Why Traveling Alone is the Best Gift to Yourself
Honestly, I never really had a plan – I just wanted to see the world. So I did. Solo travel just happened. I won’t give you a step-by-step guide because, well… I never had one. I never really thought about it until people started asking me questions like “Don’t you get bored?” Oh, you can! But it is up to you to make your experience a fantastic moment! You’ll meet incredible people from all walks of life, whether you plan to or not; and this will change you and how you perceive the world. You’ll have to talk to people regardless, whether it is the waiters, bus drivers, strike up conversations with strangers without even realizing it. Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone – and that’s where the best stories begin. And if you’re thinking, But I’m too shy to talk to people! Trust me, I get it. I used to think the same. But take it from a former shy kid – you absolutely can! And well, strangers won’t give you a choice anyway, people WILL come to you, even if it is just to ask if you are lost! Let’s rewind – how did I get there? After graduation, I moved to the South of France, but it just didn’t feel right being there. I wasn’t sure what I wanted, really, so I started looking up where I could go to escape my reality. For my first move overseas, I didn’t go too far – I chose the neighbours. I became a nanny in London for a family with two kids in Hampstead. Not a bad setup for my first time living in a different country. I loved my time in London, I stayed for about six months, studied to improve my English, met many people. My experience with the family? Let’s just say it wasn’t the best – but it was a great learning experience. I came back home with a newfound appreciation for my mom’s parenting skills. After that, I went back to school to study – yep, you guessed it – Hospitality & Tourism! At the same time, I also enrolled in the French Navy. Yep, I really did. My plan? To serve on one of the ships. But that didn’t quite go as expected… Turns out, the waiting list for a woman to get assigned to a ship at the time was 10 years. Anyway, life went on, I made new friends, found jobs in tourism, and started traveling and going to events on my own. It kind of flowed naturally. I realized I actually enjoyed doing things solo – not waiting after anyone, it’s just freeing. One day, as I often do, I was browsing new destinations when I stumbled upon Mexico. And then – boom – Whale Shark season was coming up! A dream about to come true. No questions, no second thoughts – act now, think later. I booked it! I was beyond excited, and it didn’t even cross my mind to ask if anyone wanted to join. I was 20 years old and about to live one of my dreams! Of course, I got all the usual concerns and worries from people around me – even my mum! So, to put everyone at ease, I booked a resort. In the end, I was only there to sleep, but hey, at least it reassured them. Truth be told, I had zero interest in staying at a resort. I came to explore the country, meet the locals, and eat real food! The staff kept seeing me come and go and eventually asked why I even bothered booking a resort. I had a blast there and even went back the same year – this time with my mum, since it had always been one of her dreams. Plus, it was around Christmas, so… perfect gift! Over the years, I went back to London many times for weekend getaways. One of the best things about Europe? You can hop from one country to another easily and cheaply. So I did – a little bit. I visited Germany, Spain, Andorra, Portugal… but I wanted to go further. Stay longer. And that’s how I went WILD “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” – Lao Tzu So, why should you? I’m telling you – this freedom is addictive. No more waiting on anyone to make plans. Solo travel has become a lifestyle for me. It’s not just something I do – it’s who I am. And honestly? I try to convince everyone I meet who hasn’t travelled solo to give it a shot, even just once. You won’t regret it! That’s exactly why I’m writing this post first – because I hear it all the time. People cancel trips because someone bailed. Plans fall apart because nobody in the group chat is actually making moves to book the damn trip. If you keep waiting for others to join you – whether it’s for a trip, an event, or that restaurant you’ve been dying to try – you’ll be waiting a long time. And life is way too short to miss out on amazing experiences. I get it – traveling somewhere foreign alone can feel unsettling. With all the news we hear, the “what ifs” start creeping in. What if something happens? What if I miss my flight? What if I get bored? What if I have no one to share the memories with? These are all common concerns, but you know what’s worse? A missed opportunity. The regret of not ticking off that bucket list destination when you had the chance. Dangers exist everywhere, but just like you’re cautious at home, you can be cautious abroad. Why should that stop you from exploring? You don’t have to take the road less travelled – the well-travelled paths are just as incredible. Start there. Get comfortable. Gain confidence. And who knows? As you experience new places and new ways of traveling,
The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel: Explore Smartly & Safely
Women traveling solo is now a sign of empowerment. More and more bloggers and influencers are sharing their amazing stories, inspiring others to take the leap. But just a few years ago, things were different – solo female travel wasn’t as encouraged, it was considered risky, and it was definitely not the norm. I remember my first trip to Mexico when I was 20. I found myself on a bus to Chichen Itza, surrounded by American and French tourists – mostly families and couples. Their curiosity was endless. Why are you traveling alone? Aren’t you scared? Is it really safe? One mother even told me she would never let her daughter travel to such a place alone. She and her family weren’t leaving their resort except for excursions. To each their own, I thought, but I couldn’t help feeling that it was a shame – to travel so far and not truly experience the country. Ironically, I felt safer walking the streets of that touristy city than I did back home! Since I started my solo journey at 18, I’ve been lucky to have mostly good experiences. While I trust my common sense and gut feelings, I also rely on my trip preparation. Throughout the years, and based on my own experiences, here are some tips I can share with you. Tip 1: Trust Your Instincts Always listen to your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave or change your plans. This is real! I know some people roll their eyes at this, but it’s a shame – our gut instinct is a natural alarm. So why not trust it? It’s not magic – it’s your brain picking up on something before you fully understand it. That’s why trusting your gut can be a great tool, especially when traveling solo. While in San Francisco, I was on my way to the Mission District to see the famous murals. I took a streetcar, enjoying the ride, when I noticed a man roughly my height. He didn’t look like a creep, but something about his stare and demeanor made me uncomfortable. Something was off. There were few passengers in the streetcar, some elderly women; and at the back of the streetcar, there was this man – massive build, cap backward, tattoos, long white oversized t-shirt, and baggy pants. I didn’t think much of him or the other passengers. My focus was on the one who kept staring. When I got off, I quickly realized the man was following me. To shake him off, I entered a store – only to feel a grasp on my elbow. Before I could react, I turned and saw that the massive man from the streetcar had followed too. However, I didn’t feel insecure! He asked what I was doing around here, he too noticed the guy was following me; I told him I was visiting and wanted to see the murals. He stayed with me for a while making sure the other guy gave up. Not only did he help me avoid trouble, he also showed me where to go, what areas to avoid, and even recommended a great spot for burgers. I don’t remember his name – just how he was dressed – but I’ll never forget his unexpected kindness. Tip 2: Don’t Mention You Are Traveling Solo And Blend In You don’t have to announce that you’re traveling alone. While solo travel is amazing, not everyone needs to know you’re on your own – especially strangers you’ve just met. If someone asks, you can always mention that you’re meeting up with friends later or that you have people expecting you. It is not rude to be cautious while traveling solo! Don’t trust everyone too quickly! Be mindful of what you share, whether in conversation or even on social media. Posting in real-time about your exact location can make you more vulnerable. A little discretion goes a long way in keeping yourself safe while still enjoying your adventure! Avoid standing out as a tourist – try to blend in as much as possible. Research local customs and skip any flashy or ostentatious accessories. Theft can happen anywhere, even in your own city, but dealing with it in a foreign country can be especially stressful and a huge hassle. Losing your passport, money, or important documents abroad can disrupt your trip, so take extra precautions – stay aware of your surroundings, secure your belongings, and have backups of essential documents just in case. Tip 3: Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible Do your homework! Planning your trip is just as exciting as the journey itself – and just as important! While you’re looking for the most beautiful beaches and coolest cities, take a moment to check the safety information too! Research your destination best and worst neighbourhoods, accommodations, and transport options thoroughly. Get familiar with the area you’ll be staying in before you go – check maps, read travel blogs, check guides and look up safety tips. If you’re unsure, ask someone who has been there or look for recommendations online, especially from solo travelers. Learn about local customs, common scams, official taxi companies and emergency contacts – it’s always better to be prepared! Oh and, another thing: a trip will almost never go exactly as planned! Things change, delays happen, and unexpected challenges arise… mother nature likes to mind your business too! But that’s part of the adventure! One thing is for sure – you will develop great problem solving and adaptability skills, learning to navigate situations with confidence and a sense of humor (much needed!). Tip 4: Stay Connected Keep friends or family updated on your whereabouts – it’s pretty basic, but important. At a minimum, share the name of your accommodation, a rough itinerary, and how long you plan to stay. For some more peace of mind, your loved ones can also track your flight status – either through the airline’s website or with website like FlightRadar24.com. With all
The Unexpected Country Hopper: 10 Years Living Abroad
Reflections on a Decade Abroad I never planned to spend a decade hopping from one country to another. I was just supposed to move to New Zealand but it just turned into years of exploring, adapting, and sometimes wondering if I would ever settle down. From the excitement of new cultures to the challenges of constantly starting over, these years shaped me in ways I never expected. A decade of living abroad teaches you more than just how to pack light (plus ou moins lol) or navigate airports like a pro. It teaches resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of stepping outside your comfort zone. I learned that home isn’t always a place, but a feeling. That goodbyes never get easier, but the world is smaller than we think. That the thrill of discovering new places is addictive, but so is the longing for stability. From cultural shocks to unexpected friendships, from chasing sunrises in one country to packing up for another, these years gave me lessons that will stay with me forever. Here are some of the biggest takeaways from my 10 years as a country-hopping expat. Becoming More Open-Minded One of the biggest shifts that comes with living overseas? You become way more open-minded. Breaking out of your comfort zone and learning to appreciate different ways of life, of thinking, of seeing the world. When you’re constantly exposed to different cultures, customs, and ways of thinking, you start seeing the world through a broader lens. Things that once felt “normal” or “the way things should be” start to feel relative. You realize that there’s no one right way to live, work, eat, socialize, or even celebrate. You meet people with completely different backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives—and instead of judging, you start listening. You adapt, you embrace, and you learn. Maybe you pick up habits from different cultures, maybe your definition of “home” shifts, or maybe you just start questioning things you never thought twice about before. Either way, you grow. Living abroad doesn’t just teach you about the world—it teaches you about yourself. And once your mind expands like that, there’s no going back. Home is a feeling I’ve come to realize that home isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling, really. The warmth of shared moments, and the sense of belonging you create, no matter where you are in the world. The more I moved, the more I understood that home is wherever you feel at ease. It’s in the little routines you build—a favorite sushi train place were the waitress knows your order (can’t blame me for finding a good spot…), a street that feels familiar even in a foreign land, a sunset that reminded me of another place I once loved or the friendships that become your anchor when everything else feels temporary. Whenever I think about Bondi, I feel a sense of comfort, like slipping into a familiar routine. I remember the streets I used to walk every day, the little café where I’d visit my dear friend, always greeted with the most delicious hot chocolate, surrounded by the other regulars. The way the air felt in the mornings, our walks along the beach… Even though I don’t live there anymore, it still feels like a part of me—a place that once truly felt like home. Leaving a place doesn’t mean leaving “home” behind, because home isn’t something you lose—it’s something you carry with you. The People You Meet Along The Way That’s one of the beautiful things about traveling and living abroad—the people you meet from all walks of life, people you might never have crossed paths with in your own country. Travelers, locals, expats, dreamers, wanderers—each with their own stories, perspectives, and experiences. Each encounters teach you things no guidebook ever could. And this is truly one of the most unexpected joys of moving from place to place. People from different cultures, backgrounds, and mindsets, yet somehow, you connect easily, it just flows. It could be a local who welcomes you with open arms, a fellow traveler who shares wild stories and becomes your adventure buddy, or a stranger who helps you when you least expect it. It shifts your perspective, challenges your way of thinking, and makes the world feel both bigger and smaller at the same time. It’s the deep conversations with strangers who quickly become friends, the unexpected kindness, the shared laughter despite language barriers. It’s in these small, unplanned moments that you truly connect with the world. These connections leave a lasting imprint, shaping not only your journey but also who you become. Some people you may never see again, yet their influence stays with you! They all become part of your journey forever, even if you only knew them for a short time. They remind you of the power of human connection, and the beauty of stepping outside your own world. And sometimes, you realize that no matter where you go, there are always people willing to share a laugh, a meal, or a piece of their story with you. The Lonely Side Of The Nomadic Life Moving to a new country is exhilarating, you will meet a lot of people, and have a lot of fun; but there’s a side people don’t always talk about—loneliness. No matter how social or adventurous you are, there are moments when the excitement fades, and you realize you’re starting over… again. New faces, new streets, new routines—it’s thrilling, but it can also feel isolating. The hardest part isn’t just leaving a place; it’s leaving people. You make deep connections, only to say goodbye and wonder when—or if—you’ll see them again. Time zones make keeping in touch tricky, and while social media helps, it doesn’t replace shared laughter over coffee or spontaneous weekend plans. Also, as you get older, making connections while traveling or moving from country to country becomes more challenging. When you’re younger, friendships often form naturally through school, university, or shared activities. But as an adult, with each new
The Practical Side of Nomadic Lifestyle – The Unspoken Struggles
There’s an unglamorous side to living abroad that no one talks about – the paperwork, visas, bureaucracy, and financial adaptations. The homesickness, or burnout from constant change. Every country has its own set of rules, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, you move again and start from scratch. Working abroad comes with its own learning curve. Some places value work-life balance, others expect 60-hour workweeks. Some cultures encourage open discussions at work, while others expect hierarchy and formality. Finding your place professionally can be as much of a challenge as adapting personally. And then there’s the money side of things. Different currencies, fluctuating exchange rates, unexpected costs, and navigating banking systems in multiple countries – it’s all part of the package. The homesick feeling can creeps from time to time as well as the burnout of being constantly on the move, never really finding the time for yourself. Let’s look at some of these. Visas & Paperwork Ah, the never-ending saga of visas and paperwork – the part of traveling and living abroad that no one really talk about! Every new country comes with its own set of rules, applications, and endless forms to fill out. Some are straightforward, others feel like a full-time job just to prove you exist and won’t be a burden to their system. There’s the stress of waiting for approvals, the panic of realizing you missed a document, the frustration of dealing with government websites that crash right when you need them the most. The best way to go about it is to rely on official government websites and trusted sources. Be careful of scam websites that promise quick approvals or give outdated (or just plain wrong) information. Figure Out Your Situation – Do you just want to visit, or are you looking to stay longer? Will you need a work permit? What are your options based on your age and personal situation? These are the first questions to ask yourself before making any big moves. I won’t dive into the details of specific visa processes because, honestly, what’s true today might not be tomorrow – and I’m not qualified to give that kind of advice anyway. Let’s be real, this is one of the biggest parts of planning a move, if not the most important one. Get it sorted early If you’re planning a move, do your own research when the time comes to ensure you have the most up-to-date info and check what visa would suit best your need. Bureaucracy is a pain, but being well-prepared can save you a lot of headaches! Personally, I made all my big moves so far using Working Holiday Visas (or WHV). This type of visa that allows young travellers to live and work in a foreign country for a set period, usually between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the country. It’s designed to help you fund your travels while experiencing a new culture. Each country has its own eligibility criteria – usually based on age (often 18-30 or 18-35), nationality, and sometimes financial proof or health insurance. Some visas have restrictions, like limited work hours or specific industries you can work in. It’s a great way to travel long-term without draining your savings, but always check the latest requirements on official government websites before applying! Now, there are more and more countries offering this options, don’t miss out!! That being said, don’t worry, you will figure it out. You will learn to navigate the maze of bureaucracy, develop a deep appreciation for organized paperwork, and celebrate the small victories – like finally getting that stamp in your passport or an email that says approved. It’s a hassle, but it’s also just part of the deal when you choose a life that doesn’t fit into one place. Career & Work Opportunities The challenges of finding work, adapting to different work cultures, or even switching careers to make this lifestyle sustainable – especially when you’re not a digital nomad – a fairly new way of working! One of the most interesting (and sometimes stressful) parts of moving around is figuring out how to make a living in each new place. Some countries have thriving job markets, while others make you question if you’ll ever land anything decent. Sometimes, your previous experience means nothing, and you have to start from scratch. Other times, you fall into opportunities you never even considered before. I’ve done jobs I never thought I would, learned skills I never planned on, and realized that career paths aren’t always linear – especially when you’re constantly on the move. You become adaptable, open to new industries, and way more resourceful than you ever thought possible. And one thing I have realised, if you are motivated and willing to learn, usually employers will give you a chance! I moved to Australia with very little money in my bank account. Within just a few days, I found a job as a waitress at a newly reopening restaurant. The only catch? The paid training and actual work wouldn’t start until the end of the month, so things were tight until then. Good thing I had already paid for my hostel! Two years later, I met a man through my best friend – he owned a wealth management company. At first, he was just offering to help me find a good job so I could stay in Australia longer, as he didn’t have a position for me. But long story short, we got along, and he ended up hiring me! He taught me everything, and I worked with him for five and a half years – my longest job ever! When I say that motivation and a willingness to learn can land you a job, I mean it! I had never waitressed before, and I had never worked in finance (never even thought I would!), but I was eager to learn, and training was provided. Just try – if you don’t ask, you’ll never
Essential Tips for Traveling in France: What You Need to Know
Visiting France for the first time? Get ready for stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and a deep cultural experience. But before you pack your bags, there are a few things to keep in mind to make your trip smoother. From understanding local etiquette to navigating public transport and knowing when to dine, these essential tips will help you explore France like a pro. Whether you’re strolling through Paris, enjoying the sun in the South, or discovering hidden gems, here’s everything you need to know before you go! 1. Language & Cultural Norms When traveling to France, understanding the language and cultural norms will enrich your experience and help you feel at ease. French is the official language, and it’s spoken throughout the country, although regional languages like Breton, Occitan, and Alsatian are still in use in some areas. We take pride in our language, and it’s considered respectful to greet people in French, even if you only know basic phrases. While some people speak a bit of English in tourist areas, most don’t at all, especially in smaller shops or markets. Google Translate or a translation app can be helpful but learning a few basic phrases will be appreciated: Bonjour (Hello) Excusez-moi (Excuse me) Je suis désolé (I’m sorry) Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?) Bonsoir (Good evening) Merci (Thank you) Quick French Lesson on the pronouns “tu” and “vous” The Informal Pronoun “Tu” is the informal version of “you” and is used in casual or familiar situations. It’s commonly used with friends, family members, colleagues (when you have a close relationship), and children. If you’re speaking to someone of your own age or younger, or to someone with whom you have a relaxed relationship, “tu” is generally acceptable. In some regions of France, like the South, “tu” is used more freely even among people who don’t know each other well. The Formal Pronoun “Vous,” is the more formal and respectful form of “you.” It is used to show respect, politeness, or distance, and it’s the version you should use when speaking to people you don’t know well, or to someone in a position of authority (like teachers, bosses, or elderly people). You will also use “vous” when addressing a group of people, regardless of how well you know them. In the workplace, especially in professional settings, using “vous” is expected unless you are invited to use “tu” by the other person. When to Switch If someone asks you “On peut se tutoyer?” (Can we use “tu”?), it means they’re comfortable enough to switch to the informal version. However, it’s important not to assume that you can use “tu” without the other person’s invitation, as it can be considered impolite or disrespectful. Greetings are important. The standard greeting is a handshake when meeting someone for the first time, but with friends or close acquaintances, a kiss on both cheeks is the norm – though the number of kisses can vary depending on the region (can be up to 4!!). “La bise” as we call it can feel unfamiliar, but it’s just part of our culture. Keep in mind, we are not known to be overly touchy people and personal space is respected in most situations. Politeness and Formality. We value politeness and formality. It’s important to address people with their titles, such as Monsieur, Madame, or Mademoiselle, until they invite you to use their first name. It’s also customary to say “Excusez-moi” (Excuse me) when interrupting or approaching someone. When entering shops or restaurants, a polite “Bonjour” is expected before any requests. Public Behavior – we value personal privacy, so you may notice that we are often less likely to engage in small talk with strangers compared to other cultures. In public, it’s important to be respectful of personal space. Tipping is not mandatory: In France, service charges are typically included in your bill, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated, especially in cafes and restaurants. Queues are respected; don’t cut in line! Public transport etiquette: Let people exit before entering and don’t be loud. 2. Travel Documents & Money If you’re an EU resident, you can come and go freely, but for others (including British and American passports), you’re allowed to stay in France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your stay. Check the visa requirements based on your country here. Other documents you may need: Money France is very card-friendly, but in smaller towns or for small purchases, you may still need cash. Many places are not using contactless payments and many shops and restaurants have a minimum amount required to use a card. It’s always good to have some euros (€) for small purchases; and it is particularly needed for buses and metros! ATMs are easy to find, but notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid card issues. It’s generally safe to withdraw cash from ATMs, but always check fees before you withdraw large amounts. 3. Eating & Drinking For us, dining is more than just about eating – it’s an experience. When you sit down to eat, it’s a time to truly savor the food, engage in conversation, and enjoy the moment. It’s not the norm to take food “to go” or rush through a meal. Even something as simple as coffee is typically enjoyed while seated at a café or restaurant, often while chatting with friends or people-watching. This slow-paced approach to meals is so ingrained in our culture that it’s even noted in the labor code, which mandates a minimum break time for employees to sit down and enjoy their meals away from desks. Late Dinners – Many restaurants open for dinner around 7:30-8 p.m., and we eat later than in some other countries. Keep in mind that most restaurants in France close between lunch and dinner service (usually between 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.! So be sure to plan