In one
or the other ways
we all have traveled alone in our life be it going to school, college,
office, meeting relatives etc. but when it comes to vacations we all feel
nervous. While traveling in a group is always fun, traveling alone tests ones
character. In group one always feels secure but has to undergo lot of compromises whereas while traveling alone traveler you can do
whatever you like, no restrictions no boundations. "You are like a free bird soar to go high
in the sky". However, traveling alone is not as easy as it
looks. There are many things which one need
to keep in mind.
Here
are few tips based on my personal experience...
1. Fear factor:- This is quite obvious
phenomenon for beginners, however; one has to overcome fear of being alone if
he/she really want
to enjoy his/her trip. Proper homework , pre-booking, constant touch
with family / friends and limiting interaction with strangers are few ways to
overcome fear but this will not solve the purpose of traveling alone. However;
with time and experience it will automatically vanish.
2. Flexibility: - It’s very important to
plan your itinerary well in advance but one should be flexible enough to change
itinerary during trip / stay. We plan trip / vacation to enjoy, relax and spend
some time with our self but usually end up in making it too hectic. Therefore;
there is no harm in changing plan or extend/curtail your stay at particular
place if you like/dislike it.
3. Luggage: - It's one of the most important part of entire trip. Generally while packing we end up with excessive and unwanted luggage. Luggage should be as light and as compact as possible.
Don’t forget you are traveling alone!!! Generally while packing we need to
keep in mind
the amount of traveling/walking involved in trip, nature of your stay,
availability of local market, cost of living etc.
4. Basic necessity: - There are few things
which traveler should always carry along with him. If required one may keep a separate
small pouch. Basic medical kit along with specific medicines (in case you are
under medication), torch, Swiss knife, small rope, pen & paper, lock are
few of them. One never knows when these things can come into picture.
5. Lodging:- It’s always advisable to at
least pre-book your 1st night if you are going to unknown place.
This not only gives you sufficient time to explore and find new place to as per
your requirements but it will also provide sense of security at the time of
landing to new place.
6. Do your homework: - Know how of people
and place is very imp before start of your trip. It’s better to have a small
guide book along with local map. It not only makes you familiar with place but
also helps in case you are lost. Surfing through official tourism website is a
good idea.
7. It’s
always recommended to note all important phone nos. and address in small note
book in mother tongue as well as in local language. Always make a habit to ask
and keep visiting cards of the hotel where you are staying.
Enjoy traveling!!!!
