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| Single Traveler Tips |  First of all, if you are going to travel alone, do as much advance preparation as possible to make the adventure more comfortable. So you should plan everything carefully.
You should research your destination; use materials from your travel agent, from the Web, and from your local library. Learn the history of the region, the customs, the language (if it's other than your own native language), the literature and music, and notable sights.
Then have all the travel arrangements finalized before you leave. Take care of knowing how you are going to be getting from one place to another. It is easier to proceed in a foreign country if you have any of this advance knowledge.
Bring only what you will wear, which is probably only half of what you've laid out. Be merciless. Take what you can carry by yourself: a roll-around suitcase, a tote or backpack, and a money belt.
When you are traveling alone it is much easier to make friends than you think. Co-travelers and foreigners seem curious about the solo traveler and will not hesitate to begin speaking to you. Often all the invitation someone needs to speak with you is eye contact with others around you and a simple smile.
Also participate in as many fun and game activities as possible. Most cruise lines have activity coordinators whose job it is to make everyone comfortable and happy. You should get to know them.
Another important issue is safety for the solo traveler. Be conscious of everything that goes on around you. Pace with confidence with your head up, eyes panning the surrounding area. You are less likely to be a victim, if you appear to be in command of yourself. Ask locals if there are areas you should avoid - either in the daytime or at night. Check also with the State Department for any warnings about the foreign country you will be visiting. You should also keep an eye on your belongings at all times; never leave your luggage unattended or have your wallet in a prominent place where it could be snatched. Be alert about the situation but do not get paranoid.
Often eating alone is a difficult time. But try to make this enjoyable rather than bearable. Put all your senses on a higher level of sensitivity. Look around the dining area - view every detail and keep your mind occupied by making up a story to go along with every other diner. Relish every bite you take. Don't rush your meal, and try to commit the flavors to memory. If you take a book with you or if you gulp down your meal in record time, you might as well have remained in your room with a bunch of crackers and a bottle of sparkling water.
Get started a journal of your experiences while traveling alone. If you write it daily, it will also fill some time when you are enroute to a new location or are by yourself. This journal will also serve as a future reference for place names and sights after you return home and are relating your experiences to others.
One of the advantages of solo traveling is that you are flexible. Instead of compromising with a travel companion, you decide where to go and what to do. Your free time is your own and not a source of argument or contention with whomever you're traveling.
Many people will be awed of you for traveling alone. And you know that all it takes to travel by yourself is some self-assurance and a curiosity about the world around you to make solo travel an enjoyable experience.
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