Solo Female Travel: When Fear Meets Adventure
Solo travel has this magical, empowering appeal—it’s freeing, adventurous, and gives you the space to truly be yourself. But let’s be honest, traveling solo can also be downright spooky. In the latest episode of Let’s Get Real: A To Be Explored Podcast, and in the spirit of Halloween, I dive into the real-life horror moments that come with exploring the world alone and the fears we face as women.
Discover Why Solo Travel Brings Both Adventure and Anxiety
My journey into solo travel began with my first trip to Mexico, where I quickly learned that traveling alone isn’t just about exploring beautiful places—it’s about facing unexpected fears and challenges that come with being on your own. Since that first trip, I’ve ventured solo to Iceland, France, and Portugal, and each destination brought its own mix of heart-pounding moments and personal growth. Standing alone in awe-inspiring places, like a remote Icelandic waterfall, often comes with a whisper from your inner voice: “Are you sure you’re okay doing this all alone?”
These moments of self-questioning are exactly what make solo travel so impactful. Each trip has given me opportunities to confront inner doubts, manage anxiety, and learn to rely on my instincts—even when the experience feels intense or uncertain. Embracing both the adventure and the anxiety has been key to growing as a traveler and building a deeper trust in myself. For anyone considering solo travel, remember that those feelings of uncertainty are part of the journey—and ultimately, they’re what make each trip so transformative.
Learn How to Navigate Spooky Encounters as a Female Solo Traveler
Traveling solo means trusting your gut and relying on your instincts to stay safe—especially as a woman. This episode dives into a few close calls I’ve had that taught me the value of intuition and situational awareness.
Take my late-night experience in Reykjavík, for example. After parking a few blocks from my hotel, I heard footsteps behind me. Iceland is one of the safest places I’ve ever been, but in that moment, my heart was racing as I picked up my pace. Whether it was a 'sinister local' or an overly eager tourist, I wasn’t sure. (Spoiler: he was just a tourist trying to catch up with his friends, but it was a good reminder to stay aware of my surroundings.)
Then there was my trip to Mexico, where a street vendor offered me a tequila shot to celebrate a snake ring I had bought. Using a drink-testing sticker on my phone, I could confirm it was safe to drink. But what I wasn’t expecting was the image at the bottom—a rather, shall we say, the picture was very happy to see me. Needless to say, I exited quickly, and it reinforced the importance of setting boundaries and trusting my instincts in new environments.
These experiences remind us that solo travel isn’t just about where we go but how we protect ourselves along the way. By staying alert, trusting your instincts, and taking precautions—like testing your drink or keeping your phone easily accessible—you can focus on enjoying the journey with more confidence and peace of mind.
You can hear the full story from my episode "Facing Fears While Traveling Solo: The Spooky Side of Going It Alone" here from timestamp 03:33-06:14.
Master the Art of Facing Your Internal Monsters and Fears
There’s a unique kind of freedom that solo travel brings, but it can also feel isolating. Some of the most haunting challenges I’ve faced weren’t from the places I visited but from within—dealing with anxiety, loneliness, and self-doubt. Acknowledging these feelings and learning how to manage them has been essential for me. It’s not always easy to admit that solo travel can be both thrilling and daunting, but embracing this duality has helped me grow as a traveler and a person.
By leaning into these moments of uncertainty and reflection, you can also find strength in your own company and the courage to face your inner doubts. Embracing both the highs and lows of solo travel not only builds resilience but empowers you to feel more grounded and confident in yourself. In learning to confront your internal fears, you’ll find the freedom to explore both the world and your own potential more fully.
Survival Tips for Solo Travelers
In the podcast episode, I also share a few survival guide tips I've learned along the way:
Trust Your Gut
Embrace the Fear
Take a Break When Needed
These are just a few highlights from the episode, and I go into depth on the podcast, with plenty of humor, honesty, and tips for staying safe while exploring the world solo. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or just thinking about your first trip, there's something in this episode for anyone who's ready to face the fears that come with traveling solo.
Listen to the Full Episode
For a deeper dive into the spooky side of solo travel, including stories and tips, tune in to Let's Get Real: A To Be Explored Podcast. And hey, happy (and safe) travels this Halloween season!
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