Five Fears About Solo Travel

Here are five common fears about solo traveling - and some honest answers, taken from my website, sololady.com

I'll feel lonely as a solo traveler. Yes, you might. But sometimes you'll be lonelier traveling with others. The worst trips I've taken were with an incompatible traveling companion. (Not only did I feel lonely, I felt frustrated, angry and several unprintable adjectives.)

I'll be in trouble if I get sick. Being sick while traveling is especially difficult if you're alone. So build yourself up before you go, take sanitary precautions, carry meds, eat and drink wisely, get adequate insurance coverage and at the first sign of illness, consult a health-care pro.

I won't have a good time alone. Traveling solo throughout the world is a major achievement filled with unknowns. But conquer your fears and you'll f focus on your travels. The more you focus, the more you'll enjoy. And the more you solo, the easier it becomes. You'll learn to appreciate solitude and the chance to do just what you want, where you want.

I'll get lost. Count on it. So carry a map, a phrasebook and a cellphone. Use a GPS if you need it. Study ahead and ask for directions. And remember that getting lost often leads to the best memories of a trip.

I won't have anyone to share wonderful moments. You'll probably meet lots of people to share time with (just smile and ask questions). And you can connect with others by cell and Skype, and later recollect with photos, journals and video.I won't have anything to do in the evening. Why not? Movies, concerts, plays, museums that stay open late, dining out, shopping - all are great solo nighttime activities. And often there are night tours. Just be sure to plan transportation home and bring your lodgings address with you, especially handy when you call a cab.

I've traveled solo around the world, even to Antarctica; my biggest fear would be not taking advantage of travel opportunities. So do go -- solo or otherwise.