Solo Traveling Lessons Learned
Traveling is a conduit for gratitude
Traveling is affordable
Solo does not mean lonely
While this should be a rule you apply to your life REGULARLY, promise yourself to do at least one new thing a day that scares you
I know close to nothing
Shout out to Socrates: "I know that I know nothing."
Remain humble, folks.
Kindness exists in every corner of the world
ALWAYS ask if you can get a free upgrade or change to an earlier/better flight, kindness goes a long way and you may get lucky ;)
Take risks, go up to a stranger, it’ll be worth it and worse case- go chat it up with another one.
Always carry basic travel medicine
Don’t let your passport reach the “6 months left” expiration date
Great wisdom comes from locals
Generally, the world truly does call the people from the western hemisphere, “western”
Religion and culture are heavily tied in the Eastern hemisphere, near impossible to address as heterogeneous elements of life
For those from the east, it is difficult to separate one’s culture from traditional family religion. Some may not even believe in a god but will adhere to religious norms whether in conversation, clothing, or actions.
Example
Saying “namaste” is not just a greeting in India- it means “I bow down to the divine in you.” In Hinduism there is a belief that god is in everyone- when you say “namaste,” you are showing respect to that person as they are god. Whether one is religious or not, this word is used by pretty much everyone, even though it technically contradicts many religions (ex. Abrahamic faiths where God is one, higher than all of us tiny humans).
The developing world is more developed than you think
In many cases, more developed than some nations in the West,
example: transportation systems, some social concepts, community
Learn to say “NO,” “THANK YOU,” AND “GOOD MORNING",” in the language of the country you are visiting.
Memorize the local emergency number
For safety, you can register yourself with the US embassy within the country you’re in; know where the embassy is located.
For my curly🌀-hair girls: COME PREPARED they may not sell your products
Don’t be frugal, of course- know your individual budget but buy that handmade dress, eat that custom dish, don’t hold back- you will likely never return to this country
Eat the local fruits and root vegetables! You may never encounter them again
Pack LIGHT💼. Check my packing light blog- as I have mastered traveling with a carry on (I made it to Thailand for 2 weeks with just a shoulder carry-on)
Once you cross the line of fear, nothing but positive things come about
Global language: SMILING
“Resting b**** face” is no excuse. Get over yourself, practice in the mirror if you must. Smile. Be happy. It brings others in and that is one of the primary reasons I believe I have been blessed with meeting so many incredible friends abroad.
CAUTION: in some parts of the world, as a woman you should not be smiling at men as it is truly seen as promiscuous and can get you in trouble. Do your research.
