Friday, October 3, 2014

Pre-requisites for a solo traveller



            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!!!!

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