Are you thinking about holidaying alone, but a bit concerned about the dangers? You needn't worry if you consider these tips first.
1 Safety
Unless you positively invite danger—i. e. wandering around a dark park at 3 am with headphones on—travelling alone isn't actually that risky. In the case of taking taxis, always keep a record of the plate number and ask for an estimated fare before setting off. You should also carry your ID card with you and always keep a back-up. And most importantly, ensure that someone else knows your route and keep in regular contact with them.
2 Plan
Being alone means you can't use your partner's phone when yours runs out of juice, or rely on them should you lose your wallet. It's a good idea to write down some key numbers of friends, hotels and emergency services beforehand, and keep some back-up money in your bag, just in case.
3 Eating
Many single travelers have a fear of eating alone. You can bring a book to avoid boredom, sit at counters to be less noticeable or use the opportunity to practice your foreign language on a waiter.
4 Making friends
This is another common concern when travelling alone. In fact, acquiring new companions(伙伴) is easier than feared. You can smile at people, read something interesting to start a conversation, or ask strangers a question. All these help you look approachable. More hands-on tips include visiting bars, joining tours or using apps designed to help people make friends.
5 Enjoy it
Without having to consider others' needs, the joy of solo travel is that you can be entirely selfish: walk at your preferred pace, eat what and when you want, and go wherever you like to see the sights that interest you.
A. What if no one likes me on my trip?
B. The biggest danger is being taken for a ride.
C. It's actually not so hard to get over your worry.
D. You needn't get into a panic if this really happens.
E. However well you plan in advance, things will go wrong.
F. Just appreciate your independence and enjoy that freedom.
G. So put emergency systems in place before starting your trip.
