I have recently ticked “travel anywhere by myself” off my 30-before-30 bucket list.
My family and friends who knew about my travel plan were taken aback at first because of the idea of me travelling solo in a country I had never been to and where I didn’t know anyone. I understood their concerns, and even I was a bit apprehensive. That was why I only booked my flight a week before my intended departure date. With only a week left to prepare, I gathered as much info as I could about my destination, including practical dos and don’ts, and how to get the most out of solo traveling. I took a risk and faced my fears, and will never ever regret that I did.
I’m listing down a few things that would-be solo travelers may be skeptical about and which made my 6-day solo trip remarkably worthwhile. You can try thes on your next travel, too.
4 Notes from a Solo Travel First-Timer to Put Your Traveling Mind at Ease
4. Stay at a hostel.
The facade of Czech Inn Hostel in Prague, Czech Republic
Although staying in a hostel is not for everyone, those who don’t mind sharing a room with like-minded people can benefit from it as it is inexpensive and a cool place where you can hang out with people from different backgrounds. I was lucky to share a room with girls within my age group. So, at night, it just felt like having a ladies’ slumber get-together, listening to inspiring travel stories from one another.
A 4-night stay in a 5-bunkbed female dormitory with two en suite bathrooms only cost me $35.
When staying at a hostel, always do extensive research. Read and compare hotel reviews from Tripadvisor, Agoda, Booking.com, and travel blogs. I even called the hostel to confirm my booking and requested for a bottom bunk. The hostel I stayed in also has a 24-hr reception and the lifts and rooms are only accessible through a key access card system. The bed and pillows are clean and comfortable, and the bathroom has a rain showerhead! Sosyal! I know, right?
Czech Inn’s lobby
Don’t forget to prioritize your safety, though! I brought my own lock and kept the key with me everytime I went to the bathroom and wore it around my neck at night. You might want to use a sleep mask and earplugs, too.
3. Join a Free Walking Tour.
One of the free walking tours in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Most parts of Europe offer free walking tour to tourists. The hostel receptionist offered me their organized free walking tour which happens daily at a specific time. All I had to do was be present at the lobby on time.
Fairytale-like Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
Overlooking the castle garden
The St. Vitus Cathedral inside the Prague Castle
The world’s oldest working astronomical clock can be found in Prague, Czech Republic.
Towards the end of the tour, it is up to you how much you think the tour cost. The tour guides earn from the tourists’ generous tips. A free walking tour is economical and very informative.
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