Okay, I admit it. I am a wimp. I have the courage to travel the globe alone while others do not even think about it, but as soon as night falls, I’m the queen of jitters.
When traveling, I do not like to find myself alone outside in the dark. Am I right to be scared or am I paranoid? A bit of both, I think, but that’s not the question.
First, do not avoid at all costs to be outside at night, otherwise, we would miss a lot of what a city has to offer. To face darkness safely, follow these tips:
- Avoid places you would also flee to at home such as alleyways and unlit streets.
- Ask about the security of the neighborhood visited. The locals will know if you can walk safely.
- Ask a reliable source (hotel reception, for example) to call you an official taxi.
- Find a partner at the hostel or hotel with whom you move or go out to reduce the risk of any incident. You’ll be amazed at the number of people traveling alone and enjoying a little company or sharing the cost of transportation.
- Listen to your instinct. If anything seems suspicious, strong are the chances that it is.
Many women thinking of traveling alone have already asked me what I do when it gets dark. Personally, I do not go out much and am not a bar girl; so I often stay where I sleep and take care of various activities.
Here are some ideas to furnish your parties:
- During the day, take short notes about your surroundings (smells, sounds, flavors, etc.) and, in the evening, write your travel diary incorporating all of these elements in detail. You’ll be happy to have made it back, as these details will escape your memory.
- Sort photos on your digital device and delete those that are fuzzy or completely missed.
- Write your postcards to send the next day.
- If you have a laptop or smartphone, take advantage of it to update your social media and send a few emails to reassure your loved ones.
- Most hostels and hotels have a lounge or bar available to guests. Take the opportunity to chat with other tourists to find tips for the next day or with the bartender to learn a little more about where you are.
- Do your washing.
- Enjoy this moment to relax and allow your body to recover from the efforts of the day. Read a good book under the duvet or do Sudokus.
No matter what your hobbies are, you will find something to keep you entertained once the night comes. If you go out, stay tuned and enjoy all that your stay has to offer.
