Independent Woman, Solo Traveler: Finding Joy (and Safety) in Going It Alone
I’ve always been independent when it comes to travel. Before my divorce, I was the planner, the one mapping out girls’ trips, mother-daughter getaways, and every detail in between. I’ve traveled all over the world and faced my fair share of travel hiccups–lost bags, missed trains, language barriers—and each one built confidence. If I wanted to shop somewhere, or see a specific site, I went. Simple as that.
Still, full solo travel always made me a little nervous. Walking around alone, double-checking that I had my things, eating meals by myself, even going out at night. It all felt like uncharted territory. But getting past those fears really just took one thing: jumping in.
Recently, I went to Key West ahead of a work conference. I’d planned to go with someone, but when that relationship ended, I decided to go anyway, solo. I leaned in. I booked The Perry Hotel & Marina, a spot that felt safe and welcoming, with a pool, restaurants, and a shuttle downtown. I went kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and even scored a solo reservation at Lola’s—where I chatted with the chef and waiter over a bowl of fresh seafood pasta. I dined at Louie’s Backyard Café, made new friends at Hogfish Bar & Grill, and learned that being friendly (and open) makes traveling alone feel a lot less lonely.
Europe felt more intimidating at first, so I planned carefully. I triple-checked flights, hotels, and train schedules. I wandered museums at my own pace in Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Belgium, places where I felt completely safe. When I left a bag on a train in Belgium, the kind staff helped me recover it. When my flight was canceled in Amsterdam, I pivoted, stayed an extra night, and enjoyed it.
For nights out, I’m extra cautious. In Portugal, I met a few solo travelers my age and joined them for an evening out. It made all the difference. When I’m truly solo, I gravitate toward upscale, quiet bars where I feel comfortable and safe.
My Top Solo Travel Tips:
Book a hotel that feels grounding. Great staff can make a world of difference when you’re far from home.
Choose places that match your personality. Beach, mountains, city, spa—wherever you feel most at ease.
Plan a few structured activities. Group tours or classes add connection and rhythm to your days.
Check in with someone daily. A quick text or photo helps loved ones (and you) feel at ease.
Start small. If solo travel feels intimidating, begin with shorter or familiar trips to build confidence.
For me, Singapore, Dubai, Japan, Belgium, and the Netherlands felt exceptionally safe for women traveling alone. In Portugal, I preferred the smaller towns (Sintra and Cascais) over bustling Lisbon.
Solo travel has taught me so much about independence, curiosity, and joy. It’s not about being fearless, it’s about being brave enough to go anyway.
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