Traveling Alone? The Solo Way to International Survival
There comes a time in one person's life when no matter how much you engage and cajole your friends to come along with you on a trip, you just can't seem to convince them. Ergo, you have to go out into the world alone.
Fear not brave traveler, here are a few tips to help you survive that crucial trip... alone.
Travel List
The assumption is, with so many times you've traveled with friends, you'll be packing in no time and you'll be packing it light (with the erratic airline fees, you HAVE to pack light).
Travel/Tourist Scams, Avoid them:
* Taxis - No matter how friendly-looking the people are, there are a lot out there who'll try to take advantage of you. For starters, the taxi's at the airport. Always find the one recommended by the airport of your destination. If there's a meter, insist on it, if not, usually the airport will charge you a certain fee but you'll also get an official receipt.
* Moneychangers - only exchange for the county's currency at the bank, atm or a licensed moneychanger. There are sooo many fly by night moneychangers that will approach you and promise higher rates - only to find out when you've gotten your money that you've been shortchanged, and there's nothing you can do about it (probably you can complain, but imagine the hassle!) Always count your money very very carefully. You don't want to be losing that hard-earned money.
* Friendly Locals - they'll engage in small talk, and convince you to go to this store yaddah yaddah coz the jewelry's waaay too cheap. It's a good thing if this is the only incident you've had - since you can always say at the place he's brought you that you won't buy. However some are more unlucky and have found themselves robbed of money, credit cards, passport, and visa. Of course not all locals are that way, and you'll just have to rely on your better judgment if he's out to get your money or he's the real thing.
Socialize
* Whether you're a man or woman, it always helps to socialize, and since you're traveling alone, you'll naturally meet someone out there who can be a companion or just someone to share the experience with.
* Smile. No one can say no to a genuine smile.
* Be a good listener.
* Learn the language of the country you're visiting, it will come in handy.
* Do not be the annoying tourist who's always in the photo of some other tourist.
* And most important of all, don't force it. If the person next to you doesn't want to talk, or even listen to you, then just zip it.
Be healthy
* Get your shots. Especially if you're going to a high-risk country.
* Be careful what you eat or drink. You don't want to spend the next few days in the toilet.
* Ask what you are eating - politely, as some people find it offensive.
And just something to remind both genders:
Men: I know you want to enjoy the country, but since you're traveling alone, try to moderate your drinking. You'll thank yourself in the morning when you're in the hotel room with your money, wallet, and passport intact. Keep a low profile - you don't want to figure in a fight in a foreign city.
Women: Dress Appropriately. Especially in the plane.
Both: When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
I congratulate you for your bravery to travel alone. It takes a lot of courage to venture in a foreign country on your own. Just keep your wits about you, follow those tips and then some, and enjoy. Enjoy the trip, the sights, the experience, the feel of a culture different from yours and you'll manage to survive traveling alone. Who knows? You might just do it over and over again(no excess baggage!).
About the Author: Triska Mae loves to travel, read books, go on adventures that would only require a map, a day's food stock, and a friend. More of her thoughts in her blog Globe Trotter
More articles by triskamae
Print Article | Download PDF | 33 views | Jul 14 2008
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