Happy Trails to you...Tips for a fun-filled safe Trip
By Gabriella Ribeiro Truman
T raveling solo can be one of the most liberating experiences for us girls. It gives us the opportunity to test our limits, provides a fun, footloose and fearless freedom of movement across fascinating places far and wide on our own time, and at our own discretion. While it is a footloose and fancy free time of exploration, it is also a time where a woman is most vulnerable, especially when traveling in an international destination. It is critical to keep a few important tips close at hand to ensure your journey of a lifetime is as fabulous as you are.
Stay Connected - Who wants to hassle with phone cards at a payphone? Renting a 3G- PDA is a surprisingly inexpensive way to ensure you can connect to friends and family at any time. Companies like Planetfone (www.planetfone.com) offer affordable plans with prepaid rates, so you won't get hit with charges- plus a PDA allows you access to the internet so you can ensure you check in on social media sites and email to let everyone know you are OK
Plan your route- While there is something to be said for flying by the seat of one's pants, it is also important to know your whereabouts. Do your research ahead of time regarding transportation and accommodations, nobody wants to get stuck overnight at a train station or left wandering around a city at night looking for a place to stay.
Travel insurance- If we have learned anything this year, it is that the unexpected can, and most likely will happen. Travelers who purchase insurance can rest assured they will be taken care of in cases of things like strikes, weather, even volcanic ash. Better to pay a bit up front and relax than to be charged hefty change fees afterward.
Gut instinct- If something doesn't look right, seem right, smell right or even taste right, don't do it. This could be from a street that looks strange, to an indigenous dish you are not quite sure you want to try. Your instincts are usually correct, and are on heightened alert when traveling alone- listen to them and don't ignore feelings for the sake of wanting to be adventurous. Better safe than sorry.
Traveling solo can be the adventure of a lifetime, just be sure to take proper measures to ensure your safety comes above all else. Now, go forth and enjoy!
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Ms. Truman owns and operates TRUMARKETING an innovative boutique sales and marketing firm where she utilizes her expertise and contacts in both travel and the media to her clients’ advantage. The firm represents tourist boards and hotel partners around the world. And integrates their needs into an overall campaign including promotional opportunities and tactical sales efforts. She also writes a successful blog & e-newsletter series called The Explorateur, guides for the globally curious filled with insider tips, travel ideas and exclusive offers. You can visit her website at www.theexolorateurtravels.com |
