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<\/p>\nBecause of the increased demands of high-powered careers, it seems that women find themselves traveling alone much more often. Perhaps more than ever, women are willing to ditch their traveling companions and go solo when it comes time to hit the road and see the world. A survey by Small Luxury Hotels of the World, for example, revealed that between 2011 and 2012 there was a 53 percent increase in the demand for rooms by women traveling alone. Still, despite the trend, many women may worry that such solitary excursions carry too many risks, making them a target for thieves, kidnappers and other criminals. But one woman who has logged endless miles exploring the world and finding romance says it doesn\u2019t have to be that way.<\/p>\n
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5 Safety Tips for Women Traveling Alone<\/p>\n
Experienced traveler and author, Barbara Foster says, \u201cThere is no reason to let your fears keep you from the adventures you can experience.\u201d The veteran globetrotter shares, \u201cSure, there are risky places and bad types out there. But with the right precautions, women can travel solo with confidence, visiting the places and meeting the people they always dreamed of and returning home with wonderful stories and memories.\u201d Foster speaks from experience. Her travels have taken her across the country and around the world, with stops in Istanbul, Bombay, Buenos Aires, Jerusalem and other locales.<\/p>\n
Foster, who says solo trips can be deeply rewarding for women, offers five tips for traveling boldly while staying safe.<\/p>\n
Steer clear of the most dangerous locales.Simply put, some places just aren\u2019t worth the risk, so avoid \u201cno go\u201d neighborhoods, cities and countries. For example, if you feel compelled to go to the Middle East, visit Israel, which is the safest Middle Eastern country. Still, if the destination is truly important to you, go ahead and take the risk. India can be dangerous and Foster says she was nearly kidnapped there, saved only by the intervention of a librarian friend. At the same time, she says, the country offers a once in a lifetime experience.
\nConnect with friendly contacts.Make yourself known not only to the U.S. embassy or consul, but also to people in your field, Foster says. During her travels, Foster wrote articles about libraries she visited. Her fellow librarians were a protective group.
\nLearn the language or at least useful phrases.Even if it\u2019s just a few key words, speaking the language can come in handy if you need to seek assistance. Understanding what others are saying also can alert you to potential dangers.
\nDress wisely, pay attention to manners and spend money in moderation.Essentially, don\u2019t draw unnecessary attention to yourself. In her book, Foster recounts a visit to Istanbul where she watched horror-struck as two Turkish men slapped a young British woman for wearing a miniskirt on the street. For added protection against thieves, Foster recommends carrying money and identification in a pouch under your shirt.
\nTravel in the USA.You will miss many of the world\u2019s must-see places, but if the thought of traveling abroad holds too much stress for you, it might be better to stick closer to home. Foster says two of her favorite U.S. cities are New York and New Orleans, both great places to explore.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Because of the increased demands of high-powered careers, it seems that women find themselves traveling alone much more often. Perhaps more than ever, women are willing to ditch their traveling companions and go solo when it comes time to hit the road and see the world. A survey by Small Luxury Hotels of the World,…<\/p>\n