As someone that has traveled to and lived in foreign countries, I wanted to create a post dedicated to advice for solo travelers, particularly female solo travelers.

The first tip I can give to any solo traveler is to do your Google’s! Research the destination you are traveling to. Learn about their culture, customs, traditions and language. Learning about the culture of the place you’re traveling to will not only make you more aware of your surroundings, but create a better traveling experience for you.

Speaking of being aware of your surroundings, it is important that you keep your eyes and ears open. Be careful and smart. Trust your intuition and go with your gut. If you have a bad feeling about something, you feel that way for a reason.

Make friends! This is a significant tip. Making friends seems to be so much easier when traveling. Take advantage of that. Be friendly, kind and open. You’ll be surprised of the bonds you will make. I still keep in contact with several people I met when I lived overseas.

Let someone back home now where you are. While living abroad I always shot my parents a text via WhatsApp (the best app to use abroad) to let them know where I was off to. It made me feel safer and reassured my parents I was okay.

Don’t let yourself get scammed. It’s true that no matter where you go, if you don’t look or sound like a local, people will try to take advantage of you. That’s why it’s important to learn a little bit of the native language before you go so you can communicate effectively when someone is trying to scam you. Research the average cost of things as well.

This tip is for my ladies, say no. Strange men most likely will come up to you. Learn to say no and walk away. If they continue to follow you or won’t leave you alone, head into the nearest store/shop and let one of the workers know you are being followed. I have been in a situation like this before and I did exactly that. Don’t tell anyone where you are staying, try to carry a weapon on you at all times, and remember to always trust your gut!

Finally, have fun! You are most likely going to have an experience of a life-time. Let loose, enjoy yourself and step out of your comfort zone. It’s all going to be okay!