by Char Brar

Created on: May 04, 2009

Travelling alone can be so much fun, all you need to make sure is that you are be street smart. There is so much to see and so much to do and there is nothing better than if you can do it at your own will and pace. The fun of travelling alone is that you do not have to worry about waiting for others or others hurrying you up. You are not tied down by others schedule and you also do not have to do sightseeing, or hiking, or anything else based on others idea of fun and exploration. You can plan your trip just the way you like. You even have the liberty to change your mind at the last minute once you get to your destination. So many times when you get there, you may realize there are other fun things to do that you had no idea about, and when you are alone you may change your plans at the last second to suit your heart's desire. if someone else is with you it may be hard to make last minute changes because they may want to stick to the original plan, or they may just want to hit the most popular sites, or just go by the book.

Another fun of travelling alone is that you can do things based on your budget. You may be able to stay at a hostel, or a bed and breakfast place instead of staying at a four star hotel. You may be also able to use the local trains or buses instead of spending too much money on cabs to get around locally. It is always easier to decide what you want to eat or where you want to eat. There is no one else to impress but you. In most places locals are much more helpful when you are alone. Last time I happened to find myself alone in London for about day and a half. I really wanted to see London so bad, but I had no idea where to start. So I went to the information desk at the airport and got some information about their tube system and most popular sights. You won't believe I saw London in eight pounds. When I did not know where to go, I would ask the local people and they were so wonderful. Each person made sure I got to the place I needed to go. i even learnt about the current events that were going on in London at that time in addition to where I should spend the night or where I should eat, events to see. I even got information on the areas where I should or should not go once it is dark. I had great time, and trust me it was the first time I went alone.

However if you do have the time to plan your trip ahead of time, then you should make use of travel books and guides to plan your trip. They give you great details on places to shop, stay or dine in, and points of interests. They will also help you with currency, some language tips, and cultural stuff. Locals will even take pictures of you for you. Some people may even board you free of charge, but being a women I do not recommend that for any one- not even men. Being street smart and "beware of strangers" is still a great point to remember. Always keep eye on people around you. There is really no need to fear people, be friendly without being vulnerable- fear takes out all the fun from your adventures. Just follow the safety rules that you would in your own city or town.

One thing you may miss is talking to someone or not having anyone to take care of you if you fall sick. I missed asking opinions when shopping. But other than that there wasn't much lost except saying "Oh my God it was a great trip and I had so much fun -I wish you could see for yourself". Ouch!

Learn more about this author, Char Brar.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.