Traveler with backpack and a bottle of water standing on top of the mountain ()
While vacationing in Europe there are numerous picturesque locations to admire. Something that is often neglected when discussing visits to these various locations is the concept of solo travel. Below are four tips on how to travel solo in Europe.
Be Observant While it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of European architecture and people, it is extremely important to remain observant of your surroundings. Especially when traveling solo, make sure that you are paying attention to those around you and are aware of where your personal items are. Personally, I have never had an issue while traveling, however, one can never be too careful.
Be Prepared This may sound painfully obvious, but preparation is vital in solo traveling. Similar to being observant, it is not a glamorous tip, however it is something that needs to be taken into account. While you do not have to have the entirety of your trip planned in advance, it is important to know the basics, as well as making sure that you have everything you need to travel.
Be Spontaneous Traveling solo is an adventure, thus allow spontaneity to take the driver’s seat. While it is pertinent to be prepared and observant during your trips, it is also key that you let go. Having a loose itinerary with room for the unexpected keeps you from getting overwhelmed by options, while also allows for exploration and freedom. That’s truly what travel is about, isn’t it?
Be Present This tip is perhaps the most imperative: be present. With the craze that is Instagram and Twitter, it is so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of social media and posting every little thing that you are experiencing on your trip. While there is an art to documentation, it can cause you to lose sight of what is right in front of you. Instead of focusing on wanting others to see what you are seeing, why not just absorb it and appreciate the present moment for what it is? Do not let the urge to post overpower your sense of wanderlust. Put down the phone, tablet, computer, whatever it may be and simply be. Be fully present wherever you are, because you will never get those moments back.
