By:  Sandy Ingram

Traveling alone is a challenge within itself.  To be safe, it is best to plan ahead, always be aware of your surroundings and limit the amount of information you give out before and during your trip.

You can try an all-inclusive resort that will give you the safety of communal living, yet flexible enough to provide you with a detail experience of your chosen destination. You can increase your experience encounters by signing up for tours offered by your resort. These mega resorts offer tours for shopping, sightseeing, night life, educational and adventure.

My favorite choice, when traveling alone is to take cruises.  If you would rather travel to 2, 3 or more cities then a cruise may be your best choice. There are single cruises that are high end, (meaning they won't make you feel like you are on the prowl)!

The next best travel agenda for singles traveling alone, is tours.  This has a built in safety factor, when traveling with a group.

Independent Traveler, Single

Safety is a serious issue and should not be taken lightly. Listed below are tips to increase your safety factor when traveling alone:

When you check into your hotel, give your Bellman a $5.00 to $10.00 tip. Tell him your name and ask him a question about your stay at the resort, Keep this conversation, brief and professional.  That way the Bellman will remember you and perhaps will look out for you.

Use the Hotel safe for money, your travel documents and jewelry.

Always try to originate your cab ride from your hotel. When away from your hotel try to avoid asking strangers for directions. If you get lost or need help, go to the nearest Hotel (the larger the better) and ask for help at the Front desk!

Select your 'return trip cab' with caution.

Invest in a body purse or use a money belt. (strongly recommended)

Do not flash cash, foreign or domestic. If you are not sure of the money exchange, it is OK to leave a little extra money on the table.

When meeting people during your travel, do not give out your exact room number.  Meet your date in the lobby.

If you decide to go out on a date with a man/woman that you meet while traveling, have him/her pick you up at your Hotel. Find your Bellman, and casually mention that you are going out with one of the locals and ask a question about where to go? (The Hotel does not want anything to happen to you, because then how would the hotel bill be paid?)

ALWAYS remember to BE SAFE in personal encounters.

Remember, if you are an American, you could be a target! OR, they may want to marry you so they can move to the US. (Note: In Egypt men are legally allowed to have three wives)

Wait until the last day before your departure before giving out your home address or telephone number. (You would not want this information forwarded to a professional thief while you are away on vacation)

Try not to break anyone's heart.

If you get into trouble, contact the nearest US Embassy.

Leave a detailed itinerary with a friend or relative at home. Check in with this family member or friend often during your vacation.

 

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