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Solo travel - plan before you go

If you're not used to travelling alone, it may help to try a weekend break - short enough to keep busy but not so long that the days stretch ahead of you. 

Research ahead of time so that you can imagine yourself there and you can envision how you will spend your time. It doesn't need to be a tight schedule, simply having a sense of what's next can give you purpose. In addition to the attractions, it's also a good idea to know something about the area's history, politics, social customs and be aware of any dangers of civil strife that might flare up. 

Travelling alone is probably easier in the shoulder season - between the peak and the low tourist season. The peak season means that the lone traveller can blend in easier but the crowds mean that it is harder to find seats in cafes and restaurants. The low season often means 'closed' signs at attractions, plus with fewer tourists the lone traveller stands out.

If you are flying to your destination, know in advance how you will get from the airport to your hotel. For me personally, stepping out of customs and immigration into an airport arrival hall can be overwhelming with signs pointing to trains, buses, taxis, metro, often in different languages, all while expectant hordes peer at me trying to discern if I am their long-lost relative. At this point you are vulnerable to taxi drivers, legitimate and non-legitimate, all keen to take your bags and drive you to where they think you want to go. Know how you will travel in advance. Most airport websites provide information on transport links. 

Also, try not to arrive at the airport late at night, although this is not always easy. Daytime gives you the ability to see your new location, scout out a place for a good meal and look at the people who are in the neighbourhood. Night time can drape an area in a threatening veil. As a general rule, it's best to stay away from areas around major train stations. They are often popular spots for drug users and prostitution. 

Large hotels can feel anonymous. I prefer to stay in smaller inns where the staff get to know you and are happy to answer your questions. When checking-in never let the receptionist announce your room number out loud. If they do, ask for another room. Never open the room door to anyone unless you are expecting them, use the peephole and keep the chain on the door. It's not a bad idea to take a little rubber doorstop with you to wedge under the door at night.

Hostels are a good option for the solo traveller. The accommodation is cheap and basic, however you may be sharing a room with someone you've not met. But this is a good way to make friends and get tips on where to go. Many travellers in hostels are solo, so you will not stand out. However, don't leave valuables lying around and use a padlock on your luggage. Most people are honest, it just takes one opportunistic thief.

More tips coming soon.



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