The idea of traveling solo can mean so many different things to different people; for some, it is a way of life, and for others an experience to avoid at all costs! As a student in the Global Bachelor's Program, I've been lucky to have plenty of opportunities to travel while in Singapore this past spring and while in Paris this fall. Solo travel was never something I originally intended to do, but soon became one of my favorite parts of studying abroad! Below are some of my experiences with solo travel, and my tips I've accumulated to help you plan your upcoming adventures!
My first solo trip was to Siem Reap, Cambodia this past March. To say I was nervous would be an understatement, and I planned out an itinerary for myself hour by hour! I questioned my ability to navigate an unfamiliar country where English was not spoken (unlike in Singapore), and also feared solo traveling as a woman. Moreover, my journey was not exactly straightforward and involved a midnight bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, and a 50 minute taxi ride at 4 am to the airport, where I then hopped a 6 am flight to Cambodia! However, the minute I arrived in Siem Reap my fears were put to rest: the weather was similar to Singapore, everyone was friendly, and I decided to spend the morning in a cafe boasting traditional food, and English books. I sat by myself in a little cafe in Siem Reap, a world away from the life I had built for myself in Singapore, and even further away from home in the United States. But I had never felt more at home; I had a book in one hand, a coffee in the other and I felt immense peace and comfort.
It was this moment that taught me the importance of establishing a ritual for yourself when abroad. Solo travel and being abroad can be overwhelming, but coffee in the morning became a ritual for me that gave me a moment to pause, reflect, and plan the rest of my day. Coffee provided me with a sense of comfort and even if I was unsure of what the day would bring, I had the certainty of those stolen moments in a local cafe. I carried this ritual with me when I solo traveled in Vietnam for a week, and then this past summer when I went to Portugal and Spain.
After the chance to experience solo travel across continents and countries, I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone regardless of their travel experience! Here are some tips and tricks for solo travel:
Find a ritual that brings you comfort, but also gives you time to plan and rest. For me: coffee in the morning ;)
Talk to people in the hostel! Chances are most people are solo travelers, and even if they are in a group most people are incredibly inviting. Everyone is there for a good time! Saying hi or smiling goes a long way, and I've met lots of friends this way in hostels :)
I always try to stay in female only dorms just as a precaution! Make sure to choose a hostel in an area you feel safe in, especially as a solo female traveler.
Having a plan can help ease anxiety around solo travel, and also give your time structure. Having backup plans is always important, especially if you have an unstable internet connection and can't search for activities or addresses on the spot
I always carry a book, a charger, and cash on me!
Book: brings flexibility, and I can sit down wherever and whenever to relax!
Charger: always charge your phone whenever the opportunity arises! Really important when solo traveling since you are responsible for yourself!
Cash: always a safe bet, especially if your credit card company doesn't work in that country.
Establish a night time plan: it's sometimes hard to fill nights (hello awkward Tuesday night) but having a routine or a plan to call friends or family can be a nice time to unwind and reconnect with home! Most hostels also organize fun activities or outings at night which can be a great way to connect with people.
There are just a few things that have helped me while traveling! The opportunity to solo travel has allowed me to discover myself and the world, while also giving me an opportunity to meet incredible people, in even more amazing places! I wish everyone the best of luck in their travels whether they be in individual or in groups, and I hope this guide helps <3
Isabella Rizzo
Fall 2023 GW Paris - Sciences Po Paris
Spring 2023 Global Bachelor's Semester - Asia Pacifc Cohort (Singapore)
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs Major
The Global Bachelor's Program