How to Make Friends as Solo Traveling Introvert

Need that solo time like you need to breathe, but also want to make friends on the road? We get you, fellow introvert. While introverts thrive in solitude, connecting with like-minded individuals can make the difference between an okay trip and an incredible adventure of a lifetime. This guide provides practical advice and strategies for introverted solo travelers to make friends and build meaningful connections on their journeys. By embracing your introversion and stepping out of your comfort zone, you can create memorable experiences and forge lasting friendships with fellow travelers and locals alike.

sunset yoga class women only tour Lebanon
Sunset yoga class on The Lebanon Meetup Tour

Embrace Your Introversion

Recognize and embrace your introverted nature as a valuable strength. Understand that it’s okay to prefer solitude and find energy in quiet moments. Accepting and honoring your introversion will help you approach social interactions with confidence and authenticity.

Choose Accommodations with Social Spaces

Opt for accommodations that offer common areas, such as hostels or guesthouses, where travelers can mingle and connect. These spaces provide opportunities to meet fellow adventurers and engage in casual conversations.

Join Group Activities and Tours

Participate in group activities or guided tours tailored to your interests. This allows you to engage with like-minded individuals who share your passion for specific activities, such as hiking, cooking classes, or cultural tours. Shared experiences provide natural conversation starters.

Attend Social Events and Meetups

Research social events, meetups, or language exchange gatherings happening in the area you’re visiting. These organized events bring people together in a relaxed and welcoming environment, making it easier to strike up conversations and connect with fellow participants.

Engage in Shared Spaces and Communal Areas

Take advantage of shared spaces like cafes, parks, or communal kitchens. These areas often attract travelers seeking quiet relaxation or socializing. Offer a smile, strike up conversations, or ask for recommendations, as these simple interactions can lead to meaningful connections.

Volunteer or Join a Community Project 

Consider participating in volunteer programs or community projects aligned with your interests and values. This not only allows you to contribute to a cause but also puts you in contact with locals and fellow volunteers, creating opportunities for deeper connections.

Utilize Social Media and Travel Apps 

Leverage social media platforms, travel forums, and apps specifically designed for travelers to connect with like-minded individuals. Engage in conversations, ask for advice, and even plan meetups with fellow travelers in the same location.

Practice Active Listening and Genuine Interest 

When engaging in conversations, practice active listening by showing genuine interest in others. Ask open-ended questions, listen attentively, and respond thoughtfully. This demonstrates your willingness to connect on a deeper level and fosters meaningful conversations.

Find Solitude and Recharge Time 

Recognize the importance of solitude and self-care as an introvert. Schedule alone time to recharge and process your experiences. This ensures that you have the energy and enthusiasm to engage in social interactions when you desire.

Be Open and Flexible

Approach social interactions with an open mind and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Be open to new experiences and perspectives, as this mindset can lead to unexpected friendships and memorable connections.

women only tour Sidon castle Lebanon
Crusader castle hoping on The Lebanon Meetup Tour

As an introverted solo traveler, making friends and building connections may require a bit of effort, but the rewards are worth it. By embracing your introversion, seeking out social opportunities, and engaging in meaningful interactions, you can create a rich tapestry of connections that enrich your travel experiences. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between engaging with others and honoring your need for solitude. Embrace the journey,

Best Travel Hacks for Solo Female Travelers

When it comes to finding travel hacks, The Solo Female Traveler Network audience of over 500,000+ women have a few tricks up their sleeve! Here’s a collection of their top recommendations for you to try on your next trip abroad. 

We’ve collated the best suggestions from our Facebook audience from fund saving techniques to apps to everything in between. Some you may know already, and some might surprise you. Take a look!

  • Set your Lock Screen to a screenshot of a bunch of basic phrases in the country you’re going to (excuse me, hi, bye, yes, no, I don’t speak _______). – Skylar K
  • Invest in a charging phone case so you never need to worry about running out of battery – Skylar K
  • When you arrive in a new country exchange your SIM card for a local one to avoid roaming charges by your home cell provider. You can sometimes buy SIM cards at the airport or at large grocery stores, pharmacies, even some corner stores and of course stores that sell cell phones. – Heather H
  • I always search with hashtag # on Instagram the countries I’m gonna visit, and I take ideas and see places where other people have been. – Mary P
  • Never book walking tours through Viatour, Trip Advisor etc. Rather Google free walking tour (x city). Every big city has them. They’re usually in a variety of languages. You’ll get a smaller group and remember to tip your tour guide! It supports locals, not conglomerates! – Diane L
  • GPSmycity app is also pretty nifty. They provide self-guided walking tours if you don’t want to do free walking tours or you miss the time for them. I love walking tours on my first day to get to know the area a bit. – Michelle P
  • Greether– they connect travelers with a female local tour guide who can help you with whatever; tours, safety tips, anything! Also helps you get a more authentic cultural experience by hanging out with a local. – Ashley C
travel hacks
  • Use Stasher – If I get into a town early or check out early and my flight is later, I can store my bags at a local shop and it works out great… – Julie A
  • Try an e-sim: I just discovered Airalo while traveling to Europe from Canada. It saved me so much money. My Canadian provider was going to charge me $400 for a month in Europe. The eSIM was $20 for 5G of data. It worked great and you didn’t have to physically put in a new card. It was all through the app. – Jill A
  • Booking.com app is great because the more you book, the bigger the discounts you get. You also get complementary room upgrades and it’s super easy to manage all your bookings in one place. Also, you save even more by booking through the app! This sounds like an ad lol – Angela L
  • I book through the Moneybox app and get cash back for every stay! – Debbie S
  • Download Splitwise to calculate costs shared between friends and groups. It’s a must-have for tallying who spent what, and reconciling it all at the end. It couldn’t be easier! – Lyn R
  • I recently discovered Instabridge.  It’s an app where you can see the passwords of public wifi connections (for example from a restaurant/café). Sometimes it’s nice when you don’t have mobile data and quickly want to search online. It has some ads. But when you download a region offline, you don’t have to watch the ad. – Jasmien T
  • Google Maps has an option to download an offline map so you can access it anytime even if the service is spotty – Emily B
Travel hacks
  • If you need an ATM, look for an ATM outside of a big bank because their fees are usually lower than the sketchy looking ones just out and about. – Skylar K
  • Get an RFID protective card holder for your debit and credit cards. My card has been swiped multiple times. RFID stops this. It’s very annoying when your card is cancelled while overseas. – Monique C
  • I love GTFO (Get the flight out) for random lady minute trips. You save the airports you most regularly fly from, and it sends you super discounted rates for flights departing from locations on your list 🙂 – Staci L
  • Once you identify a place you want to stay and lowest price possible on any app, call that place directly and ask them if they can offer you the same thing for less if you book directly by phone right then and there. – Elaine M
  • If you don’t have a specific destination in mind, use Google Flights and set your browser to Incognito mode. Reset the dates and don’t put an “end” destination – it will scroll through and find the cheapest current rates per weekend, 1 week and 2 week searches. Widen the map and it will include international flights . Love it! – Zuri J
  • I pack protein bars, jerky, and mixed nuts…those I eat for breakfast and lunch and only eat out for dinner. You still get to try local dishes, but it saves a ton of money because you aren’t impulse spending on food during the day! – Audrey S
  • Pick airlines that allow you to extend layovers so you can add stops to your vacation (TAP airlines, Icelandic air, Norwegian airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines) – Christine S
  • Busses and trains might be cheaper than flights (and more environmentally friendly in general). You can cover great distances for as cheap as 1$ per ticket; if you travel overnight, you even save on the ho(s)tel. Look out for coupon codes.. Buy things in supermarkets; even if you can’t cook, there often is a bakery stuff or so that is cheaper than takeaway food. – Louise O
  • Bring a collapsible, reusable water bottle – in some countries water is expensive. – Fatima C
  • I will plan out where and when I’m going, and then look into food/hostel/hotel prices, flight estimates, etc and create a budget for myself. Then I’ll split that budget into however many months I have until the trip and save slowly but intentionally, and book things as I go so that by the time the trip comes around I’m set to go. – Kelsey H
  • I live a pretty humble life and save all year. Here’s a “hack” for every week of the year…put away the $ amount for that week. Week 1=$1. Week 52=$52. At the end of the year you’ve got something like $1400. It’s not alot but it’s something that you’ve built up to add to other savings without really thinking about it impacting your wallet ♡ – Anna B
  • I try to travel during shoulder seasons for whatever country I’m going to. I also always plan my trips a year in advance so I know how much to save each month and sometimes the earlier you book stuff, you can get discounts or prices are cheaper. – Massiella P
  • Whenever I am about to buy something I don’t need, I just stop and put that money in a piggy bank . Let’s say I’m about to buy a top from H&M for 15€, I forget about it and save that 15€. I want to buy a 3€ slice of cake? Walk away from that shop and save 3€. It also helps me eat a lot healthier 😂– Alexandra S
  • I save on Qapital, where whenever you spend I have it set up to round off to the next dollar and that change goes into my Qapital account. You don’t miss it and before you know it… you have saved quite a bit!!!!!
best travel hacks

Have other great suggestions? Mail us on [email protected]!

Ed’s note: This post contains affiliate links to help support the running of the SoFe Travel team and SoFe community at large. Wherever possible, we support women-owned businesses and ethical, sustainable organisations. Got suggestions on blog topic ideas or want to contribute your travel stories? We’d love to hear from you! email us on [email protected]

How to Begin Solo Female Travel

Want to begin solo female travel, but nervous to take the plunge? HERE ARE 8 easy steps to take you from housebound to solo female traveler extraordinaire.

We all hold a certain version of ourselves in our heads. A version that ‘defines’ who we are. When we hear the term “solo female travel” thoughts may pass through our minds, unknowingly hindering us from reaching our full potential. Well meaning family say “It’s too dangerous for you to travel alone,” and friends might ask “Wouldn’t you get bored all by yourself?” You may find yourself thinking, “Well, it’s just not for me.” 

I remember the first time I thought about solo traveling as a woman. It was after a friend had returned from a solo trip to the Philippines, and I remember seeing her photos and thinking it looked like so much fun -but she was insane for doing it alone! Solo traveling was never thought that it was something I could do.  Personally, I’ve found that limiting myself to that version of me has only made me regret not getting out of my comfort zone sooner. Unlearn the version of yourself that you have in your head. It doesn’t matter “who” you are – if you want to travel, you should fulfill your dreams. Start by with these steps, and soon you’ll become a fully fledged solo traveler.
Step one: Join up with solo female travel groups online.

Many SoFe members became solo travelers because of the stories and support they found on The Solo Female Traveler Network. The sense of community is truly inspirational, and the heartfelt, authentic messages that come through motivate us to journey out into the world. If we see other people doing it, it becomes easier to imagine ourselves doing it. Read articles on brave women who don’t let anything hold them back, like Chelsea Lew who travels while bing both deaf and blind. Follow solo female travelers on social media, and read books written by solo female travels. We recommend avoiding travelers who over-glamorize travel, and learn instead from women who share honest truths and insights. 

Step two: start close to home.

One of the first things you can do to start getting a feel for solo travel is to take explore your own home city. Date yourself! This way, you can get to know yourself. Ask yourself what you want to do. Start with something small, like a comedy club, a movie, or a community event. In my hometown, we had concerts in the park every week over summer. I used to go alone, and at places like this, it wasn’t unusual. Everyone was out enjoying the sun, swaying to the music, and bonding over cover bands during hot summer nights. Going out for adventures in your own city can help give you the confidence to know that you can do it, no matter how uncomfortable you may be when you first start.

While it's tempting to reserve sight-seeing for grand vacations, it's best to start the building bocks of solo female travaling in your hometown instead of delaying for the 'perfect time'.
Step three: go for a meal by yourself. 

One of the most intimidating things for many solo travelers is eating out by themselves. Oftentimes, it has a stigma attached to it that many of us have to work hard to unlearn. So, take yourself out to eat. Whether you plan a fancy dinner date or decide to grab a bite at your favorite taco truck, try to spend time getting comfortable not only eating, but enjoying your ‘meal for one’ with only your own company. Sometimes I like to journal or read while waiting for my food. If you’re looking for conversation, a  good tip is to sit at the bar – there’s often other people eating there alone.

Step four: book a solo weekend away.

You’ve ventured out in your home city, and the thought of eating alone no longer scares you – now it’s time to go on a weekend trip! This is where you really start enjoying your own solitude and realise one of the fundamentals about solo travel: what you think you want, when you’re around people, may actually look different to what you actually want. We’re influenced by other people’s opinions, energy and mere presence more on a daily basis. Solitude gives us the clarity to discover who we really are. 

Learn our favourite platforms for booking accommodation on The Network

Step five: learn when you need social interaction.

It’s one thing to take yourself out alone for a night. It’s another thing to do it all weekend. Some people prefer to be by themselves for longer, while others thrive off meeting people. Solo traveling can feel lonely sometimes, but rest assured, you have friends just waiting to meet you in all corners of the world. When you feel like company and your book or podcast just isn’t cutting it, then it’s time to reach out to the communities around you. 

Put your phone down. As tempting as it is to use curb anxiety by scrolling on your phone, its counterintuitive to forming real-life social connections. Phones, headphones and books are all ‘avoidant’ social cues, and people will assume that you do not want to engage. 

Join in on an activity. People bond over doing things together. Search on Facebook for hiking groups, yoga classes and craft makers, leaning into your interests. Your passions are the roadmap to meeting diverse people connected by common interests – no more small talk! 

Make a social goal for yourself. For example, when you go to an event or gathering, aim to talk to at least three people. It could be as simple as giving someone a small compliment; you never know out of which interactions friendships will blossom. Of course, do this all with the same safety precautions you always adhere to when by yourself.

Allow yourself to be spontaneous. Say yes to opportunities and events that your first instinct is to say ‘”no” to. That response has everything to do with the limiting ‘version’ we have of ourselves in our heads, and being open to changing plans leads on to encounters and experiences we would never have expected. This is where the real magic of travel lies! 

Read: How to Handle Loneliness as  Solo Traveler

India Solo Female Network Tour
Having a sense of belonging or community is vital. As much as I may enjoy my own company, the people I meet traveling are always the highlight of my trip.
Step six: Join a group tour.

If you’re still unsure about traveling by yourself, then join up with a group tour. Sometimes we all need a small push before we decide to take the leap. Tours are the perfect way to dip your toe in the water. You’re able to meet other travelers who are also going solo, and often find yourself making plans to meet up again in the future. 

P.S: You can come with us! We travel all over the world with solo women just like you. Check out our Meetup Tour destination list.

Going on a tour by yourself is still solo traveling, and beats sitting at home dreaming about adventure.
Step seven: set yourself some deadlines.

A dream is just a dream without a plan. Jot down your bucket list travel destinations, and collect images that inspire you of places you want to see and experiences you’d like to have. Start researching flights, accommodation costs and transport. Once you have a budget to work off, you can make a saving plan and start working towards your trip. 

Read: Planning a Solo Trip: A Guide for Beginners 

Read: 10 Packing Essentials under $10

Step Eight: book that trip!

Don’t overthink it – book the flight, the roadtrip, or cruise. If you’re feeling nervous before you travel, reach out the The Solo Network Facebook community. There are so many women posting daily who are in the same situation as you. 

Read: How to Maximise your Trip as a Solo Travels

For me, the uncertainty of solo traveling has really never gone away. But it’s embracing the discomfort of solitude, and even learning to love it, that has allowed me to create irreplaceable lifelong memories as a solo female traveler.

It doesn't matter who you are - we can all do solo female travel the way that suits us best.

Our Favourite Walking Shoes

‘I would walk 500 miles and I would walk 500 more….’ but only in the right footwear! A good pair of shoes not only lasts you years, but also lives your adventures along with you as a trusted, reliable and utterly-essential gear item. Here’s our selection of the best walking shoes out there right now. 

“Help! I’m going on a trip and am looking for a comfortable pair of walking shoes – what do you recommend?” Questions like this come up often on our FB group and we always love reading the responses. From day walks to Camino hard slogs to preparing for your first solo walk, our community knows just what shoes to recommend based on tried-and-tested experience.

Best shoes for CIty walking

As voted by Mandy: Anothersole is amazing. Free international shipping too. Very pretty and super comfortable. I only wear them for everything now, including travelling for months! Bonus points – they match everything. Even dresses so you don’t have to compromise style for comfort. I don’t work for them I’m just a huge fan.
As voted by Victoria: AllBirds are excellent and can be thrown in the washing machine. I prefer the wool ones (no, my feet don’t overheat in summer) but they also do ones made from bamboo. They’re not the cheapest shoes but I think they’re great value. Comfy. Look smart. Have a variety of styles. No blisters. I live in mine.

As voted by Anne:  Check out Teva Tirra sandals. I find them very comfortable for walking long distances over different surfaces. When my feet tend to swell (e.g., when flying), I adjust the straps. They’re just as effective around water, and they transition from daywear to smart casual in the evening. Look for a colour that will blend with your capsule wardrobe, for me, that’s brown or black.

[These would be the ideal shoe for our Ecuador meetup!]

As voted by Dawna:  I’ve also done pretty well with one set of Tevas and a set of Chacos. The Chacos I have are leather and are a little dressier looking, but unfortunately, I think they’ve discontinued that model… But maybe they have something new that’s similar?

[Readers, we’ve got you! We’ve listed a recent version of Chacos in leather.]

Best shoes for hiking

As voted by Kirsstina: Hoka speedgoats. I wear them for my thru hikes of 400km (250 miles). Altra Olympus are super cozy too. 

As voted by Caroline: I have these, they were perfect for all the hikes I did, including in Borneo. They also seemed to be leechproof as my feet were completely leech-free while other people were less fortunate.
As voted by Rachel: I have these and they’re the best thing I’ve ever bought. Super comfy, didn’t take long to break in and 100% waterproof.
As voted by Kate: Love love love my Lowa Renegades! 4 Camino walks and the W Trek in Patagonia….(3 pair overall) Lightweight!

We’re firm believers in testing shoes out in-store to make sure they are the right fit for your specific shape, however, this list will get you started in the right direction. Take the time to wear your shoes in before embarking on a trip – your feet will thank you later – and be sure to pack moleskin for blisters and wear wool socks.


Planning your first solo hike? Read these tips first. 

best shoes for walking

Ed’s note: This post contains affiliate links to help support the running of the SoFe Travel team and SoFe community at large. Wherever possible, we support women-owned businesses and ethical, sustainable organisations. Got any product recommendations? We’d love to hear about them! email us on [email protected]

Essentials for Your First Solo Hike

There’s something reverent about hiking solo.  

The senses tune into nature. There’s a certain peacefulness in listening to the sounds of the wind, birds, a single footstep in the dirt – and nothing else. 

For many women, the prospect of doing your first solo hike is intimidating, but it’s also one of the most enjoyable ways to get to know yourself and immerse yourself in nature. Whether your hike is three hours, or three days, certain essential items will make sure you are safe, comfortable, and ready for anything. Like the Girl Scouts motto says: “Be prepared!”

Photo of the Buffalo River Trail
The 36-mile-long Buffalo River Trail (BRT) wanders along the cliffs in the Ozark mountains and down to the grassy meadows and jaunty wildflowers of Arkansas. Although the river itself is a popular canoe and float waterway, the trail is quiet. Often, hikers will see only one other hiker on the trail during the day.

PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

what shoes to wear for your first hike
Every hiker has their favorite pair of hiking shoes. Some prefer to hike in traditional hiking boots while others prefer trail runners, and each one has its pros and cons.

Hiking boots provide more warmth and are best if you need more stability in ankles while trail runners are lighter and maneuverable. Whichever you choose, be sure to wear them several times before your hike to break them in. No one wants to find out that an expensive pair of shoes causes blisters on the heel when you’re 10 miles from the trailhead.

I never skimp on shoes. While you can go the budget route for some hiking clothing, it’s best to go to your local outdoor retailer and be fitted for a pair of hiking boots or shoes that’s just right for you. 

Not sure where to start on your quest for the perfect shoe?
Read up on these recommendations from our Facebook group members.

What To Pack for a solo hike

A female sitting outside a tent

What you pack for your hike depends on the length and difficulty of your first solo hike.
Your essentials should always include:

  • A first-aid kit that fits into your pack, like this Adventure Water Tight Ultralight Medical Kit. 
  • A trail map. Always carry a map of the trail. Having a waterproof map case is also helpful.
  • A compass. Learning to use a compass will help you if you do happen to get lost, and many compasses like this AOFAR AF-4090 Multifunctional Military Compass also have neat, helpful add-ons like a whistle, signalling mirror and even fishing hooks and lines.
  • Plenty of food. If you’re only going out for a couple of hours, then items like trail bars, tuna packs, beef jerky, trail mix and peanut butter are great, easy-to-pack options. Longer hikes will take a little planning, but trail-ready freeze-dried meals like Mountain House Adventure Meals are convenient, albeit a little more expensive. A good rule of thumb is to pack an extra day’s worth of food in case you get lost or need that extra energy boost.
  • Plenty of water.  You should plan on carrying a half liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures or a full liter of water per hour on strenuous hikes in high heat. If you are hiking near water sources like streams and rivers, investing in a water filtration system like the Sawyer Water Filtration System will ensure you always have access to fresh water and can help reduce the carrying weight.
  • Waterproof matches and firestarter cubes
  • Headlamp. A small headlamp will be your best friend should you get caught out in the dark.
  • Menstrual products. Menstrual cups like The Diva Cup are lightweight, packable and reusable.
  • A quality multi-tool.  Leave that Rambo knife at home and invest instead in a good multi-tool like this Gerber Armbar. It even has a corkscrew for that post-hike celebratory glass of wine!
  • Sun protection. A lightweight sun hat, sunscreen, SPF lip balm and sunglasses should always be in your pack. 
  • Bug spray. Especially NB in areas known for tick and mosquito attacks!

HOw to stay safe on trail

Woman with doing a solo hike with hiking gear looking out towards mountain landscape
Fear of walking alone is the biggest deterrent for most women who want to hike solo, myself included. And it's a valid fear.
There are ways to increase our peace of mind while trailing. STEP ONE: Read up on trip reports via Alltrails and assess the feedback. Take into consideration which country you are in, and the levels of violence. Reach out to our community on Facebook if you need insight from someone who lives in the area. If you feel uncomfortable hiking alone, trust your gut and team up with a fellow solo female traveller. Side note, dogs make ideal travel partners! Reach out to rescue programmes -some will allow you to take dogs out for exercise on trails. STEP TWO: Inform someone back home of your route, your distance and your estimated time. Should you twist an ankle or get lost, that person will be your lifeline. First-time solo hikers can ease into the experience by choosing shorter, more popular trails like the Lamar Valley Trail in Yellowstone National Park or The Gertrude’s Nose Trail at Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Upstate New York or even short portions of The Appalachian Trail like the famous McAfee Knob trail in Virginia. STEP THREE: Research your trail. Every trail is different, so you need to educate yourself on the unique challenges of each path. Download the Alltrails app, and make sure your route is accessible offline. STEP FOUR: Consider self-defence strategies in advance. If you’re hiking in bear country, then bear spray is a necessity. But  what about self-defence against humans? We recommend keeping pepper spray within easy reach, or bear spray. It works just as well on humans as it does on animals, but if you do decide to arm yourself, study the local laws on carrying weapons.

be prepared and ready for adventure. but mostly, happy hiking!

Solo Female Tour Morocco

Ed’s note: This post contains affiliate links to help support the running of the SoFe Travel team and SoFe community at large. Wherever possible, we support women-owned businesses and ethical, sustainable organisations. Got any product recommendations? We’d love to hear about them! email [email protected]

How to Care for the Mind and Body while Traveling

Travel can be incredibly eye-opening, and it can also be unpredictable and stressful. 

Traveling can completely change our outlook on life by teaching us lessons that we could never learn in a textbook. That is not because of the beautiful, Instagram-worthy pictures, but rather for the changes that occur in our minds and hearts. These changes stick with us long after the plane touches down at our home airport. These experiences are key to growing as individuals and transforming our lives in the here and now. 

Wanderlust comes with many ups and downs. One challenge is finding time and space to keep up with a consistent physical and mental exercise routine. The mind-body connection is crucial in order to squeeze out every beautiful thing that traveling, and life, have to offer.

The more we prioritize consistent care for our mind and body, even under challenging circumstances that can arise while traveling, the more resilient we grow. Mentally and physically, our bodies get stronger by leaving the excuses behind and putting our health first. We won’t have to say no to that hike with the breathtaking view at the top because we aren’t in the appropriate physical shape for it. We won’t have to miss out on vacations with our grandkids because we can’t keep up with them. We can get the most out of our traveling experience by emphasising on wellness no matter where we are in the world.

Lindsay DeAguila is an educator in yoga, martial arts, kickboxing, and high intensity interval training. In the past 6 years, she has explored 35 countries, and shares some expert tips on building resilience through physical and mental activities on-the-go. No hotel gym or park nearby? No problem! Here are some simple tips to keep you motivated while traveling. 

Prepare Ahead

Woman exercising on top of a rock

First things first: to prioritize wellness, we have to practice making it an intentional part of our daily routine. We are creatures of habit, so carve out a specific time of day to prioritize mental and physical practices. 

A lightweight yoga mat is a great way to squeeze in effective workouts in your hotel room. Bring easy-to-pack equipment like resistance bands. They take up minimal space and can really create a big impact on our fitness. Fun fact: they also double as clotheslines to dry your clothes! 

I also like to download a 10-minute meditation on my phone before I head out – there are plenty on Spotify and Youtube. It is easy to just press play and check into my allotted mindfulness time and keep the routine going.

Walk the Talk

Woman in black and white striped shirt and denim shorts standing in the middle of the road with trees on both sides, smiling

Walking is an easy (and free!) way to explore a new area. Sure, taxis and public transport exist, but get into a habit of choosing health over convenience. Wandering on foot helps us understand our surroundings and learn to navigate the area (hello, mind-body connection!), besides squeezing some more exercise into our days. Good blood circulation is key to our health. Apart from the health implications, this leaves more room for guiltless indulgences—an extra mocha latte, anyone?!

On a related note, get outside as often as you can. Nature is the greatest medicine for the mind and soul, helping to de-stress and refocus our intentions. Even 10 minutes outside per day can create a positive headspace. Plan ahead by downloading offline maps of the area to your phone or purchasing an old-fashioned guide book as you wander.

Join a Virtual Fitness Community

Woman wearing a black outfit sitting crosslegged with folded hands and closed eyes, sitting outdoors

Did you know you could still take a fitness class with one of your best friends while in different hemispheres?

Virtual fitness communities are beneficial for accountability, support, and connection. Being accountable ensures the development of a routine to fit a workout in our day. They allow us to take our workouts and workout buddies (aka, the best support support system) with us no matter where we are in the world. 

There is a community for everyone – Zumba, yoga, running, HIIT, kickboxing – giving you the flexibility to be fit outside of a gym.

Practice Gratitude

When we are traveling and have a packed itinerary, it is important to take a few quiet moments to slow down. Mindfulness can help with anxiety, and lessen the impact of external shifts on our internal environment. 

Gratitude reminds us that we have everything that we need – our bodies and our minds. Making gratitude a daily part of our health routine teaches us to be resilient, makes homesickness more tolerable, and helps us feel more like ourselves regularly. The more we practice gratitude, the more we will be able to maintain a positive physical and mental state of well-being.

Consider starting a gratitude journal or ritual, or reaching out to friends and family while you are traveling to fully absorb and savour the present. 

Attend the Mental Gym

Our minds are always traveling, taking us to different destinations each day. We should never stop learning, no matter where our bodies physically are in the world. Especially if we are taking time off school or work, it is important to continue to challenge the mind and keep it active. We can do this through activities such as crossword puzzles, reading books, or trying to learn the language of the country we are in!

If possible, take a road trip instead of flying, in order to give our brains a good mental sweat through the obstacles road tripping presents. We can also keep our mind body active by learning a sport native to the place we are in. For example, a class in Japan using their Samurai sword “katana” can be a memorable experience!

Listen to your body

Woman with folded hands smiling.

There are several reasons that can prevent us from our daily health practice while traveling: too little space, no equipment, feeling awkward amongst strangers. But, keep in mind that prioritizing our bodies will support the explorer within us for years to come. 

Fuel yourself through the right nutrition and eat fresh and local. Making mindful choices helps us be productive and get the most out of sightseeing without bloat or brain fog.

If you need a break, take one. Rest is also a building block to strengthening our resilience. Whether we are a first time traveler or have traveled around the globe, the most important thing we can do for our adventurous souls is to board the mental and physical health train daily.

About the author

Woman sitting on the floor with resistance bands and hands outstretched

Lindsay De Aguila

Lindsay’s work is driven by the question: “How can one build, hone, and expand emotional and physical resilience?” She is best known for creating opportunities that inspire others to push their mental and physical limits. A National All-Around State Gymnastics Champion, Self Defence Martial Arts State Champion, certified Ashtanga Yoga Instructor, and first degree Hapkido black belt holder, Lindsay is a Resilience Expert. 

How To Deal With Post Travel Blues

Just had a great vacation, but feeling a little down and out after getting back home?

Looks like you may have the post-travel blues. 

Most people spend months looking forward to their next vacation. This downtime allows you to finally relax, spend time with family and friends, or even your much deserved alone time without having to worry about your usual routine. In fact, a vacation actually improves your health in several ways – physically, emotionally, mentally. 

However, there is a downside: going back home! It can feel like this peace of mind suddenly vanishes. It is very common to feel low when the holiday is coming to an end, and it can even last for a while after you’re back home. If you’re feeling blue after a trip, don’t worry, you’re not imagining it. 

So, how can you beat the post-holiday blues?

Why do you feel down after a trip?

Woman with red hair wearing a plaid shirt working at her desktop

Feeling down after a holiday is a feeling many of you already know. After a memorable vacation, a regular routine may seem mundane and pointless. Even though things may objectively seem fine, one can feel miserable and hostage to trivial things.

Post-holiday blues can feel a little bit like Monday blues, when the thought of facing the work week seems daunting, and leaves you missing the weekend, sometimes before it’s even over.According to Dr. Gerhard Strauss-Blasche from the University of Vienna’s Department of Physiology, in an NBC article: “It’s called “contrast effect”. Vacationers cease to be used to stress and thus react more strongly when confronted (with it) again.

This post-vacation blues can also stem from taking a step back from your ordinary life, allowing you to see it more clearly. Author Shannon Thomas says: “We often don’t notice certain negative aspects of our lives while we are in the middle of it, but taking a step back during a vacation brings more clarity to things we may need to change in our lives and coming home is often a splash of cold reality.

This feeling often translates as being tired, lacking energy or focus, having difficulty to sleep, lacking appetite, irritability and stress. Of course, not everyone is affected the same way. Some people might never experience it, but that doesn’t mean that what you’re feeling isn’t real or valid.

How to get rid of the blues

Dates of a month listed out in a diary

Prepare for your return

The first thing to do really needs to be done before you even go: prepare for your return.

First of all, try to plan at least one day off before you need to be back at work. It will allow you to ease your way back into your usual life. This gives you time to complete pending chores such as unpacking, laundry and grocery shopping. Start your work week with a refreshed state of mind. 

Another thing you should remember is to declutter your work desk and clean your apartment. Coming back to a mess will only worsen your already low spirits. At least you won’t have to deal with tidying up. That’s one thing off your mind!

Bring a little of your holiday back home

Once you’re back, Try to bring a little piece of your vacation back into your life to ease the transition.  Maybe recreate the recipe of something you loved eating during your trip. Remember those photos you took? Frame and hang your favourite pictures or create an album to share your memories. 

Essentially, the point is to incorporate something that will help you remember the feeling you had when you were away. It’s a little reminder of good times that will help you feel better every time you feel nostalgic.

Picnic basket, book, hat and flowers laid out on a red and white cloth

Plan for something exciting

Give yourself something to look forward to. This doesn’t need to be something big or expensive. A concert, trip to the museum or a picnic with friends can feel like a mini-vacation too. Plan ahead by marking your calendar or purchasing tickets to keep you motivated.  This will shift your focus: instead of looking back, you will look forward to the next exciting event.  

Just because your vacation has ended doesn’t mean you can’t have something really fun to anticipate.

Be a tourist at home

Why not bring the sense of wonder you have while on vacation to your everyday life? Try to integrate the same level of excitement at home. It is not uncommon to skip on all the tourist attractions in our own home because we think that there will always be time to do it later! Stop delaying, and start -or keep on- exploring museums, restaurants, going on walks or seeing a play.

You could rediscover the place where you live and manage to get excited again about it!

Girl looking at an art exhibit

Take it easy

Be lenient with yourself.

Avoid scheduling important meetings or catching up on mails on your first day back. This advice will help you from feeling overwhelmed. Try not to overload yourself to make up for the vacation time. If you’re not up for it, you probably won’t be able to do it well anyway. So, as much as you can, try to take it easy, at least for a few days.

What if the feeling lingers?

Woman airing out a green bedsheet

Use this time to check-in with yourself. If the feeling of sadness is very strong, maybe it’s a good opportunity to take a look at your life. Start listing the things that you would like to change. You can start by decluttering your home (Marie Kondo style!), to see things more clearly.

Perhaps the reason you are dreading coming back is because there is something deeply dissatisfying about your life: a problematic relationship, an unsatisfying job or a lack of social activities. Take a look at what is missing, and start planning for adjustments.

If you go from feeling nostalgic and anxious about coming back, to a long-lasting feeling of sadness, it might be a sign that something bigger is at play here. This might be a sign of depression, burnout, or anxiety – and those signs are never to be ignored. If the feeling lasts for over 3 weeks, you should talk to your doctor or therapist about it. These feelings are not to be taken lightly. 

Post-holiday blues will usually fade quite quickly. So if it doesn’t, it might not just be post-holiday blues. You should never postpone taking care of your mental health, just as much as your physical health. If this happens, go to your doctor, and begin the healing process.

10 Packing Essentials for Under $10

How you pack can make or break a trip. Being under prepared can set you up for discomfort or way too many desperate searches for the nearest, and likely overpriced, store. It can even have some pretty gross hygienic consequences (you will see what we mean below). But being over packed can mean lots of back pain for backpackers, overweight charges, and even a higher likelihood of getting your stuff stolen. Packing her doesn’t have to be expensive though. Here are our favorite must-haves for any traveler all for under $10.

1. Goop bottles

For everything TSA tries to take away – shampoo, conditioner, lotion, body wash – these bottles are silicone, squeezable, and are durable enough to be used for all your trips. They even come with their own TSA approved clear, reusable plastic bag. While you can find lots of expensive versions of this same product, we have found these little babies are built just as tough and cost more than half the price.

$9.99 usd

2. Toothpaste Tablets

While technically not under $10, these are such good value, we decided it was worth it. TSA won’t let you get by with a full size tube of toothpaste, plus putting it in your checked bag means the pressure changes and tossing of your suitcase could end in a big mess of a surprise when you finally start your trip. Those are just a couple reasons why we love these toothpaste tablets. You pop one in our mouth, chomp around a bit, add a wet toothbrush, and wah lah – you have toothpaste. And unlike traditional tubes, you won’t run out for at least a few trips to come with just one bottle of this stuff. 

$10.95 usd

3. Toothbrush covers

Speaking of toothpaste, there isn’t much use having clean teeth if your toothbrush has been dropped on a hostel floor or thrown in your backpack along with your shoes. Yuck. These silicone toothbrush holders are something we don’t leave home without. We like silicone because it’s more durable and sustainable than plastic and we like this 6 pack because toothbrush covers are not meant to last forever. Do yourself and your oral health a favor and cover your toothbrush! You’ll thank us next time TSA has their grubby hands in your toiletry bag looking for your deadly nail clippers.

$6.58 usd

4. Flip Flops

We have two words: hostel floor. Really though if you are staying in a dirty hostel or in a 5 star hotel, showers and floors are not to be totally trusted. Just ask our team member who got a mysterious foot fungus in Central America that made her skin fall off. You don’t need a fancy pair of Havianas, they don’t take up much room, and they are so important no matter where you go! These flip flops are cute, simple, sturdy whether you plan on wearing them all day long or just as slippers and shower shoes in your accommodation. 

$9.99 usd

5. Clean your whole body bar

Affordable, fair trade, and a charity: what’s not to love? We’ll give you one more reason to add this to your packing list: it replaces almost your entire toiletry bag! This bar is a shampoo and cleans your whole darn body all in a 7 ounce solid bar. We’ll be honest, if you are a body wash snob (we see you, scroll back up to number one) or have fussy hair, this may not be the best solution. It smells amazing and works wonders but it won’t replace your fancy pants conditioner. 

$7.90 usd

6. Infinity scarf with hidden pocket

Keep your purse at the hotel and stash your passport or some extra cash in the hidden pocket of this scarf! While the photos suggest a phone isn’t too heavy to be really obvious, we suggest buying this beaut as a more accessible option than in your bra. It’s lightweight and comes in loads of colors, making it great for even spring days when it’s not too cold. 

$8.99 usd

7. Portable luggage scale

The benefits of a luggage scale are obvious when you are packing for a trip, but if you take domestic flights in your international destination, there are likely different weight rules. If you are a shopper, this little gadget could save you big overweight fees on the way home.  We love this one specifically because it’s cheap, it works, and it’s easy to pack. 

$7.99 usd

8. Collapsable Water Bottle

This water bottle folds up in a little disk that you can throw in your purse or backpack for hikes or city walks. Almost all accommodation has fresh water, and this is an easy to pack solution tat cuts on bottled water costs and environmental impact. Plus, it’s cheap, which is always a plus!

$9.98 usd

9. Laundry soap sheets

These take up almost no space and can save you quite a few bucks on detergent. These are eco friendly, plastic-free, and smell amazing. This is one of those little items we never even take out of our bags when we get home. They some with us everywhere. Imagine popping up to an Airbnb with a bag full of dirty clothes and having no detergent to wash them. These guys are the greatest for all laundry days, especially when a surprise washing machine becomes available. 

$9.29 usd

10. Ear Plugs

We don’t understand the need to assign a gender to earplugs (although there is no pink tax, we checked), but the fact is, we have tried every type and brand out there, and these are by far the most comfortable. Whether you stay at a party hostel or a nice Airbnb, sometimes construction, noisy neighbors, or a loud AC can keep you up. Plus nothing beats the airplane quiet combo than a pair of noise cancelling headphones along with earplugs. 

$8.99 usd

Bonus
11. Little locks

For hostel lockers, keeping your suitcase safe when the hotel desk is holding it, or at airport lockers, having at least one little lock could mean all your stuff stays safe. We like this one because of the flexible ring and how tiny it is – it makes it extra versatile for all situations. 

$4.99 usd

Golden Gaze: A Queer and Black-Owned Bed and Breakfast

Are you looking for a travel experience that is inclusive, accessible and sustainable?

Katie and Reigh have a vision to create a Queer and Black owned Bed and Breakfast in the picturesque town of Golden, Canada. While Katie is a certified Life Coach using the Enneagram, and has a background working in nonprofits, her partner, Reigh, identifies as nonbinary, queer, chronically ill Person of Colour, with a love for upcycling things. 

Determined to create a community-centric and affirming space, this couple is currently running a crowdfunding campaign to translate this B&B into reality. We interviewed this dynamic duo to learn more about the property – charmingly called Golden Gaze –  and the obstacles that need to be surmounted. Katie and Reigh also shine light on a topic that is insufficiently discussed: marginalised communities and their struggles in travel. 

Artists rendition of the Golden Gaze B&B, showing Katie and Reigh waving, with two dogs and a cat outside a house. There are mountains and trees in the background.

what is the B&b all about?

With Golden Gaze Bed and Breakfast, we hope to redefine the travel experience, by building a space that values sustainability, accessibility, and dynamic inclusivity for all guests.

Golden Gaze will help our guests prioritize connection and growth during their stay, so in addition to our unique cabins and hearty, homemade breakfasts, we’ll have a yoga, movement, and meditation sanctuary, on-site Enneagram coaching, and a cannabis lounge among other amenities to help folks reconnect to themselves and to our Earth. 

Vacations should be restorative, and full of opportunities to feel treated and cared for. We want to make a place where anyone can feel welcome, which is why we are explicitly affirming for folks often ignored by the travel and tourism industry, such as Queer/Trans, Racialized/BIPOC, Disabled, Fat, and/or Polyam folks, so everyone feels freer to connect deeply to themselves, their partner(s), and the natural world around us.

what inspired you to start an inclusive vacation retreat?

We wanted to create the type of deeply healing, eco-friendly vacation retreat that we have always been looking for as a Queer, interracial couple, who cares about the environment. We have loved traveling together since we began dating in 2012, but have often walked away from vacations feeling disconnected from our values and knowing that we could do better. Whether that was from a lack of recycling stations on the property, a racist piece of art at a vacation rental, or an inaccessible bathroom – we just felt like we could build something that better prioritizes both our environment and those of us often ignored by the tourism industry.

The antidote to so many of those frustrations can be solved by being a place that prioritizes inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability from the ground up. Everyone should be able to take a vacation you can feel good at, and feel good about.

golden - the name says it all. why did you choose this location for your b&b?

The name truly does say it all. Golden, B.C. is radiant!

We are very lucky to currently live just 5 hours from Golden – which is considered within driving distance              in Canada. We have spent anniversaries and weekends there, and have road-tripped through the area –        and each time we have had an exquisite time.

It is quaint, but filled with awesome amenities and an endless array of options and activities to explore the area, without being overrun like some more common tourist destination mountain towns in the area. It’s a gorgeous place to reconnect to yourself, and the world around you. 

could you share more about the focus on sustainability and the 'farm-to-table' concept?

As we started creating our vision, we quickly realized we wanted it to be as eco-friendly as current tech could allow for. If we are living into our values of equity and justice, we can’t do that without making sure we are treating the environment with care and avoiding as much harm as we can. To live in respect and reconciliation with our Indigenous Community members, we aim to partner with them in as many ways as they are interested in, and within their established Land Code for the area we plan to build in. This includes following intentional stewardship over the land, and living in a way that is beneficial to all living things, not just humanity.                    For us, respecting the Land Code meant becoming sustainable and minimising our impact on the planet. 

Some of the sustainability measures we are going to apply are Solar Panels, a grey-water recycling system, an eco-friendly septic system, radiant biomass heating including paved walkways to allow for easier accessibility, in-unit composters, covering the housing units with living roofs and biodiversity that is beneficial to the area, and more. 

We want to grow all of our own produce for our delicious breakfasts on-site using our all seasons agro-tunnel(s) and outdoor gardens in the summer months. Anything we can’t grow in our fields, tunnels, or garden beds will be bolstered by local suppliers in the area to ensure a truly delightful and nutritious start to your day, nourished by the very land you’re sleeping on.

Artist's rendition of the Golden Gaze property, showing a house with green foliage, a canopy and chairs in the front yard and a mountain in the background

individuals with varying levels of disabilities often face challenges in finding accommodations that are accessible.

How does golden gaze aim to be more inclusive for people with different needs?

Traveling as a disabled person can be extremely difficult at best, and impossible at the worst of times.              Our world has not been designed for universal access and it is a human rights violation. Too often, folks with mobility devices can’t even get in the door, or down the airplane aisle, for example.

We want to create a place that takes away the guesswork of if you can even access the space. We want to be dynamically accessible, recognizing that accessibility can be wildly different for different people. Furthermore, we are also committed to being mindful and considerate around weight capacities on all our furniture. Too often the fat community is left out because of poor quality furnishings or equipment that cannot support them in an appropriate way. We want to create a space where all bodies are welcome!

Some of the accessibility features you can expect to see would be: wider hallways appropriate for a turning radius, adjustable beds, roll under sinks, grab bars, ramped entries, and much more. A list of our accessibility measures can be found on our website. 

as a queer and black couple, have you faced any challenges in initiating this business?

how are you overcoming this?

As marginalized folks we have had less opportunity to earn capital than others in our society. We have both essentially run underfunded non-profits on our own and learned all of the skills required to run a successful business, without any of the capital rewards that typically come with those skills and labour experience.            This is the reason, like most marginalized entrepreneurs, we decided to turn to crowdfunding. With our community’s help we can (1) provide a larger down-payment to secure the larger loan needed to build, and      (2) prove market interest in our business concept, and a desire to see more spaces like this exist.

Access to capital has definitely been the biggest roadblock to getting started. The communities who would really benefit from our space are also generally in a position of less disposable income than others, so finding the support within our community also has its own barriers. 

Aside from the financial factors, most of our other challenges have been in convincing folks who don’t share the lived experience of being a marginalized person on why there is a need for such places to exist. There is a lack of safety for our communities in the travel world that should be addressed. If you have never experienced inaccessibility, or feeling mistreated on vacation, it’s hard to understand why spaces like this are so needed,    but for those of us who have had that be a common experience for us while traveling, Golden Gaze is a refreshing vision for the future of the tourism industry! 

a flow chart depicting who can visit the golden gaze property

is there anything you would like to share with our community of solo female travelers?

We cannot wait to host you! Having done some solo-travelling ourselves, we know that your safety, comfort, and well being are critical to enjoying your time. It can be daunting to travel alone, and so we really want to create a space where you know you’ll be welcome and accepted, and free to exist as you’d like.

Traveling is such a rewarding way to learn more about yourself and your relationships to the world and other folks. To deepen that experience even further, you can do on-site Enneagram and Life Coaching with Katie. We are also happy to create safety check in systems with those who prefer to have someone aware of their whereabouts, plus we are hoping to partner with folks like the Solo Female Travel Network to meet other like-minded travelers!

To learn more about Golden Gaze and how you can support such spaces, click here

Are you a travel business owner? Share your stories with our community. Get in touch for a chance to be featured on our website!

How to Be More Eco-Friendly When You Travel

According to a study by Booking.com, 87 % of travelers state that they would like to travel sustainably. But, can tourism really be sustainable? Are your concerns about the environment compatible with your wanderlust? 

The answer is yes. But we do have to travel differently in order to address these concerns. So how can you limit your carbon footprint when you are travelling?

Choosing the right destination

an aerial view of Maya Bay in Thailand with several boats in the water and a crowd on the beach

Trying to travel while being conscious about our impact on the environment starts with proper planning, so take the time to choose the right destination. 

You might remember the movie “The Beach”, starring Leonardo Di Caprio. After the movie was released in 2000, millions of tourists flocked to Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh Island in Thailand. In recent years, more than 5000 tourists would crowd on the island in a single day! The resultant litter and pollution has reportedly damaged more than 80% of the coral around Maya Bay.

Eventually, the Thai government had no choice but to close the beach down until the environment recovers, which could take years. The same problem arose in many other places, where tourism has been rising too much and too rapidly.

The problem is that even if you are a conscious traveler, some destinations have simply reached their limits.  Thoroughly research each destination on your wishlist and intentionally avoid those suffering from overtourism. Focus on countries or cities which are betting on sustainable tourism to attract visitors. Namibia and Ecuador are both great examples of destinations that advocate conservation as a basic principle of ecotourism.

cHOOSINg the best way to get there

a man cycling past an eatery in paris

Transportation accounts for a lot of the carbon emissions from your trip. Ideally, you would choose a carbon neutral mode of transportation such as walking or cycling. If you have to settle for a less green option, consider trains, which are one of the cleanest modes of public transportation. If you are driving, try to share the ride to limit your impact. And if you must fly, then there are a few things to take into consideration.

First: the lighter the plane, the less fuel it uses, so pack light!

Secondly, the worst thing about flying are take-offs and landings. Whenever you can,  look for direct flights and avoid stopovers. You might also want to consider avoiding first class, because all that extra space is really just wasted space.

Still feel guilty about flying? Before cancelling your plans, you might want to research offsetting your CO2 emissions. Some organizations (such as WWF UK’s carbon footprint calculator) will help you calculate the carbon emissions from your flight.  Once you know the monetary value of those flights, you can donate to an organization working on reducing carbon emissions to compensate for the impact of your trip. 

choosing the right accommodation

bali solo female travelers

Next on your list: choosing where to sleep.

Several countries have some sort of certification procedure to let tourists know if specific companies have high standards for environmental protection. For example, if you decide to visit Costa Rica, you can check for the “Certificado para la Sostenibilidad Turística” i.e. Certification for Sustainable Tourism Stamp. Similarly, hotels in the U.S. may have LEED Certification, which judges properties on parameters such as sustainable site development, materials used, design innovation and energy efficiency.

Once again, the way to make your trip greener is to do the research! Finally, once you get there, if you see something that could be improved, say something. The more clients speak up, the more hotels will realize how important those things are. If they don’t do it by conviction, at least they will do it to get more business!

Stick to your good habits

Just because you are on holiday, it doesn’t mean that you should forget your good habits! So keep following the usual rules : recycle your trash, prefer showers to baths and turn off the lights when you leave a room.                You should also think about packing a few extra things like reusable shopping bags and a water bottle to limit your use of disposable plastic.

Remember to also follow the local rules, which might be different. If you’re not sure, never hesitate to ask. If you need to move around, try to use public transportation, and if you need to drive, try to share the ride.                Finally, when you shop, buy local!

All these recommendations are probably nothing new for you. The point is to be conscious of these habits, even when travelling. Have high standards, wherever you are!

beware of greenwashing

Girl in blue shirt in background holding a green leaf in both her hands in the foreground

Becoming a conscious traveller boils down to doing more research and looking for trustworthy businesses.      But there is an inherent problem with that: should you take their word for it? Our advice is: remain sceptical of any claims.

Hotels, tour operators, airlines and cruises advertise how specific products or services are eco-friendly and benefit the local communities. Amidst tall claims of sustainability, it is quite hard for travelers to judge if an organisation is cashing in on consumer guilt, or is genuinely concerned about the planet.

To avoid falling for so-called “green initiatives,” ask your travel agent or hotelier lots of questions.              Extensive research for a responsible trip may sound like a daunting task, but it’s a worthy price to pay for a guilt-free experience!

The power of the consumer

a digital camera, two polaroid photos, a passport, sunglasses, a film camera and light bulbs placed on top of a brown and white map

You might think that your own personal efforts are just a drop in the ocean, and you probably have a point. However, by joining the growing number of clients demanding efforts from their service providers, you could participate in influencing the entire travel industry.

If enough people stopped flying for very short trips, maybe some alternative offers would develop. If we all asked hotels to stop washing linens every day, maybe they would stop even offering. If most of us asked to eat local food, not only would we support local farmers and allow them to make a decent living, but importing food would become increasingly unnecessary.

In short, consumer demand can force the entire industry to undergo a paradigm shift, so keep asking for more! In fact, many believe it has already started, but the more we are involved, the bigger and faster the change. 

Eventually, these “alternative ways of travelling” will simply become the norm.

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