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  17. <description>Your Tour Guide</description>
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  26. <title>10 Ways to Travel the World for Free</title>
  27. <link>https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/</link>
  28. <comments>https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/#respond</comments>
  30. <dc:creator><![CDATA[lavanya]]></dc:creator>
  31. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:12:28 +0000</pubDate>
  32. <category><![CDATA[Destinations]]></category>
  33. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://travelsdirectory.com/?p=36</guid>
  34.  
  35. <description><![CDATA[<p>Do you dream of seeing the world but don’t have a fat travel fund to do it? Today, there are more opportunities than ever to travel the world on the cheap — or even for free. My wife and I visit an average of 10 countries every year, all on her salary alone. No, she’s&#8230;</p>
  36. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/">10 Ways to Travel the World for Free</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  37. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/">10 Ways to Travel the World for Free</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  38. ]]></description>
  39. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you dream of seeing the world but don’t have a fat travel fund to do it? Today, there are more opportunities than ever to travel the world on the cheap — or even for free.</p>
  40. <p>My wife and I visit an average of 10 countries every year, all on her salary alone. No, she’s not an investment banker or neurosurgeon. She’s a school counselor with a salary comparable to a teacher.</p>
  41. <p>Part of our travel strategy involves visiting inexpensive countries and looking for low-cost accommodations through Airbnb and local guesthouses. But the primary reasons we can afford to see the world are all the ways we’ve found to travel for free.</p>
  42. <h2 id="h-travel-tips-to-see-the-world-for-free" class="">Travel Tips to See the World for Free</h2>
  43. <p>Some of these options offer free accommodations, others offer free transportation, and a few offer both. They all come with limitations and trade-offs, but for anyone looking to travel on a tiny budget, these travel tips are hard to beat.</p>
  44. <p>One quick note: We’ll talk about maximizing credit card rewards in more detail below, but we do want to mention upfront that you should always use a rewards credit card to book travel and make purchases abroad. (Those you can’t avoid using these free travel strategies, that is.)</p>
  45. <p>Our top travel rewards credit card pick is the <a class="thirstylink" href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/go/chase-sapphire-preferred/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-linkid="318547"><strong>Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card</strong></a>. Its selling points include:</p>
  46. <ul>
  47. <li>An excellent sign-up bonus</li>
  48. <li>An annual $50 hotel credit against eligible hotel bookings through Chase Travel, making it one of the <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/best-hotel-rewards-credit-cards/">best hotel credit cards</a> on the market</li>
  49. <li>5x points on eligible Chase Travel purchases after the $50 hotel credit is exhausted</li>
  50. <li>3x points on eligible purchases, including restaurant dining, select streaming service purchases, and online grocery purchases</li>
  51. <li>2x points on all other eligible travel purchases</li>
  52. </ul>
  53. <p>And now for the most reliable strategies to save money while traveling the world.</p>
  54. <h3 id="h-1-work-abroad-in-expat-friendly-industries" class="">1. Work Abroad in Expat-Friendly Industries</h3>
  55. <p>There are plenty of expat-friendly job options overseas, from international nurses and doctors to au pairs to educators to engineers.</p>
  56. <p>Teaching abroad is how my wife and I can afford to do so much traveling. She works at an American school in Abu Dhabi. It provides us both with round-trip flights home every summer, free upscale housing that includes a gym, pool, and jacuzzi, and comprehensive health insurance. Oh, and there’s no income tax in the United Arab Emirates.</p>
  57. <p>Living in Abu Dhabi has allowed us to travel all over the world. We flew nonstop to Bulgaria for $185 round-trip. We spent even less on nonstop round-trip flights to Cyprus. Every time we fly back to the United States, we make a stopover in Europe for a few days to enjoy gastronomy in Lyon, the Christmas markets in Munich, or the nightlife in Amsterdam.</p>
  58. <p>There are thousands of international schools worldwide looking for qualified English-speaking employees, from IT specialists to administrators to teachers of all specialties. If you’re interested, check out international recruiting agency <a href="https://www.searchassociates.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Search Associates</a>.</p>
  59. <p>Don’t have a teaching degree? You can still potentially teach English as a foreign language with a TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) certificate. But don’t expect the same benefits as credentialed teachers working at international schools.</p>
  60. <p>Or keep it even simpler and research international positions for your existing skill set. You’d be surprised at the number of opportunities for Americans overseas.</p>
  61. <h3 id="h-2-look-for-work-exchanges" class="">2. Look for Work Exchanges</h3>
  62. <p>There are plenty of employers who provide free housing for short-term or even long-term stays in exchange for work. This arrangement is called a work exchange.</p>
  63. <p>For example, if you’ve ever been intrigued by the idea of living and working on a farm, WWOOF is your chance to see the world while you do so. <a href="http://wwoof.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WWOOF</a> stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms.</p>
  64. <p>Farming is primarily seasonal work, and farmers need seasonal help. While they often have an abundance of space, housing, and food, many organic farmers don’t have an abundance of money. So in exchange for four to six hours’ help each day, they provide room and board. You’re on your own for the cost of transportation to get there, though.</p>
  65. <p>You can go “WWOOF’ing” by yourself, as a couple, with friends, or even as a family with children. Select which country you’re interested in, and WWOOF will show you a list of host farms and connect you with the farmers.</p>
  66. <p>And many <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/what-is-hostel/">hostels</a> find themselves in a similar situation as organic farmers — with plenty of beds and rooms but short on labor. So they offer a free room (and sometimes free meals) in exchange for work. A few even pay a small stipend of spending money.</p>
  67. <p>Check out <a href="https://www.helpx.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HelpX</a>, <a href="https://helpstay.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">helpStay</a>, and<a href="https://www.workaway.info/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Workaway</a> for thousands of opportunities worldwide to stay for free in exchange for your services.</p>
  68. <h3 id="h-3-house-sit-or-pet-sit" class="">3. House-Sit or Pet-Sit</h3>
  69. <p>Did you know there are entire websites dedicated to connecting house sitters with pet owners? Pet owners don’t want to leave their pets in kennels surrounded by unknown dogs and cats when they travel. They’d rather let them stay at home — a home which is just sitting vacant and unused.</p>
  70. <p>House sitters can stay for free at these homes for the price of caring for the owners’ pets. While it’s a relatively easy job, it does mean you have to schedule your day around the pets’ needs. You can’t leave for a weekend excursion or go on 14-hour day trips. But for animal lovers, it can be an easy way to save money with free accommodations anywhere in the world, often in high-end homes.</p>
  71. <p>And house-sitting isn’t limited to pet owners. Some homeowners sleep easier knowing someone is minding their home while they’re away, whether that means you care for their plants or are simply there to deter break-ins.</p>
  72. <p>But these opportunities are the exception, not the rule, and most house-sitting gigs do involve caring for pets.</p>
  73. <p>Try <a class="thirstylink" href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/go/trustedhousesitters/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-linkid="318496">TrustedHousesitters</a> as a starting point for free house-sitting gigs in many different countries.</p>
  74. <h3 id="h-4-volunteer-long-term-with-the-peace-corps" class="">4. Volunteer Long-Term With the Peace Corps</h3>
  75. <p>The <a href="https://www.peacecorps.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Peace Corps</a> offers incredibly rewarding opportunities to live for several years in a community that needs committed volunteers. While the Peace Corps is a large international organization, they do an excellent job of keeping their focus on the grassroots level. Volunteers go to the ends of the earth, living and working in the poorest communities on the planet.</p>
  76. <p>The Peace Corps isn’t for everyone, though. It requires a 27-month commitment: three months of training, then two years in the field. You’ll also be leaving the comforts of Western democracy behind. You may or may not have mobile phone service, and you may not have air conditioning in hot climates.</p>
  77. <p>You receive a living stipend, which is enough to cover housing (if they don’t provide you with a free place to stay), food, and basic spending in the community where you’re stationed. But when you come home to visit, don’t plan on fancy dinners out or hotels. Expect to crash with friends and family.</p>
  78. <p>That said, you’ll have the opportunity to personally transform poor communities into livable, sustainable towns and villages. In many cases, you will literally save lives. If you’re truly driven to change the world and see some of it in the process, the Peace Corps may be a good fit for you.</p>
  79. <h3 id="h-5-volunteer-with-short-term-volunteer-organizations" class="">5. Volunteer With Short-Term Volunteer Organizations</h3>
  80. <p>If your volunteer travel timeline is measured in weeks or months rather than years, try short-term volunteer placement services like <a href="http://www.gooverseas.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Go Overseas</a> or <a href="http://www.idealist.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Idealist</a>. They offer global opportunities for work ranging from teaching English to building infrastructure.</p>
  81. <p>For a comfortable way to ease into international volunteering, try <a href="https://www.diverbo.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diverbo</a>. It hosts one-week English retreats in Spain and Germany to immerse non-Native English speakers in English-based activities. As a native speaker, you’re there to give them someone to practice with. It pays for hotel stays and meals. All you have to do is get there.</p>
  82. <p>There are endless ways to volunteer abroad for free travel and rewarding experiences in a new culture. Spend an hour researching options online, and you can’t help but be inspired by the possibilities to give back while seeing the world.</p>
  83. <h3 id="h-6-organize-your-own-volunteer-trip" class="">6. Organize Your Own Volunteer Trip</h3>
  84. <p>You can also organize your own volunteer trip. With <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/best-crowdfunding-sites-personal-needs/">crowdfunding websites</a> like <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a>, you can raise money from your friends, family members, and colleagues (and sometimes even strangers) to cover the costs of your volunteer trip. Perhaps they’ll even join you on your expedition.</p>
  85. <p>But ensure your trip will genuinely change lives for needy people rather than serve as a cover story for you to persuade your friends to pay for your vacation.</p>
  86. <p>I saw this happen just recently with a newly arrived couple at my wife’s school. They raised money from their friends back in the United States, inventing the name of an education-based “ministry” they claimed to be leading here in Abu Dhabi. It was an utter scam, as they have the same generous teaching package my wife does.</p>
  87. <p>Whether they got away with it among their friends back home or not, they didn’t get away with it here. The link to their GoFundMe page made the rounds among the school faculty, and they’ve found few friends as a result.</p>
  88. <p>So approach any crowdfunding attempts with complete sincerity and transparency.</p>
  89. <h3 id="h-7-maximize-credit-card-rewards" class="">7. Maximize Credit Card Rewards</h3>
  90. <p>If you have the right card, you can earn free plane tickets by putting purchases on your credit card. And many of the<a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/best-travel-rewards-credit-cards/"> best travel rewards credit cards</a> offer some enticing benefits. But that’s far from the only option for maximizing your rewards.</p>
  91. <p>Many travel rewards cards, such as the <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/platinum-delta-skymiles-credit-card-review/">Delta SkyMiles Platinum card from American Express</a>, offer free or discounted companion vouchers every year. You can score a free flight from your rewards points plus a cheap or free flight for your travel partner from the companion voucher.</p>
  92. <p>Then there are <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/best-credit-card-bonus-offers-deals-promotions/">sign-up bonuses</a>. Some are positively generous, like the <a href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/chase-sapphire-preferred-credit-card-review/">Chase Sapphire Preferred Card</a>‘s.</p>
  93. <p>You can also maximize rewards by using your credit card every time you pay for flights. Some credit cards and partner airlines offer double or triple rewards — or higher — for booking flights.</p>
  94. <p>There are loads of ways you can score free flights with rewards. Just don’t overspend in the name of saving money.</p>
  95. <h3 id="h-8-capitalize-on-loyalty-programs" class="">8. Capitalize on Loyalty Programs</h3>
  96. <p>Rewards don’t just come from credit cards. Airlines, hotel chains, and other travel businesses often offer loyalty points for frequent travelers.</p>
  97. <p>If you always fly with the same airline, you can rack up frequent flyer miles. The same goes for hotels. These businesses sometimes offer brief promotions with killer deals to score points quickly and cheaply or accept fewer points than usual for flights or stays.</p>
  98. <p>Travel forums and frugal travel blogs let you stay on top of current promotions.</p>
  99. <h3 id="h-9-swap-houses" class="">9. Swap Houses</h3>
  100. <p>You live in Seattle and want to visit Berlin. Someone in Berlin wants to visit Seattle. Why not swap houses with them for your trip? It’s a win-win. You get to stay for free in an authentic local home rather than a hotel, and your home doesn’t have to sit vacant and vulnerable to catastrophes like break-ins or flooding.</p>
  101. <p>Granted, it’s not always that simple. Perhaps you want to visit Berlin in July, and the Berliner wants to visit Seattle in October. Perhaps you’re worried about the risk of having a stranger stay in your home.</p>
  102. <p>The good news is reputable home-swapping websites provide a level of transparency, with peer reviews and identity verification to give members greater peace of mind. Some home-swapping websites also offer credit systems for indirect house-swapping. By offering your house to others, you accumulate points or credits, which you can redeem at your leisure at houses all over the world. Think of it like couch surfing for grown-ups.</p>
  103. <p>A few reputable house-swapping websites to try are <a class="thirstylink" href="https://www.moneycrashers.com/go/homeexchange/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-linkid="318596">HomeExchange</a>, <a href="https://www.lovehomeswap.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Love Home Swap</a>, and<a href="https://homelink.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> HomeLink</a>. But even if you’re using one of these services, always do your homework before agreeing to your first swap.</p>
  104. <h3 id="h-10-travel-to-the-old-country-for-free" class="active">10. Travel to ‘The Old Country’ for Free</h3>
  105. <p>Some countries offer discover-your-roots programs for descendants to come back and visit the home of their ancestors. In most cases, these programs are designed for young adults to come and stay with local host families.</p>
  106. <p>Programs include:</p>
  107. <ul>
  108. <li><a href="https://www.birthrightisrael.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Birthright Israel</a></li>
  109. <li><a href="https://www.nationalhellenicsociety.org/heritage-greece.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Heritage Greece</a></li>
  110. <li><a href="http://reconnecthungary.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ReConnect Hungary</a></li>
  111. <li><a href="http://umdiaspora.org/cpt_services/leadership-development/#birthright-macedonia" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Birthright Macedonia</a></li>
  112. <li><a href="https://www.birthrightarmenia.org/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Birthright Armenia</a></li>
  113. <li><a href="http://cubaone.org/aboutus/how-it-works/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CubaOne</a></li>
  114. </ul>
  115. <p>Whatever your heritage, do some research on private or government-funded programs to streamline your visit back to “the old country,” stay for free while there, and potentially even cover your airfare.</p>
  116. <p>While you’re at it, you can also look into citizenship programs for descendants. For example, Italy has a generous <a href="https://www.icapbridging2worlds.com/italian-dual-citizenship-by-descent/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">citizenship program</a> through which descendants who can prove an Italian ancestor are generally eligible for dual U.S.-Italian citizenship.</p>
  117. <p>A close friend of mine who was born in Boston was able to dig up proof that his great-great-grandfather was Italian, and he now has an Italian passport and the option of living in the European Union if he so wishes.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/">10 Ways to Travel the World for Free</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-ways-to-travel-the-world-for-free/">10 Ways to Travel the World for Free</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  118. ]]></content:encoded>
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  121. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  124. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">36</post-id> </item>
  125. <item>
  126. <title>5 Health Benefits of Travelling: Managing Stress and Creative Engagement</title>
  127. <link>https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/</link>
  128. <comments>https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/#respond</comments>
  130. <dc:creator><![CDATA[lavanya]]></dc:creator>
  131. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:08:31 +0000</pubDate>
  132. <category><![CDATA[Inspiration]]></category>
  133. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://travelsdirectory.com/?p=34</guid>
  134.  
  135. <description><![CDATA[<p>Traveling has many benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are 5 health benefits of traveling: Stress relief: Traveling can help reduce stress and increase happiness by giving you a change of scenery, new experiences, and a break from your routine. This can help improve your mood and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.&#8230;</p>
  136. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/">5 Health Benefits of Travelling: Managing Stress and Creative Engagement</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  137. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/">5 Health Benefits of Travelling: Managing Stress and Creative Engagement</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  138. ]]></description>
  139. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Traveling has many benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are 5 health benefits of traveling:</p>
  140. <p>Stress relief: Traveling can help reduce stress and increase happiness by giving you a change of scenery, new experiences, and a break from your routine. This can help improve your mood and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety.</p>
  141. <p>Boost creativity: New experiences and exposure to different cultures and environments can stimulate the brain and increase creativity. Traveling can also help you develop new perspectives, find inspiration, and solve problems in new and innovative ways.</p>
  142. <p>Improved physical health: Traveling involves physical activity such as walking, exploring new places, and trying new activities, which can boost overall physical health and improve cardiovascular health.</p>
  143. <p>Increased mental clarity: Traveling can help clear your mind, improve focus, and boost productivity. A change of environment can help you disconnect from distractions, reflect on your life and goals, and gain a fresh perspective on your problems. Also Read &#8211; Study links postpartum depression with adolescent stress</p>
  144. <p>Stronger relationships: Traveling with family, friends, or a significant other can help strengthen your relationships by creating shared experiences and memories. It can also help improve communication and foster deeper understanding and appreciation for one another.</p>
  145. <p>Traveling has many benefits for both physical and mental health, and can be a great way to boost creativity, relieve stress, improve physical health, increase mental clarity, and strengthen relationships. Whether you&#8217;re traveling for leisure or work, be sure to take advantage of the many health benefits that travel has to offer.</p>
  146. <p><b></b></p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/">5 Health Benefits of Travelling: Managing Stress and Creative Engagement</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/5-health-benefits-of-travelling-managing-stress-and-creative-engagement/">5 Health Benefits of Travelling: Managing Stress and Creative Engagement</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  147. ]]></content:encoded>
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  150. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  153. <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">34</post-id> </item>
  154. <item>
  155. <title>10 signs you’re travelling with ‘the one’</title>
  156. <link>https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/</link>
  157. <comments>https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/#respond</comments>
  159. <dc:creator><![CDATA[lavanya]]></dc:creator>
  160. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:59:05 +0000</pubDate>
  161. <category><![CDATA[Experiences]]></category>
  162. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://travelsdirectory.com/?p=32</guid>
  163.  
  164. <description><![CDATA[<p>1. They give you the best seat on the plane  Sure, giving up a window seat will get you brownie points, but praise be for the true heroes who take one for the team and switch to the middle seat so you can snooze without fear of dribbling on a stranger’s shoulder. 2. You don’t&#8230;</p>
  165. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/">10 signs you’re travelling with ‘the one’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  166. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/">10 signs you’re travelling with ‘the one’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  167. ]]></description>
  168. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>1. They give you the best seat on the plane </strong></h2>
  169. <p>Sure, giving up a window seat will get you brownie points, but praise be for the true heroes who take one for the team and switch to the middle seat so you can snooze without fear of dribbling on a stranger’s shoulder.</p>
  170. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>2. You don’t have to be together 24/7 </strong></h2>
  171. <p>Joined at the hip? That’s cool, you do you. But being able to spend time apart is often a sign of longevity.</p>
  172. <p>&#8220;Will is quite the adrenaline junkie and I am&#8230; not. He lets me sit and read while he jumps off cliffs. I love that there&#8217;s no pressure for us to do everything together, meaning we both get our dream holiday.&#8221; – <a href="https://twitter.com/bex6">Becky Gillard</a>, loved up since 2012.</p>
  173. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>3. You’ve survived traveller’s tummy together </strong></h2>
  174. <p>Once you’ve shared a windowless en suite after a dodgy prawn curry, you’ve reached new heights of intimacy. Still fancy each other after that? It has to be true love.</p>
  175. <div class="ad-anchor my-8" data-au-path="articles/native-content-top" data-placement="native"></div>
  176. <figure class="my-12">
  177. <div class="bg-black-100"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="max-w-full object-contain w-full h-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-chatting-to-barista-GettyImages-527688068.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-chatting-to-barista-GettyImages-527688068.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 1x, https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-chatting-to-barista-GettyImages-527688068.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 2x" alt="A young man and woman smile and laugh as they talk to a barista in a bright coffee shop." width="640" height="360" data-nimg="1" data-recalc-dims="1" /></div><figcaption class="mt-2 font-mono text-xs">If your plus-one treats the strangers you meet with respect and kindness, they could be a keeper © alvarez / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
  178. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>4. They’re kind to you, and to others </strong></h2>
  179. <p>&#8220;Pete still brings me coffee in bed even when we’re 3000 miles from home.&#8221; – <a href="https://twitter.com/JaneChicoMendes">Jane Chico Mendes</a>, who recently honeymooned in <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bali">Bali</a> with her partner of 8½ years.</p>
  180. <p>It’s the little things, right? But pay heed to this classic relationship wisdom: if your guy or gal is polite, respectful and kind to others (not just to you), you know they’re worth holding on to. This is easy to assess while travelling, as you’ll encounter loads of strangers at airports, in hotels and hostels, on public transport and beyond – sometimes in stressful circumstances.</p>
  181. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>5. It’s what’s inside that counts </strong></h2>
  182. <p>A hair wax or make-up free vacation is one thing, but throw in 100 mozzie bites, patchy sunburn, overnight-bus hair and and a pair of dodgy patterned baggy pants, and you’ll both be rocking an entirely different look. If the attraction endures, it could be the real deal.</p>
  183. <figure class="my-12">
  184. <div class="bg-black-100"><img decoding="async" class="max-w-full object-contain w-full h-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-relaxing-on-sunloungers-beside-a-pool-GettyImages-1152878728.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-relaxing-on-sunloungers-beside-a-pool-GettyImages-1152878728.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 1x, https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-relaxing-on-sunloungers-beside-a-pool-GettyImages-1152878728.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 2x" alt="A couple hold hands as they relax, lying side-by-side on sunloungers by a pool." width="640" height="360" data-nimg="1" data-recalc-dims="1" /></div><figcaption class="mt-2 font-mono text-xs">It pays to know when your significant other needs a snack – or a disco nap – to recharge © Thomas Barwick / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
  185. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>6. They know when you’re hangry </strong></h2>
  186. <p>When your other half can spot and stave off your impending hunger-fuelled tantrum before you even know it’s coming – feeding you snacks, keeping you hydrated and sharing their ice cream – you’ve probably found a keeper.</p>
  187. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>7. They stick around when things get tough </strong></h2>
  188. <p>Arguments happen – especially on the road. The mark of a strong partnership is your ability to compromise as a couple.</p>
  189. <p>&#8220;For me the destination is the journey, but my boyfriend wanted to just get straight to places and not dawdle. It sparked a few arguments, but talking about what was important to each of us when we travel was super helpful. That, and taking turns to do what we wanted to do, which balanced things out!&#8221; – <a href="https://twitter.com/hellopoe">Adrienne Pitts</a>, recently returned from a <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand">New Zealand</a> road trip with her partner of 18 months.</p>
  190. <div class="ad-anchor my-8" data-au-path="articles/native-content-bottom" data-placement="native"></div>
  191. <figure class="my-12">
  192. <div class="bg-black-100"><img decoding="async" class="max-w-full object-contain w-full h-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-jetski-travelling-with-your-partner-GettyImages-164241153.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-jetski-travelling-with-your-partner-GettyImages-164241153.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 1x, https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-jetski-travelling-with-your-partner-GettyImages-164241153.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 2x" alt="A woman smiles joyfully as she holds onto her partner, who is driving the jetski they're both riding." width="640" height="360" data-nimg="1" data-recalc-dims="1" /></div><figcaption class="mt-2 font-mono text-xs">A supportive partner can help you to step out of your comfort zone © David Sacks / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
  193. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>8. They encourage you to try new things </strong></h2>
  194. <p>Nervous about that skydive? Not sure about that surf lesson? Ms or Mr Right will coax you into achieving your goals and experiencing something new but support your decision if today’s not the day. Hopefully you’ll do the same for them. Together, you’ll feel like you’re making the most of your time away, creating memories that will last a lifetime.</p>
  195. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>9. Their skills complement yours </strong></h2>
  196. <p>Teamwork makes the dream work – and life can be mighty fine when you both have different strengths to bring to the table.</p>
  197. <p>&#8220;My partner is amazing with directions – it’s like he has a built-in satnav. He’ll spend a plane journey looking at maps on his phone and basically memorises a whole city before we arrive. I could get lost in an empty room so he’s handy to travel with!&#8221; – <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTravelHack">Monica Stott</a>, navigating life with her other half for 15 years.</p>
  198. <p>&#8220;Due to Megan&#8217;s disability to her left hand, Whitney always deals with our heavy luggage; she puts our hand luggage up in the overhead bins and gets it off the conveyor belt at baggage. We understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses and work as a great team!&#8221; – <a href="https://twitter.com/WhatWeganDid">Megan and Whitney Bacon-Evans</a>, together for 12 years.</p>
  199. <figure class="my-12">
  200. <div class="bg-black-100"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="max-w-full object-contain w-full h-full" src="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-in-airport-GettyImages-530633211.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-in-airport-GettyImages-530633211.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 1x, https://i0.wp.com/lp-cms-production.imgix.net/image_browser/couple-in-airport-GettyImages-530633211.jpg?resize=640%2C360&#038;ssl=1 2x" alt="A young couple sitting on the floor in an airport terminal, passing time by watching something on a mobile phone. " width="640" height="360" data-nimg="1" data-recalc-dims="1" /></div><figcaption class="mt-2 font-mono text-xs">Find someone who&#8217;s fun in the dull moments (or who at least has Netflix on their phone) © Hinterhaus Productions / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
  201. <h2 class="h2style" dir="ltr"><strong>10. Even the boring bits are fun </strong></h2>
  202. <p>Flight delays, long train journeys, queuing for that ‘must-see’ museum exhibition – whatever patience-stretching scenario you’re faced with, you know how to see the upside and keep each other entertained. Because really, it doesn’t matter where you are or what you’re doing – you’re simply happy together.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/">10 signs you’re travelling with ‘the one’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/10-signs-youre-travelling-with-the-one/">10 signs you’re travelling with ‘the one’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  203. ]]></content:encoded>
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  210. <item>
  211. <title>Top tips for women travelling solo: ‘If you feel scared, do it anyway’</title>
  212. <link>https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/</link>
  213. <comments>https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/#respond</comments>
  215. <dc:creator><![CDATA[lavanya]]></dc:creator>
  216. <pubDate>Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:12:14 +0000</pubDate>
  217. <category><![CDATA[Inspiration]]></category>
  218. <category><![CDATA[Tips]]></category>
  219. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://travelsdirectory.com/?p=15</guid>
  220.  
  221. <description><![CDATA[<p>“Just do it, and if you feel scared, do it anyway.” When I first heard this phrase, it struck a chord because it’s exactly how I felt when I embarked on my first trip alone: scared, uncertain and doubting my ability to solve the kind of problems that might crop up far from home. As&#8230;</p>
  222. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/">Top tips for women travelling solo: ‘If you feel scared, do it anyway’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  223. <p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/">Top tips for women travelling solo: ‘If you feel scared, do it anyway’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
  224. ]]></description>
  225. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="">“Just do it, and if you feel scared, do it anyway.” When I first heard this phrase, it struck a chord because it’s exactly how I felt when I embarked on my first trip alone: scared, uncertain and doubting my ability to solve the kind of problems that might crop up far from home. As well as my own insecurities, I had to deal with warnings from friends and acquaintances, such as: “Don’t travel alone, it’s risky!” I don’t blame them; stereotypes, the gender gap and the challenges women in particular face in certain countries reinforce this misconception, to the point that we can be tempted to limit what we do and where we go.</p>
  226. <p class="">But women have traveled alone since time immemorial and adversity has always been a constant. Despite the challenges facing solo women travelers, there’s no shortage of us. According to <a href="https://www.statista.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://www.statista.com/">Statista</a>, an international statistics platform, 70% of the world’s travelers are women and, according to research carried out by <a href="http://booking.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="http://booking.com/">Booking.com</a>, 62% of Latin American women have made at least one international trip alone.</p>
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  229. </div>
  230. <div id="elpais_gpt-INTEXT" data-google-query-id="CIj6_cv35f8CFQ9GnQkdYI8AHQ">
  231. <div id="google_ads_iframe_7811748/elpais_inenglish_web/travel_8__container__"><iframe id="google_ads_iframe_7811748/elpais_inenglish_web/travel_8" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" role="region" name="google_ads_iframe_7811748/elpais_inenglish_web/travel_8" width="1" height="1" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no" aria-label="Advertisement" data-load-complete="true" data-google-container-id="9" data-mce-fragment="1"></iframe></div>
  232. </div>
  233. <p class="">My first adventure was in Mexico. Years later, I traveled through the rest of the Americas <a href="https://english.elpais.com/economy_and_business/2020-07-08/spanish-tourism-industry-feeling-the-loss-of-high-rolling-visitors.html" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://english.elpais.com/economy_and_business/2020-07-08/spanish-tourism-industry-feeling-the-loss-of-high-rolling-visitors.html">as well as Europe</a>, Africa, Asia and the Caribbean, all of which has allowed me to compile useful tips for other women wishing to embark on similar solo adventures.</p>
  234. <h3 class="">Choose your destination</h3>
  235. <p class="">What do you imagine your first trip alone will consist of? Will it involve walking in a forest, touring an ancient city or discovering a new culture? Give it some thought and assess how feasible it is to undertake, based on your budget, the time available to you and your experience. If you are a first-timer, start by traveling locally or visit countries where you feel comfortable with the language and culture.</p>
  236. <p class="">Ampersand Travel, an agency specializing in luxury expeditions in Asia and Africa, launched the <a href="https://www.ampersandtravel.com/blog/2020/wander-women-index-2020-the-best-destinations-for-women-travelling-solo/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://www.ampersandtravel.com/blog/2020/wander-women-index-2020-the-best-destinations-for-women-travelling-solo/">Wander Women Index 2020</a> global guide, which listed the best destinations for solo female travelers based on elements such as facilities, safety and women’s rights. According to this index, the six safest countries, in order of mention, are: New Zealand, the Netherlands, <a href="https://english.elpais.com/elpais/2017/07/31/inenglish/1501506792_042315.html" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://english.elpais.com/elpais/2017/07/31/inenglish/1501506792_042315.html">France</a>, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Canada.</p>
  237. <h3 class="">Information is power</h3>
  238. <p class="">I believe that knowledge helps to protect me. I spend a lot of time planning and finding out the best places to stay, what the culture is like and how complex the transport system is.</p>
  239. <h3 class="">Lodging is key</h3>
  240. <p class="">When it comes to accommodation, I look for options that are centrally located and close to subway stations. My maxim is to read the comments of other travelers. There are many search engines, but among those I use the most are <a href="http://booking.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="http://booking.com/">Booking.com</a>, <a href="http://hoteles.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="http://hoteles.com/">Hoteles.com</a>, Expedia and Airbnb – in case the host lives in the same space, I prefer her to be a woman and check her rating.</p>
  241. <div id="_wmass_1500-multi1">
  242. <div id="jw-_15001500-multi1"></div>
  243. </div>
  244. <figure class="a_m a_m-h "><span class="_db a_m_w"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="_re lazyload a_m-h" src="https://i0.wp.com/images.english.elpais.com/resizer/7DreI4YZGhZJsC_lAsylEMg1TYE=/414x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/XPETMWHTBNXM7QPVDI6RQUKBOA.jpg?resize=414%2C277&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/images.english.elpais.com/resizer/7DreI4YZGhZJsC_lAsylEMg1TYE=/414x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/XPETMWHTBNXM7QPVDI6RQUKBOA.jpg?resize=414%2C277&#038;ssl=1 414w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/Vk9ZWPdPW40fjNY_hie94BpyHr8=/828x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/XPETMWHTBNXM7QPVDI6RQUKBOA.jpg 640w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/k49LIRzCwhX2hTZT3XXnMsPZMAg=/980x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/XPETMWHTBNXM7QPVDI6RQUKBOA.jpg 1000w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/jJQxyIHTADXk4H-5uVeQm8Bw54U=/1960x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/XPETMWHTBNXM7QPVDI6RQUKBOA.jpg 1960w" alt="A selfie in front of the Colosseum in Rome. M. G.
  245. " width="414" height="277" data-recalc-dims="1" /></span><figcaption class="a_m_p">A selfie in front of the Colosseum in Rome. M. G.<span class="a_m_m">M. G.</span></figcaption></figure>
  246. <h3 class="">Keep safe</h3>
  247. <p class="">One of my golden rules is to be as safe as I am in my own city. Here are some of my basic considerations: I never walk alone at night, I don’t fall asleep on any means of transport, whenever I meet someone on my trip I stay in public places and I don’t usually tell them where I’m staying. I also keep my money in more than one place and I keep my family informed of my activities while sharing my location in real time with one of my contacts. Just in case, I hang a whistle on the zipper of my backpack and keep it handy to blow in an emergency. If I want to go out for the night, I plan how to get back to my lodging, try not to carry a bag and keep an eye on my drinks. Finally, I trust my intuition if it’s telling me it’s best to back off, take action or leave.</p>
  248. <h3 class="">Make use of technology</h3>
  249. <p class="">Having internet when traveling alone is a must. What works best for me is to buy a sim card from a local company in the country or continent I am visiting. Even though my original number is Mexican, I still keep my WhatsApp contacts. Another option is to buy international cards or find a WiFi hotspot. Apps are also helpful. I use<a href="https://translate.google.es/?hl=es" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://translate.google.es/?hl=es"> Google Translator</a>, <a href="https://www.google.com/android/find" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://www.google.com/android/find">Google Find My Device</a> and <a href="https://surfshark.com/es/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-track-dtm="" data-mrf-link="https://surfshark.com/es/">Surfshark</a> VPN (a virtual private network through which I can connect securely to public WiFi, preventing theft of my data).</p>
  250. <h3 class="">Get insured</h3>
  251. <p class="">Taking out travel insurance is a responsible and preventative measure. There are companies that offer travel assistance, a service that is more complete than international medical insurance.</p>
  252. <h3 class="">Sign up for experiences</h3>
  253. <p class="">I’ve found that signing up for travel experiences has been the best way to make friends. I have met people in many countries, but I fondly remember Maria, a Spanish woman who became a great ally after we met on a canyoning excursion in Ecuador, and the group of friends I made in Colombia after taking a vallenato folk music class.</p>
  254. <h3 class="">Travel light</h3>
  255. <p class="">Packing light has many advantages: it affords you greater mobility, will stop you from becoming tired and distracted, and save you time. If you’re trying to choose between a backpack or suitcase, I have to say I feel more comfortable with a backpack because it is more practical when walking and taking public transport, though this is a matter of taste. Mine is 50 liters, has plenty of compartments and padded shoulder straps.</p>
  256. <figure class="a_m a_m-h "><span class="_db a_m_w"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="_re lazyload a_m-h" src="https://i0.wp.com/images.english.elpais.com/resizer/0Xsoem1UaBYHvhTtPEK4RiW9JMI=/414x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/P4CWVFFKW474THPTDHUMQMOWQE.jpg?resize=414%2C275&#038;ssl=1" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/images.english.elpais.com/resizer/0Xsoem1UaBYHvhTtPEK4RiW9JMI=/414x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/P4CWVFFKW474THPTDHUMQMOWQE.jpg?resize=414%2C275&#038;ssl=1 414w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/-f-53ebfq3NaXaP73zMMb2UE1pE=/828x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/P4CWVFFKW474THPTDHUMQMOWQE.jpg 640w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/21M1OxJIRT214IlqpG96hMkLAqA=/980x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/P4CWVFFKW474THPTDHUMQMOWQE.jpg 1000w,https://images.english.elpais.com/resizer/MVYzoo87N9hl4tkJ3tc8X4xedqs=/1960x0/cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/prisa/P4CWVFFKW474THPTDHUMQMOWQE.jpg 1960w" alt="Posing with Embera women from the Tusipono indigenous community in Panama. M. G.
  257. " width="414" height="275" data-recalc-dims="1" /></span><figcaption class="a_m_p">Posing with Embera women from the Tusipono indigenous community in Panama. M. G.<span class="a_m_m">M. G.</span></figcaption></figure>
  258. <h3 class="">Throw yourself into local life</h3>
  259. <p class="">Living with a local offers a sense of protection while making me feel closer to the country’s culture. Locals often give me the best tips on how to visit less touristy places and experience more authentic travel. It was thanks to Hector, a fisherman I talked to in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, that I discovered the best seafood restaurant in Mexico.</p>
  260. <p class="">The fear of traveling alone was assuaged by actually traveling. With or without fear, there are a growing number of female explorers, who find each other, create community and keep each other strong. To reiterate what I say in my videos: “Travel, you are not alone.”</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/">Top tips for women travelling solo: ‘If you feel scared, do it anyway’</a> first appeared on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com/top-tips-for-women-travelling-solo-if-you-feel-scared-do-it-anyway/">Top tips for women travelling solo: ‘If you feel scared, do it anyway’</a> appeared first on <a href="https://travelsdirectory.com">Travels Directory</a>.</p>
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