Top Tips for Solo Female Travellers

With her tried and tested tips on how girls can travel solo, be safe and still have fun, Naomi Ekperigin explains why size does matter...

As female travellers we’re told to watch our purses, hold our drinks to our chests, and basically never talk to anyone ever because they’ll probably kill you.

While being safe should always be a priority, you shouldn’t play it so safe that you don’t get to enjoy all your destination has to offer – or never leave home at all.

Here are some tips that can help you take on the exciting opportunities of solo travel without putting yourself in harm’s way.

SIZE DOES MATTER
At least when it comes to accommodation, anyway. Hostels are a solo traveller’s haven, as they offer semi-communal living with people from all over the world.

While standards can vary, many are very safe and often offer female-only dorms, enabling you to meet other like-minded ladies. And no matter how shy you may be, walking into a shared bedroom with four other strangers will force you to socialize.

When I entered my dorm room on my first day in Sydney and saw a lovely Swedish girl in nothing but her underwear, I had no choice but to loosen up... and wonder if I was being filmed.

KISS – KEEP IT SIMPLE, STUPID
We all want to avoid being a tourist cliché, but there is something to be said for staying in the centre of town, close to public transportation and/or major attractions.

Have you ever been in a new place, hopped in a taxi, and had to give directions to where you’re staying? Well, it can be pretty tough when you don’t even know where you are.

If you’re staying near a major landmark or in a well-known hostel, someone will always be able to guide you back, and it’ll be easier for you to get your bearings.

FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT
Both at home and abroad, unwanted sexual advances are annoying. However, most men can be easily detoured if you are polite (but not too friendly), and direct.

If you really get desperate, I suggest creating a fake boyfriend. When I’m in a situation where I can’t leave quickly and the guy won’t let up, I just tell him I have a boyfriend who wouldn’t appreciate me going out with anyone else.

Usually he’ll leave when you seem to be taken, or at least get bored when you go on and on about your “great guy”.

For the record, my fake boyfriend’s name is Michael and he’s very jealous and controlling, but I love him. He’s also joining me on my trip in a week, but couldn’t come yet because he’s a doctor and has to take care of his patients.

TABLE FOR ONE
For some people, sitting in a restaurant alone can be terrifying, primarily because you think everyone’s staring at the “loner girl”. This is not true!

Breakfast and lunch are often the easiest times to eat out alone, as there are many solo diners at this time. Many restaurants are also cheaper earlier in the day, enabling you to save money while trying great new cuisine.

I always carry a book or a magazine with me, so that I can focus on something as I eat. If you didn’t leave room in your rucksack for books, pick up a local newspaper.

You’ll keep busy and learn a bit about current events and local issues, which will make you a delightful dinner companion when you make a new friend.

July 6th, 2009

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