Table For One
Ladies, let’s discuss the exhilarating (and occasionally daunting) reality of solo travel. There is an undeniable sense of empowerment in navigating an airport unaccompanied, armed with nothing but a well-packed carry-on and an air of worldly sophistication. Yet, let us not romanticise it entirely... travelling alone as a woman requires a delicate equilibrium of adventure, prudence, and the ability to feign a phone call when confronted with an overly affable stranger.
I embarked on my first solo excursion at 20, brimming with optimism, an arguably misplaced sense of confidence, and a suitcase that bore a striking resemblance to a portable wardrobe. My destination? Italy. Mere hours into my journey, I found myself on the receiving end of a rather enthusiastic invitation from a charming yet somewhat dubious gentleman, extolling the virtues of what he claimed was ‘the finest pasta in all of Rome.’ Needless to say, I graciously declined, lived to tell the tale, and, in an act of poetic justice, discovered an even better trattoria on my own. Since then, I have refined the art of solo travel and am delighted to impart my wisdom (and occasional misadventures) to you.
1. Safety First, Sophistication Always
While you may be an independent woman who requires no assistance with her luggage, a touch of strategic caution never goes amiss. Always share your location with trusted individuals, opt for reputable transport services, and most crucially, trust your intuition. If a situation feels amiss, it most likely is, whether it be a questionable accommodation, an overzealous tour guide, or an unsolicited beverage of unknown provenance.
A useful strategy? Walk with purpose, even if you are utterly lost. Nothing marks a traveller as an easy target quite like a look of bewilderment paired with excessive map-checking.
2. The Elegant Art of Declining Unwanted Advances
Foreign men possess a remarkable confidence, often bordering on theatrical. Within minutes, you may receive offers of drinks, transport, grand romantic gestures, and, on occasion, a marriage proposal (Spoiler: It happens) (Double spoiler: More than once). It is imperative to master the graceful art of rejection without instigating an international incident.
A poised ‘No, thank you’ or a linguistically appropriate equivalent generally suffices. However, in more persistent cases, invoking the existence of an imaginary, imposing husband ‘who will be arriving shortly’ can work wonders.
3. Packing: A Masterclass in Restraint
Allow me to be unequivocal. You do not require five pairs of shoes. I arrived at this revelation the hard way after a strenuous ascent up four flights of stairs in a Parisian guesthouse, weighed down by a suitcase fit for an aristocrat. The key? Versatility. Prioritise timeless pieces, comfortable yet stylish footwear, and a handbag that does not scream ‘rob me.’
Additionally, never underestimate the value of an emergency snack reserve. One never knows when one might find oneself stranded with nothing but a dubious vending machine and regret.
4. Dining Alone with Elegance
There is something profoundly liberating about dining solo as once one overcomes the fleeting concern that others might be scrutinising one’s solitude. Spoiler: they are not. No one is paying the slightest attention. Order the wine. Relish your meal. Indulge in the art of people-watching. And should a particularly charming waiter happen to cross your path, well, a touch of harmless flirtation never hurt anyone.
One of my proudest moments? A luxurious three-course meal in a Michelin-starred establishment in Lisbon, enjoyed entirely alone. It was a defining experience, one that underscored my independence and ability to revel in my own company. And bonus points, a charming waiter did happen to cross said path. All I shall say, is that I left with a discounted bill and a number in hand. Take notes ladies.
5. Embracing the Unforeseen
The beauty of solo travel lies in its spontaneity; conversely, its greatest challenge also lies in its spontaneity. Flight delays, navigational mishaps, unexpected detours... such incidents are inevitable.
Once, in Barcelona, I confidently set out for Park Güell, only to find myself meandering through an unfamiliar hillside neighbourhood. A kindly elderly woman, evidently amused by my misguided determination, took it upon herself to redirect me. Did I feel slightly ridiculous? Naturally. Did I make it to my intended destination? Eventually. Did I reward myself with churros? Without question.
The Verdict: Absolutely, Do It
Solo travel is not always glamorous. There will be moments of fatigue, fleeting loneliness, and existential quandaries over which transport option is least perplexing. Yet, there will also be moments of sheer, unfiltered joy... witnessing a sunrise in an unfamiliar city, dancing in a beachside bar with newfound companions, and proving to oneself that one is resilient, capable, and endlessly resourceful.
So, book the flight. Embark on the journey. Order the second cocktail. And if an effortlessly charming Italian offers you ‘the finest pasta in all of Rome’, well, that decision is entirely yours to make.
