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Traveling alone as a woman can build your confidence. Many prefer it as the best means of travel, as it provides ample opportunity to meet people and get your out of your comfort zone.
But traveling alone, but as a woman, requires certain precautions and a healthy paranoia. With heightened awareness and some planning, your trip can be safe and enjoyable.
Plan well
Before heading to any destination, be aware of common dangers or tourist scams, particularly those that may put you in a vulnerable position. Do your research, and have a game plan ready for avoiding or dealing with those situations.
When researching hotels or modes of transportation, choose options that will not require you to stay or travel in areas that are less than reputable.
Be prepared, girl scout
The last thing you want is to be lost in an unknown, questionable area. Before leaving your hotel, ensure you will be able to find your way to your new destination. Carry a map. Consider investing in a GPS device.
Avoid certain transportation methods that leave you vulnerable, especially in the evening. If driving, don’t let your gas run lower than a quarter of a tank. You don’t know when or where you may need to tank up.
Carry small amounts of currency on you so you won’t have to stop at an ATM.
Always carry a cell phone with emergency numbers, taxi services, or other pertinent numbers. Check in regularly with family or friends. Make sure someone knows where you are.
Be friendly, but use your head
Often travelers believe they can throw caution to the wind in favor of the travel experience. There is a time to be reckless, and traveling alone as a woman is not that time.
While you shouldn’t necessarily shy away from making friends, don’t hesitate to be rude if someone makes you feel uncomfortable. Call a taxi or cab.
It’s best to use more caution than you think necessary. Don’t disclose your hotel information. Don’t accept rides from strangers, no matter how friendly. Don’t leave anywhere with a stranger.
Empower yourself
Don’t attract attention by presenting yourself as a target. Hold yourself with confidence. Avoid looking at the ground. Look straight ahead and make eye contact.
It may be wise to take a self-defense class before traveling alone. This should not make you feel invincible, but it will give you that added bit of confidence.
Traveling alone should not be discouraged as an unsafe experience. It can be a rewarding, confidence-building experience with strategic planning and a few precautions.
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