10 Great Tips for Solo Travel: Leverage Locals and Bend the Truth a Little

▲ Solo Travel (Photo / DaZhi / Illustration, the same below)

By Rita

Packing your bags and setting off on a solo trip is an amazing experience. In Europe, it's common for young people to take a Gap Year between high school and university to explore the world. However, many also question the safety of traveling alone. In reality, as long as you follow a few key principles, it’s not as scary as it seems. Below are some tips compiled by the travel website thrillist,tips—this article has selected 10 of them, tailored for readers preparing for a solo journey, considering different national contexts.

1. Quit Facebook
With stunning views right in front of you, do you still want to stare at your phone screen? Or show off what you had for lunch? Remember, no one really cares about the details of your trip.

2. The first stranger you meet may not have the answers
Just because someone is friendly doesn’t mean they’re giving you correct information.

3. Try dating apps like Tinder
See if you can find a suitable local to act as a guide or offer some advice.

4. Tell a little white lie
You’re traveling solo—telling small lies to the people you cross paths with during your trip won’t hurt.

5. Look for opportunities to dine with locals
Locals can take you to hidden gems.

6. Keep your itinerary flexible
If you book every single stop in advance, you’ll not only stress yourself out, but you might also find yourself screaming in frustration when a handsome foreigner invites you to tour his super-luxurious yacht—but your schedule is too packed.

7. Find local events that match your interests
Fitness, yoga, basketball, flamenco dancing—the options are better than staring at your hotel TV in confusion.

8. Leverage your Facebook network
Remember that old classmate who runs a diving equipment shop in Phuket? Reach out to them now.

9. Ask locals about nightlife before diving in
Avoid spending a lot of money only to find out it’s a dud.

10. Don’t overshare personal info
It doesn’t do you any good.

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