Sarina Singh

The Senior Author of Lonely Planet’s India

guidebooks reminds women of the joys of going solo.

Toying with the idea of travelling solo but still in two minds? Well, ladies, I have just three words for you: go for it!

As a seasoned solo traveller, my most rewarding journeys have been those done on my own. Sure, there are challenges, but once you slide into the solo groove, travelling alone is an inimitable ride that also equips you with skills to navigate the journey of all journeys: life. Indeed, when travelling alone, you won’t be able to hide from the most complex and intriguing person you’re ever likely to meet: yourself.

I’ve travelled solo many times throughout India and Pakistan – both on holiday and while working as Senior Author on the Lonely Planet guides to these countries – and hope the following tips help make your journey through the subcontinent memorable for all the right reasons.

TIP 1: Read up! Guidebooks, the net and advice from fellow travellers will not only make you destination-savvy, they’re also likely to lead you to (otherwise potentially hidden) treasures. Scan news sites – both prior to and during your travels – to keep abreast of safety issues (and special events) that coincide with your trip.

TIP 2: Book your first night’s accommodation (and transfer) in advance, especially if you are likely to arrive after dark. Apart from the safety factor, doing so can save you money on otherwise non-negotiable hotel rack rates. Avoid ultra-budget accommodation unless you know it’s geared to solo female travellers – cheap lodgings in Pakistan, for instance, are almost exclusively filled with itinerant male workers. If you like sleeping with the window open, opt for a room on a higher floor; some deluxe hotels have ladies-only sections.

TIP 3: ‘Burglar proof’ yourself! I meet so many travellers – novice and experienced – who have had their vacation marred by theft. Wear a concealed money-belt and leave expensive-looking jewellery back home. When I travel, the only piece of jewellery I wear is a (pseudo) engagement ring – to ward off unwanted male advances. (PS: In certain situations, casually announcing that I’m a holidaying policewoman has worked wonders in getting rid of unrelenting Romeo-types!)

TIP 4: Discover the delights of dining solo. Some women are mildly terrified by this, but it’s actually a terrific time to indulge in people-watching. Conversely, if you wish to avert conversations, useful accessories include sunglasses, iPods and books. Choose places with a casual vibe (like cafés) and consider having your main meal at lunchtime (often less ‘threatening’ for solo diners), while opting for room service at night (which also solves the problem of commuting alone after dark).

TIP 5: Factor in go-with-the-flow time. Lao Tzu knew what he was talking about when he said “A good traveller has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving” – indeed, my most scintillating journeys have been those that weren’t set in stone and allowed me to jump off the tourist treadmill.

TIP 6: Finally, tune into your instinct – a solo female traveller’s closest companion – but don’t allow paranoia to asphyxiate your adventurous spirit – life is to be lived!

Sarina Singh (sarinasingh.com) is a widely-published journalist, author of 30 Lonely Planet guidebooks, and writer/director of an award-nominated documentary film. She will be Senior Author of the next edition of the Lonely Planet guide to India – her eighth stint on this best-selling title.

Tags: India, Lonely Planet Magazine India, Sarina Singh, Travelling solo

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