solotravel Archives - Traveler Dreams Traveler Dreams Sun, 20 Sep 2020 15:05:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelerdreams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png solotravel Archives - Traveler Dreams 32 32 This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently https://travelerdreams.com/this-blogger-encourages-women-to-travel-independently/ Wed, 23 Sep 2020 11:37:00 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=7799 Leyla Giray Alyanak is a solo traveler that has traveled the world over—and is still hungry for more. Over the years, she managed to get lost in a Mozambican minefield, paddle her way out of a Philippine flood, and survive an elephant cow stampede in Nigeria—meaning, she learned the art of taking care of herself […]

The post This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Leyla Giray Alyanak is a solo traveler that has traveled the world over—and is still hungry for more. Over the years, she managed to get lost in a Mozambican minefield, paddle her way out of a Philippine flood, and survive an elephant cow stampede in Nigeria—meaning, she learned the art of taking care of herself on the road or in any foreign city. Her goal now is spread her knowledge with other women who want to travel on their own.

“This entire website should NOT be necessary,” she writes on her website. “Solo female travelers should not need to take special precautions, travel with greater awareness or behave in certain ways just because we are women. But sadly, the world is a less than perfect place, and we do have to be aware of those differences. I won’t let them stop me from traveling on my own, and I trust you won’t either.”

View this post on Instagram

There's something about solo travel and the sense of wonder it awakens, at least for me. I was recently in Tunisia and some of my 'other' senses were sharpened. Usually, I focus on food and the sense of taste is primordial. But in Tunis, hearing came into play – the muezzin, the sound of donkey carts on centuries-old cobblestones, the jabber of bargaining… and then the sense of smell, of humidity in old houses, of harissa in couscous and honey in pastries… And then, strangely, it's the being on my own that matters most, the lack of distraction, of intrusion, the ability to focus on my surroundings and nothing else. I don't always travel solo but when I do, I cherish every moment of discovery. Does this resonate at all?

A post shared by Leyla Giray Alyanak (@womenontheroadpix) on

Her blog—titled aptly Women on the Road—is a safe space that provides women with intelligent travel planning tools, creative tactics for spending less, and advice on making money to fund your travels, alongside essential information to help women stay safe and deal with unfamiliar situations on the road.

View this post on Instagram

First stop in Bangkok: pad thai (check!) Second stop: Chatuchak Weekend Market for a bit of emergency (and colourful) shopping. Although it’s called a weekend market, there are some shops open during the week – but I’d stay away and wait for Saturday or Sunday. There isn’t a thing you won’t find here, from goldfish and live snakes (no thank you) to lamps, clothes, antiques and plants. It’s Thailand’s largest (and one of the world’s largest), with thousands of tiny stalls – some say 8,000 and others 15,000 (either way – huge). It’s size and impenetrability – tiny alleys and confusing directions – make it intimidating but only for the first minute or so. Soon, a food stall with coconut ice cream or meat balls will catch your nostrils and you’ll be doing what Thai people do: snacking. It seems unruly at first but there’s a method to all the madness. Its 27 sections are relatively organised – you’ll find home decor in sections 2-4, antiques in sections 7-9 and clothes and other decoration in section 10-24 (beware, this is also the pet section, in case you happen upon a crate of puppies or a reptile or two). That said, you’ll find antiques stalls among the clothes and food in the middle of it all, so the sections are, shall we say, a ‘general guide’. Other than the reasonable prices and abundance of goods of all ranges, Chatuchak is a sensual experience: your eyes simply don’t know where to dart and taking it all in is impossible. The smells of street food carts weave their way through the alleys and up your nostrils, until you forget you’re looking for a bag and follow your nose instead. And it’s loud, as any structure this size would be, with the delightful sound of a dozen languages thrown into the air. In ‘winter’, which I’m in now, the heat is bearable, pleasant even but at the height of summer, beware – it is flattening. It’s the kind of place I want to revisit over and over – but leaving the bulk of my money at home…

A post shared by Leyla Giray Alyanak (@womenontheroadpix) on

“Women on the Road exists to help women with the nuts-and-bolts of solo travel: how to plan a trip, how to stay safe, what to take, how to budget, how to avoid getting lonely—all the things you face before, during, and after you travel,” writes Giray Alyanak. “We are curious, smart, enterprising, enthusiastic, inspired or dynamic—we are women who want to see the world on our own terms.”

Based in rural Eastern France, Giray Alyanak continues to travel and encourages women to do the same. “Forget the partner, forget the doubts—you can own this!” she writes.

And while international travel might not be encouraged these days, she might just inspire you to travel locally, and on your own.

The post This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time https://travelerdreams.com/the-10-best-places-to-go-for-moms-who-want-to-vacation-all-by-themselves/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 12:00:25 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=416 Being a parent is a full-time job. After you get from work, you have to take care of your family, plus a million other things. Going on a vacation by yourself is something that you deserve. Such a rest can do wonders for your body and mind. Despite the beneficial effects of such vacations, you […]

The post The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Being a parent is a full-time job. After you get from work, you have to take care of your family, plus a million other things. Going on a vacation by yourself is something that you deserve. Such a rest can do wonders for your body and mind. Despite the beneficial effects of such vacations, you should only aim for the best places.

Pura Vida Adventures, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

A surf camp for women is an adventure you will never ever forget.

Kripalu Institute, Stockbridge, MA

It’s one of the best yoga and health centers in the entire world.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

The lovely architecture will be food for your eyes, while the actual food will amaze you.

Sedona, AZ

Mysterious and full of yoga studios and spas – what more could you wish for?

Athens, GA

Relaxing with music is the theme of this lovely town.

Steamboat Springs, CO

Skiing is one of the best ways to blow off steam!

https://www.instagram.com/p/TdufTrxR3P/?taken-by=steamboatsprings

San Sebastián, Spain

If you’re a foodie, there is no better place to be than this lovely Basque town!

The post The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel https://travelerdreams.com/why-the-end-of-summer-is-the-best-time-to-travel/ Sat, 21 Sep 2019 10:48:33 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=3389 The transitioning period between summer and fall is one of the most enjoyable seasons of the year for some. The weather is less aggressive, no more scorching summer heat, the temperatures outside are pleasant, and you can finally breathe in some fresh air without too much humidity spoiling your fun. This is also why it […]

The post Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The transitioning period between summer and fall is one of the most enjoyable seasons of the year for some. The weather is less aggressive, no more scorching summer heat, the temperatures outside are pleasant, and you can finally breathe in some fresh air without too much humidity spoiling your fun. This is also why it is the best time for packing your bags and treating yourself with a late vacation.

The Weather is Forgiving

Fall hasn’t yet settled in with heavy rain and cloudy skies and the days are still warm while the nights are cooler. This type of weather is enjoyable for walking and sightseeing if you’re visiting a city. This is also the perfect combo if you’re opting for a seaside vacation, since the sea is still at a pleasant temperature for bathing, and the nights are chilly enough for a good sleep.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2oS4q9g3Pt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Crowds Are Smaller

If you’re someone who prefers to avoid big crowds or jam-packed beaches, taking an off-season vacation might be ideal for you. Especially if you’re travelling solo, you can use this to your advantage and have a peaceful trip filled with “me-time” and self-reflection.

The Offers Are Cheaper 

Last minute travel offers are usually a lot cheaper than the ones in peak season. You can easily find sweet deals for a fraction of the price. This is especially useful if you’re travelling on a budget and trying to cut costs. It is also a lot easier to find accommodation at this time, since the crowds of tourists have scattered away by now, leaving you with more staying options to choose from. Some hotels even offer half-price room bookings in this period.

And perhaps the most satisfying thing about travelling off-season is the fact that, while everyone else is getting back to work, your holiday is just beginning.

The post Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates https://travelerdreams.com/traveling-alone-vs-traveling-with-mates/ Sat, 10 Aug 2019 11:03:28 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=2693 The freedom of having your own time versus spending a smashing good time with friends are two completely opposite ideas. Both choices always give you different insights into yourself and your views on travel. We’ll weigh the pros and cons in this article to give you a little boost in your decision-making. Whether you’re planning […]

The post Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The freedom of having your own time versus spending a smashing good time with friends are two completely opposite ideas. Both choices always give you different insights into yourself and your views on travel.

We’ll weigh the pros and cons in this article to give you a little boost in your decision-making. Whether you’re planning your first trip alone or deciding to go on a small journey with friends – both choices are well worth trying at least once.

Traveling Solo Gives you Freedom

Since you’ll be steering your own ship, taking other people’s considerations into mind won’t be an addition to your list of things to do. You get to pick your own time, which places you want to visit and which places aren’t worth it at all.

The freedom of traveling alone helps you to experience a side of life that’s new and exciting. Not to mention – it will make you feel like a totally independent traveler.

On the downside, you’ll have to send your friends a few pictures since you won’t have their company, but hey you can always meet other lone wolves while traveling solo too!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0qgnOIJlN2/

Traveling with Friends is Exciting and Memorable

When traveling with a group, there’s always that person who takes pictures and records them for everyone to see afterward. The joys of traveling with a group are warm and inviting, plus you won’t have to deal with tough situations all by yourself.

The downside? Having to make sure that everyone’s views are aligned and that people aren’t late to the plans.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0uVylFgAV2/

Either way – traveling solo and traveling with friends is a memorable experience regardless.

The post Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> solotravel Archives - Traveler Dreams Traveler Dreams Sun, 20 Sep 2020 15:05:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://travelerdreams.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png solotravel Archives - Traveler Dreams 32 32 This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently https://travelerdreams.com/this-blogger-encourages-women-to-travel-independently/ Wed, 23 Sep 2020 11:37:00 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=7799 Leyla Giray Alyanak is a solo traveler that has traveled the world over—and is still hungry for more. Over the years, she managed to get lost in a Mozambican minefield, paddle her way out of a Philippine flood, and survive an elephant cow stampede in Nigeria—meaning, she learned the art of taking care of herself […]

The post This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Leyla Giray Alyanak is a solo traveler that has traveled the world over—and is still hungry for more. Over the years, she managed to get lost in a Mozambican minefield, paddle her way out of a Philippine flood, and survive an elephant cow stampede in Nigeria—meaning, she learned the art of taking care of herself on the road or in any foreign city. Her goal now is spread her knowledge with other women who want to travel on their own.

“This entire website should NOT be necessary,” she writes on her website. “Solo female travelers should not need to take special precautions, travel with greater awareness or behave in certain ways just because we are women. But sadly, the world is a less than perfect place, and we do have to be aware of those differences. I won’t let them stop me from traveling on my own, and I trust you won’t either.”

View this post on Instagram

There's something about solo travel and the sense of wonder it awakens, at least for me. I was recently in Tunisia and some of my 'other' senses were sharpened. Usually, I focus on food and the sense of taste is primordial. But in Tunis, hearing came into play – the muezzin, the sound of donkey carts on centuries-old cobblestones, the jabber of bargaining… and then the sense of smell, of humidity in old houses, of harissa in couscous and honey in pastries… And then, strangely, it's the being on my own that matters most, the lack of distraction, of intrusion, the ability to focus on my surroundings and nothing else. I don't always travel solo but when I do, I cherish every moment of discovery. Does this resonate at all?

A post shared by Leyla Giray Alyanak (@womenontheroadpix) on

Her blog—titled aptly Women on the Road—is a safe space that provides women with intelligent travel planning tools, creative tactics for spending less, and advice on making money to fund your travels, alongside essential information to help women stay safe and deal with unfamiliar situations on the road.

View this post on Instagram

First stop in Bangkok: pad thai (check!) Second stop: Chatuchak Weekend Market for a bit of emergency (and colourful) shopping. Although it’s called a weekend market, there are some shops open during the week – but I’d stay away and wait for Saturday or Sunday. There isn’t a thing you won’t find here, from goldfish and live snakes (no thank you) to lamps, clothes, antiques and plants. It’s Thailand’s largest (and one of the world’s largest), with thousands of tiny stalls – some say 8,000 and others 15,000 (either way – huge). It’s size and impenetrability – tiny alleys and confusing directions – make it intimidating but only for the first minute or so. Soon, a food stall with coconut ice cream or meat balls will catch your nostrils and you’ll be doing what Thai people do: snacking. It seems unruly at first but there’s a method to all the madness. Its 27 sections are relatively organised – you’ll find home decor in sections 2-4, antiques in sections 7-9 and clothes and other decoration in section 10-24 (beware, this is also the pet section, in case you happen upon a crate of puppies or a reptile or two). That said, you’ll find antiques stalls among the clothes and food in the middle of it all, so the sections are, shall we say, a ‘general guide’. Other than the reasonable prices and abundance of goods of all ranges, Chatuchak is a sensual experience: your eyes simply don’t know where to dart and taking it all in is impossible. The smells of street food carts weave their way through the alleys and up your nostrils, until you forget you’re looking for a bag and follow your nose instead. And it’s loud, as any structure this size would be, with the delightful sound of a dozen languages thrown into the air. In ‘winter’, which I’m in now, the heat is bearable, pleasant even but at the height of summer, beware – it is flattening. It’s the kind of place I want to revisit over and over – but leaving the bulk of my money at home…

A post shared by Leyla Giray Alyanak (@womenontheroadpix) on

“Women on the Road exists to help women with the nuts-and-bolts of solo travel: how to plan a trip, how to stay safe, what to take, how to budget, how to avoid getting lonely—all the things you face before, during, and after you travel,” writes Giray Alyanak. “We are curious, smart, enterprising, enthusiastic, inspired or dynamic—we are women who want to see the world on our own terms.”

Based in rural Eastern France, Giray Alyanak continues to travel and encourages women to do the same. “Forget the partner, forget the doubts—you can own this!” she writes.

And while international travel might not be encouraged these days, she might just inspire you to travel locally, and on your own.

The post This Blogger Encourages Women to Travel Independently appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time https://travelerdreams.com/the-10-best-places-to-go-for-moms-who-want-to-vacation-all-by-themselves/ Fri, 27 Sep 2019 12:00:25 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=416 Being a parent is a full-time job. After you get from work, you have to take care of your family, plus a million other things. Going on a vacation by yourself is something that you deserve. Such a rest can do wonders for your body and mind. Despite the beneficial effects of such vacations, you […]

The post The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Being a parent is a full-time job. After you get from work, you have to take care of your family, plus a million other things. Going on a vacation by yourself is something that you deserve. Such a rest can do wonders for your body and mind. Despite the beneficial effects of such vacations, you should only aim for the best places.

Pura Vida Adventures, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

A surf camp for women is an adventure you will never ever forget.

Kripalu Institute, Stockbridge, MA

It’s one of the best yoga and health centers in the entire world.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

The lovely architecture will be food for your eyes, while the actual food will amaze you.

Sedona, AZ

Mysterious and full of yoga studios and spas – what more could you wish for?

Athens, GA

Relaxing with music is the theme of this lovely town.

Steamboat Springs, CO

Skiing is one of the best ways to blow off steam!

https://www.instagram.com/p/TdufTrxR3P/?taken-by=steamboatsprings

San Sebastián, Spain

If you’re a foodie, there is no better place to be than this lovely Basque town!

The post The 10 Best Places to Visit for Moms Looking for Some Alone Time appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel https://travelerdreams.com/why-the-end-of-summer-is-the-best-time-to-travel/ Sat, 21 Sep 2019 10:48:33 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=3389 The transitioning period between summer and fall is one of the most enjoyable seasons of the year for some. The weather is less aggressive, no more scorching summer heat, the temperatures outside are pleasant, and you can finally breathe in some fresh air without too much humidity spoiling your fun. This is also why it […]

The post Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The transitioning period between summer and fall is one of the most enjoyable seasons of the year for some. The weather is less aggressive, no more scorching summer heat, the temperatures outside are pleasant, and you can finally breathe in some fresh air without too much humidity spoiling your fun. This is also why it is the best time for packing your bags and treating yourself with a late vacation.

The Weather is Forgiving

Fall hasn’t yet settled in with heavy rain and cloudy skies and the days are still warm while the nights are cooler. This type of weather is enjoyable for walking and sightseeing if you’re visiting a city. This is also the perfect combo if you’re opting for a seaside vacation, since the sea is still at a pleasant temperature for bathing, and the nights are chilly enough for a good sleep.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2oS4q9g3Pt/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Crowds Are Smaller

If you’re someone who prefers to avoid big crowds or jam-packed beaches, taking an off-season vacation might be ideal for you. Especially if you’re travelling solo, you can use this to your advantage and have a peaceful trip filled with “me-time” and self-reflection.

The Offers Are Cheaper 

Last minute travel offers are usually a lot cheaper than the ones in peak season. You can easily find sweet deals for a fraction of the price. This is especially useful if you’re travelling on a budget and trying to cut costs. It is also a lot easier to find accommodation at this time, since the crowds of tourists have scattered away by now, leaving you with more staying options to choose from. Some hotels even offer half-price room bookings in this period.

And perhaps the most satisfying thing about travelling off-season is the fact that, while everyone else is getting back to work, your holiday is just beginning.

The post Why The End Of Summer Is The Best Time To Travel appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates https://travelerdreams.com/traveling-alone-vs-traveling-with-mates/ Sat, 10 Aug 2019 11:03:28 +0000 https://stagingtrd.wpengine.com/?p=2693 The freedom of having your own time versus spending a smashing good time with friends are two completely opposite ideas. Both choices always give you different insights into yourself and your views on travel. We’ll weigh the pros and cons in this article to give you a little boost in your decision-making. Whether you’re planning […]

The post Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]> The freedom of having your own time versus spending a smashing good time with friends are two completely opposite ideas. Both choices always give you different insights into yourself and your views on travel.

We’ll weigh the pros and cons in this article to give you a little boost in your decision-making. Whether you’re planning your first trip alone or deciding to go on a small journey with friends – both choices are well worth trying at least once.

Traveling Solo Gives you Freedom

Since you’ll be steering your own ship, taking other people’s considerations into mind won’t be an addition to your list of things to do. You get to pick your own time, which places you want to visit and which places aren’t worth it at all.

The freedom of traveling alone helps you to experience a side of life that’s new and exciting. Not to mention – it will make you feel like a totally independent traveler.

On the downside, you’ll have to send your friends a few pictures since you won’t have their company, but hey you can always meet other lone wolves while traveling solo too!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0qgnOIJlN2/

Traveling with Friends is Exciting and Memorable

When traveling with a group, there’s always that person who takes pictures and records them for everyone to see afterward. The joys of traveling with a group are warm and inviting, plus you won’t have to deal with tough situations all by yourself.

The downside? Having to make sure that everyone’s views are aligned and that people aren’t late to the plans.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0uVylFgAV2/

Either way – traveling solo and traveling with friends is a memorable experience regardless.

The post Traveling Alone Vs Traveling with Mates appeared first on Traveler Dreams.

]]>