Exploring Solo: Self-Guided Travel Vs. Tour Groups

Taking a tour or exploring a place by yourself are two very different ways to travel. Both have their pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on your travel style, budget, and the amount of time you have available.

Taking a tour can be a great option if you want convenience and don't mind giving up some flexibility. Tours can be a good choice for first-time travellers who may feel anxious about stepping out into a new country, or for those who want a sense of adventure but also crave certainty and peace of mind. Tours can also be a good option for those who don't have the time or energy to plan their trip in detail, or for travellers who don't speak the local language. On the other hand, tours can be rushed, expensive, and may not allow for much free time or spontaneity. You'll also have to spend time with a group of strangers, which may be a positive or negative depending on your personality.

Exploring a place by yourself gives you the freedom to plan your own itinerary, move at your own pace, and be as flexible as you like. This option is great for independent travellers who want to get off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the local culture. However, it can also be more stressful, especially if you're visiting a place where the language barrier is an issue or where it's difficult to get around.

Ultimately, the decision to take a tour or explore by yourself depends on your personal preferences and travel style. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding which is right for you.

When you have very little time

Advantages of a guided tour

• You have very little time: A knowledgeable guide can lend focus to your sightseeing, which is especially valuable when you have little time in one place.
• Everything is taken care of: A tour is all-inclusive, so you don't need to worry about logistics like transportation, event tickets, or where to eat.
• You can see hidden gems: A guide may know about spots that are off-the-beaten-path.
• You will meet people: You will be with a group of people for the duration of the trip, which can be a great way to make friends.
• You can gain historical understanding: A good guide will be able to offer interesting facts and historical context about the places you visit.
• It's convenient: A guided tour is a stress-free option, especially if you are short on time and want to fit a lot into your itinerary.
• You may get a good deal: Tour providers often negotiate group rates, so you may get access to better hotels and activities than you would as an individual.

Disadvantages of a guided tour

• You have less freedom: You will need to stick to the tour's schedule and may not be able to spend as much time as you'd like in each place.
• It can be expensive: Consider the cost and whether the itinerary matches your travel goals and budget.
• You are with the same group the whole time: If you are looking for more freedom and flexibility, a guided tour might not be for you.

If you are short on time but still want to travel independently, consider the following options:

• Take a weekend getaway to a city, town, or national park close to you.
• Go somewhere nearby: If you only have a week, don't travel halfway across the world. Opt for a destination that is a short distance away.
• Be a local tourist: Explore the museums, attractions, and new areas of your own city. Stay in a cheap place so it feels more like a vacation.
• Maximize your time: Don't try to see everything. Stick to one or two places to free up time and reduce overwhelm.

Ultimately, the choice between a guided tour and independent travel depends on your personality, budget, appetite for risk and adventure, and travel experience. If you prefer more control over your trip, independent travel might be better. If you want the convenience of having everything arranged for you, a guided tour could be the way to go.

When visiting a place for the first time

Planning and Packing

• Only take what you need. It's better to pack less than you think you'll need.
• Take more underwear and fewer shoes.
• Remember to pack essentials such as a small roll of toilet paper, a corkscrew, and deodorant.
• Keep electronics to a minimum. Your phone is often all you need for taking photos, sending emails, and navigating.
• Make sure your luggage is easy to carry and within the baggage allowance for your flight.
• Scan or take photos of important documents such as your passport and driver's license, and store them securely online. Also, take printed copies with you.
• Take a small first aid kit with essentials such as aspirin, band-aids, and Imodium.
• Get travel insurance to protect yourself in case of lost luggage or flight cancellations.
• Arrive at the airport early to avoid missing your flight.
• Eat before you go to the airport, as the food there is often expensive and not very tasty.
• Be mindful of your belongings and avoid looking like a tourist to lower the risk of being targeted by thieves.
• Keep small amounts of cash on hand and notify your bank that you are travelling to avoid any issues with your cards.
• Do some research on the local culture and try to blend in with what you wear and how you act.

At the Airport and During Transit

• Be careful about what you say to border officials, and follow any instructions at immigration.
• Make your luggage distinctive to easily identify it at the baggage claim.
• Don't change all your money at the airport, as the exchange rate is usually not favourable.
• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, but don't let fears of scams and danger ruin your trip. Most people are not out to harm you.
• Be polite and friendly to the people you meet, including locals and other travellers.
• Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as "please", "thank you", and "sorry".

At Your Destination

• Try the local food and venture beyond the tourist hotspots to find authentic restaurants.
• Check for any required visas and make sure your passport has enough pages and validity for your trip.
• Keep your passport and other valuables secure at all times, and consider storing copies of important documents online or in a safe place.
• Be mindful of cultural differences and respect local customs and traditions.
• Meet the locals and immerse yourself in the daily life of the place you're visiting.
• Don't be afraid to make mistakes or step out of your comfort zone. Embrace new experiences and enjoy the journey!

When visiting a dangerous location

• Research and Planning: Before travelling to any dangerous location, conduct thorough research about the social, political, and security situation of the area. Check official travel advisories, local news, and seek insights from colleagues or other travellers with first-hand experience. Understand the specific risks, such as crime, political unrest, or health hazards, and make an informed decision about the potential dangers.
• Notify Your Embassy: It is advisable to inform your embassy about your travel plans at least two weeks in advance. This step can provide additional support and assistance in case of emergencies during your trip.
• Document and Itinerary Management: Make colour copies of your passport and other important documents, keeping one copy with you, leaving one at home, and sharing others with your travel companions. Additionally, ensure that someone back home has a detailed itinerary of your trip, including your expected locations and contact information.
• Stay Alert and Aware: When in a dangerous location, maintain a high level of awareness of your surroundings. Be cautious of suspicious behaviour, and avoid isolated areas. Stay in populated places, but be wary of crowded areas where pickpocketing or bag-snatching may occur. Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant at all times.
• Blend In and Avoid Standing Out: To minimise the risk of being targeted, try to blend in with the local culture and customs. Avoid displaying signs of wealth, speaking English loudly in non-English speaking countries, or flaunting your nationality. Consider wearing local clothing and learning some basic local phrases to help you fit in better.
• Keep a Low Profile: Avoid attracting unnecessary attention by being discreet with your photography, varying your routes, and staying in multiple, smaller accommodations if possible. Try not to frequent the same restaurants or cafes repeatedly, as this can make you more predictable and vulnerable to potential threats.
• Health and Safety Precautions: Ensure that you are up to date with all necessary travel vaccines and health precautions specific to the region. Consult a travel health clinic for specialised advice and information on disease prevention and other health-related concerns.
• Stay in Touch: Maintain regular contact with your loved ones back home. Let them know about your whereabouts and any changes in your plans. This will not only give them peace of mind but also help them keep track of your safety and well-being.
• Local Perspective: Seek advice and insights from locals whenever possible. Their perspective can provide valuable information on security, local customs, and areas to avoid. However, be discerning and cross-reference their opinions with other sources to form a well-rounded understanding of the risks.
• Travel Insurance and Emergency Preparedness: Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergencies, evacuations, and other potential risks associated with the dangerous location. Have a plan and the necessary resources to handle worst-case scenarios, including natural disasters, civil unrest, or medical emergencies.
• Assertiveness and Confidence: While it is important to be respectful and mindful of local cultures, it is also crucial to carry yourself with confidence and assertiveness. Avoid appearing scared or disoriented, as this can make you more vulnerable to potential threats.

When you want to practice a language

If you want to practice a language, travelling to a country where it is spoken is a great way to immerse yourself in the language and culture. However, it can be daunting to find yourself in a foreign country without feeling comfortable in the local language. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and make the most of your trip:

Before Your Trip

• Be realistic about how much time you have: Decide on a few language goals based on your travel needs, what you want to get out of your trip, and the time you have left to study. You don't have to be fluent to be conversational! Focus on learning useful phrases such as how to introduce yourself, ask for directions, or order food.
• Tailor your learning to your trip: Think about the situations you'll encounter during your travels and the vocabulary you'll need. For example, if you're a vegetarian, learn words related to food so you can order meals confidently.
• Focus on what you know: Instead of trying to speak like a native speaker, use the vocabulary and grammar you know to describe things and express yourself. This will help you build connections between what you've studied and improve your confidence.

During Your Trip

• Force yourself to learn through complete immersion: Try to use the local language as much as possible and avoid relying on your native language. Communicate with locals, read street signs, ask for directions, and order food in restaurants to practice the language. The more you use the language, the more comfortable you'll become.
• Imitate attitudes and tones: Pay attention to the way native speakers talk, including their intonation, cadence, and body language. Try to mimic their speech patterns and body language to improve your language skills and blend in with the local culture.
• Release your inhibitions: Don't be afraid to make mistakes when speaking the local language. Locals will appreciate your effort, and they can provide on-the-spot feedback to help you improve. Embrace these interactions and don't worry too much about perfection.
• Use shorter phrases: When you're first starting out, focus on using short, simple phrases to communicate effectively. As you gain confidence and learn more vocabulary, your language will naturally become more complex.
• Attend language exchange events: Look for language exchange parties, meetings, or groups where you can practice the local language and meet locals. These events are a great way to make friends and improve your language skills in a relaxed environment.
• Join language learning programs: Consider signing up for language learning programs, courses, or lessons during your trip. This can provide more structured learning and intensive practice, especially if you're staying in one place for an extended period.

Remember that learning a language takes time and practice, so don't put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect. Embrace the challenges, enjoy the process, and make the most of your travel experiences!

When you want to travel spontaneously

Spontaneous travel can be an exhilarating experience, allowing you to embrace the unknown and live in the moment. If you're considering a spontaneous trip, here are some things to keep in mind:

The Benefits of Spontaneous Travel

• Health Benefits: Spontaneous travel can improve your physical health by increasing your level of physical activity and providing access to fresh and healthy food options. It can also benefit your mental and emotional well-being by reducing stress, increasing flexibility, and allowing you to embrace your intuition and be more present in the moment.
• Excitement and Novelty: Humans crave novelty and excitement, and spontaneous travel provides an opportunity to break free from the routine of everyday life and embrace unexpected adventures.
• Escape from Reality: Travelling without a rigid plan allows you to escape the mundane and embrace new experiences and destinations that you may not have considered before.
• Personal Growth: Spontaneous travel pushes you out of your comfort zone and provides an opportunity for personal growth. You will learn to adapt to new situations, make quick decisions, and become more confident in your ability to handle the unknown.
• Flexibility: Spontaneous travel allows you to be flexible and make changes to your plans on the go. You can choose to stay longer in a place you enjoy or change your itinerary based on new information or people you meet along the way.
• Time Savings: While spontaneous travel may require more decision-making during the trip, it saves you time before the trip by eliminating the need for extensive planning and research.

Tips for Spontaneous Travel

• Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on your trip, including transportation, accommodation, and activities. This will help you make decisions on the go and ensure you don't overspend.
• Research Basic Information: While spontaneity is exciting, having some basic knowledge about your destination can be helpful. Research things like local cultural differences, common scams to avoid, and recommended places to visit or eat.
• Embrace the Unexpected: Be prepared for unexpected delays, changes in plans, or meeting new people. Stay open-minded and embrace these surprises as part of the adventure.
• Stay Flexible: Spontaneous travel requires adaptability. Be prepared to adjust your plans or itinerary based on new information or opportunities that arise during your trip.
• Use Technology: Take advantage of technology tools that can assist with last-minute travel planning, such as flight search engines or travel apps that provide recommendations for activities and accommodations.

Remember, spontaneous travel is about embracing the unknown and enjoying the freedom and excitement that comes with it. So, go ahead and take that leap—you never know what amazing adventures await!

Frequently asked questions