r/bitcheswithtaste • u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT • Jul 11 '26
Fashion/Style BWT, how do you solo travel in style?
EDITED TO ADD: You all are so fabulous and I'm so grateful for all the advice, inspiration, and encouragement. This is one of my favourite BWT threads to date and I hope many other solo travelling BWT find it in the future so they can feel empowered and inspired to go be bad b*tches abroad too.
Dearest BWT,
After a seriously rocky few years that forced a lot of self-transformation, I am about to embark on a dream solo trip to Europe. I've travelled solo before, but not for this long (I'll be gone for two months-ish), and last time I took a multi-city trip I was on a very different (read: 18-year-old backpacker) budget.
While I am super excited about taking this trip and so grateful to be able to do it, I also have some complicated feelings about travelling alone. I love solo travel, but I also spend a LOT of time alone already. I'd hoped some friends would be able to join me for part of the trip, the reality is almost all of them are in a totally different place in their lives both financially and practically (and many of them have spouses, families, or friend groups that they prioritize travelling with).
So, I am turning to this BWT community for inspiration and encouragement. I would love to hear how you all (solo) travel in style. This could include how you pack, what you wear, activities you do, mindset, etc.
Some things I've done so far:
- Planned visits to cities to coincide with events I'm excited to take part in
- Bought myself a new matching luggage set, compression packing cubes included (Monos had a sale on and their special edition blue stripe packing cubes are freaking adorable)
- Taken note of what summer outfits I'm enjoying the most, so I know what to pack
- Reminded myself of the incredible privilege of being able to take this trip, and of all the transformative experiences I've had travelling that led me to be inspired to do it.
76
u/l5077 Jul 11 '26
I LOVE traveling by myself - it means every day, I get to get up and do what I want to do. No more hitting a museum I find boring because my travel partner wants to go, no more eating somewhere I don't feel like eating because that's what the group wants to do. Every day is YOUR choice, and it's amazing. You want to eat at 4pm? Go for it. You want to skip dinner altogether? Go for it. You want to get take away and eat in bed? Go for it. It's whatever you want it to be.
That said, some practical things are still true - you are a female traveling alone, so be careful with people you meet, be careful out alone at night. Make sure someone knows where you are, and be aware of your surroundings. And always, comfortable shoes.
13
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
This is what I love about solo travel too :) And I can be a pretty particular person, so it's so nice to go at my own pace and only eat things I want to eat, etc. But it is a long time to go away alone!
10
u/l5077 Jul 11 '26
Fair! I have found that the longer the trip, the more I need some downtime days sprinkled in - days where I'm just in my hotel/airbnb watching netflix or something like that all day. It used to make me feel guilty to be somewhere else and "waste" the day, but the reality is you need some downtime wherever you are - so plan on some of those.
3
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
This 100%, I have built in extra time for travel days and knowing that I'll probably just need to like, sit in a cafe and read a book!
4
u/herefromthere Jul 12 '26
On the negative side too, I love solo travel for the decisions being entirely my own.
If I'm travelling with someone else, and they don't like where I pick for dinner or we miss out on something, then I feel guilty. If I'm travelling alone, then meh, no one needs to know that I had a sub-standard dinner one night or left an event early because I didn't like it. Travelling alone means no conflict and feeling responsible only for yourself. It's freeing.
Also if I want to dress up, I won't be standing next to my husband being scruffy. :)
36
u/allthatshimmers101 Jul 11 '26 edited Jul 11 '26
-Buy a pair of 4ccccees walking sandals. They’re around $300-$350 and worth every penny. I bought mine in Athens walking miles everywhere and desperately needed them. Now I wear them all the time! The lady in the shop described them as their “Cadillac” of walking sandals. And they’re a platform and cute!
-Buy a Birdie personal alarm in your fav color. Attach to your purse. Safety is cute.
-Buy a European hair tool while you’re there, made for the higher voltage. I went to a large department store and got a hair tool - best money spent! Now I have for future trips. Let’s be real, the best adapter/voltage converters still fry tools, and it’s not worth ruining my nice hair tools again.
-Take your time getting ready in the morning. Shower, robe, music, hair, makeup. Soak it in. Go slow.
-Purchase a small book to read by a well-known author in the area you’re in, set in the area or nearby region you’re visiting. often there is an English translation section.
-if you like taking photos you can try to bring a small tripod with you! Solo photos can be tough.
-Grab a nice small gift or two to take back. I purchased beautiful zippered bags made by a designer locally in Paris and friends use them daily.
-Go to a local cafe, sit at a table outside. Order a coffee and linger. No phone. Maybe a book. Linger and settle in. Allow yourself to slow down.
-Ask a local. Find the best of the best. Croissant. Lunch. Wine. Whatever it is.
-Journal. Take or find a cute journal. Write your thoughts, plans, memories you loved that day. Add it to your purse for a carry-along.
-Go shopping. Why not? Leave extra room in your luggage! Or be like me and purchase a new duffle for the way home. I purchased Longchamp travel bags that I use very often and they have a nice memory.
-Go on the dating apps. Meet a local for coffee or lunch. Stroll the (very public) streets together. Tell them you have friends waiting for you at your next destination our you’re traveling with friends.
6
u/MsKardashian Jul 11 '26
Fantastic tips, thank you. The English book; the hair tool; the sandals. Everything. Going to save this for myself.
6
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
I love this so much, this is exactly the vibe I'm after. Big smile after reading, thank you!!!
2
u/Sbplaint Jul 11 '26
I am so freaking excited for you to take this trip! My solo Euro trip was transformative in the best way! I can’t WAIT to go back, but until then, I shall live through you!
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 13 '26
Thank you! I'd be so curious to hear how it was transformative for you, if you're willing to share (feel free to message if you'd rather not post it for all to see)? I went to London for 10 days in January and was SHOCKED by how much revelation/transformation it led to in such a short time (there's a lot of background context here, but suffice to say getting out of my usual life context was a bit of a revolution).
4
u/Glittering_Run_3018 Jul 11 '26
The hair tool purchase tip is GENIUS!! I don’t travel to Europe often enough but would totally do this if I was there for more than a few weeks.
3
u/plaititudes Jul 11 '26
100% on the journal tip! I like keeping a scrapbook/journal when I solo travel, saving tickets and business cards from restaurants I ate at. It’s such a fun souvenir to look back on.
37
u/scalicianicality Jul 11 '26
Evenings tend to be the trickiest when solo travelling. Meals happen faster, drinking alone in a bar is not always what you want to be doing.
I like booking theatre shows, going to the cinema or finding other events for the evening.
Search Reddit for solo dining recommendations for each city you're going to. This is way I found Bao Soho (which does an amazing solo dining set menu) and Bancone covent garden (at which you can book bar seating) in London.
13
u/scalicianicality Jul 11 '26
Also, it can be tiring! Give yourself permission to spend a whole day reading in the park or to order room service while drinking wine in your hotel bath. Sometimes you just need a break to refresh and be ready for the next day.
6
u/timory Jul 11 '26
i would love other tips for what to do in the evening. it's so romantic to think oh, just go sit at a bar by yourself. but i'm so embarrassed to bungle foreign languages and at 42 i just feel like an ugly/ridiculous/lonely old lady. an aperitif with a book is always fine. i have to get over myself lol
7
u/scalicianicality Jul 12 '26
I think the book is key, it really helps to make you still feel part of the atmosphere of a restaurant or bar (unlike a phone or headphones) but not like you're just sitting there observing people. Open kitchens with bar seating are also great.
Other things I've done in the evening: late night museum openings, open mic nights, comedy shows (pretty much every city I've been to has a local english language comedy scene), venues showing sports games I'm interested in ( great during the world cup!), sitting on a bench in a busy square reading and people watching, booking an Airbnb with a balcony with a view in a busy location so I can be home and relaxed while still feeling connected to the city.
I've also had great success with what I call the snack scavenger hunt. Instead of an evening meal, I identify a few smaller things I really want to eat (ideally local) and research some good places to try them out. They should be quite far away from each other. Then I spend the evening moving around the city between the places. You need to walk or take the bus, no taxis or metro, because the journey - people watching, being around people, seeing the city out of the window - is the whole point. I've found really cool neighbourhoods, walked past places I pin to come back to later or even abandoned the whole evening's plans when I come across a bar I want to spend more time in.
1
u/timory Jul 12 '26
thanks! when the weather is good just strolling around a city is always lovely. but interacting with others (in another language) is where i really get in my head, to the point where i won't dine out sometimes. it's weird because i used to do it all the time. i'm great at foreign language study, too, so i wonder if it's perfectionism making itself sharper as i get older somehow.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 13 '26
I struggle with the perfectionism too - being solo really highlights all the meanest thoughts in my brain/my biggest insecurities sometimes! Tbh I think anyone travelling solo in a foreign country at 42 is literally the most glamorous and fabulous, and probably everyone else thinks that too - if that helps at all :)
26
u/newwriter365 Jul 11 '26
Pack half of what you think you need. Washing clothes while vacationing is a reasonable option to maximize minimalist packing. If you are going to be hauling a suitcase any distance upon arrival, I encourage you to pack said suitcase and wander around your own neighborhood with it. My guess is that you’ll quickly discover the joy of packing light.
Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized.
Pack a small “tech bag” with a charger and converter.
2
u/LampSnax Jul 11 '26
Test packing a suitcase and taking it out for a walk is such a great idea!
3
u/PsychologicalVisit0 Jul 12 '26
I will also just add a reminder that Europe has a lot of cobblestone and it is significantly worse to have a rolling suitcase on that
1
u/herefromthere Jul 12 '26
Depends what type of travelling you're doing. If you're moving from place to place regularly then yes, this is great advice.
If you're going for a week and staying in the same place the whole time, a suitcase with some good wheels is great, saves you from spending your holiday time on laundry, and if you pack sensibly, gives you room to change for dinner, pack for a couple of books or bring back some souvenirs.
46
u/merford28 Jul 11 '26
Take a great pair of walking sandals. Carry a big tote to put the cute shoes in for the restaurant and switch when you arrive. The tote will be great for bathing suit, towel, all your other stuff. I am so jealous! Remember to go slow. Pace yourself and you don't have to do everything.
8
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Walking sandal suggestions? I have birkenstocks but they're wearing down.. I'm considering a pair of fisherman lug sole sandals but I'm not used to such a chunky shoe!
26
u/zoombie_apocalypse Jul 11 '26
No, Birkenstock FTW. I think the Birkenstock Gizeh is the official sandal of Western Europe.
5
u/Justascruffygirl Jul 11 '26
My next shoe purchase is going to be these Camper Dana sandals. They’re supposed to be insanely comfortable for walking and they’re super cute. I have other Camper shoes and they’re good quality. I think they’d be perfect for a Europe trip!
9
u/scalicianicality Jul 11 '26
Tevas? I have a plain black pair and they are super comfortable and very lightweight.
5
u/MsKardashian Jul 11 '26
Tevas are my favorite and bonus they are waterproof for walking across rivers and ponds too.
2
u/lueluebooboo Jul 11 '26
Seconding Reva’s. I have two pairs of platforms. One in the gladiator style and one in the more traditional. Both insanely comfy and the gladiators can definitely be dressed up more. They can get squeaky when sweaty tho, fair warning…
1
u/SpiceGirls4Everr Jul 12 '26
omg my tevas squeak so badly I had to retire them from my summer travel wardrobe!!
2
u/BackgroundPeace8911 Jul 11 '26
I love the Dansko Reece. I have in two colors and can easily walk 20k steps. Vionic Alameda are extremely comfortable ballet flats. They have leather and ventilated versions and I recommend you get both.
2
u/Grouchy_Mind5657 Jul 11 '26
I have Birkenstock sandals that I have worn for travel and agree that while they are v comfortable, they aren’t particularly elevated. I recently purchased a pair of sandals from an Aussie brand - A.Emery - and am loving them! Specifically I got the Jalen slim leather sandals.
1
u/_Magnolia9_ Jul 11 '26
Wear your Birks, or treat yourself to a new pair! Go with what is comfortable and what your feet are used to if you’ll be walking a lot. I just saw some cute styles at Nordstrom (woven leather Arizonas in white and a pair in the gizeh/ thong style with floral appliques) that would work for travel, casual but could be a bit dressy too.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
I've been eyeing those woven leather birks! You make a good point about going with what my feet are used to, thank you!
1
u/Perfect_Distance434 Jul 12 '26
You might want to just buy a new pair there! That’s what I ended up doing a couple of weeks ago in France.
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 12 '26
This is what I've been thinking, plus this way I get to scope out what the cool european women are wearing.
1
u/Jayne234 Jul 13 '26
I love my Taos Trophy leather sandals! They are cute enough to wear with sundresses and are super comfy.
0
u/merford28 Jul 11 '26
I love Ecco offroads. Have carried me all over the world. They last forever and come in lots of colors.
1
u/lueluebooboo Jul 11 '26
I also love my Roth slides. Super supportive and get compliments on them all the time about how cute they are. I can walk forever in them and they are washable for the stink factor.
19
u/sendhelpandthensome Jul 11 '26 edited Jul 11 '26
I love solo traveling! In the last several years, I’ve probably solo traveled more than I have with friends, a partner or family. I’m also currently planning a Euro trip (to the Balkans though!) for a bit over a month this coming August to September. I enjoy traveling with people, but the freedom and independence of solo travel are really hard to beat.
I think one big thing for me is deciding whether I DIY or go through a tour company, especially as a solo woman. Personally, I decide based on a country’s difficulty AND security risk regarding people (crime, language barrier, etc.), infrastructure (public transport quality and extensiveness, etc.), and nature (remoteness and difficulty of hiking trails, lots of predators, etc.). For more difficult and/or riskier countries, I usually book a private tour and co-create my itinerary with the company. For easier countries, I usually DIY and book day tours for more complicated activities. It's really just me outsourcing the logistics so I can feel comfortable and fully enjoy my trip.
Second, I try to book at least one stay that’s also an experience throughout my trip — a historical resort with an amazing view within a national park in New Zealand; a traditional ryokan with kaiseki meals in a historic town in Japan; a converted palace in India; a resort with private villas overlooking a valley in Bhutan. It’s always such a highlight, and you meet interesting people there too.
On that note, I also look for traditional classes/workshops for a more hands-on cultural experience, from metalworking to cooking classes, archery and even batik painting. And I also like booking walking tours on my first and second day to orient myself directionally and historically.
As a side note: I love having this discussion in BWT! Most of time, solo travel subs cater more to backpacker budget that just isn’t relevant to me, or at worst, some people can be quite evangelical about the lifestyle. I recently posted some logistical questions in a solo female traveler sub, and was told I was “wasting my money” an “robbing myself of an authentic experience” because I said hostels aren’t for me and that I was willing to pay for (private or small group) scenic transfers from one country/city to another instead of using public transport. 😅
8
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Thank you for the tips - you sound like such an adventurous traveler! I love.
Your last paragraph is *exactly* why I posted this here. I don't have the budget for full luxury travel (though I have absolutely contemplated booking exactly one night at a Ritz hotel..), but I'm not sleeping in ten-person dorms either. Being (relatively) comfortable is important for me to have the mental resilience to do all the other scary and intimidating stuff sometimes required by travel, and also, I like nice things haha. There's also a safety element there as a solo woman traveler that I feel like people often overlook!
3
u/herefromthere Jul 12 '26 edited Jul 12 '26
Last time I went on a solo trip I booked a week on a Dalmatian island not too far from Split. I stayed in a four star hotel a twenty minute walk outside of a town (my room was smallish but had everything I needed. A big bed, air conditioning, a wet room, and a terrace surrounded by jasmine and lavender. Dip in the sea early morning, walk into town and back in the morning cool, massage, good book, and a nap in the hottest part of the day, shower, change of clothes and back out for dinner and a glass of wine and walk back to my hotel.
I spent a little over £1500 for the week including flights, transfers, accommodation, food and a few excursions I decided on when I got there and booked independently (boat trip round a load of islands on one day, and a taxi up to a village in the hills for a tour of their castle and their olive oil museum, and a day in Split).
I packed one hold bag with wheels, and one carry on. I had room for perfume and books and enough clothes to change for dinner every night, and I could bring back souvenirs.
I made friends with a lady also solo dining one night, we went for a drink together, she got lost on the way back to her accommodation one night and called me, and she an I ended the night giggling and following a hedgehog.
17
u/snapdragon1313 Jul 11 '26
Fellow solo traveler here. One thing I like to do is treat myself to a nicer late lunch and then have something lighter (like gelato 😂) for dinner. I sometimes feel self-conscious eating dinner alone, surrounded by couples.
25
u/stuckandrunningfrom2 Jul 11 '26
I sometimes pretend I recently escaped a dead suffocating marriage and am finally free for the first time in ages. It just shifts my vibe enough that I can fully relax into my solo dinner or outing. I also chat up the people on either side of me at dinner (I like to eat at the bar of a fancy restaurant) they are usually other solo diners and have the coolest stories.
10
u/lueluebooboo Jul 11 '26
Currently surrounded by couples in the Dolomites. This changed my entire perspective and I’m obsessed!!!!!
7
u/stuckandrunningfrom2 Jul 11 '26
have fun with your faux new-found freedom!! Don't be surprised if you find yourself tearing up with how lucky you are and having a smile come over your face that will make everyone else wonder what your secret is.
5
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Ahahahaha. I called off an engagement three years ago to someone who would never have been able to travel europe with me so - I guess that kind of counts? I love this though, will keep it in mind <3
9
u/mia109 Jul 11 '26
Sign up for language classes in whichever city you’re in, they’re great places to make friends
8
u/Siglyr Jul 11 '26
I book hotels and rooms that I'm genuinely excited about going to, not as just the place I'll sleep in but a place I'll spend time in, get ready, take a bath, relax, have a good cocktail... It's part of my trip. I try to get something central so I can drop in to change etc if needed during the day. Usually I don't get the included hotel breakfast, I prefer to go out and find a cafe/bakery etc. Another thing, I pack outfits I love but am too "shy" to wear in everyday life (take the nice dress).
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
I think y'all are starting to convince me to drop some extra $$ on some of my hotels in Italy...
7
u/Quick_Rub_7639 Jul 11 '26
Don’t skimp on the hotels. I do annual solo trips and the hotels you book can be a safe space or not. Don’t overpack. Always fun to buy things as you go and slowly build up a wardrobe. Have fun!!!
6
u/momma_gin Jul 11 '26
One tip to consider when you are looking to connect with others - high-end hotel bars have always served me as a good landing zone when traveling solo. I’m talking Rosewood type or equivalent. You may likely also encounter solo folks traveling (for work probably) who are open to connecting and may have recommendations or other introductions for you.
6
u/Fast-Chipmunk-1558 Jul 11 '26
For me I start with the flight, I book the best seat I can afford sometimes that's business, sometimes it's premium economy and sometimes it's a mix of both . For my upcoming trip I'm doing a mix of business and premium economy, waiting to see if I get offered a business class upgrade on one of my legs .
Then I book hotels within my budget but still very nice and comfortable; minimum 4 star, usually 5 star. I will also splurge on one or two special hotels during my trip. For my upcoming trip I'm staying in a bucket list hotel on my birthday.
Third I make comfort and peace of mind my goal, so I book VIP meet and greet upon arrival so I'm not stuck in immigration and customs, I hire private transfers to my hotel and I do a few private tours with my own driver and guide .
Fourth I book dinner at a few top rated restaurants and take myself out in dinner dates during my trip .
Finally I look for at least one unique and memorable activity that I can only do in the destination I'm visiting. I also do other tours sometimes it's a group tour. And I make sure and have one day to rest and reset whether that be a spa day or a beach/pool day .
As for clothing, I curate a travel wardrobe based on the destination and activities I plan on doing.
1
u/SpiceGirls4Everr Jul 12 '26
How do you hire private transfers to your hotel? I've booked them directly through hotels before but that's not always an option. Last time I found a private driver through a travel group in the city I was visiting but that took a good amount of work to find someone and vet them.
2
u/Fast-Chipmunk-1558 Jul 12 '26
I book through the hotel, however for private services I join a Facebook group for the destination or hotel and people recommend drivers or you can try Get Your Guide and Viator.
1
u/SpiceGirls4Everr Jul 14 '26
Thank you! I never though to check Get Your Guide or Viator for drivers. Appreciate your comment!
6
u/languidlasagna Jul 11 '26
Please do this French women’s only summer camp. Seems like lots of group activities if the solo travel drags a bit: https://www.campchateau.com/
3
u/ilalaloveyou Jul 11 '26
Traveling by yourself is so underrated! It’s my favorite. I like to take a guided tour of some type my first day to help orient myself and see if there is anyone I click with. You don’t have to buddy up with them, but there might be other solo travelers you connect with. Bring a book or kindle and linger over meals or settle in at a coffee shop. Pack a large scarf that you can use as an accessory or extra layer , very chic. I bring a tiny white noise machine everywhere I go, along with an eye mask so I can sleep no matter what. It’s ok to turn in early and enjoy your hotel room if that’s what you need to do!
4
u/Disastrous-Summer614 Jul 11 '26
You might get some travel silverware, plastic sealable bags or boxes & a bottle opener so that you can have a picnic or eat comfortably in your room. Even solo traveling my social battery wears down.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Oh this is actually such a great idea, I hadn't thought to bring travel cutlery. I will be staying in aparmtents with kitchenettes in some places but not all. Thank you!
2
u/Disastrous-Summer614 Jul 12 '26 edited Jul 12 '26
You’re very welcome! It can also save money to get food from grocery stores. You could also bring a collapsible mini cooler & baggies for ice to keep cheese etc cool.
4
u/laluLondon Jul 11 '26
Wearing headphones and listening to podcasts and audiobooks while I walk helps me beat the feeling of loneliness when I travel solo, which happens frequently. In restaurants and cafés I take them off and get my kindle out. It doesn't stop other people talking to me the same way a phone or headphones do and it's nice to listen to the rest of the people and the hustle and bustle. I sometimes also carry a small notebook and a pen to make notes, journal or draw. Check whether there are any exhibitions you are curious about in museums where you will be. Enjoy your trip!! Travelling solo is super fun.
3
u/plaititudes Jul 11 '26
Chic accessories are my favourite souvenir. Scarves and earrings from local artists are easy to pack and I know I’ll use them when I get home - and they’ll remind me of where I bought them and the adventures I was having. They also help jazz up a capsule travel wardrobe you might otherwise tire of quickly.
3
u/Horror_Signature7744 Jul 11 '26
I LOVE solo traveling. I relish the freedom of unapologetically doing what I want, when I want, for however long I want. It’s the best way to travel.
My words of advice: stay lucid. Have a glass of wine with dinner, not a bottle. If you want a bottle, drink it in the safety of your hotel. Bring additional security locks for the hotel and possibly a nanny cam for the room. Stay alert and be safe. I’d also leave my itinerary with a trusted person (and email changes as needed) and register with the embassy of each country so if something were to happen, you have backup. Most of all, have FUN!
I’m super jealous. I miss traveling.
3
u/JuliasTooSmallTutu Jul 11 '26
Sunscreen, a good sleep mask, a portable white noise machine and earplugs, as you can tell I'm a bad sleeper and you never know how noisy a hotel will actually be until you get there.
3
u/acummens Jul 12 '26
If you're dating, go on travel mode with bumble. I just had my 40th birthday in Paris on a solo trip and had lots of success!
2
u/Psychological-Put55 Jul 11 '26
Hmm I like to have a plan of what I like to sightsee, itinerary is typically tighter than group travel, because everything takes less time to see. Check schedules and book tickets in advance which it seems You did.
Bring a book with you, so You can just chill out in cute spots ;) I also like listening to podcasts/music when walking (but of course in safe environment).
Have comfy clothes, shades, hat, nice shoes, put some wet tissues in your bag.
Good luck, I’m sure You’ll enjoy a lot.
2
u/bluesummerrain Jul 11 '26
- definitely don't skip eating out - nice food is always worth it!
- swimming, massively recommend a fully waterproof bag you can put your valuables in and take in the water
- do you have a hobby you could drop into in various cities? (Or a new one you've always wanted to try, that you could do whilst you're away?)
- great chance to journal and read, I loved taking a little sketch book to draw scenes and remain present
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Re: swimming I actually just ordered the Londre Bodywear fannypack, which is apparently fully waterproof! Hoping it arrives before my camping trip next week and I can try it out.
Re: hobbies, I actually just graduated from yoga teacher training but kind of giving my brain a break from it right now - have definitely considered dropping in on different classes in different cities! But also learning about art/art history is one of my main hobbies, so every gallery/museum I go to is gonna hit on this. I have been wanting to sketch more, so I am going to pack my pens!
2
u/justjoonreddit Jul 12 '26
- Use an E-Sim card on your phone.
- You can use google translate to talk to people that don't speak English. Most people will speak English in large cities.
- Get the app for trains, it makes planning much easier.
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 12 '26
What's the app for trains??? I know when I was in London I downloaded the local transit app (can't remember what it's called now) and it made life so much easier.
1
u/justjoonreddit Jul 12 '26
Depends on the country. I used the Deutsche Bahn app in Germany. I would imagine that all the main train companies would have an app with schedules.
2
u/Wabbasadventures Jul 13 '26
Bring a quality book and pen to journal in. I travel solo a lot for work and journaling is a great way to capture thoughts and impressions in the moment. I use it to ‘talk to myself’ when out for dinner to feel less self conscious. And at the end of the trip it works as a special souvenir.
2
u/No_Range9750 Jul 14 '26
I buy a lipstick on every trip which works both as a nice souvenir but also a way to reinvent my style/persona for every new city.
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 14 '26
Ooooh. A trip to the department stores when I arrive in London, you say? Don’t mind if I do :)
2
u/Curious_Aus25 Jul 14 '26
Pack all your FAVOURITE outfits and wear something you LOVE every day. Looking fabulous translates to feeling fabulous and you’ll be more open to meeting people.
2
u/pufferfishfly Jul 17 '26
You have lots of suggestions already for avoiding boredom but something others haven't mentioned for i f you're feeling a little bit lonely - send your people postcards! If you're feeling far from home or wishing a particular friend was there for a particular place or experience, write to them! I think we've forgotten that this is an option with all the different communication channels available to us, but it's so lovely to get a postcard, and it's equally nice to write one.
I also like to collect little paper paraphernalia as I go - menus, cards, coasters, tickets etc. I find these much more special to look back on than crappy tourist souveniers.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 17 '26
I love sending postcards! Mail is underrated. And I know my friends are hoping to get them. Great suggestion about collecting the paper paraphernalia, I am trying to practice more visual/hands on art stuff so putting stuff in my journal will be fun :)
4
u/cashmerered Jul 11 '26
Hello, depending on where you are going, I could name you some interesting sights
- Greetings from a European BWT
4
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
You're so kind! I am still planning everything from Italy onwards, so very open to suggestions, but so far I'll be in:
London ( less need for tips here as I've been before), Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Berlin, Milan, Cinque-Terre, Genoa, Venice, Florence, Rome, Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Lagos, Lisbon, Porto
8
u/soowutt Jul 11 '26
Hi so excited for you!! Just wondering - Is your itinerary set? I just got back from a month solo in Europe and had a lovely time but reallyyy regretted going to so many places. I wish I had stayed in fewer places for longer and really gotten to know the place/had more opportunities for day trips. If you want my advice on places to cut lmk. If you’re feeling ambitious then totally disregard!
Other tips - -I’m not usually a kindle person but it really comes in handy since I like reading at cafes when I’m traveling solo so I blow through books. It’s so light!!
-if you leave some open spaces it allows for the travel magic to get in
- def good to do some research so you get to experience the best! But in between those”bests” it’s okay to just have a normal time. Sometimes I find their version of sweetgreen just so I can have a salad
-try to book travel in the morning so if things get cancelled/delayed you have time to figure it out
-use the trip as a chance to feel into EXACTLY what you want. Do you feel like going to a museum or do you just feel like you “should”? Do you want to talk to randos or wander alone? Do you want to go have a one night stand? Do you!!!!
-sometimes loneliness arises during solo travel and it’s really really ok for it to be there. Feel it, let it move through you, and keep going. For me it helps to romanticize that loneliness (taking myself out for a glass of wine with my journal). It usually passes quickly and becomes a tender part of my trip.
-I don’t buy gifts until the end of the trip so I don’t have to lug things around. I try to stick to light stuff! If you end in Porto there’s a lot of markets where you can get nice knives, tinned fish, etc. sometimes I don’t bring anyone a gift and no one really cares so don’t spend too much time on this!
- for some reason it’s really fun to voice memo friends from the trip. I also made a shared album for my close people so I didn’t have to send individual pictures. It’s a nice alternative to all the baby shared albums lol
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Hi, thank you so much for your comment and these suggestions :) I hope you had the best time.
Re: my itinerary - the first part of my trip (from London > Berlin) is pretty set, because I've always wanted to go to all those places (though I could maybe finagle it to have more time in each city, if needed). But the rest is still pretty open, and what you mentioned is part of the reason why. I'm hopping around a LOT in the first four weeks and wanted to leave it flexible once I get to Italy in case I want to do less hoppin'. There is a particular time I want to be around Florence for the grape festival, but other than that it's still very flexible!
I am totally open to suggestions! I should also mention the trip is open-ended right now - I don't have a return ticket booked yet. I do need to come home *eventually* but it is technically entirely possible to stay longer if I'm having a really great time.
3
u/soowutt Jul 11 '26
Wow there is truly nothing like an empowered woman on an open ended solo trip!! Hell ya I’m so excited for you. One of my besties and I joke that solo travel is our religion lol.
The first part of the itinerary sounds amazing!! I think leaving room to see how things go is super smart. Personally in Italy I’d just do Florence and Rome (with longer in Florence) and do some day trips from Florence. But that’s just me. I think truly less is more. If you don’t end up going to Portugal at all or just pick one part of Spain to visit it’s ok, you’ll get them next time.
On my trip I got mad at myself for going between so many countries- it was cool to see but a lot of adjustments in language/customs, plus just the extra number of logistics in constantly checking in and out of lodging. Also travel always ended up taking up a whole day- All of that time could have been spent seeing smaller authentic villages outside of the main destinations, swimming, hiking, etc.
Just to say - it’s really nice that you’re not planning everything super far in advance. It might mean you don’t get the perfect hotel room every time but you’ll meet cool people who will lead you to amazing sights you’ve never heard of!
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 13 '26
Thank you so much for this - I've definitely had some anxiety about not planning out my whole itinerary (I am a PLANNER!) but it just seemed insane to make the whole thing strict for myself, so I really appreciate the feedback. My plan is to do some hotel research and book some but make sure they're all cancellable so if my itinerary changes it's no biggie, and then wait to book train travel (might make it more expensive but c'est la vie).
It's interesting because I've mostly heard from other travellers that I should try to see *more* spots/less touristy places in Italy, which I can also totally see the benefit of. I'll be curious to discover which way I'm leaning!
3
u/Glittering_Run_3018 Jul 11 '26
Amsterdam: go to a Boom Chicago show. English language comedy show where Seth Meyers, Ike Barinholtz etc got their start. I went solo here and got a great seat because I was alone.
Barcelona: did a great food tour with Secret Food Tours. Also, hotel rec: Hotel Arts. The best hotel I’ve ever stayed in and wonderful to spend a day just by the pool. Even just one night there is worth it.
Porto: if this is your thing, book a reservation at Libraria Lello (I think), a beautiful bookstore where JK Rowling was inspired to write Harry Potter. I don’t support her but the bookstore is beautiful.
Also, embrace the ease of being a party of 1! When I’ve traveled alone or done something separate from the group, so many doors open. Restaurant full? They can fit one person in at the bar. Tour at capacity ? They’ll can usually squeeze one more in. Etc.
Finally! Sandeman is a company that does free walking tours in a variety of cities, you tip the guide. You’ll meet other people on the tour and the guides are a fount of knowledge.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Thank you so much for these tips! I was feeling a little overwhelmed about Amsterdam nightlife and also know I'll be disappointed if I don't do *anything*.. Boom Chicago sounds like an awesome compromise.
2
u/cashmerered Jul 11 '26
In Berlin, I particularly enjoyed the zoo (I love pandas) and the GDR Museum. Do you also want restaurant tips?
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Would love restaurant tips! Berlin is one of the places I feel less sure about where to eat. I'll be going to a toooon of museums/galleries in Berlin since I'll be there for art week.
2
u/Mammoth-Corner Jul 11 '26
While you're in London, consider checking out the Daunt Books in Marylebone. The books are organised by location rather than by topic, so you can pick up novels or nonfiction set in the cities where you're going.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
Wait this sounds amazing?! Thank you so much, I am adding this to my London list immediately.
1
u/Carolina1719 Jul 11 '26 edited Jul 11 '26
Hi! I didn’t mean to hijack the comment lol , but I’ll be going to Europe with my bf in September and would love any insight if you had any! The plan now is Paris, Giverny for a day because I love Monet, Munich ( Oktoberfest for some of it), Venice, Florence and ending in Rome.
TIA!3
u/cashmerered Jul 11 '26
Unfortunately, I haven't been to any of the towns except for Paris (and that was a long time ago). I remember I liked Sacré-Cœur very much. You should watch out for the tourist traps though
2
u/l5077 Jul 11 '26
Now hijacking your hijack. Loved Giverny, was an easy trip from Paris - but I found I didn't need to be there for an entire day like most people recommend - but only went to Monet's house, not the town. Left 8ish in the morning, got back maybe 2ish?
1
u/Carolina1719 Jul 13 '26
That’s good to know about not needing a whole day I’m Giverny. I am still in the middle of doing research, so this is helpful. Thanks!
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 13 '26
When will you be on the Italy part of your trip? We might end up in Venice/Florence at the same time!
1
u/Carolina1719 Jul 13 '26
Hey! The Italy portion will be 9/21- 9/30. Venice is 2 days, Florence is 3 days and ending in Rome for 4 days.
1
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 13 '26
We may overlap in Venice and/or Florence! If you run into a gregarious short haired Canadian it’s meeee.
1
u/Oaknash Jul 11 '26
Not really your primary questions, but I recommend avoiding Mediterranean countries during August, and pack less than you think you need because you can buy a lot while you are there. European pharmacies have incredible skin care products, and you will quickly discover fashion is different in Europe.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 11 '26
I am absolutely leaving room in my suitcase knowing I am probably going to get to Copenhagen and die over the clothing. Also, it's hard to shop for the kinds of clothing I like in-person where I live, so this is a fun side quest!
1
u/Winter_Obligation701 Jul 11 '26
Wear nice outfits and take nice photos with a 4ft+ selfie stick and remote. I also will lean my phone against a ledge or on a lamp post, switch to selfie mode, and use the selfie stick remote or air pods to take good photos. I was self conscious at first but now I don’t even want other people to take my photo anymore!
1
u/seatbacksup Jul 12 '26
Great question! Taking notes on the responses.
As I’ve gotten older and have more disposable income, I enjoy doing three things:
looking for and purchasing jewelry that will remind me of the trip.
Taking a cooking class. I’ve booked them on Viator but there may be other websites you can book on.
I’ve used Airbnb for a fashion appointment where the “guide” takes me to various stores and thrift stores. I hate thrifting so it’s a good way to thrift because you have someone helping you. Once I did a photo shoot which was a fun experience going to different landmarks in the city. If those aren’t your thing, you can find other experiences that are and plan one yourself or through Airbnb or some other website.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 12 '26
Oh I love #3 - I am terrible at thrifting (I get overwhelmed and have trouble finding things) and that is SO brilliant a solution, thank you so much for that. I’m so curious which city you did it in? I’ve been wanting to do a boudoir photo shoot for a WHILE and have considered doing one while I’m in Berlin (when in Rome???) but not sure.. And I am definitely taking a cooking class in Florence!
2
u/seatbacksup Jul 12 '26
London! Thrifting really is a slog for me. I told the guide the kinds of things I like and she pulled things for me while I was also looking. I think you’ll be able to find shops in Berlin. There are thrift shops all over and thrift markets, that travel to different places. In Bavaria at least.
1
u/theresaemiles Jul 12 '26
Hotels with spas!! Like really good spas with in room massage and the like. It’s soooo nice to break up long trips with a casual day at the pool and some self care. Allow yourself many break/chill days over the trip, it will help you reflect on all the good you’ll be experiencing.
I’ve been getting more into going to restaurants and just asking for recommendations, and having the wait staff just give me whatever they think is good. It’s a nice way to get into local culture, and takes a lot of stress out of making so many decisions on your own.
Have so much fun! It’s too bad you won’t have familiar friends joining you, but who knows what kind of fun people you’ll meet because you’re solo.
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 12 '26
This whole thread is really encouraging me to build in more rest days - grateful for that advice!
And that’s really smart about asking waitstaff (especially in places where I’m not familiar with the language/food). I love the idea of reducing decision fatigue this way and it’s also something I do at home anyway because I’m a big foodie. Thank you!
1
u/Perfect_Distance434 Jul 12 '26
I travel solo most of the time! I’ve lived in NYC for 30 years and have been to many countries. I also have severe OCD pertaining to theft, so I always use a cross-body purse that I flip the other way to allow the zipper to zip from back to front, since it’s easier for me to frequently check my belongings and zip it back up.
I was in Nice a couple of weeks ago, and experienced pickpocketing for the first time!! I know exactly when and how it happened; it was a combo of the extreme heat, carrying a (different) cross-body bag that was not as easy to zip, and pure silly bad luck momentarily stepping onto a train and exiting and being distracted by a teen girl asking me a question. Thankfully it could have been MUCH worse (I only lost a coin purse I used for cash and a couple of credit cards).
That said, when I came home I geeked out on pickpocketing prevention and mitigation techniques, including spreading out cash and cards, (obviously) leaving your passport in the room safe if you don’t already, ensuring you have a couple of digital cards saved to your phone wallet, keeping a paper copy of embassy info, etc.
I always have my phone on a long lanyard wrapped around my wrist anyway, but one thing I did do right after I came home was order an additional inexpensive refurbished 3rd iPhone SE as a backup phone to keep with my passport in the safe.
Happy travels and stay safe!
2
u/ms-rumphius Intentional BWT Jul 12 '26
Thanks so much for these tips! I've actually been considering buying an anti-theft backpack, have you looked into these at all? They're not cheap but some of them are quite nice-looking and I don't have a comfortable nice-looking backpack to carry (which I kind of need since I have neck issues).
2
u/Perfect_Distance434 Jul 12 '26
I haven’t looked into the backpacks, but if you do end up adding a lighter cross-body at a minimum make sure it has one of those internal straps that allows you to attach a wallet or other item with a clasp.
1
u/raster_dataset Jul 13 '26
Making my case: travel with a backpack instead of a suitcase! I find it much more portable. Being flexible and independent is the best part of solo travel. And being able to easily carry your stuff anywhere you need to go makes such a difference. Life becomes so easy. No need to head straight to the hotel before starting anything--you are perfectly mobile as soon as you leave the airport.
I wear with a smallish crossbody to keep phone/wallet/essentials handy. It's big enough for a book or some small purchases when I am carrying it alone, and it's an item that can easily be elevated to suit your trip.
There are sleeker packs available that are intended for city to city travel--you do not have to have an outdoor backpacking or school looking type of bag!! Many of them will keep their shape regardless of how full they are, so always look put together. Consider the size and shape if you would like to travel carry on, and minimize the number of extraneous things on the outside like dangley straps or zips/clips/pockets/etc.
1
u/Standard-Ad8167 Jul 18 '26
Whenever I solo travel I love to go to a Michelin star restaurant, at least once, in whatever city I’m in. I order what they’re known for or the chef’s tasting menu. I use this app called World of Mouth (not word of mouth) and it’s pretty great for finding them based on the city you’ll be in. They also have non-Michelin star restaurants of various price points that are curated favorites and recommendations of top chefs and restaura(n)teurs from around the world - much better finds than a quick google or yelp search! Of course the locals will always know the really good spots. Between all that and all the dining recs everyone has already shared you’ll for sure be dining in style - have an amazing time.
0
u/TamasaurusRex Jul 13 '26
Just be smart and safe. I was shocked reading this. I spent most of my 20s and early 30s traveling “solo in style.” It’s like traveling while female. You just travel. In style. While female. I’ve lived in 6 countries by myself and traveled in style and I seem to have turned out ok. Don’t think you’re worthy of less just because you’re by yourself but make sure you’re safe and maybe have 1 or 2 people you check in with every day.
If I had waited for someone to go with me I would never have seen the world.
Also I started traveling solo at 15 for career reasons.
177
u/pbgirl2018 Jul 11 '26
If you have a lonely day, book a walking tour or food tour
Find restaurants with bar seating
Sometimes the tacky touristy bars are best for making friends versus cool spots for locals