World Traveller May 2019

KNOW-HOW
The Knowledge
HOW TO...
Join the solo female travel movement
Carina Otero, founder of She is Not Lost, and Nastasia Yakoub, founder of Dame
Traveler, share their top tips for female globetrotters in search of adventure
Travelling solo doesn’t
necessarily mean travelling
alone. "It simply means that you are
free to follow your own schedule and
choose what you do," says Carina. "In
fact, solo travellers are more likely
to meet and enjoy the company of
other people along the way, including
fellow female travellers who can offer
companionship while also respecting
your independence."
Carina Otero in Marrakech
Feeling nervous is normal. "I was
born into a strict Chaldean-Middle
Eastern household so I understand
feeling apprehensive and nervous
about travelling," says Nastasia.
"Women from a similar background
will know that travelling solo is a
big, bold decision. My first trip solo
trip ever was to Cape Town and I
remember crying on the way there.
Truthfully, I was terrified, but after
my feet were on solid ground, I truly
embraced the spirit of adventure."
Do your research, and familiarise
yourself with a destination
before you get packing. "Even
some of the 'safest' places have
incidences of violence," says Nastasia,
"so make sure you do your research
and trust your gut."
Make sure you only do what you
feel comfortable with. "Speaking
from personal experience I’ve
felt safe travelling solo in many
destinations, including Taipei, Hong
Kong, Bali, Italy, Spain, Switzerland,
and Denmark," says Carina. "If you're
feeling apprehensive, look into joining
a women-only tour or a staying at a
women-only hostel."
Safety while travelling is a top
concern for any woman. "When
on the move, make sure you stay
connected to your map by investing
in an international phone plan and
keeping your electronics charged.
Try to schedule your travel so that
you arrive during the day, and it's also
wise to dress appropriately, or like a
local," says Carina.
"I like to look into typical scams
for the destination I'm exploring, just
to feel savvy and prepared," adds
Nastasia. "In addition, you'll never find
me without a safe and secure bag to
tote around during the day. I like one
with a sturdy zipper that crosses over
the body."
Staying focused and aware of
your surroundings is key. "If you
are making small talk with a new
person, never reveal that you are
travelling alone or that you are in a
place for the first time," says Carina.
"Even sharing a little white lie, that
you are on the way to meet someone,
will signal that someone is aware of
your whereabouts and is expecting to
hear from you. Other information you
should avoid sharing, or keep guard
of, is your hotel name, your room
number, and your home address if
you happen to have it written on your
luggage tag."
Follow She is Not Lost at sheisnotlost.com
and @sheisnotlost; and Dame Traveler at
dametraveler.com and @dametraveler
20 worldtravellermagazine.com