Written by: Debbie Martinez • March 13, 2020• Travel News

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone This Summer

It’s hard to believe, but summer is right around the corner and with the change of season comes thoughts of vacation. Kids will be getting out of school and so you might be gearing up for a family vacation. Perhaps you and your spouse just want to grab some time away from a hectic work schedule, so a couple’s vacation is in order.

But what about the other group of people who don’t have kids or a partner… the flying solo group. If there is ever a group that needs a vacation, it is us. The single mom or dad who is caring for kids, the single son or daughter who is caring for an ailing parent, the single man or woman who feels like they have been carrying the weight of the world for some time now by themselves. We are the ones who need a vacation desperately but often don’t take one because we can’t find someone to go with. The thought of traveling alone can evoke panic but at the same time let a smile of anticipation and excitement cross your face. It is a rite of passage of sorts as you are embarking on your own walkabout and when you return back home, you will feel liberated and will have found a new confidence within you.

I’m always quite surprised when I hear people say that they have never traveled alone nor would they. Traveling solo can feel scary or uncomfortable if you have never done it but it can also offer so many positives. For starters, being with your own company lends itself to self- reflection. Also, you can do and see what you want when you want without feeling guilty of not pleasing someone else. So, grab that book, a hammock, no clock and enjoy!

“Wouldn’t it be a better experience doing it with someone?” Uh…not really. I love traveling with me, myself and I, as it offers no distractions. When I am by myself, it seems I am more focused on my surroundings and become more engaging with the locals. Too many chefs in the kitchen can be burdensome. When I travel with others, it’s always in the back of my mind to be aware of their likes and dislikes, their schedule and let’s not forget our traveling companion’s moods. Nothing puts a damper on a trip more than someone who is not happy about something. Check, please!

So, let’s talk about some of the concerns of a solo traveler and things that I have learned over multiple solo trips.
Do your due diligence when it comes to solo traveling websites and hotels. Look at reviews and make sure the hotels are in a safe, well-trafficked location.
Be aware of your surroundings, never leave anywhere with someone you just met, no matter how nice they seem. Ted Bundy was a well- dressed, polite law student.
Don’t tell people you meet where you are staying.
Stay in contact with family and friends back home and make sure someone has your itinerary including phone numbers.
Lock your valuables up in the room safe, it’s provided for a reason.
Have a copy of your driver’s license and passport with you and keep the originals in the room safe.
Make sure you have enough cash and don’t carry it all with you. Again, the safe.
Arrive during the light of day. You will feel safer and be able to get a better foothold on your surroundings.
On that note, make sure you have reservations. It’s awesome to be spontaneous, but it’s even more awesome to have a nice, safe place to lay your head.
This next one sounds paranoid but it really is a good move. Leave a note in your hotel room each time you leave stating where you are going and with whom.
No need to bring that big Liz Taylor diamond or the Rolex. Keep bling to a minimum.
Nothing yells a sense of security more than knowing you can “phone home” at any time. Check with your service provider to set this up.
Keep your wits about you, so monitor your drinking.

Trust your gut! If something or someone doesn’t feel right, move on.

Sure, traveling sans companions can be awkward and even lonely at times but once you break through that initial fear and do it anyway, there is a big beautiful world out there just waiting for you!

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