SOLO TRAVEL
[ TRAVEL TYPE // THE INTREPID EXPLORER ]
Waiting for a travel partner is the fastest way to ensure your passport stays empty. We treat 'someday' like a date on the calendar, but it’s actually a graveyard for missed opportunities. At 19, I bought a one-way ticket to Australia. I didn’t have a plan, but I had a choice: wait for a 'right time' that might never come, or expand my comfort zone until it covered the globe. Go now. The friends you haven’t met yet are already waiting for you in the lobby of a hostel in Lusaka or a cooking class in Istanbul.
EXPLORE THE LOCAL SCENE & MEET FELLOW TRAVELERS
Solo travel doesn't mean being alone, it means having the freedom to choose your favorite activities and getting to meet new friends who share your interests.
SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
While there is almost no trip I view as off limits for a solo adventure, here are a few of my favorite solo friendly destinations
SAFETY WHILE SOLO ADVENTURING
Safety isn't about avoiding the world; it’s about having the situational awareness to explore it without fear. From navigating the challenges of remote hiking trails to the vibrant but unpredictable streets of Istanbul, this tips will help keep your focus on enjoying the moment. Trusting your gut is your primary defense. If a situation feels wrong, it is wrong.
FAKE WEDDING RING
One of the oldest tricks in the traveler’s handbook is still one of the most effective. Wearing a simple, inexpensive band on your ring finger helps prevent unwanted attention or the appearance of being alone.
PHONE CALL DECOY
For the walk home alone at night or an uncomfortable taxi ride, download a pre-recorded audio clip or video to your phone of a one-sided conversation. Many exist that sound like a friend or partner asking exactly where you are and stating they are waiting for you at the destination.
AIR TAGS IN EVERY BAG
The sinking feeling of a missing bag, whether lost by an airline or swiped by a "snatch-and-grab" artist, can ruin a trip.
The Strategy: Hide an Apple AirTag or Tile deep within the lining of your suitcase, backpack, and even your camera bag.
SACRIFICIAL WALLET
Carry a "sacrificial" wallet with a small amount of local currency and expired cards. In the unlikely event of a confrontation, you can hand this over.
GO BAG
Maintain a "go-bag" mentality: ensure you can get away with all your essentials (passport, phone, wallet, etc) at a dead run if necessary. This allows you to exit a dangerous situation quickly without being weighed down by replaceable items.
PACE PLAN
Have a back-up means for communication.
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Primary: Local SIM/Data.
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Alternate: International roaming.
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Emergency: Pre-shared "check-in" times with a trusted contact who has your full itinerary.