“You’ve already told everyone. Now, just go!” That’s my other self telling me to jump into the uncertain.
Wanting to go somewhere yet no one to go with is a dilemma with only two options: wait for a companion or go alone. I opted for the last one, hands-down. A tankful of courage is what seems to be needed and truth be told, you just need to take the first step and you’re well on your way to your first solo trip and the next afterwards. Oh and it helps if you tell others, so just in case you want to chicken out, think of our pride. 🙂
Below are the few steps you need to muster that grit you’re hiding and take the plunge.
- Choose a ‘safe’ place.
Yes, ‘safe’ is relative. What I did was ask my favourite traveling couple to recommend a place they deem safe for a first time, solo female traveller – me. Not just safe but stimulating as well, culturally, historically and everything else!
- Plan the date and check out the ticket prices.
I don’t plan that much. I decided to follow what was recommended and bought the cheapest ticket near the area. No, I did not take the direct flight. Where’s the fun in that? I bought the ticket to the nearest city, and researched how to get there by bus, train or whatever is available.
- Travel light.
Since this was a side trip, I packed the clothes for this trip separately. My real destination was Manila, so I bought a ticket to Manila with a stop in Kuala Lumpur for 3 days. Win-win, don’t you think? I had all my luggage kept in the airport (most airports have this ‘Kept Luggage’) and took what I needed for the weekend in a backpack.
- Make a list of where to stay
Yes, I also recommend you book a room. However, I learned early on that if I’m going to be adventurous then I might as well go three-quarter (not full) blast! I checked out Lonely Planet and TripAdvisor and the places they recommened alongside my budget. Make sure you have at least four to five alternative places if your instincts tell you to leave and check other places.
- Read, read, ask and think. Take your time and think first.
You are on your own. You don’t need to think about anyone else but yourself. That’s the beauty of travelling solo. You can effing do what you effing want!
- Listen to your guts.
If that quiet voice is screaming at you to leave it, listen. Just walk away and go where the crowd is. Chances are, there will be someone who will assist you.
- Be open. Push yourself to go out and explore.
I know. It’s difficult to leave the safety of your room and traverse the unknown alone. But hey, you’ve made it this far, alone I might add! Check out the usual spots. Take photos and read the history behind the place. Visit museums or art galleries. Better yet, check out the market place/bazaar/events. Eat in the local restaurants. Try the local dish. Ask and talk to the locals. You will see their eyes sparkle when they give you interesting tidbits and talk about their place with pride. Of course, be wary. Never go with anyone alone. Stay with the crowd, sort
- Lastly, trust your instinct, be careful and enjoy!
Most often than not, the locals keep an eye on solo, female travellers and make sure they are safe.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BO6n2xAA1EQ/?taken-by=chronicallygallivanting&hl=en
Where did I go? Melaka, Malaysia.
chronically gallivanting 
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