming and scary feelings of solo travelling. Here are some tips that will help you adapt:
The sky's the limit, and the decisions are yours.
If you're new to solo travel, and you're wondering how to make your first trip a little easier, check out these tips for a Successful solo travel adventure. Learn From People, Not From a Guidebook. Most people are willing (excited even) to tell you about their city and the places you should explore.
Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone
When you're traveling, it's important to do things you normally wouldn't and explore new adventures without fear jumping, go snorkeling, or spend a day "lost" in the city. anticipation, do that. Solo travel is all about new experiences and discovering yourself. Take advantage of the opportunity.
Make Friends Along the Way
One of the greatest parts of solo travel is that you have the opportunity to open yourself up, meet new people, and make new connections along the way. Traveling with friends you, whereas solo travel makes you far more approachable. Don't let this frighten you. The majority of people in this world are good and kind, and they crave connection just like you. Of course, you should always trust your gut, but don't assume everyone is out to get you. If you convince yourself that everyone you meet is dangerous, your trip will be filled with nothing but fear and paranoia. Instead, keep an open mind and enjoy making new connections with fellow travelers and the locals.
Know Your Limits
Drinking in excess is never a smart idea when you're traveling solo. By all means, you should go to a local bar and enjoy the city's nightlife if that's your thing, but you should do so in a responsible manner. When traveling solo, you don't have a designated driver or a friend tonight, but stop before you push yourself too far.
Be Safe
You shouldn't let fear and paranoia control you on your solo adventure, but you should take steps to ensure your safety. Let friends and family know your plans and where you're staying. If plans change, send them a quick text to update them. Post on social media often to let people know your location and that you're doing well. Have scheduled check-in times, and don't forget about them. You don't want to send your friends into a panic because you're having so much fun you forgot to send an "I'm okay" message.
Learn the Language
If the locals who live in your chosen destination speak a different language than you, you should learn at least a few phrases to help you communicate more efficiently. You don't need to become fluent, but you should know how to ask for directions, ask for help, order common items, or seek out the location of a restroom. You should also learn the words 'please' and 'thank you'. It's always important to be polite.
Skip the Hotel
Staying in shared housing options like Airbnbs or hostels in Dubai not only saves you money, but it can help combat the loneliness you might experience if you stayed in a large hotel room all by yourself. Staying in shared housing provides you with opportunities to talk with locals and other travelers. You can share your traveling stories with them and listen to a few of theirs as well. Who knows, they might even provide you with insider tips on where you should visit next.