As extraordinary + breathtaking the journey as a solo-traveler can be, let’s not forget about maintaining our safety + security. Solo-traveling can become dangerous if one’s not being careful, especially for a woman of color. There are some destinations that aren’t as friendly to double minorities as other places, so it’s extremely imperative to be aware of your surroundings or avoid those places at all costs. Therefore, here are general tips on how to stay safe as a WOC traveler: 1. DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO YOUR INTENDED DESTINATIONwhen planning a trip, try to learn everything you can about a country before visiting. Ask other solo female travellers who’ve visited the destination, read news articles and personal stories, and be informed on natural disasters, dangerous areas, and their culture norms. It’s imperative to be as knowledgeable as possible in order to ensure safety + security. 2. EASE YOUR WAY INTO SOLO TRAVELINGLet’s face facts---booking a flight to a destination you’re unfamiliar of + wandering the streets solo can be daunting for first-time solo travelers. Therefore, if you’re comfortable + want to feel safe, ease your way into the activity. According to Hey Ciara, an online platform for female solo travelers, Ciara stated that she visited nearby cities and states before taking the leap and travel solo internationally. She also left the country in group settings so, she can ease her way into traveling solo-dolo. Therefore, there’s nothing wrong with taking baby steps, especially if you’re concern about your safety. 3. DON'T TELL ANYONE THAT YOU'RE ALONEIf someone ask you if you’re alone, lie. Tell them that you’re waiting for friends or your bf. But, whatever you do, do not give up that confidential information. There’s people in other countries that prey on solo travelers so, it’s important to follow this step to avoid danger. 4. REGISTER YOUR TRIP WITH YOUR STATE DEPARTMENT OR EMBASSYI got this tip from MelaninTravel’s guest contributor Somto Ugweze. In her article ‘Traveling Alone as a Black Woman? Here’s Four Ways to Stay Safe’, Somto mentions that she always register her trips with the U.S. State Department. In the United States, there’s a program called ‘Smart Traveler Enrollment Program’ for traveling citizens. This program alerts citizens of emergency situations and intervenes when something goes wrong. When you travel abroad, make sure to register your trip. 5. CHECK-IN WITH YOUR LOVED ONESAlways let your family + friends know where you’re going. Inform them of what day you’re leaving and coming back, turn on your location on your phone, and give someone your itinerary. In addition, make a system of what times you will call/text to let them know you’re okay. That way, if something does happen, your family + friends will immediately know. 6. GET AN INTERNATIONAL PHONE PLANThis is straightforward so, no need for the explanation. It’s easier for you to be able to connect with your family + friends back home whenever you need to. 7. BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGSPlease do not walk around in an unfamiliar country in la-la land. It’s important to notice if someone is following you, is standing unusually close to you, is watching you, etc. If you are aware of your surroundings, it’s difficult for predators to target you. 8. GET TRAVEL INSURANCEI will admit, I do not have travel insurance yet. However, after reading Hey Ciara article, I realized that it’s something that I should definitely get when traveling abroad. In Ciara’s article, she mentioned that travel insurance could save you thousands on potential health risks, emergencies, theft and more! Ciara shared her story on how she was robbed + was reimbursed back up to $1,000 worth of stolen products. If you have travel insurance, the thought of your stuff being stolen will be at ease. DISCLAIMER:The purpose of this article isn’t to scare you out of solo traveling, but to keep you aware. Even when you travel in a group, you must be careful + prepared. Solo travel is an amazing experience, but it’s imperative to watch your back + make sure you’re always looking out for yourself. Don’t allow fear to discourage you; let it help you make smarter + wiser decisions. LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE. Hope you enjoyed my first article! Please like, comment, and share! If you have any other travel safety tips that you want to share, please leave them in the comments' section.
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Packing for your upcoming trip but don't know what to bring? Don't worry--check out SOLO-DOLO'S 8 Travel Bag Essentials: 1. Portable ChargerSomething that's always necessary but everyone tends to forget when packing their suitcases. A portable charger can be a life-saver when you're out and about somewhere + your phone's on 1%. Instead of hunting around for outlets, purchase a portable charger + bring it with you at all times. 2. PassportIf you plan on traveling international + you forgot your passport, guess what? You aren't going anywhere but back home. 3. HeadphonesSometimes you just want to be in your own world without the constant chatter and noise produced by the world. Bring your headphones along + problem solved! 4. SunglassesProtect your eyes + look cute while doing it. 5. Waterproof CaseWant to take bomb pictures without having to worry about accidentally dropping your phone in the pool? Purchase a waterproof case + relieve your stress. 6. SunscreenWhether you're pale or have dark-skin, it's crucial for everyone of ALL RACES (yes, I'm talking to black people as well) to wear sunscreen. Protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays. 7. Water BottleDrink water at all times, especially at warm, tropical destinations. You do not want to pass out during your trip because you're dehydrated. 8. SnacksBring healthy, nutritious snacks with you, especially if you're a big snacker (like me!) Hope you enjoyed my article! If any of this information motivated or resonated with you, please like, comment, and share.
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Meet ChadeiraI'm a Communications student at WPU, attempting to utilize my skills + talents into something I love to do: TRAVEL. Read all about my local + national adventures, what I've learned about travel, and key ways to fit travel into your busy schedule.
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