I often hear when traveling on my own…
“Isn’t that dangerous?”
Probably. What isn’t?
“Um, how do they treat women over there?”
Like women?
“Well, do not, under any circumstances, fall in love.”
No promises, but I’ll do my best.
Traveling alone, as a woman, has its challenges. You may feel vulnerable, exposed, targeted, judged, pitied. Or maybe admired, respected, open, free, independent. Traveling alone, as a woman, I have encountered unbelievable kindness, developed fulfilling connections, and felt unsafe, well, only a handful of times.
For me it requires finding the balance between spontaneity and caution, sociability and self-protection, freedom and restraint.
After spending the entirety of my 25 years on earth as a woman, and the better part of the last year traveling, I have developed some insights on doing those two things, together, that I would like to share with all of you.
1. Do your research
There are many women who have already traveled your itinerary and lived to tell the tale. Use that to your advantage. The Lonely Planet forum offers answers to most questions you could imagine. Searching for “is it safe to travel as a woman in —-” is a great place to start. Bear in mind, the opinons you will find are just that, opinions. The advice I am offering you now, is simply my opinion, colored my own experiences. So please everyone, grain of salt here.
For instance, I have heard widely divergent views from women on travel in Cuba. Some encountered no unwanted sexual advances, made great friends, and had the time of their lives. Others felt constantly harassed and would never return without a boyfriend in tow.
Before going to Spain I read numerous posts explaining the importance of modest dress, as unwanted male attention is a major concern. It was August, in the South, and for me any extraneous fabric was simply not an option. I felt more respected and less bothered than I have bundled in the USA.
Use your understanding of yourself, what you value, and how you operate as a filter when doing this research.
2. Accept the culture and adjust your expectations
Most of us constantly battle against what is instead of simply letting things be. Travel offers you the freedom to completely release your past notions about yourself and the world and simply surrender to what is right in front of you. I consider this a necessary practice for truly enjoying my experiences.
Be accepting of paradigms in this culture, rather than your culture. Be open, respectful, and understanding, without losing yourself and what you believe. Know that you are the outsider, and it is up to you to bridge the gap.
Politely decline when the shop owner in Essaouira wants to leave his job to show you the city. Accept the compliment. Smile. Continue with your day.
Let it roll off when drug dealers in Fez call you disrepectful for wearing shorts in 110 degrees. Perhaps begrudgingly put on linen pants.
Nod hello when Caye Caulker rastas wax poetic on the beauty of your strut. Do not feel like less when they begin on the next passerby. You are still beautiful. And they still meant it.
When a “helpful stranger” leads you to your hotel, restaurant, monument, then expects payment, give him what you can. He provided a service. Next time, with this awareness, ask the fee or decline the offer. Do not judge him. Thank him. He is doing the best he can.
Acknowledge when the local women offer a cold shoulder. Understand why. Give them your love and attention. Smile. Maybe they will soften. Maybe they will scowl. Keep loving them anyway.
3. Find a community
For me, certain environments and situations, are simply not safe to experience on my own. Exploring nightlife. Jungle hikes. As I learned recently, swimming in riptide prone oceans. Sometimes we simply can’t, or shouldn’t, do it alone.
Hostels are an excellent place to find other adventurous travelers looking to enlist in adrenaline pumping activities and dance in adrenaline pumping clubs. For this reason, I almost exclusively stay in hostels when traveling. In doing so I have cultivated friendships with people living all over the world who I keep in touch with to this day.
Other times I have met travelers simply by seizing the opportunity. When, on a whim, I arrived in Tangier on a ferry from Spain with no bus ticket out and a reservation in a town three hours away, I was overwhelmed. Unfamiliar smells wafting through the air, shouts in a completely foreign language, and men. Lots of men. Everywhere. Eyeing me. Asking if I was married. My eyes darted to the only other outsiders, evidenced by their massive backpacks and wide eyes. I made my way to them and asked in English, “Are you headed to Chefchaoen?” Sure enough they were, and became my impromptu body guards for the next five days until we parted ways in Marrakech. In their presence I received very little outside male attention, felt safe on buses, in taxis, and walking at night, and rarely carried my own suitcase. In return I led them to a lovely hostel, negotiated with a local who cooked us an authentic feast for pennies, and taught them everything I’ve learned about Moroccan culture from the last eight years of being related to one.
In Puerto Viejo I connect with several communities. I do yoga at least once, if not twice a day, and have met fascinating women and men in the process. It is my sanctuary above all else. I do all of my writing at La Botanica Organica, where I meet health conscious expats from all over the world. They teach me about cleanses, fasts, and natural remedies. They are there when I need them.
The key is keeping yourself free from codependent relationships that obligate you and prevent you from experiencing exactly what you want, yet having the option to spend time with others when you need and would like to.
4. Protect yourself, without closing yourself
This may be the most difficult and most important intention in travel. Finding the balance between being open to learn and receive without putting yourself in danger. Being overly self protective can prevent you from reaping the greatest benefits of travel. Opening yourself to new adventures, new foods, new people broadens your perspective beyond comprehension, and requires lowering your guard. Unfortunately, this does not come without risk.
This is where trusting your own instincts and being mindful come into play. Your body will tell you when something is not right. Listen.
Be smart. Sometimes the risk is simply not worth it. Do not get into a car with someone you do not know. Do not walk at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Do not tell people you meet in the club where you’re staying. Keep your belongings close.
In Puerto Viejo on a remote beach, I was approached by a local guy who spoke no English. I saw it as an opportunity to practice my Spanish. We conversed from my towel until he finally convinced me to take a walk with him. I wanted to stay where I was. Ignoring my instincts, I gave in. Decided to be “polite,” to not “offend.” I soon realized we were completely alone with the sounds of crashing waves drowning all other sounds. I said I wanted to leave. He grabbed my wrist and expressed that he only wanted to kiss me. When I said I wanted to leave he became more desperate. Fortunately I pried his hand off, got out of the water, and ran back to the safety around the bend, his apologies fading behind me. I was lucky.
One day in Marrakech, after missing my bus to the coast on a sold out holiday weekend, I sat defeated in the neighboring cafe. Two young Moroccan men began chatting with me in French Spanish fusion, as there was no single language we all could speak. They listened to my problem, bought me freshly squeezed orange juice, let me use their cell phone, then finally hoisted my bags on their shoulders and took me to a different bus company down the block. One negotiated a ticket for me, every bus was full, while the other shared travel stories and looked through my photos. When it was time to part ways, we embraced, and one of the young men gave me his watch. Their kindness was unbelievable. I felt comfortable and trusting. However, my eyes never left my belongings. I never strayed far from public. I adamantly expressed that I was, in fact, getting on that bus. My instincts told me they were safe, but I used appropriate caution to keep myself protected. Just in case.
Balance. Set boundaries without missing the beauty in people and experiences.
5. Appreciate the benefits of being a woman
You are a woman. A beautiful woman. You will reap unbelievable benefits when traveling as a consequence. Own this. People will go out of their way to help you. Do not feel guilt, that would be a waste. Instead, appreciate it, and help others because they will accept it. Because you are a woman. See them lower their walls, let down their guard. Because you are a woman.
What are your experiences traveling as a woman?
What about men? In what ways do you find it easier or more difficult being a man when traveling?
I would love to know.
xo.
Well written, and good advice even right here at home in my own city. I identify with this. Thanks for sharing.
Thank YOU for reading Janet 🙂
Absolutely love this! I think most US tourists have the misconception that when they travel to foreign countries, that everything will be in English or just like it is in the US. Thank goodness that isn’t true! Part of the beauty of traveling is finding new places, monuments far from home, getting lost in museums, trying foods you never have before. I know it can be intimidating, but do research before you go, learn some key phrases, and dive in!
I love your attitude Millerette! The more you open your mind and your heart, the more you’re able to receive!
I travel solo too, and have the best experiences. you’re right, you do need to be smart and listen to your instincts, smile, and be polite and many doors will open for you.
Yes, glad we share the same sentiment Angela 🙂
This is great advice, but I’d still rather travel with another person because sharing the experience makes it more fun. At least I think so.
Hi Erin, I know what you mean. There were definitely times when traveling on my own that I desperately missed my best friend and favorite travel companion Andie. However, I found it incredibly rewarding to know that I could navigate most situations on my own. I also felt more open to meeting people and made more friends in the process. But, of course, nothing can replace a great travel companion! I have decided to never let be alone restrict me from travel, but try to sync up with friends whenever possible. Thanks for sharing 🙂
This post made me think of a recent experience I had in my own city:
http://jesspants.com/2012/10/04/can-you-imagine-doing-that-in-memphis/
A man walked behind me with his family, and he loudly commented on how brave it was of me to walk around alone. I was completely flabbergasted until a few minutes later, when a complete stranger offered to give me a ride home while I waited at my bus stop.
At home or abroad, so long as I walk like I know where I’m going/with a purpose, by and large, people don’t bother me. That was a rare exception, and surprising that they both happened on the same night, and within minutes of each other!
Lastly, I would prefer to do my travelling solo, especially in this age of technology. It’s nice to go at your own pace – waking up and going to bed whenever you want, doing what you want when you want to, and not have to be concerned with someone else’s schedule/needs/desires. Then you can take pictures and share them with everyone at home! 🙂
Thanks Jess. I’m looking forward to checking out your adventures as well!
You have stated all of this so beautifully, thank you. I love to travel and find myself so sad for the people who choose not to or who are too afraid to explore new things. I’m not quite as brave as I’d like to be yet when travelling, but I’m working on it and definitely am not ready to give up. Thanks for sharing your inspirational travel adventures with us.
Sammi you’re welcome. Traveling alone does take bravery, and sometimes it’s not fun, but as you know it can be incredibly rewarding. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me today 🙂
Before I married I traveled alone exclusively. And I was the “freedom, independence” style female traveler. I loved that I could do whatever I wanted and because I traveled alone I always met the most remarkable people and could leave myself open to any adventure that came my way without worrying about anyone else’s agenda. It does get lonely on occasion – I concede.
I’ve encountered other solo female travelers who wore a wedding band when they were single and only ate from reputable vendors. Asked to have bottles opened in front of them. I understand the caution, but to me it seems to take some of the fun out of the travels if you’re constantly worried. Be smart. Don’t be stupid. And enjoy. 🙂
I couldn’t agree more Rachel! Thank you for sharing your insights, it sounds like you have some great traveling under your belt.
Wow! So beautifully written AND the points you touch on are so relevant. Thank you!
http://www.chimerikal.com
Thanks Erika :)!!
It’s like your words are coming straight from my own feelings/experiences. So relevant, another amazing read!
I was in Rome by myself for a few days after a long series of events (which included a missed flight, sleeping in public, missed reservations, and a lot of $$ later) I was tired, alone and so jet lagged I couldn’t read. I felt some unwanted attention wandering back to my hotel, and was seriously questioning if I, a young blonde woman, could do this on my own! I crashed on a chair, at a restaurant that felt out of my budget… but I just needed wifi and a break. Damnit, I needed my parents.
All with in a matter of minutes an American couple had observed me, invited me to their table, offered to share all the food that “was too much for just them alone”, and provided me with some of the most engaging and wonderful conversation I could imagine. In a matter of hours, my entire trip changed. My attitude changed, and I gained all the confidence I could muster. They felt happily inclined to invite me into their lives, in hopes that when their own sons were travelling solo (which they often do) that others would open them to kindness as well.
I would love to thank them again, but I lost their number after another month of travelling.
Being alone, allowed others to open themselves up to me. It created completely unique and new experiences, which wouldn’t have presented themselves if I had been with someone else.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story Danielle 🙂 Kindness is always there when you’re open to it! Sorry to hear you had some travel drama, but the great thing is how flexible it teaches us to be!
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Your writing exudes love, compassion and insight. I have just come across your blog today and will be sure to read the rest of your posts!
Thank you so much! 🙂
Excellent. Not just for women. All travelers can follow this tips.
Thanks 🙂
I love your blog! Just a question, would you recommend solo traveling to Central/South America or Southeast Asia for a woman? I am drawn to the Latin culture, but people keep telling me Asia is safer and cheaper.
Aw thank you so much! Very tough question to answer, they’re two completely different worlds. True, Southeast Asia is definitely cheaper. As far as “safety” it really depends what you do and where you go. If you’re looking for something more chill/nature, head to Central/South America. If you’re looking for crazy cultural immersion and spirituality, head to Southeast Asia.
I love your story. I took my first trip alone to Mexico couple of months ago and I can not wait for my next one.
Thank you for this (and your many other posts)!! I’ll be solo traveling for about 5 months starting in January – my first time completely by myself. Your posts have been incredibly comforting and informative and have made me feel much more confident about being a female solo traveler.
I’m so happy to hear that and you are so welcome!