Guest Post from Shawn Michaels

“Travelling alone is the single best gift you can give yourself.”

Travelling alone is a skill and one of the life’s most inspiring adventures. No matter how you do it or where you do it, it seems to bring a better understanding of the world around you. Initially, it can be a bit daunting but once you start doing it you’ll enjoy every second.

When you travel alone, you travel on your terms. You get to do what YOU want when you want. You can connect with people if you wish or avoid them completely if you want to be alone.

Here are few tips that can help you while travelling alone…

1. Prepare Yourself First

Before heading out to any destination alone, it’s important to plan the trip for your ease and comfort. Do some planning. You should know where you’re going to stay and what things will be required on the trip.

2. Pack light

Pack light so that you can manage your luggage by yourself with ease. It is better to take one carry-on, a suitcase or backpack; this should be sufficient whether you’re out for one week or three.

2. Keep your important items secure

Always keep your passport, wallet, camera or other important documents in the same place and have a simple check. Better to keep copies of documents and place them separate from original documents. Have a copy of your emergency contacts.

Carry important documents in a secure place such as a money belt. Have the name of the place you’re staying on a piece of paper in your bag.

4. Mix with others

Watch the world around you, connect with other travellers. Meet the locals, observe how they interact, and how things work. This will give a better understanding of their culture and norms.

5. Adapt to Your Destination

Be patient – To arrive at a new place and handle everything on your own can be hectic. Take your time. Take a day to relax, watch the city function, and settle in.

Be proactive – Ask for help whenever you’re confused and unsure of yourself. Standing around looking confused will get you nowhere instead it may get you noticed by the wrong people. So, go ahead, smile, and ask for help.

Stay Discreet – Don’t flash jewellery or expensive cameras and electronics. Better to be unnoticeable to avoid any unwanted attention.

Walk – There is no better way to get to know a city and understand its culture than walking. It slows you down so that you can see the shades of the society and understand how the city is designed.

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Some Safety Tips

– Always schedule early arrivals to any new place, well before dark.

– Always stay in public.

– Avoid taking help from strangers. Always seek help from people of your choice in case you feel unsafe.

– Don’t be afraid to be noisy and make a fuss if someone is bothering you.

– Trust your instinct. Be aware of your surroundings and listen to your gut. If something doesn’t seem right, leave.

Whether you’re 18 or 80, male or female, introvert or extrovert, don’t worry! Just get your things packed up, wear your best boots go and explore the world without getting worried about being a solo traveller.

“You never really travel alone. The world is full of friends waiting to get to know you.”

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Author Bio:

Shawn Michaels is a blogger who loves to write about his outdoor experiences. He is also a passionate rock climber and loves travelling. Currently, he is studying and spends his free time reading reviews and gear shopping! He regularly blogs at Thesmartlad.com.

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