suze

Toedtoes~~ Excellent insight (i always think people are real smart who agree with me -lol!). but seriously, I especially appreciate the last two sentences above.

Scarlett~~ Topping an oldie but goodie in your honor.

joan100

Just new to Fodor's TALK site and really enjoyed reading all the comments on solo travel. I am about to embark on some solo travelling for the very first time in my life. I think I am a bit older (will be 69 in August) and would love to know if there any other older women out there who travel alone and can offer any advice for a first-timer who is kind of nervous!

toedtoes

Welcome Joan!

I think the first thing to remember is that it's OK to be nervous - you're doing something you haven't done before and that does cause some nervousness.

Is there anything specific that you're feeling nervous about? Safety, being alone, the destination, health issues, etc.?

In general, any of the tips mentioned on this and the other threads about traveling alone should be helpful for a solo traveler of any age.

joan100

Thanks toedtoes. I guess I would have to say it's the being alone part. Also having to find my own way around, ie. airports! For a start on my "solo" journey, I've booked a short (4-night) trip to New York this summer with a tour company. I thought this would be a good way to get the feel for being on my own. However, when I read all the comments from solo travellers I'm inspired to try doing it on my own. From past trips with my ex-husband, I just loved the planning part of the trip. When you go on an organized tour you miss this exciting part of travelling. I'm going to keep on reading all the great tips from other solo travellers. I'm so impressed that there are so many courageous and happy solo travellers - I had no idea!

suze

Welcome Joan! How nice to have a new face on the block (so to speak)!!

I hope you enjoy New York. For me personally, I find traveling in Europe or Mexico just as easy (sometimes easier) than within big cities in the U.S. Not to be a downer, only to say if there's something about NY that doesn't work out, don't take that as a negative against traveling alone.

As far as airports, that's easy... just ask someone your questions. In that case don't be shy. Like when I am at the ticket counter, if I don't understand where I am to go next, I just politely ask again, until I feel confident with my information.

Another trick I use, just in case I happen to find myself flustered. Find a place to sit and regroup. Whether a cup of coffee or a glass of wine somewhere. Let yourself calm down, rather than get excited because you are lost (which you aren't really "lost&quot or whatever.

Always carry enough money for taxi fare and grab the business card of your hotel. That way, no matter where you end up, you can always grab a taxi and head back "home".

Lastly, I'll say GOOD FOR YOU, for getting out there on your own. Solo travel is a wonderful adventure. I'm not shy about it because I've been doing it all my life (since I am single, never married). It just gets better each time, each trip.

Welcome and congratulations! Suze

joan100

Thanks Suze for your welcome and for the good tips. I'm just so happy that I found this forum and can "talk" to other solo travellers who are so generous in sharing their experiences and offering advice. I'll report back after my trip to New York.