Where to Go as a Solo Traveller?

First, decide where you’re going, unless you’re going to play it totally by ear? Toss a coin. Heads you turn right, tails you turn left.

The English Speaking Worlds?

Which countries? There are multitudes of lists of solo traveller friendly country lists available. I’m not sure I agree with most of these lists, as so much depends on the individual. Is it culture shock that worries you, bureaucracy, distance or confidence in your ability to travel independently?

If you can’t speak any other language you might be more comfortable beginning with the English speaking worlds.

The USA has some incredible scenery. Most of the peoples of the Caribbean speak English. The Australians are possibly the friendliest nation in the world and budget travel and accommodation is plentiful.

Asia

Malaysia and Singapore are easy, yet beguiling, introductions to Asia. Japan can seem overwhelmingly strange on arrival, but it's actually extremely organised and very easy to navigate once you have got the hang of things. And utterly fascinating. I love the colour and spirituality of India, but the poverty, crowds and endless attention can be difficult. China is hugely diverse, but there can also be language and cultural challenges. Central Asia is more remote and access less easy to arrange. The Middle East is war torn, but incredible.

Europe

European cities, perhaps surprisingly, can be more intimidating, away from the resorts, the locals less welcoming, their lives are busy. And there may be a language barrier. German, Dutch and Scandinavians usually speak good English. In countries like France people are more reluctant to do so, though they often can. In remoter parts of eastern Europe you may have to resort to sign language. This is where Google Translate is very useful. If you can't pronounce the words show the text to the person you are trying to communicate with.

Latin America

Latin America is captivating and IMHO, has the most beautiful mountains and incredible scenery in the world. But it's difficult without a smattering of Spanish (or Portuguese in Brazil.) The people are friendly; this may not always get you what you want, though, again, you can always use Google Translate. If you turn the camera on it will even read menus and packet instructions/ingredients for you.

Africa

In Africa, English will get you by some of the time. French is the national language in many countries here. It's a continent like no other - but probably the most undeveloped and therefore the most difficult to travel in. And again, you can expect endless attention.

Don’t let language deter you. It's the differences that make other countries fascinating. You can always get a guide - or just point.

Distance

Consider the distance you are happy to travel. Oceania is indescribably gorgeous, but it's a very long way and involves several flying legs. Similarly, travelling to Hawaii also takes a lot of time, but it could be worth it to stay somewhere incredible. How much time do you have and are you willing to put up with the discomfort of long journeys? Or do you love being inside an aeroplane? Stopovers can be viewed as a nuisance or used to build in more intriguing sightseeing.

Bureaucracy

Perhaps most importantly, take into account the bureaucracy involved with visiting your chosen destinations. Some require considerably more paperwork than others. Obtaining visas can be an expensive and lengthy process. Some countries demand your presence in person. And also that you return in person to collect your passport. Some states have no representation in this country at all and your passport may need to be couriered to France, Ireland or Belgium, adding more time and cost. Allow plenty of time. Be prepared with vaccination certificates and even in some cases DBS or ACRO reports.

In the end, most places are very happy to have tourists and the accompanying dollar and will welcome you accordingly. A few countries are still totally unfamiliar with the concept of tourism - and that's both a difficulty and an attraction at times.

Your Dreams Are Most Important

Just about anywhere is possible if you are determined enough. Decide what it is about travel that excites you and follow your dreams. For me it’s the natural world and diversity. Stunning scenery, mountains, tropical beaches, animal life and peoples of all cultures. The sense of anticipation for each new experience and vivid scenes to store in my memory. The more you travel the more your confidence and independence will grow. See Why Travel Solo?

Plan Ahead

I plan ahead much more than I used to. But now I usually travel in developing countries, where I’m more aware of safety and comfortable accommodation isn’t always available. Flights fill up in well in advance. Spontaneity can be fun and rewarding, if you've plenty of time and patience. But, when it comes to transport and places to sleep, it’s better, most of the time, to book well in advance. That way, you’re more likely to get a cheap deal. Occasionally, you can get a bargain on a last-minute offer, but more often you'll find that you have to pay extra. Or flights, or good hotels will be full.

There might also be certain activities that you want to book up quickly, rather than wait until you get over there. Chances are, some trips will sell out, especially if they’re popular, or it's peak season.

Choosing Transport

First of all, decide how you're going to get there. Rome2Rio is a really useful website which gives you all the different options, and costs, for travel between any two places on Planet Earth: self drive, taxi, bus, train or plane. And helpful links too. It's a good start, but don't take everything you read as gospel. Check!

This is an important decision. Weigh speed and practicality against environmental considerations and the potential for interaction with the lands you are voyaging through (or over). What else could you see and do enroute?

Transport can make or break a holiday - but the golden rule is to be prepared for something to go wrong. It usually does. Flights are often delayed and frequently cancelled. Cars break down. Train and ferry timetables are changed at the last minute, often due to bad weather.

Use a Spreadsheet

For me, this all goes on go onto a spreadsheet, for easy, at a glance reference. It's the best way to make sure I haven't got my dates mixed up and have left enough time between journeys. Especially if I'm crossing the international date line. You'll want to read Making the Most of Your Destination too, to help you plan what you're going to do, when you arrive.

Pay with a Credit Card

Pay for all of the above with a credit card whenever you can. This will give you extra security, in the event that there is a problem or cancellation. Most credit card companies will refund, if the service you have paid for does not materialise and you couldn't get your money back.

Flights and Accommodation

And now, read my separate posts on booking flights and accommodation.