6 tips for solo travelers inspired by "Eat, Pray, Love"

Let yourself go on a trip inspired by "Eat, Pray, Love". Credit mzarzar.

By Jeanenne Tornatore

Don’t be surprised if you come bursting out of the theater after seeing ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ with a sudden urge to take a solo trip around the world. Not only are the featured destinations – Italy, India and Bali – some of the most beautiful and culturally-rich places to visit, but heading out on a solo adventure can prove to be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips and advice for those who are considering going it alone:

1. Have a solid game plan ahead of time: While traveling solo gives you the freedom to do exactly what you want on your own time, make sure you have all of the travel essentials planned in advance of your arrival in a destination — notably your transportation and lodging. Being alone in a foreign destination and not being able to find an affordable hotel room can be an unhinging thought.

2. Collect and share the right information: Play it safe and give a friend or family member back home a detailed itinerary before you leave, including dates of travel, flight, hotel and train information. Also, research and carry with you details of the nearest U.S. embassy and local tourist emergency information in all of destinations you’ll be visiting. And remember, it’s always a good idea to email yourself any important information as well as a photocopy of your passport.

3. Choose the right hotel/resort: For a solo traveler, the thought of checking in for a week-long stay at a beautiful beach resort, only to realize it’s a “romantic” property with hundreds of couples is less than ideal. Make sure to do your research — including reading plenty of customer reviews — to find the properties that will suit what you are looking for in a solo experience.

4. Avoid looking like a tourist: While this goes for allinternational tourists, it’s even more important when you’re alone and don’t have that extra set of eyes to watch your back. Taking simple precautions like not carrying your camera around your neck and not having a map or guide book out in crowded places will make you less obvious to scam artists and pick-pockets. And remember, nothing screams tourist more than a backpack. Consider a larger satchel-style, carry-all that you can securely sling across your body.

5. Book an organized tour: Though you may love the idea of being a solo adventurer, after a few days you may be craving some interaction and conversation. Booking some guided group tours of the local sites can be a great way to meet other travelers, and a safe and comfortable way to venture around a new destination.

6. Indulge: Whether it’s gelato in the afternoons or stopping in every shoe shop you pass, traveling solo means it’s your vacation, so remember to take every opportunity to make the most of the time you have for yourself!

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Jeanenne Tornatore is a senior travel editor at Orbitz Worldwide. A long-time traveler and avid deal seeker, she regularly shares her industry knowledge, practical advice and savvy tips with national print and broadcast media around the country.

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