Debunking 9 Myths About Female Solo Travel

Posted by LuullaAdmin Monday 8 May 2017

It's time to defy gender stereotypes when it comes to traveling solo because girls can do anything!

Mainstream media would have made you believe that it's a scary world out there especially for young female travelers. I mean, you've watched movies like Hostel and Taken, right? Hailing from a South Asian cultural background, solo female travelers are often viewed as being wild and out of control. Despite what anyone says to discourage you, fear not and fly solo! Here are 9 classic myths and practical advice about solo female travel.

1. It is dangerous for a woman to travel alone

This statement is not entirely false as women are more likely to be marked 'easy prey' over men. With the countless news on scams and crimes that women have fallen victim to, we're ought to stay alert at all times. As women, we are often brought up in a way that we regard the unknown as threatening. But the truth is, it's not about being female. Anything can happen to anybody and we can learn from it.

The key is to trust your gut instinct. If you have a feeling that something is off, it probably is. They're the same skills you use to stay safe at home. Obviously, your common sense would tell you not to linger around the back alley at 2am, looking lost and confused. However, don't assume that everyone is out to get you. It's good to think that the world is a kind place with helpful people. It's heartwarming to think fellow women will help another woman traveller in need.

Another safety measure would be to download some mobile apps that are designed for safer travels like Trip Lingo, Tripit and Safety Map Worldwide. Social media is a good platform to stay connected with friends and family back home. Keep them updated about your whereabouts so that people know that you're safe.

2. You need know the native language of the country that you're traveling to

Sure, it is good to know a few key phrases like "Thank You" or "Help" to easily navigate your way around but your language inability should not stop you from traveling to your dream destination. If you have no problem reading this article, then luckily for you English is now the universal language.

One simple trick when it comes to overcoming the language barrier is to try blending in and adapt to the culture. Learning a new language can be fun. Speak with the locals in their language as much as possible no matter how stupid you think it sounds. It lets people know that you're trying to fit in. People will help you while you're lost in translation. Always carry around a pen and notebook that contains important details such as the address of the place you're stay and contact numbers.

3. Wear a fake wedding ring

While most people have an impression that all solo travelers are single (which is another myth that we will discuss further in the next point), some view singleness as an opportunity to take advantage of. Does this method actually works? If someone is creepy and obnoxious enough to keep hitting on you when you have clearly shown your disinterest, your wedding band may not be enough to dissuade them. It is best to walk away if you're in an uncomfortable situation. While the effectiveness of this strategy remains unclear, there's no harm giving it a shot though.

In case of emergency, remember to have a falsified version of yourself to get out of the situation. Imagine this, you're having a quiet meal alone and this creepy middle age man comes up to you and asks where you're from and tries to keep the conversation going. So you have to quickly come up with a backup story like " I'm just here waiting for my boyfriend" and he might just start to back off.

4. All solo travelers are single

There are people who want to travel, but their significant other does not. Thus, they embark on the journey of adventure on their own. Some people choose to travel alone as they enjoy being in their own company. It gives them clarity and they return to their relationships after the trip felling refreshed. In some cases, they break up. Still, solo travel is a rewarding and enlightening experience than to put those wanderlust dreams aside all because your partner doesn't want to go with you.

5. Solo travel is a recipe for loneliness

This is one fear that every solo traveler has. It's all part of the challenge when it comes to solo travel. On the contrary, it is easier to meet new people and make friends when you travel alone. when traveling as a pair, your attention is all wrapped up in your partner and you are more likely to make decisions that suit them. When you're alone, you'll more likely to appear more approachable and looking to interact with as many people as possible. Learning to be alone is an important skill and solo travel gives your the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and learn to be independent in a new surrounding. The key is to don't be afraid to talk to strangers. You're in a much better position to get to know locals and other travellers. The "don't talk to strangers" rule is only practical when you're 5 years old.

6. Eating alone is scary

No, you don't have to stay in your hotel room and order from room service for every meal. No one is going to care or think you're a loser that you're sitting alone in the restaurant. Before you start journeying to your desired destination, take yourself out for dinner or a movie to enjoy some me time. Plus, you don't necessarily have to always eat alone if you're staying in a hostel. You can choose to invite your room mates for dinner especially if they happen to be traveling solo as well. Many hostels host events and you can find them posting on websites. This is another great opportunity to mingle with other travelers.

As a female traveler, try not to stare off into oblivion, uncomfortably while waiting for your food to arrive. You can bring a book or play with your smartphone to appear purposeful and confident. This may help to avoid unwanted attention and invite other opportunistic people to take advantage of you.

7. Traveling with anyone is better than traveling alone

Many female travellers attached themselves with simply anyone because of the fear of traveling alone. Deciding on a travel companion is important as it can either make or break your travel plans. You can genuinely like someone at home but they will drive you crazy when you hit the road with them. Make sure you and your travel companion have similar interest when it comes to traveling.

8. Travelling alone is boring

Traveling alone is the antidote to break from a boring, usual routine. Surely you've heard stories from people who decide on impromptu trips and they set out on a whirlwind adventure.Think about it, you don't have to make choices to accommodate someone else. Plan ahead and have a well-planned itinerary that will make you feel secure and occupied. At the very least, you should book your first few nights of accommodation before you arrive at your destination. One alternative solution is to do the walking tours and excursions. You will be able to learn more about the destination at the same time meeting people who are on the same page as you. This would help to temporarily battle loneliness as well.

9. "I could never do that"

Solo female travelers are not extraordinary woman warriors who are constantly out on a mission like the adventures of Indiana Jones. Thousands of female travellers have done it, so can you! It's okay to be nervous especially if it's your first ever solo travel but don't let it get the better of you. Take this opportunity to stand on your own two feet as an independent woman and this will be a valuable experience that you will never trade it for anything else in your life. You'll have amazing stories of your own that will inspire and awaken the wanderlust in others.

#travel

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#girlscandoanything

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