3 Tips For First Time Solo Travelers

A little over a week ago, I took my first mini vacation since the pandemic hit, to Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is one of my fave destinations to escape to in the US, for their great food and wonderful beaches. Although I met up with an influencer friend in Washington D.C. back in April, my getaway to PR was a much needed solo..do absolutely nothing event. I discovered how much I enjoyed traveling solo back in 2008, and haven’t done nearly as much as I would’ve liked, but that’s all gonna change. This trip to PR has unleashed the solo traveling beast in me..lol.

After posting a few pictures that I took myself, I got a lot of questions on social media about shooting content with my iPhone and tripod. I will definitely address those questions in another post soon. I had so much fun and learned a lot about capturing my own content, and I’m super excited to make this a part of my overall brand.

This post however is in response to the Dm’s I received on Instagram about traveling solo. You guys asked what was my experience like, and how did I go about planning it. You all also talked about the fear, that has been preventing you from living out your solo travel dreams. So I decided to share a few tips that I think will be very helpful when you all decide to embark on that first solo excursion. Lets get right into it!

1. The one thing at the top of my list for first time solo travelers is, travel within your own country. We want to feel good about traveling, and solo travel is a confidence booster. Thats why I suggest visting areas that you will feel most comfortable with. If you have any fears about safety in general, be sure to book your stay at a larger hotel or resort, where there’s plenty of people available 24/7. AirBnb or home rentals might not be the way to go on your first solo excursion. I also find that it best to arrive before dusk, that way you can check out the lay of the land, and get a feel for your surroundings.

2.Do your research and make plans and reservations for the sites you want to see, and the restaurants you’d like to dine at. Check out the distance between where you’re lodging and them, and also the best mode of transportation. If you’re in a city that has multiple sites that you’d like to visit, you might want to consider taking a tour. Just remember to not over book your days. Leave free time to relax, enjoy exploring and for the gems that you learn about by chance, from the locals..which always seem to be the best.

3.Last but not least, inform your family and friends about your travels. Provide phone numbers to wherever you’ll be staying, and even a list of your daily itinerary, especially if it includes outings at night. Always be conscious of your surroundings, without looking scared or suspicious. Walk with the confidence of a local and have a blast. I promise..once you find out how extremely freeing and enjoyable solo traveling can be, you’ll be hooked. So pack those bags, and get going!