Traveling and seeing new places has always been appealing to me. I love the opportunities that I get to try authentic versions of foods that, until that point, I had only know the “Americanized” versions of. I love seeing a new city, hearing new languages, and seeing another facet of this wonderful world. I used to do most of my traveling with my family, but now as a college student, more of my traveling is on my own. And while my love of travel hasn’t lessened at all, I’ve had to adjust to and learn a few things as a solo female.
1. Mastering the indifferent I-don’t-see-you face
That may sound like a funny thing if you haven’t traveled a whole lot, but your expressions are a very important thing to keep in check when your traveling on your own, especially where I’ve been recently. Smiles and even eye contact can be seen as encouragement to men, so keeping a stoic face that is a mix of boredom and disinterest goes a long way. Also, if you have a pair of sunglasses, that solves the problem of trying to avoid eye contact on the street and in public transportation.
2. Keeping that face on when you’re in public
That face that I mentioned above? It might not be too difficult to compose your features into that mask, but it’s hard to keep it there when guys start catcalling and yelling “Hello” across the street. If you can pretend you don’t hear any of that, you’ve mastered the second step. Yes, it’s unsettling, but hold it together until you’re far away from them.
3. Having a background story ready to pull out of your back pocket
I have talked to a lot of women, especially if they are single, who have had similar experiences to mine. If you are in a situation where you are for some reason alone with a guy (maybe you’re in a taxi or something), it’s really helpful to have a fake story prepared. If you’ve ever wanted to be a spy, here’s your chance to pretend you’re someone else. Make up an imaginary name, a family (husband and maybe children), an occupation, etc. Some of my friends even have fake rings 🙂 Not everyone is creepy, but it’s good to be prepared, just in case.
4. Being aware of your surroundings
This is a good rule to remember no matter where you are and who you are. Often it’s easy to get caught up in your own thoughts and forget where you are. Staying alert will go a long way in making sure that nothing bad happens. Also, general safety rules apply the same as they do when you’re home. Don’t walk in dark, sketchy places late at night by yourself, etc.
5. Don’t let the fear of what hasn’t happened keep you from enjoying your time
Yes, it’s smart to be safe, be alert, and be prepared, but don’t be so afraid of what could happen, that you let your fear keep you from experiencing travel to it’s fullest. There is so much to see in this world, and you’ll miss it if you let a few catcalls and such keep you away.
Delectable 