Tuesday, 22 December 2015

The 15 Best Natural Wonders in Southeast Asia



As my time in Southeast Asia draws to a close, I’m starting to think about all of the awesome places I’ve been. I love cities, history and architecture, but the most memorable aspects of the region for me are the unique and varied natural wonders. I hope you enjoy my list of the best natural wonders in Southeast Asia, but bear in mind that these are only places that I’ve been to, so I might have missed some popular ones!

15: THE SCENERY AROUND VANG VIENG, LAOS

Vang Vieng used to be a party town, but it has since cleaned up its act and now it’s the scenery that draws people in. It’s one of the most picturesque towns in Southeast Asia, and the country side around it is worth at least a week of exploring. Read a full post on Vang Vieng here.


14: INLE LAKE, MYANMAR

If you’re travelling in Myanmar make sure you check out Inle Lake. It might be touristy, but the scenery is amazing and you can visit whole communities who live on stilted villages on the lake. Read a full post on Inle Lake here.


13: LONG BEACH, KOH RONG, CAMBODIA

I’m voting this the best beach in Southeast Asia – and the best part is that it’s barely developed. That’ll change, but if you’re travelling in Southeast Asia and you love beaches, head to Koh Rong. Read a full post on Koh Rong here.


12: NIAH CAVES, MALAYSIA

Once I got over my fear of bats I started to really enjoy visiting caves. I went to a few in Laos, but the best ones I’ve seen so far are found on the island of Borneo, close to Miri. The caves are huge and take a few hours to explore, and you’ll have them pretty much all to yourself. Read a full post on Niah caves here.


11: THE UNDERGROUND RIVER, PALAWAN, THE PHILIPPINES

The Underground River was recently named one of the new wonders of the world, and it definitely deserves it. It’s the longest navigatable underground river in the world, but unfortunately you’ll only get to see a couple of kilometres of it during the tour. It’s a pretty convenient stop between Puerto Princesa (where your plane will probably arrive) and El Nido, the main tourist town on Palawan.


10: SI PHAN DON (4000 ISLANDS), LAOS

I was surprised to find out that landlocked Laos has islands, 4000 of them apparently! One of my most memorable experiences in Southeast Asia was staying on Don Det for a week. I had a great view of the Mekong River from my $3 riverside bungalow and was treated to some of the best sunsets in the region. Read a full post on Don Det here.


9: MT KINABALU, SABAH, MALAYSIA

What is the highest mountain in Southeast Asia? If you answered Mt Kinabalu, you’d be wrong. I found out the hard way during a pub quiz that it’s actually a mountain in Myanmar. Still though, Mt Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Southeast Asia that you’re likely to see, and it’s worth the trip even if you aren’t climbing it. My girlfriend, Gia, also went to Mt Kinabalu and actually climbed it. Read her post here.


8: MT BROMO, JAVA, INDONESIA

There’s nothing quite like getting up in the middle of the night to see a volcano at sunrise, and Mt Bromo is one of the best I’ve seen. Java is a great place to travel, read a full post on how to spend a week on Indonesia’s most populated island here.


7: CHOCOLATE HILLS, BOHOL, THE PHILIPPINES

While they didn’t exactly look like chocolate when I visited, the Chocolate Hills of Bohol still blew me away. When the rain disappears the hills turn brown, giving them their name, so try and get there at the end of dry season to see the full effect.


6: BACUIT ARCHIPELAGO, PALAWAN, THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is home to some great beaches and coastal scenery, and one of the best places to experience the country’s natural beauty is the Bacuit Archipelago. Read a full post about my island hopping experience here.


5: MT KELIMUTU, FLORES, INDONESIA

I was thinking of what I love about travel the other day and one word stuck in my mind: colour. The world back home often seems dull in comparison to the explosion of colours you see in Southeast Asia, and when I heard about the colourful lakes of Kelimutu, I knew I had to see them for myself. Read a full post on Kelimutu here.


4: HA LONG BAY, VIETNAM

Who doesn’t love karst mountain scenery? I’m a pretty big fan, so I obviously had a great time on my Ha Long Bay boat trip. The scenery really is as good as it looks in all of the photos you’ll see, so if you’re in Vietnam make sure you get there. Read a full post on Ha Long Bay here.


3: KOMODO NATIONAL PARK, INDONESIA

The famous man-eating Komodo dragons are the main draw here, but the national park is also home to a pink beach, amazing underwater life and some dramatic scenery. It was recently named one of the new natural wonders of the world, and I’d highly recommend a boat trip to explore the area if you’re anywhere near Flores (You can get to Flores from Bali/Lombok pretty easily, but not many people seem to do it). Read a full post on Komodo National Park here.


2: KUANG SI FALLS, LAOS

Kuang Si Falls are a must see if you’re visiting Luang Prabang, one of main tourist towns in Laos. You’ll be in awe of the colour of the water, an electric blue that you usually only see on tropical beaches. It’s an easy day trip from town and is probably the coolest waterfall I’ve seen in Southeast Asia. Read a full post on Kuang Si Falls here.


1: LAKE TOBA, SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world, the explosion that made it nearly wiped out the fledgling human race, causing (according to the TV show The Cosmos) the biggest population bottleneck in human history. These days it’s a calm spot to relax for a week or 2 (I just returned here for a break before I head to Europe/the Middle East). The views from pretty much anywhere are amazing, and the Christian locals are some of the friendliest in Southeast Asia. Read a full post about Lake Toba here.


Source: http://jonistravelling.com/15-best-natural-wonders-southeast-asia/

Friday, 18 December 2015

Should You Travel Solo? Pros And Cons Every Traveling Couple Should Know

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock, all others courtesy of A Cruising Couple

There are few things we love more than setting out hand-in-hand on a new adventure together. But before our years of travel as “A Cruising Couple,” we also had plenty of opportunities to explore the world as solo travelers — and we are eternally grateful that we did.

If you’ve been traveling with a friend or partner, then it might be time to take the plunge and set out on a journey of your own. Solo travel isn’t for everyone, but it is an experience we believe every explorer (even couples!) should experience at least once. Discover the pros and cons of solo travel and get ready to push yourself outside of your comfort zone for the experience of a lifetime.


Pros:

1. An opportunity to learn about yourself

It might sound cliche, but perhaps the most fantastic reason to travel the world solo is the chance to learn more about yourself. Going solo is an opportunity to both unearth and re-create the true you. It’s easy to drift into “autopilot mode” when we are comfortable in our surroundings or dependent on another.

However, traveling solo often means you won’t have traditional means of comfort to lean on. As you dive solo into new environments and cultures, you’ll begin to see the world in an entirely new perspective — and you might be surprised to discover your role within it. Not to mention, now that you’re the only brain solving problems as they arise, you’re likely to notice abilities you had all along that were masked by having another person to depend on.


2. A chance to see the world in a new light

As we venture out of our comfort zones, we naturally begin to view the world in a way we never have before. Now that our regular routines have been shaken, we must re-create our reality by observing the outside world with fresh eyes.

This can be a profound experience, resulting in deeper bonds with nature, other people and ourselves. Experiencing something new — and alone — almost forces you to connect to the outside world, which will cause you to see new details and make new connections you may have never made had you traveled with another.


3. A chance to be selfish

Traveling alone means you will be the one making the decisions, masterminding the plans and solving the problems. Traveling on your personal timetable allows leeway for adventure to strike as it pleases. Explore the art gallery a little longer. Hop into that coffee shop. Strike up a conversation with a friendly local. You might be amazed at how you enjoy spending your time when it is entirely up to you how you fill it.


4. Newfound gratitude for your traveling companion

As amazing as solo travel can be, it also teaches you to appreciate your travel companion in ways you might normally take for granted. For example, you might discover that your partner has an uncanny ability to make the longest of lines go by in a breeze. Traveling solo will not only help you to learn more about yourself, but it will also awaken the characteristics you never knew you missed in your travel buddy.

Cons:

1. Solo travel gets lonely


What all those bold-looking solo travelers may not share with you is that traveling solo is often accompanied by intense pangs of loneliness. Especially if you aren’t conversational in the local language, making new relationships can be tough and leave you feeling isolated. This is especially true if your normal companion will be having their own adventure while you are gone. Just remember feelings of loneliness and even jealousy are normal.

2. Typical tasks and outings become much more difficult


There is wisdom in the saying, “two heads are better than one.” When you’re traveling with a companion, there are two minds, two skill-sets, and two people always looking out for one another. However, when traveling solo, you’ll need always to stay alert and aware without the support system you might be used to. Though a con, this is also a pro — you learn more about your own strengths and weaknesses. It’s also likely you might surprise yourself with just how capable you are of handling situations on your own.

3. Limitations


When you travel solo, you might find you aren’t as keen to take part in activities that would normally be at the top of your bucket list. For example, making a reservation at that Michelin-star restaurant or dancing the night away at a glitzy bar suddenly don’t seem as fun when you are alone.

Luckily, there are two ways to tackle this problem. The first is to push yourself to try these experiences alone. The second is to explore new interests you typically might not think of when traveling with your partner or friend. Either way, you’re bound to learn something new about yourself and the world.

Have you ever pushed yourself outside of your comfort zone to travel the world solo? It’s not always easy, but even with the cons, it is almost always rewarding.
Source: http://www.travelpulse.com/opinions/blog/should-you-travel-solo-pros-and-cons-every-traveling-couple-should-know.html

Tuesday, 15 December 2015

How To Travel Alone And Love It

Soaking in a mineral spring pool at a spa, I started talking with another pool denizen. The woman, in her late 60s, asked if I were traveling with family or friends. I said I was alone. She said, “I would be too afraid.”

Timidity around this topic baffles me. For more than 30 years, I have traveled mostly on my own. I prefer solo travel, I told the woman, because I go where I want, see what I want and have the freedom to change my plans at any time.

Do I get lonely? No, because I talk to strangers.

Everyone has a story. Travel with a spouse, partner or friends, and most often you will speak only to them. Go it alone, and you will talk with people you’ve just met. Their stories may amuse you or even astound you. Some may broaden your worldview.

You can do this! You’ve spoken to strangers before when asked for your impression of an attraction you were visiting, a concert you were attending or a meal you were eating. On the road — whether far away or close to home — all you have to do is smile and start a conversation.

Here are eight tips, along with stories about some of my experiences talking to strangers, for making the most of a solo adventure.

1. Do Use Common Sense
Plan a trip that matches your comfort level, whether you head out with a little help from a travel agent or with an itinerary you craft yourself. You may want to sign up for a guided tour. (Look for one that builds in plenty of free time for solo exploring.) Or you may want to book a cabin on a cruise ship, where you have the option of talking to hundreds of new people, all with stories you’ve never heard.

When traveling, don’t say your room number aloud in a hotel lobby, never flash a lot of cash and don’t wear pricey jewelry. Before you leave your hotel room for dinner, turn on a light and the TV and put out the “Do Not Disturb” sign.

2. Don’t Be Ageist
Of course another boomer likely will respond to your conversation-opener, but it’s also OK to talk to young people. You may even end up with greater respect for a different generation.

On a trip to the Galapagos Islands, I learned that a young man on the ship was an archaeologist who searched for mummies in Peru. Usually on a cruise or guided tour, I table hop, sitting with different people each night at dinner. Because I thought this fellow’s work was fascinating — and he enjoyed talking about it — we ate a number of meals together.

3. Do Be a Source of Cheer
The quickest way to do this while on the road is to travel on your birthday, and say so. Tell people in the tundra vehicle on a polar bear-watching trip or in the Zodiac raft in Antarctica that you are celebrating your birthday, and good will and warmth from many a stranger will come your way.

Two birthday trips brought me special joy. In addition to meeting many interesting people, I saw blue whales in the Saint Lawrence Seaway and spied a hippopotamus beside a tree right outside my lodge in the Serengeti in Tanzania. You will never convince me the animals showed up for any reason other than to help me celebrate.

4. Don’t Pass Up Rare Opportunities
One day in Varanasi, India, I decided to go for a walk. Outside my hotel, a dozen rickshaw drivers crowded around me, all eager to serve as transport. I convinced all but one that I preferred to walk, and he followed me. Every few yards, the gentleman would drop his asking price, but I politely declined and kept walking.

When I suddenly realized I was depriving the man of making a living, I got in the rickshaw. The man told me about his city, his home and his family as we rode through streets filled with pedestrians, cars, trucks, overloaded buses and the occasional cow or donkey. What a remarkable adventure!

5. Do Be Verbally Vulnerable
Have you ever confided personal information to a stranger on a plane? On a whale-watch boat trip out of Barnstable, Mass., I had a similar experience. On the trip back to the pier, I spoke with a man seated next to me about the whales we’d seen and the beautiful day on the ocean. Then I blurted out that I was miserable.

To his credit, this stranger didn’t move away. He expressed sympathy about my dad’s terminal illness. He also shared his own professional setbacks, and asked about my plans to find a new job now that my company was closing. I mentioned my one prospect.

“I hope that works out for you,” he said. “And if it doesn’t, something else will.” His words reminded me that my options were not as limited as I imagined.

6. Don’t Be Reluctant to Help
In the airport in Jaipur, India, I met a woman traveling around the world. She carried only a small backpack. “What do you do about clothes?” I asked. The woman said she wore whatever people gave her along the journey.

This was no ascetic. The woman, in her late 40s, was a former librarian from Ohio coming out of a period of deep grieving. She said she left what she knew of the world to learn what she did not. Before we parted, I unzipped my bulging carry-on bag and handed over an unworn T-shirt, proud to do my part.

7. Do Be Nosy
Early one morning in Jamaica, I went to the beach, where I saw a man swimming back and forth. He stopped periodically to stare at the shore. I swam out to ask what he was doing.

The man was the manager of Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay. The wide strip of white sand, the lounge chairs and the concession stands all were his responsibility, and he told me that each morning he preferred to walk his beat, as it were, from the water. His goal, he said, was to keep the beach beautiful, for tourists and residents alike.

Because I talked to this stranger, I learned that “beach manager” was a job, and I heard about the man’s delightful way of doing it.

8. Don’t Be Timid
Remember the woman in the pool at the spa, who was concerned because I had traveled 90 minutes from my home on my own? Ironically, my conversation with her was especially important, because it reminded me of the many rewards that come from talking to strangers.

Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/jaysomaney/2015/12/15/could-dialog-semis-warning-actually-be-indicating-a-major-positive-for-apple/

Saturday, 28 November 2015

Top 10 restaurants for solo dining in Brisbane

The Bar at Montrachet is a perfect spot for solo diners.

In days of old, once it had been established that yes, Sir or Madam was dining alone, the solo diner would be led to a small table near the toilet or within elbow-poking distance of a waiters' station. The second place setting would be ceremoniously removed while floor staff averted their eyes and radiated both curiosity and pity.

Today, the stigma of solo dining has all but disappeared, and the lone diner is a confident habitue at some of the best tables in town.

Plenty of Brisbane restaurants are welcoming to singles. Here are our top picks for a table for one.

1889 Enoteca

This restaurant is a magnet for serious lovers of fine Italian wine and trattoria fare (and yes, date-nighters). Leave the couples to their red velvet booths and nab a stool at the marble-topped bar or a table in the wine room, and try a traditional Roman cacio e pepe or genuine (sans cream) carbonara.

12 Logan Road, Woolloongabba, 07 3392 4315, 1889enoteca.com.au

Anise

If you don't live in the area, you'll probably leave with a bad case of suburb envy, wishing this was your local. Small in size but big in spirit, there's a European menu, interesting wines poured by the glass and friendly staff-diner banter.

697 Brunswick Street, New Farm, 07 3358 1558, anise.com.au

Bird's Nest Yakitori

There's no slipping in under the radar here. Everyone is greeted by the same traditional shouted welcome of "Irasshaimase!" as they enter. Sit up at the bar with a beer or sake and watch the action as skewers of chicken and pork are grilled over smoky coals. Servings and prices are perfect for one.

Shop 5, 220 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane, 07 3844 4306, birdsnestrestaurant.com.au

Coppa Spuntino

This elegant Italian-accented bar may be in the middle of the CBD, but it feels as approachable as your neighbourhood local. "Spuntini" – small dishes designed to accompany drinks – are the perfect size for one. The negroni makers are accomplished and the vibe unhurried and friendly.

88 Creek Street, Brisbane, 07 3221 3548, coppaspuntino.com.au

Esq

You might have to forgo the roast Chinese duck for two unless you're particularly hungry, but just about everything else on the menu, from one perfect scallop to a coal-roasted rib with perilla and horseradish, is single-friendly. The river views are a bonus.

145 Eagle Street, Brisbane, 07 3220 2123, esquire.net.au

The Euro

Choose a table at the light-filled laneway end or bag a bar stool. The food comes from the same kitchen as the two-hatted Urbane next door, although it has more of a casual bent. There are plenty of libations available from a well-stocked list and accomplished barkeeps to keep 'em coming.

181 Mary Street, Brisbane, 07 3229 3686, theeuro.com.au

Gerard's Bar

Choose a seat at the sit-up bar, a cosy table inside or head for the tree-shaded courtyard. Graze on a selection of house-made charcuterie hanging in the window, oysters or pick and mix from the European-influenced menu. Almost all of the wines are offered by the glass, too.

Shop 13a, 23 James Street, Fortitude Valley, 07 3252 2606, gerardsbar.com.au

Happy Boy

With co-working spaces to rent at Little Tokyo Two next door, the spicy Sichuan diner acts as a bit of a staff canteen come lunch time with a well-priced menu and constantly changing verbal drinks list. It's more of the same in the evening, with a slightly lengthier menu but the same chilled vibe.

Shop 2, 36 Mein Street, Spring Hill, happyboy.com.au

Montrachet

Classy but unpretentious, this French stalwart feels like it's been lifted completely from Paris's Left Bank. The marble-topped bar-comptoir offers the perfect perch for solo diners, whether you fancy a chat with staff or a neighbour or want to sup your bouillabaisse in peace.

224 Given Terrace, Paddington, 07 3367 0030, montrachet.com.au

Sake

Sit up at the sushi bar at this attractive, contemporary Japanese riverside restaurant and watch the talented chefs' precision knife-work. There is plenty of choice, from two or four-piece sushi sets to bar snacks, or more robust, Robata-grilled meats. There's also a comprehensive cocktail and sake list.

Level 1, 45 Eagle Street, Brisbane, 07 3015 0557, sakerestaurant.com.au


Solo dining on the rise in Brisbane

According to a recent survey by booking service Dimmi, the number of solo diners in Brisbane has swelled by 56 per cent over the past year. Good Food surveyed some restaurateurs to see if they had noticed a change.

"I have noticed it more in the past three months," says Montrachet chef-owner Shannon Kellam.

"Even during the day. There are a lot of people on days off who want to enjoy fine food and wine as a treat to themselves and spend some time alone." 

The Euro and sister venue Urbane in Brisbane's CBD get their fair share of solo patronage too, says owner Andrew Buchanan.

"Sometimes they'll just come in for a quick bite, but at other times solo diners will come into Urbane and have the whole [degustation] menu with a couple of glasses of wine."

Brisbane-based wine consultant Peter Marchant, who frequently travels interstate, says he considers dining on his own a "treat". 

"I do it quite regularly. I spend a lot of time with others for work, so it is good to spend some time on my own. Sometimes I do some work or read, but more often than not, I just watch the restaurant and see how it all works."

The trend for restaurants to offer bar dining as well has helped make dining out more convivial for those on their own who do want some company.

"Some solo diners prefer to sit at the bar and engage with waitstaff if they're on their own, but just as many prefer to have a table and keep to themselves," Buchanan says.

Source: http://www.goodfood.com.au/good-food/top-10-eat-out/top-10-restaurants-for-solo-dining-in-brisbane-20151029-gkg3dt.html

Thursday, 26 November 2015

How To Enjoy Dining Solo

In deciding to tackle the topic of dining alone, I had to rewind and revisit my life almost fifteen years ago. I've been going out to eat by myself for such a long time, I often forget how intimidating it seemed at first. So, if none of my tips or advice feel like they'll help you, take heart - once you get started, it becomes second nature. Give it fifteen years, and you'll wonder why you ever worried in the first place.

Then again, that's fifteen years from now. What do you do today? You've got that dreaded table for one somewhere in your future, and you're not sure how to deal with it. Here's what I'd recommend:

1. Pick your restaurant strategically.
No matter where I am, a seat at the bar is always a refuge for the solo diner. Bartenders are easy to engage with, and more than likely, you'll find yourself among other solo diners to exchange chit-chat and possibly more. Think beyond the bar too; certain types of food just invite conversation. For instance, eat at a sushi bar and talk up the sushi chef. Or find a restaurant with an open kitchen or communal seating. Consider a place where sports are on the television -- nothing unites people like cheering for or loathing a team. Most importantly, choose a place with great cocktails. A little liquid courage never hurts.

2. Ask questions.
Uneasy about striking up conversation? Start with the staff. Ask your bartender if there are any drink specials, or if she has a wine recommendation. Ask your waiter if he has a favorite dish, or whether he has tried the specials. Once you're comfortable doing that, ask the person next to you what she ordered, because it smells fantastic. Don't overdo it, but also don't be afraid - not only might you get some insight into what's good to eat, you'll position yourself to those around you as friendly and approachable.

3. Time your meal wisely.
When you dine solo, go when there's still energy in the dining room, but not at a peak time. During the dinner rush, the staff might be hurried or seem short, and you might increase the awkward alone time by having to wait for a seat. Instead, opt for a late dinner - you won't feel rushed, your server will have time to answer your questions, and the people-watching will still be interesting. But when I say "late," don't go too late - I wouldn't cut it any closer than 90 minutes before closing time or last call, after which everyone is just trying to get home.

4. Bring a crutch, but don't use it.
A book, a magazine, or your smartphone are all fine to have, and even fine to look at while you eat. But when your head is down and focused on something, your body language also says "do not approach." So if conversation is what you're looking for, you won't find it. Then again, if the conversation you've found isn't all that great, your crutch will be a great way to put an end to it.

5. Just keep doing it.
Sometimes eating alone is fantastic, sometimes it's completely forgettable. Don't judge the whole endeavor on any single experience. There have been times when I'm the only person in the restaurant, which is isolating and sometimes uncomfortable. Other times I've met great people and laughed until it hurt. As I said, the more you eat by yourself, the easier it gets.

6. Remember you're not weird.
Seriously, despite any self-consciousness you might have, the whole dining room is not staring at you. Have you ever looked at a solo diner and had a negative thought? I didn't think so. No one thinks you're weird but you.

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/Menuism/how-to-enjoy-dining-solo_b_8512746.html

Tuesday, 24 November 2015

Solo Dining Becoming a Trend, Might Help You Eat Less at Restaurants

Image: wonderlustandlipstick.com

Dining by yourself used to get you seated with a pitying glance and free refills on your self-consciousness, but America, it seems, has largely gotten over itself on that count.

Reservations for one have shot up by some 62 percent over the past two years, reports OpenTable in an analysis of reservations made online through its service. That suggests less stigma and more focus on "treating yourself to a delicious experience and savoring every bite," says an OpenTable exec. "Solo diners are taking every opportunity to visit top restaurants whenever they get the opportunity."

Metro areas seeing the biggest increase, are, in order: Dallas, Miami, Denver, New York, Philadelphia, Las Vegas and Chicago.

Not only is dining alone on the rise, but it might actually be healthier for some of us, reports Medical Daily, citing research out of Cornell University. When eating in a group, we tend to pick up on "pace setters" — cues from our dining companions as to how much and how quickly we eat. Researchers found that light eaters tend to eat more in groups, while heavy eaters eat less, making solo dining more ideal for the former and group dining better for the latter.

Quantity of food or pace aside, eating alone is a good way to get a reboot, a psychologist tells Medical Daily.

"I used to call it the Steven Glansberg," one diner tells the New York Daily News, referring to a "Superbad" character who eats lunch alone every day. "Now I realize how relaxing and enjoyable it is." (Now if only waiters would stop this rude practice.)

This article originally appeared on Newser.com: "Table for One? We're Dining Alone More."

Source: http://magazine.foxnews.com/at-home/solo-dining-becoming-trend-might-help-you-eat-less-at-restaurants

Sunday, 22 November 2015

Tips for Travelling Solo

Tips for Travel Solo

You need not be a brave explorer to appreciate taking a travel solo, nor do you need your team to find all the cool and mesmerizing encounters that Mother Nature has to offer.

Anyone can travel alone and really enjoy it. You simply need to take after some basic rules. Here are necessary tips for effectively travel on your own.

Do Your Homework

It's never been less easy to review a probable destination by using your computers. But be aware that official tourism sites have a goal to paint just the rosiest of pictures to pull in guests. In the event that you need the actual lowdown, an extraordinary source of data online is forums. These are the best spots to get top to bottom information from locals about security and culture, and additionally to have your inquiries and concerns replied in a fair way.

Get Connected

Aside from your phone that will help you in times of crisis, you should also find out about dependable hotspots like Internet shops close to areas you will be staying to guarantee that you can frequently connect with friends and family about your locations and route.

Pack Smart

When traveling alone makes sure all of your necessities are in your carry-on in case your baggage gets lost. It should have complete change of clothes for hot, cold, and wet climate, strolling shoes, medication, and all of your identification and significant technology. Split up your money and credit cards into different areas so if you lose one set you still have another. Use comfortable attires and have some emergency money stored on you.

Be Alert

Personal security and protection of your things can be a major concern however needn't be such a fear, to the point that you get to be neurotic. Try not to dress like a self-evident vacationer and don't streak cash, costly gadgets or wear expensive jewelries. Know about your surroundings and stick to main streets and sufficiently bright zones, however stroll with certainty.

Be Imaginative

It's practical and sensible not to let strangers know you are unaccompanied. You can likewise be imaginative in discovering spots to stash stuff like lodging keys and money when you must leave them unattended like when swimming at a pool or beach.

Source: http://www.travelerstoday.com/articles/20526/20151122/tips-for-travelling-solo.htm