{"id":9512,"date":"2010-08-16T08:00:48","date_gmt":"2010-08-16T13:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/?p=9512"},"modified":"2016-12-17T11:27:34","modified_gmt":"2016-12-17T17:27:34","slug":"6-tips-for-solo-travelers-inspired-by-eat-pray-love","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/2010\/08\/6-tips-for-solo-travelers-inspired-by-eat-pray-love\/","title":{"rendered":"6 tips for solo travelers inspired by “Eat, Pray, Love”"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\"Eat,

Let yourself go on a trip inspired by "Eat, Pray, Love". Credit mzarzar.<\/p><\/div>\n

By Jeanenne Tornatore<\/em><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t be surprised if you come bursting out of the theater after seeing \u2018Eat, Pray, Love<\/a>\u2019 with a sudden urge to take a solo trip around the world.\u00a0 Not only are the featured destinations \u2013 Italy<\/a>, India<\/a> and Bali<\/a> \u2013 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.\u00a0 Here are some tips and advice for those who are considering going it alone:<\/p>\n

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1. Have a solid game plan ahead of time:<\/strong> 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.\u00a0 Being alone in a foreign destination and not being able to find an affordable hotel room can be an unhinging thought.<\/p>\n

2. Collect and share the right information:<\/strong> 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\u2019ll be visiting.\u00a0 And remember, it\u2019s always a good idea to email yourself any important information as well as a photocopy of your passport.<\/p>\n

3. Choose the right hotel\/resort: <\/strong>For a solo traveler, the thought of checking in for a week-long stay at a beautiful beach resort<\/a>, only to realize it\u2019s a \u201cromantic\u201d property with hundreds of couples is less than ideal.\u00a0 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.
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\n4. Avoid looking like a tourist: <\/strong>While this goes for allinternational tourists, it\u2019s even more important when you\u2019re alone and don\u2019t have that extra set of eyes to watch your back.\u00a0 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.<\/p>\n

5. Book an organized tour:<\/strong> Though you may love the idea of being a solo adventurer, after a few days you may be craving some interaction and conversation.\u00a0 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.
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\n6. Indulge:<\/strong> Whether it’s gelato in the afternoons or stopping in every shoe shop you pass, traveling solo means it\u2019s your vacation, so remember to take every opportunity to make the most of the time you have for yourself!<\/p>\n

Related resources<\/strong><\/p>\n