Practical tips for solo female travellers
"Never go on trips with anyone you do not love"
Be it for a mere sense of adventure, or an inevitable professional obligation, travelling solo is not as daunting as it sounds!
A conspicuous paradigm shift in the lifestyle of urban Indian women indicates that they are now more willing to step out of their cocoon and travel solo for business, and pleasure.
However, the sisterhood is often ambushed by irritants ranging from elements reeking of fraudulence, to sexual predators, who perceive them as soft targets, and instigate unpleasant circumstances.
Ladies, let not the abominable hinder or curtail your freedom, even a notch. If you love travelling, indulge in your passion, and let these safety tricks amassed from solo women travellers blanket you from the unpleasant.
*Avoid carrying too much cash or important documents - use the hotel safe.
*Lock every lock on your room door and don't forget to use the safety chain.
*Map areas before going so you always have a general idea of where you are.
*Have a cellphone handy (call or pretend to be talking if you feel you're being followed).
*Use "trusted" transportation - either public or private cars/driver services recommended by hotel and/or friends.
*Reach out to other women - they make great allies on the road.
When travel alone, normally send all details on the mail to a family member, so they know whom to connect with in case there is an emergency. Also keep a written note in bag with your address and contact, so that your family can be reached at any time in case an emergency happens.
Travelling alone for a female is always a safety concern for her family and the same goes for me. Whenever you are travelling you ensure various things, such as you always keep your parents informed/ ping when you reach the airport, when you board your flight and deplane. These days Whatsapp is the most convenient way to send a message to anyone. So in case you are unable to connect at least leave a message about your timings.
It's advisable to keep your bags/purse in front instead of slinging it to the back and/or the side.
Ensure that you keep your credit cards and debit cards in the deepest compartment of your purse. All thieves need are photographs of the front and back of your cards. No PIN codes are needed by these notorious rings.
It is better to ask for the prices of products to get the real price.
Avoid standing aimlessly on bus stops and streets after sunset. Always carry a book or newspaper to look busy while waiting for transport.
It is better to ignore any compliments or cat calls. If you engage in an argument, it is not going to end very soon.
If you think you're being followed, enter an ATM kiosk. With the fear of being caught on camera in the kiosks, no one will dare enter.
Besides travelling with precaution, where you stay during the vacation is pivotal to your safety. Women-only accommodations are an option and offer not only a safe ambiance, but are also managed by an all-female workforce. Several business hotels now have a women-only floor as well, that you can ask for while making a reservation.
