When it comes to traveling, sometimes taking a journey alone can be great. Traveling solo allows for a time of introspection, relaxation and self-discovery, where you can take the time to absorb the finer things the world has to offer. The independence gained by vacationing alone allows for the opportunity to experience your choice destination exactly the way you want.
Of course, there are some potential troubles you could encounter if you are not cautious. So, in order to make your solo trip one to remember, here's how you can properly prepare for it and take off with confidence.
So you've finally decided to take advantage of some well-earned vacation time and visit Prague, the city of your dreams. Because you'll be all by your lonesome, the planning of your trip will automatically be different. One of the first questions worth addressing is how you're going to spend your time in the beautiful Czech Republic capital. Are you intending to do some cheap travel or would you rather go all-out and book a room in a fancy hotel?
Along with securing your accommodations, prepare an itinerary for each day before you leave. This plan should include everything from visiting all the famous landmarks to some relaxation time, which is essential since you'll likely be walking for miles in your comfortable shoes (invest in a good pair, it will pay off).
As great as organization is, however, you may, at times, deviate from your plan so leave room for some spontaneity on your trip. Herein lies the beauty of traveling alone: You are your own master, and while preparation is key, there is always room to go nuts.
One of the hardest parts of traveling in general is coming up with a list of what you'll need to bring with you (or leave behind). Thinking of these all-important items you should pack becomes all the more difficult (and necessary) when you have no one else to rely on.
If you're heading to a foreign country, don't leave home without a bilingual dictionary. Although a strong grasp of Czech will prove quite difficult, it is still important to learn phrases like "thank you," "hello," "please," and "goodbye," in case you're in a bind.
Make a copy of all essential travel documents such as your passport and health insurance to leave behind with someone you trust, in the event of an emergency.
Another benefit of traveling alone is the ability to explore museums and engage in other time-consuming activities at your own leisure. There is no pressure to rush through exhibits or cut the visit short; pace yourself and take in the masterpieces, whether you're an art lover or novice admirer.
Make an effort to walk everywhere -- within reason, of course. This will help you get in touch with the area (so to speak) and observe the locals in their element. Using your legs also allows you to find quaint shops and cafes more easily than if you were on some cheesy tour bus. Your goal should be to blend in, something a contrived (and perhaps overpriced) tour won't likely offer. Wear loose, lightweight clothing -- layering is important -- because the more comfortable you feel, the more willing you will be to stay out an extra hour to explore a section you might have overlooked.
Important: While it is recommended to "do your own thing," that does not mean you have to search aggressively for unknown corners of the city in order to "discover" a certain area. Being among large crowds during festivals can assure security (but watch out for pickpockets), and straying from a marked path or your group while on an organized hike is not a good idea. Strike a balance between solitude and social situations to make the most of your trip and ensure your safety.
Of course, there are some potential troubles you could encounter if you are not cautious. So, in order to make your solo trip one to remember, here's how you can properly prepare for it and take off with confidence.
So you've finally decided to take advantage of some well-earned vacation time and visit Prague, the city of your dreams. Because you'll be all by your lonesome, the planning of your trip will automatically be different. One of the first questions worth addressing is how you're going to spend your time in the beautiful Czech Republic capital. Are you intending to do some cheap travel or would you rather go all-out and book a room in a fancy hotel?
Along with securing your accommodations, prepare an itinerary for each day before you leave. This plan should include everything from visiting all the famous landmarks to some relaxation time, which is essential since you'll likely be walking for miles in your comfortable shoes (invest in a good pair, it will pay off).
As great as organization is, however, you may, at times, deviate from your plan so leave room for some spontaneity on your trip. Herein lies the beauty of traveling alone: You are your own master, and while preparation is key, there is always room to go nuts.
One of the hardest parts of traveling in general is coming up with a list of what you'll need to bring with you (or leave behind). Thinking of these all-important items you should pack becomes all the more difficult (and necessary) when you have no one else to rely on.
If you're heading to a foreign country, don't leave home without a bilingual dictionary. Although a strong grasp of Czech will prove quite difficult, it is still important to learn phrases like "thank you," "hello," "please," and "goodbye," in case you're in a bind.
Make a copy of all essential travel documents such as your passport and health insurance to leave behind with someone you trust, in the event of an emergency.
Another benefit of traveling alone is the ability to explore museums and engage in other time-consuming activities at your own leisure. There is no pressure to rush through exhibits or cut the visit short; pace yourself and take in the masterpieces, whether you're an art lover or novice admirer.
Make an effort to walk everywhere -- within reason, of course. This will help you get in touch with the area (so to speak) and observe the locals in their element. Using your legs also allows you to find quaint shops and cafes more easily than if you were on some cheesy tour bus. Your goal should be to blend in, something a contrived (and perhaps overpriced) tour won't likely offer. Wear loose, lightweight clothing -- layering is important -- because the more comfortable you feel, the more willing you will be to stay out an extra hour to explore a section you might have overlooked.
Important: While it is recommended to "do your own thing," that does not mean you have to search aggressively for unknown corners of the city in order to "discover" a certain area. Being among large crowds during festivals can assure security (but watch out for pickpockets), and straying from a marked path or your group while on an organized hike is not a good idea. Strike a balance between solitude and social situations to make the most of your trip and ensure your safety.
extra tips:
- Bring along a camera with a high-capacity memory card.
- Leave your itinerary with someone at home, along with the numbers of each place you're staying at. It's OK if your plans are sketchy, but if there is a big change in your plans, you might want to e-mail the new information to your "in case of emergency" person back home.
- Keep an eye out when it comes to money or your belongings; you don't have a companion to catch the pickpocket creeping up from behind.
- While "carpe diem" is important, so is safety. Be carefree, but don't throw caution to the wind.
=D
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