You can travel solo and Be safe
Hello travel friends!
Welcome, I’m so glad you’re here. After holding an online event where women gathered online and spoke of the benefits of small group travel, I quickly realized that safety was a main concern for the female solo traveler. Staying safe while traveling by yourself or with a group of people you may not know well is on the top of many of our minds. I've included several tips on how to stay safe and protected while traveling internationally, solo or with others, either way lets stay safe and help keep others safe too.
Many years ago I traveled to Greece for the first time with my best friend. She and I were young, alone, and traveling in a time before the internet was readily available. There were no cell phones let alone "smart" phones, and we planned the entire trip using guide books from the library (geez that makes me feel old). We also had a very handsome gentlemen friend who lived in Greece half the year (and was currently dating my BFF) to guide us once we joined him on his families island. Yes, it was very Mama Mia, though before that movie came out. And neither of us ended up living there and raising a daughter so that is where the similarity ends.
We found ourselves in Athens on a bus trying to get to a train stop that would take us out of Athens and to the next town. As the bus went further away from the city into more rural areas, we grew a little concerned. The panic started to rise as we realized we didn't see a train station where we thought we were supposed to get off and thought we had hopped on the wrong bus.
We started to argue about what to do. Do we get off here? Do we keep going? What if we end up in the middle of nowhere and don't know when the next bus is and die? As the bus came to a stop, the panic in both our voices rose as we debated to either remain or get off, a woman on the bus suddenly stood up, yelled something to the driver (in Greek I assume), and motioned for us to get up.
We must have looked confused because she continued to gesture towards the exit and speak to us emphatically until she finally grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the exit. Without understanding a word she said, we decided to follow her off the bus. She briskly walked away from the stop and towards a somewhat wooded area as we followed behind exchanging worried glances with one another. Just when my confusion and panic were at it's peak, she led us around a corner, and there was the train station. The one we had been trying to get too but were sure was not there. She pointed for us to go there, and then she went on her way.
Realizing what just happened we called out "Efharisto", which we hoped was "thank you" in Greek. Again, no Youtube, Google Translate, or Babble to teach us. We may have never found that station if it had not been for the kindness of that stranger on a bus, who heard our need and did not hesitate to jump in and help. People are good, often taking care of each other expecting nothing in return.
I often think of this experience and others I have had during my international travels when I think of staying safe. And though it is easy to assume that some strangers might wish me harm, want my money, or believe I have more than I do in my checking account, I do know that all over the world there are good people who will help when you need them. Sometimes you don't even have to ask they just jump up and do it.
However, there are still things we should do to protect ourselves and ensure that no matter the circumstances we stay safe.
1. Stay Connected.
Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
Check in regularly using apps like What's App, texting plans, and phone calls.
Share your location on your phone with someone at home
2. Respect the Local Culture.
Research local customs and dress codes to avoid offending anyone
Learn basic phrases in the local language to help you navigate and connect with locals.
3. Secure Your Belongings.
Consider using anti-theft bags, clothing, and accessories.
Keep valuables like your passport, money, and electronics in a secure, concealed location.
Carry a travel bag that can easily swing to the front of your body so it is harder for pickpockets to access.
Use credit cards whenever possible and only carry small amounts of cash.
4. Trust Your Instincts!
If something feels off don’t hesitate to leave, or ask for help.
Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
Avoid headphones in crowded areas as well as being distracted on your phone.
Familiarize yourself with the area prior to arriving.
Do your research about the local customs, laws, and potential hazards to ensure a smooth and informed travel experience.
I also recommend filing your trip with the US State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service for U.S. citizens and nationals who are traveling or living abroad. STEP allows you to enter information about trips abroad so that the Department of State, via our embassies and consulates, can better assist you in an emergency. You can also subscribe to receive email updates with travel advisories and other information for a particular country.
To create an account: Go to the STEP website and sign up for an account. Click Here
Enter your trip details, provide information about your travel dates, destinations, and accommodations. You will then receive real-time updates and travel alerts for your destination.
Then in case of an emergency, the local embassy or consulate can contact you and provide assistance.
Last but not least remember to relax and enjoy, knowing that you have implemented steps to make sure you are safe, and that when in doubt there will be someone there that will help. You will only need ask, or as in the case of my friend and I, look really worried.
I’d love to hear from you! Reply and share your experiences, tips, and questions. Let’s inspire and support each other as we explore the world.
Stay safe and keep traveling,
Heather DeBerry
Women Who Travel
Heather DeBerry Travel
