Solo Travel: Your Questions Answered

Here we are, the third and final post in my summer series on solo travel. In my first post, I shared tips on planning a first solo trip. In the second, I shared 7 ways to make the most of a solo trip. This time, I’m answering some of the question I get frequently about solo travel. I put up a poll on Instagram over the weekend and modified the post to answer some of those questions. Here we go:

 

1. Don’t You Get Scared?

On my first solo trip, I chose to ignore the fearful thoughts as I planned my trip. I literally blocked those thoughts out and replaced them with thoughts of the places I’d get to see. While in transit, it hit me that I was going to a country when I didn’t know anyone or speak the language, but by then it was too late J. Since then, traveling solo has gotten easier but deciding to go on that first trip can be a little daunting. So the answer is yes, I got scared the first time, but I decided to go regardless. I haven’t looked back.

 

2. How Does Your Family Feel About Your Solo Travels?

The first few times, my typical Nigerian parents would ask ‘Why are you going there? Do we know anyone in X country? But they also know that I’ve always been one to stubbornly chart my own path even if it wasn’t popular. My parents are siblings are very supportive of my travels, my dad brags on it (not necessary, IMO) and wherever I am, I’m sure my mom is praying for my safety. My sister is one of the (if not the) biggest supporters of my decision to finally chronicle my adventures.

 

3. Don’t You Get Bored?

Honestly, No, I don’t. I plan out activities while I’m traveling solo. Walking tours, cooking classes, food tours, wine tasting are examples of activities that provide the opportunity to interact with others. Even in the absence of those, I usually have several options of things to do. Every now and then I’ll leave time for rest because that’s important too, but then again, I’m happy to chill my by myself and do nothing but reflect and relax.

 

4. What Are Great Places For A First Solo Trip?

I shared a long list of about 30 countries in this post.

 

5. How Long Should A Solo Trip Last?

It really depends on you and what you’re comfortable with. A long weekend is a great way to try out solo travels. My first solo trip lasted two weeks. There really are no rules, go with your gut and maybe push yourself a teeny-weeny bit.

6. Are You Anti-Social?

Haaahaa, I can be shy but I’m definitely not anti-social. I quite enjoy hanging/chatting with people but I definitely prefer smaller crowds to larger ones. My friends will tell you that I’m quite inquisitive (if I care). However, I’m also very much happy in my own company, I actually crave/need alone time every now and then. I plan some trips as solo trips and others just happen that way since no one can come along.

 

7. What Would You Tell Someone Thinking About Traveling Solo?

Don’t over think it, do it! Do a little bit of research (read blogs, informative instagram posts, vlogs). Ask previous travelers about their experiences; book some activities in advance including group activities.

 

8. What’s One Solo Adventure You Wished You Shared With Someone?

Oh, so many! The moment I stepped foot onto Cappadocia, Turkey, I knew that I wanted to return with loved ones someday, perhaps even Bae if he’s lucky J. But that first trip to Turkey was always meant to be mine. I want to go back to Cape Town with family. I want to rent a riad in Morocco with girlfriends, I will return to Kenya with my friend that made me fall in love with Kenya in the first place. These are only a few examples!

 

9. What’s Your Craziest Secret Solo Travel Story?

BLR, you would ask this question! A year ago I was in South Africa and while I typically don’t post when I’m travelling, I decided to do so on this trip. I was on safari when I got a DM and it was an invitation to hang out with this chic whose blog I’d actually read a few times. My sister thought it was a little nuts but I went with my gut, cancelled my hotel and crashed at this stranger’s hotel. One year later, we’re more like sisters and we’re in touch daily, clowning and supporting each other through life’s crazy rides! I’ve shared on the blog about meeting hostage negotiators in Copenhagen. There are crazier stories that I can’t share here!!

 

10. How Do You React When You Feel Unsafe Traveling Solo?

I’m blessed to not have been in any crazy situations. I’ve read a good number of stories of people who haven’t been so fortunate. However, I apply common sense when going solo. I don’t hang out in super dark or quiet areas alone. If needed, I’ll take a taxi. I’ve carried pepper stray. I’ve cancelled plans when I didn’t feel comfortable following through. I’ve walked away from shady characters.

 

11. How Do You Plan Differently For Solo Trips vs. Group Trips

These days I definitely plan less and go with the flow more on solo trips. I can change my mind, and change plans at will! However, with solo trips, I pay closer attention to where my accommodation is located (I make sure its central) and accommodation costs (because I’m not sharing with anyone). With group trips there’s a bit of compromise, and consideration of preferences and that’s okay too!

  

12. How Many Trips/Countries Have You /visited Solo?

I’m going to guess I’ve visited about 26 countries solo (50%) and most of that was in the last 3 years.

 

There we have it, thanks for coming along for this series, and for engaging here and on the ‘gram! I don’t think solo is the only way to travel, but I encourage people to travel solo once or not to wait on others because that trip may never happen. If you have more questions on solo travel, don’t hesitate to leave your questions in the comments or just send me an email. If you’ve found this post helpful, click here to subscribe to receive notifications of new posts, and to receive my monthly newsletter with insider tips and information!

Till next week,

Ms. Heels.