Are you finally ready to go on your trip of a lifetime; but you don't want to go it alone? Traveling by yourself, or going solo is not just for singles. Solo traveling applies to married people traveling without their mates, widows and widowers, the unmarried, divorcees, and single parents.

Don't stay home just because friends and relatives can't go with you on vacation. There is a great big wonderful world to see, and your traveling experience is too precious to leave for someday.

What can traveling solo bring to you? Freedom and choices! What do I mean by freedom? I mean the ultimate freedom! Being your own person you do not have to compromise. You have wonderful choices.

I remember one of my first field trips in school to the Toledo Zoo had arrived. While getting on the bus, we were told, "Now pick your buddy. You will be with him all day. He is your responsibility. Don't get lost from each other." I spent the whole day worried about my buddy instead of being able to focus on the fantastic knowledge and beauty that was before me.

Traveling for my pure indulgence became my goal. I would not sit at home and miss out on going to the local theatre because I had no one to go with. Nothing could have given me more pleasure than to experience the fun of being in the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, digging into the best shopping deals. How could I have possibly enjoyed seeing the Mona Lisa at The Louvre Palace and Museum in Paris if I was always worried about my buddy?

Traveling alone allows for spontaneity and choice. You might find something or somewhere you really like and nothing would be stopping you from staying on and doing that activity again and again. You wouldn't have to feel guilty about staying in one place ages. If you were a couple tensions could arise if your companion were itching to move on.

You say you can't afford to travel on your own? Traveling on your own is less expensive than in recent years. Many touring companies, hotels and businesses are recognizing that the individual traveler does not have to be costly. Many companies offer discount rates to the solo traveler in addition to offering a companion finder, which is an arranged roommate, thus giving you that based-on-double-occupancy rate.

When you arrive at your destination, don't be afraid to mention that you are traveling solo. Many tour companies go to great lengths to make sure you enjoy your vacation and that you are safe; your safety is their business. Often you can be seated with others at meals and arrange activities that you can participate in with other solo travelers.

Keep in mind P-P-P-C. Plan Plan Plan and Common Sense. Where do you want to go? Is this within your budget? Do you travel off season to get a better price or during the peak season? What are your interests? Remember those you meet are there traveling and touring because they, like you, have an interest in that location or activity. Do you need a passport or inoculations? What types of security risks should you be aware of? What should you pack? Will you be among others who are traveling alone?

Become familiar and respect the customs of the country you're going to. Learn the basic phrases you'll need often such as "Where is the Toilet?" In some countries it is not acceptable for a man to approach a woman. Should this happen, "No" is a universal word.

Safety is always a concern. If you do become scared don't be afraid to talk to your host or concierge. Sometimes a nice conversation can calm your apprehension.

My first trip traveling solo I always remembered what my mother suggested to me. "Always act like you know what you're doing; keep your head up, know where you came from so you know where you are going."

For the first time traveler, I would suggest that you not just jump on a plane and fly. Have your itinerary planned and make copies, giving them to your family or friends. Many tour companies will monitor your outings and locations throughout your trip. You should always let someone know where you are going. For men and women, be aware of your surrounding, but don't be afraid to enjoy the culture and its people.

Some of the most interesting people I met while traveling solo have become very dear friends over the years, all because they recognized I was traveling alone. What a great way to see someone's world when they are so willing to share it with you!

What are you waiting for? Plan today and let your dreams become your reality.

©2005

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