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Solo Female Travel Tips

If you’ve ever thought about travelling alone as a woman then the chances are that you’ve been somewhat intimidated by the uncertainties and the huge amount of often conflicting information that’s out there. Sometimes, it can be so daunting that it seems to us as though we’d be better off if we just stayed at home.

Truth is, everyone feels a little daunted by the idea of solo travel, at least to begin with. But then they get the bug, and once you’re a convert to the cause, it’s hard to turn back. All you really need to get started are a few good tips, and that’s what this article is all about. Here’s what you’ll need to know!

Solo Female Travel Tips

Planning makes perfect

There’s no such thing as too much planning when it comes to travel, especially solo travel. That’s why it’s a solid idea to invest some time up front to plan out as much as you can. This takes pressure off while you’re travelling, but it also allows you to tap into early bird pricing and other discounts. Be sure to share your plans with someone you trust back home.

Invest in decent accommodation

It’s worth spending a little extra money if it means that you can secure accommodation in a decent area and from a reputable provider. You’ll sleep a lot more soundly at night, and if you’re staying in a better area then it’s also likely to be safer and less vulnerable to crime.

Pack light

One of the best things about travelling solo is that you usually end up with more time to go wandering around local markets or to pick up souvenirs for the people back at home. That’s why it’s such a good idea to pack light if you can so that you’ve got as much room (and as much remaining weight allowance) as possible.

Know self-defense

This is another one of those practical things that you can only hope you’ll never have to rely on. The good news is that learning basic self-defense skills can help to boost your overall confidence and keep you in shape, so think of the ability to defend yourself in a tight spot as an added bonus. Better still, there are a whole range of different martial arts styles for you to choose from.

Treat yourself to a cruise

If you want to see the world in style, you can’t beat a cruise. Most people think of cruising as something to be done in a group, but there are plenty of life-changing solo cruises for you to pick between, too. One of my favorite  trips was actually a cruise from Charleston, but you can also just look into which cruises are departing from a harbor town near you.

Don’t be afraid to make friends

Don’t be fooled into thinking that because you’re travelling on your own, you can’t make friends. In fact traveling solo is one of the best ways to make international friends. Most people that you’ll meet on the road will be super friendly and approachable, and making friends and travelling around with them can be a great way to get some extra security.

Do what YOU want to do

This could apply to any type of traveler, but it’s even more relevant to people who are travelling on their own. With only yourself to please and only yourself to satisfy, don’t waste time doing things that you don’t want to do. Don’t be fooled into only going for what the tourist guides talk about, either.

Take lots of photos

Embrace the selfie! We’re not just saying this because you’ll want to show off what you see to your friends and family, although that’s certainly a factor too. The main reason to take photos, though, is that you’ll be able to look back at them when you’re older and to remember your travels. And the simple act of thinking about and taking those photos can also act as an aide to your memory.

Be willing to take an off day

When you’re solo travelling, you’re rarely held back by other people and you’re free to do whatever you want, whenever you want. As part of that, sometimes you just have to acknowledge that you need a day of rest or to practice a little self-care. Think of it as making sure you’re in tip top shape for whatever your next adventure turns out to be.

Conclusion

One final thing to remember when travelling solo as a woman is that women are treated very differently in different parts of the world. For example, it was illegal for women to drive in Saudi Arabia, until as recently as June 2018.

That’s why to stay safe, especially as a solo traveler, it’s a good idea to check the way that women are treated both culturally and legally in any new country that you plan to visit. There’s never been a better time for women to solo travel, especially if you follow these tips, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Happy travels!


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The Best Place to Kayak in the Southern French Alps

Summer is here! And if you’re traveling to the South of France, we just can’t think of a better way to experience the beauty than paddling across a breathtaking river in a Kayak or Canoe. The Southern French Alps is better known for it’s white water rapids, rafting and kayaking but it is also home to two spectacular lakes which are lake kayaking paradise. #Wanderlust  #travelblogger

For more information on this amazing adventure, read the below article from Travel Companions.

http://www.hosteltraveler.com

 


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Beautiful US Beaches To Escape To, Even Though Its Not Summer!

Not ready to give up going to the beach? Why should you! Winter is obviously just around the corner. But if you’re like us, going to the beach isn’t just awesome in the Summer months. Have you seen the majestic beauty of your favorite beach covered in a blanket of snow in the #Winter? Or have you ever taken your loved ones or even just by yourself (guilty) to the beach on a beautiful #Autumn evening and sat watching the sunset wrapped up in a cozy blanket? Id give it a try because it really can be a magical experience. Here is a list of a few Beaches for your pleasure and hopefully one is near you. But if not adventure out to your favorite beach, either in the Summer, Spring, Winter or Fall!

#travel #favoriteplace

10 Most Beautiful US Beaches To Escape To

www.hosteltraveler.com


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Spooky Ghost Towns To Explore

We all have  a bit of curiosity / interest in Haunted Houses. Some of us more than others… yep, thats me…. and if you are anything like us, you will want to go and visit all of them anyway. But how about whole towns? Thats right, the ENTIRE town! From the UK to Taiwan to California to Pennsylvania, if you search, you will find. Some of these places are burdened with a tragic history, making it look eerie along with a haunting feeling or even paranormal activity.  Some places are overgrown over years of abandonment, others are well kept. There are thousands of places to explore, all over the world!

So here’s a small sample of the spooky abandoned Towns we came across in an Article: https://www.thevintagenews.com/2016/09/29/seven-ghost-towns-theyre-abandoned

And since its October and Halloween is just a few weeks away, I hope you enjoy reading this small tidbit! BOO!

 

www.hosteltraveler.com


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Everything You Need to Know to Choose the Right Accommodation

Choosing to travel is one of the best decisions any young person can make. If you’re heading off to travel the world then one of the most difficult decisions you will make is which countries and cities you should visit. The next most difficult decision is where you should stay when you arrive at your destination! To help you get that important decision right. here are a few ideas and tips for making the right accommodation choices before you set off on your adventures:

To Plan or Not To Plan?

One of the questions many backpackers ask themselves is just how much of their travelling itinerary should they plan ahead before they set off? The answer to this question lies in just how much of a free spirit you are! For some simply having a return plane ticket is too much organization. Other travelers wouldn’t feel comfortable hitting the road unless they had a full itinerary and confirmed hotel or hostel reservations in every town and city they choose to visit. The pro of booking your holiday accommodation in advance is that you can be sure you’ll have somewhere to rest your head when you get off your plane and just want a lie down! If you’re visiting a new city during an important festival or national holiday then it will also give you the security of having a room when one might be hard to come by. The con though is that it is much harder to be spontaneous: if you meet a handsome stranger and want to stay somewhere a little longer then you could lose the deposit money you’ve already laid out for future hotels if you can’t stick to the schedule you’d planned months in advance.

Which Accommodation Type to Choose

The most common accommodation type for travelers and backpackers looking to spend a significant amount of time away from home is the hotel. Obviously hotel prices vary wildly, depending on whether you’re looking for a luxury or a budget room.  Most travelers are looking for budget hotels. These will offer a comfortable bed, somewhere to shower (in either an en suite or communal bathroom) and other basic facilities, but don’t expect a maid service or mint on your pillow each night! If you’re looking to save even more money then why not try a hostel? If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before then it can be a daunting accommodation type to choose. Hostels tend to be much more basic than hotels, with fewer amenities, and you will usually have to share a dormitory style room with several other travelers that you might not know. The benefits of this, however, are that you may quickly find yourself making friends with like minded travelers and that hostel rooms are significantly cheaper than hotel rooms. If you’re travelling with a large group of friends, rather than on your own, then you may find that your numbers make it more cost effective to hire a holiday cottage or timeshare for the duration of your visit. The benefit of this is that you’ll be afforded a little more luxury in this kind of self catering accommodation, with your own kitchen and somewhere to do your laundry!

Think Food!

Finally, you should consider where you will be eating during your travels, and how your accommodation can help to accommodate this. As mentioned above, self catering accommodation such as a time share or holiday cottage will come equipped with a kitchen, making it simple to whip up some affordable eats. Many hostels also come with communal kitchens for backpackers on a budget, providing you with somewhere to make sandwiches or store food from the grocery store: much cheaper than eating out every day! If you choose to stay in a hotel then you will have fewer options when it comes to storing your own food, however you can keep some small snacks in your room: snacks in foreign restaurants can often cost as much as a meal, so this is a great way to save money Just be weary of using the mini bar, even for keeping snacks and drinks cold, as many sensitive hotel mini bars will attempt to charge you just for opening the door! If you do have tight budgetary constraints though, maybe an accommodation option that will allow you to cater for yourself is the best choice for you!


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Unspoiled Charm of the Baltic Sea

The Unspoiled Charm of the Baltic Sea

The Baltic region, known as such for its position next to the Baltic Sea, compromises a collection of countries, all of which host uncontested pleasures. The Baltic region is home to some of the finest historical architecture and to some of the most cosmopolitan of capital cities. It boasts the grandeur of cities such as St Petersburg juxtaposed by long, isolated, undiscovered coastlines. It is ideal for explorer’s; there is something new to do and see each day. There is dense and diverse heritage and vast, multifarious landscapes around which to plan your ideal trip. Whether you find accommodation as you go along (so that you can follow your whim) or plan an itinerary beforehand the region has a plethora of experience which goes unrivaled by anywhere else in the world.

The Baltic States

The largely forgotten, Baltic States, are home to wild and ragged coastlines, sparsely populated islands, acres of untouched forestry, crystal clear lake water and some astounding medieval architecture. These countries, dense with history and culture, are a must-explore of the Baltic Region.

  • Estonia

Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn, is like a scene from a fairy tale. One of the legacies of invading empires is the medieval architecture and grand manor houses which adorn the city’s streets. Tallinn is home to the 13th century Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral, which can be found on Toompea Hill.  From Toompea Hill (which also situates Toompea Castle) there is a spectacular view of the Gulf of Finland.

Out of the city, Estonia is rich with forestry, rivers, lakes and waterfalls, wonderful for trekking, canoeing or simply admiring. There are stunning coastlines; all of which are untainted and pristine with natural beauty.

On the Eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, Latvia is the most diverse of the Baltic States; a third of the population of Latvia is of Russian descent. This is epitomized by its capital city, Riga, which is cosmopolitan and vibrant. It is a rival for Prague and has the added bonus of being relatively undiscovered by tourists. Less than an hour away from the buzz of this city is Sigulda – otherwise known as ‘Little Switzerland’. Here there is a national park, a medieval castle and even a bobsleigh run if you’ve feeling like something really fun to do!

The Bauska Region is also less than an hour from Riga, but to the south. The region is known for its castles and palaces with architectural magnificence ranging from medieval to classical. An absolute must see is Rundal Palace; built in the 1730’s and designed by the same architect who became infamous for Winter Palace in St Petersburg.

  • Lithuania

Lithuania, also rich in history and culture, has a warm and outgoing population of people. The capital of Lithuania (the largest city in the country) is Vilnius. Vinius, situated in the south-east of the country and built on the bank of the Neris River, was once one of the biggest cities in Europe. It still displays one of the largest Baroque Old Towns.

Whilst in Lithuania, a trip 150 miles Northwest of Vilnius is essential. Here on a small mound is the ‘Hill Of Crosses’. The Lithuanian people have erected hundreds of crosses to represent their peaceful resistance to foreign oppression. Lithuania did not achieve absolute independence from the Soviet Union until the 1990’s and they also experienced Nazi occupation during WW2.

Beyond the Baltic States

As the Baltic Region is geographically positioned along the Baltic Sea it is possible to travel either by land or by water. Making a sea cruise part of your trip can be a wonderful way of visiting a multitude of destinations and experiencing the Baltic Region from a different viewpoint. The region includes the Baltic States; Denmark, Germany, Finland, Poland, Russia, Norway and Sweden. There is opportunity to see the eerily transcendental natural beauty of the Northern Lights, the majesty of St Petersburg, the white sand dunes and sapphire sea of the East German coast, the dramatic white cliffs of South Zealand in Denmark – not to mention heritage reaching as far back as the medieval times, relics from the Vikings, Gothic churches and some of the most vivacious cities of the world such as Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki and Berlin.

Spanning a reasonably small area the Baltic Region has a rich tapestry of history and a medley of culture to be discovered. The landscapes are as diverse as the people that populate them and the architecture rich with historic identity. In many places it is fabulously serene and unspoilt, whilst it also offers some of the world’s most exquisite cities. With such an array, the Baltic Region’s magnificence is unlikely to remain a well-kept secret for long.


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Florida Horse Country Getaways

If you are drawn by the allure of Horse Country, but don’t count yourself among Ocala’s thoroughbred owners, head to Young’s Paso Fino Ranch at 8075 W. County Road 326. The ranch is perfect for people who don’t know the difference between a saddle and a spur.

Trail rides run about $35; tours and demonstrations also are available. (352) 867-5305).

Other spots to ride include:

• JNB Horse Haven Farm on C.R. 42, near the intersection with C.R. 452, between Weirsdale and Aftoona. (352) T53-4756.

• New England Shire Centre, 4877 S.W.134th Terrace, Ocala. Farm tours available.

• North Star Acres, 9950 S.E.125th Court, Dunnellon. (352) 489-9848. If you prefer to leave the reins in experienced hands, check out the Florida Carriage Museum and Resort in Weirsdale, south of Ocala.

Take a carriage ride or explore 150 historic European and American carriages, including one owned by Franz Joseph, and a horse-drawn fire engine (www.fcmr.org)

Book Florida Hotels and Hostel


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Italy – Hidden Secrets

Italy seems to have everything. It’s modern – think Fiat and Olivetti. It’s a leader in world fashion yet also is very traditional. Italy has many hidden secrets. You want to discover? It is almost impossible to be disappointed by Italy.  So… check out the Italian articles below and plan your trip to Italy.
There is, however, a large north-south divide. Northern Italy is a powerhouse of economic dynamism, whereas the South has been somewhat economically deprived. No place is perfect and Italy is becoming economically more integrated. The north, in general, is the most cosmopolitan part of the country. In the south the colorful city of Naples is the beating heart of the region. And close by are the antique wonders of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Italy-Sardinia:

The Aga Khan got his eye on the Costa Smeralda in the 1960’s and spent millions in this unknown area, creating a holiday village for the rich and famous..

The wealthy continue to flock to the posh hotels at Porto Cervo. This is also the place where Princess Diana and Dodi spent their last night together before flying off to Paris.

The waters here really are a deep emerald green. The area is stuffed with sweet-smelling shrubs and trees, and mimosa and oleander shade the walls of the pastel-colored villas that dot the landscape. There’s a Moorish feel to the architecture – perhaps because of the island’s proximity to North Africa. Hedges of rosemary and lavender cluster against huge granite boulders which people have brought down from the hills to use as gate posts or garden sculpture.

A Place of Legends

Sardinia is full of legends about witches and giants, and it’s not hard to see how these came about. The gigantic rocks all around the coast have weathered into strange shapes; ‘hook-nosed witches’, strange ‘birds’ and ‘animals’ gaze down on the white beaches. Some of the cleanest beaches in Italy are in Sardinia and swimming in these clear turquoise waters is heaven.

The Barbagia and the Nuraghe

Sardinia has two faces, one is the coast with its resorts and hotels, the other is the mountainous interior, the Barbagia region which contains around 8,000 strange, ancient structures known as nuraghe, which are found nowhere else in the world.

According to the locals, this is the real Sardinia, full of history, with many small mountain villages and remains of ancient civilizations.

Giant Tombs

The people who built the nuraghe also left behind huge graves, known as Giants’ Tombs. They were originally built as communal graves in which the bones of the dead were piled up. Some were found to contain as many as 100 to 200 skeletons. In time, the locals forgot what their original use was and they became known as Giants’ Tombs, contributing to the many myths that have emerged over the centuries. Some are at least 35-feet long. After traveling through this dramatic landscape, with its high mountains and huge empty spaces dotted with strangely carved rocks which look like, birds, animals and even witches, You might be ready to believe anything.

There’s something a bit surreal about the Barbagia. There are no Tuscany-like medieval hilltop villages. The mountain tops are bare, jagged, and can look menacing when a cloud covers the sun and the peaks suddenly turn dark. It looks like a land in which it would be hard to survive and yet, when you take a second look, the mountain slopes and isolated valleys are groomed and look well cared for. This is entirely because of the constant munching of some of Sardinia’s four million sheep.

Tuscany’s Historic Villages

What other country is as stuffed with art treasures? Tuscany alone has more classified historical monuments than any country in the world and there are reminders of the great Roman Empire everywhere. There are wonderful beaches, great ski resorts and shopping to die for.

Tuscany is known for its beautiful old villages – here are six of the best for you to discover.

The Collective

There are many lovely hill villages in this part of Tuscany but San Gimignano attracts most of the tourist traffic. In order to spread this largesse around a bit a collective of six villages has been formed. They include San Gimignano and all are in the area of Valdelsa. The others are Poggibonsi, Colle Val d’Elsa, Monteriggioni, Radicondoli, and Casole d’Elsa. There’s less than an hour’s drive between each village. Supporting this cooperative venture seemed is a good way to see some places off the beaten track.

Walking on Capri

Explore the island on foot. It’s a paradise of sweet-smelling bay trees, olive groves,lemon trees and hundreds of species of wild flowers – a lush, green, perfumed land.

Pisa

The Leaning Tower is the icon of Pisa. However, it is but one part of a trio of architectural wonders which inhabit the Campo dei Miracoli.

The Alto Adige

The Alto Adige contains some of the most spectacular scenery in Italy as well as some of the best mountain-walking in Europe. This area of the eastern Italian Alps is the Bolzano province, known officially in Italy as Alto Adige, but to most people as the South Tyrol.

Italy – South Tyrol – Seiseralm

To the east of Bolzano, the capital town of the region, is Europe’s largest area of mountain pastureland – the Seiseralm. It’s a magical place high above the valleys, surrounded by the dramatic Dolomites, where acres of brilliant wild flowers bloom throughout the summer.

Italy – South Tyrol – Castles

Castles are a big feature of the area and walking from castle to castle is a popular activity. There are over 350 of them brooding on hilltops, nestling in vineyards or clinging to rock faces. Most were built in the 12th and 13th centuries and many are still lived in. Some are run as hotels and restaurants.

So don’t delay the trip once all hidden secrets have proverbial to you.

 

Author Bio-

I’m Victoria James, a travel blogger and a writer from London who loves to express her recent journeys. I write articles for blogs and websites during my free time. Currently I am focusing on ESTA which is now useful for all travelers to the USA who plan to enter the country by air or sea. Did you like this post? Contact me at james.victoria92@gmail.com.

 

 


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