BANGALORE: Whether you are travelling within the country or going around the world, it is always an invigorating experience. It gives you a much needed break from the otherwise mundane life and the chances are very likely that you will come across experiences which can be once in a lifetime. Travelling with family and friends was probably the only way out so far for most of us, at least in India. But, with changing times people have started experiencing the joys of travelling solo. But, if you are a women traveller you have to pay much closer attention to safety issues than men do. The question is, as a woman, should you even be considering travelling on your own?
Leyla Giray, a development professional, a former journalist and an avid traveller, in her website 'Women on the Road' says, "Solo travel has huge benefits, the most obvious of which is social: it’s a great way to meet people, because the sad truth is, in many countries solo women are pitied because they are ‘alone’, something that’s always made me giggle. Isn’t meeting new people one of the reasons we travel in the first place?"
Keep a few things in mind before you step out for that much awaited trip. City Express brings to your some valuable pointers.
Do Some Research
Even if you choose to travel within India read books or travel website like wildplanettours.com and gain knowledge on the culture, dress code, food, religion and safety measures, considering how diverse every region in our country is.
Wear Right Clothes
Dressing appropriately is a valuable mantra that can go a long way in having safe and hassle free travel for women. Try not wearing revealing outfits while roaming around the streets, markets and bazaars. In metropolitan cities, you can still get away with wearing less conservative clothing like sleeveless shirts.
Stay in Touch
Do call your family and friends and tell them about your lodging place and people travelling with you. It is important that you constantly stay in touch with your loved ones and update them about your plans.
Stay Alert
Avoid unwanted male attention by staying close to other women and dressing locally. Never feel jittery while travelling and keep your head high and voice firm while walking since it helps in averting any possible unfortunate situations.
Try staying away from alcohol while travelling alone and keep your eye on your drink if you’re among new company. Do not flash around money or expensive gear.
Eat Right
Eat well-cooked food and try resisting that yummy-looking street food. Be careful about the water you drink. Always carry a purified water bottle and do not drink tap water.
Pack Light
Carry two bags - a big one for clothes and a smaller bag for keeping essentials like camera, lip balm, tissues, pen and other titbits. Packing light will also leave enough room for your shopping. Keep the bulk of your money in a money belt.
Choose a Safe Hotel
Advance booking of the flights and hotel rooms are recommended for women travellers. Always pt for a family hotel over solitary hotels in isolated places and properly go through the hotel rules and regulations. Inform the hotel authority or your fellow travellers when venturing out alone. Packing appropriate clothes, medication, having a trustworthy guide and avoiding travelling at night are also some of the factors to keep in mind while on a solo trip.