Travel Safety Tips for Women

Traveling the world on my own gives me such a sense of joy and freedom. It is a fantastic way to meet wonderful people, while having new experiences. At the same time, I have learned that it is very important to know how to be safe so I can continue on my wonderful adventures. 
One thing that I found, while staying at international hotels, is that, very often, cell service is unreliable. 

Here are a few travel safety tips that I have learned along the way.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings 

No matter where you are (airport, train station, restaurant, hotel etc.) it is always important to notice what is going on around you. If you are in a busy public place, you should know where the exits are and who is nearby that can assist you in the event of an emergency.

If you are traveling in a foreign country, make sure to learn some key phrases in the local language and what the emergency call number is.

Occasionally, the room phone will be blocked for outside calls, unless you have specifically made arrangements when you arrive. Once, I needed to use the phone in the middle of the night and I have never forgotten this experience.

You feel very vulnerable when you need assistance and can’t call anyone.

Protect Your Personal Information

People are very kind and helpful when they realize you are a woman traveling on your own. At the same time, you must be careful about giving out too much personal information.

I do not give my full – or even real name – to anyone, except the airline, hotel or car rental company. I like to be prepared with an alternative name and email address. This way, I’m not caught off guard when someone asks to stay in touch.

I keep my luggage tag reversed and only put my last name and email address on it. This way, it cannot be seen by anyone standing in the queue next to me. I also keep my personal documents in a closed location, out of public view.

At the hotel, after I have checked in, I memorize my room number and discard the sleeve. I like knowing that, if I lose my key, no one will know what room I am in.

Most hotels are good about not announcing your room number, while you are checking in. Unfortunately, they sometimes declare it openly when you go down for breakfast or to the pool. Politely remind them that you prefer to keep your room number private.

Personal Safety

While in your room, always use the do not disturb sign and keep all internal locks secured. I have been walked in on by housekeeping and even other guests, who were accidently given a key to my room.

I also carry a small, lightweight lock, for those doors that don’t have a good internal lock or, in some cases, none at all.

I prefer to stay at a hotel with a restaurant. This way, I can have my meals without having to leave the premises. Sometimes, especially if I’ve gotten in late and there’s bad weather, or it’s a dodgy neighborhood, I can just have my dinner and wait to go out the next day.

Do not go anywhere with strangers. The hotel should be able to arrange safe transportation for you when you go out and provide information on what is available for your return.

There might not be shuttle or taxi available when you come back, so, it’s best to plan your return transportation before you leave. I always take a card from the hotel so I have the address handy.

Do not post your plans or location on social media until after you have returned from your trip. Trust your instincts and use common sense anytime you are out and about. 

Guard Your Personal Belongings

I like to travel light. I only take carry-on baggage, one rolling backpack and one zippered tote. I can easily manage these bags without assistance and always know where everything is. The only purse or handbag I use is something small with a shoulder strap that goes under my jacket or sweater.

Always use the room safe or ask the front desk to store valuables while you are out. I keep a photocopy of my passport in a separate location and email a copy to myself so I can access it anytime.

Be Flexible

Travel is a wonderful, albeit unpredictable, adventure. You need to be able to adapt and adjust to whatever happens. Some of my best experiences have come from circumstances that initially seemed like a problem.

Wishing you all safe and happy travels!

Do you feel safe when you travel alone? What other travel safety tips can you offer to other women in our community?

Published on - Sixty and Me

Wanderlust

There is nothing that spurs my wanderlust more than not being able to travel. 

I love being free to just pick up and go whenever I want.

This year will prove to be a little tricker, but I have no doubt I will manage to make it happen.

My list of the yet to be discovered is growing by the day and I can't wait to explore those fantastic new horizons!

Sailing Solo - My First Cruise Alone

I had always wanted to take a cruise.

Everyone I know who’s ever gone has loved it and had wonderful stories to share. It seemed like an easy and fun way to go to many different destinations and travel with others closer to my own age. I received some great advice from people about how to pick the cruise that was right for me.

First, you need to decide where you want to go and what type of activities or events are important to you. The variety of ships and types of trips is endless. Everything from peaceful, meandering river cruises to the massive, floating cities – the options are plentiful.

Choosing the Right Cruise

For my first time, I knew I wanted something a little more low-key. Perhaps a smaller ship and more casual than the average cruise. I also like to have a little private outdoor space so I knew I would want a balcony. I didn’t need any of the popular entertainment like gambling or the big Las Vegas style shows so I started looking at other types of trips.

It’s like trying to decide between going camping or visiting New York City; choose what appeals to you.

A friend recommended a travel website so that I could start to compare all the different types of cruises available. She had just recently been on one that went to the Dominican Republic and did some volunteer work with the community there. It sounded like something I would really enjoy so I checked into it and booked the trip. It was also very affordable with a low single supplement so that helped keep the cost down.

Embracing a New Experience

As much as I travel it’s not often that I have a totally new experience. I always love visiting new places and meeting new people but the process of booking accommodation and transportation is something I am quite familiar with. Planning for a cruise was all so different for me and really took me outside of my comfort zone; it was long overdue.

I felt like a young novice traveling for the first time and it was so exciting!

I didn’t know what to pack, how to check-in, how to get on and off the boat, whether I would get seasick or if I would like cruising or hate it. I’ve heard a lot of people talk about so many aspects of cruising but I had no idea how it would be for me.

What I discovered is that the same basic travel principles apply no matter where you go. There will always be others who have never done this before and many experienced people there to help guide you. That was apparent as soon as I arrived at the cruise terminal and this immediately put me at ease.

Enjoying a Fantastic Adventure

There are some real benefits that most cruisers will tell you about – you don’t have to pack and unpack for each location, you have the advantage of seeing remote places but still eating and sleeping in your own cabin on the ship. There are so many options for food and activities I can’t imagine ever feeling bored. I liked the freedom and flexibility I had to do as much or as little as I wanted and it was a perfect balance for me.

My favorite experience was meeting the amazing people on the ship and on shore. They were so warm and friendly and happy to share information with me, especially when they found out it was my first cruise.

It may not seem like a big risk to go on a cruise, but for me this was a great opportunity to do something I had never done before. To feel so young and inexperienced was refreshing and rejuvenated my love of travel.

If you think you might like to try cruising, I recommend talking to someone who has a similar travel style to your own and asking them for their advice on what type of cruise you might like. Do your research and don’t worry, it’s one of the easiest trips I’ve ever taken and I will absolutely go again!

Wishing you safe and happy travels!

Have you ever been on a cruise? Do you prefer to travel alone or with others? What questions do you have about first-time cruising? Share your stories and join the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Travel Adventures After 50

When I turned 50, I noticed that my travel style was beginning to change.  I was less interested in speeding from place to place and more interested in a slower, more relaxed pace.  I wanted to visit fewer places and stay longer.  Taking the time to savor the entire experience.
 
I always begin by listing locations that I want to visit and what I might like to do while I’m there.  Keeping in mind that I don’t want a packed schedule, I plan my down time as well as my activities. 
 
Especially with overseas trips, I know that I will need a little time to recover from jet lag so now I give myself a couple of days to relax without making a lot of plans.  I can always do more if I’m feeling up to it but I don’t feel obligated.  It’s a nice opportunity to treat myself to a nice lunch or just a cup of tea on the patio.
 
Something I love to do everywhere I go is to visit gardens and museums, so I usually will build my trip around that.  It helps to narrow down where I want to stay and what type of transportation is available. 
 
I like to book at a nice hotel with a restaurant so that I don’t even have to go out if I don’t want to.  This also helps me feel more comfortable in a new area when I’m away.  Even though I always research the hotel and surrounding area carefully before I leave home, sometimes it isn’t what I expected or my flight is delayed and I arrive in the middle of the night.  Staying safe is always a priority.
 
Another nice alternative is a Bed and Breakfast.  Very often the family will help you with whatever you need and provide great information about the local area.  Do remember that they only serve breakfast so you will have to get lunch and dinner on your own. 
 
When I was younger, I would usually rent a car when I was away but now, I prefer to use public transportation.  I love to take taxis, buses and trains where ever I can and with ride-share available almost everywhere in the world it is easier than ever to get around.  You just need to pay close attention to schedules and plan for unexpected delays and cancelations.
 
Something that has helped me, especially as I’ve gotten older, is to be as prepared as possible for the inevitable travel disruptions.  More than ever, travel is unpredictable, and if you can stay flexible and be willing to make the necessary adjustments, you will have a more pleasant journey.  Some of my best experiences came from what otherwise seemed to be problems while I was traveling.
 
One thing, the biggest thing, I have learned while traveling is to Pack Light! 
For some, this may seem impossible but I’ve found it is more of an art than a science and with a little bit of planning and some practice, anyone can do it.
 
After 40 years of traveling for work and pleasure I now know that there is very little that I can’t get wherever I am and how easy it is to pivot when those unexpected issues arise if I don’t have too much baggage with me.
 
Everything from broken wheels and handles to the infamous cobblestone streets of Europe, I have never been sorry to have too little luggage.
 
I travel with one small carry-on bag that has wheels and shoulder straps and one small personal item that will fit into my carry-on if necessary.  Even for a 2-week holiday in the middle of winter, it must fit into my one carry-on or it doesn’t go.
 
Not only do I not have to worry about lost or stolen luggage but it also makes it possible for me to quickly change flights or get on and off of crowded buses or trains.
 
If you are new to travel, the best thing to do is to start small and build from there.  Plan one short excursion to do something you enjoy either in your own city or somewhere nearby for a short weekend stay and see how it feels.
 
Everywhere I go, I discover something new and interesting, not just about the place I’m visiting but about myself as well.
 
Happy Travels!

Published on - HoneyGood.com
 
Do you like to travel?  Has your travel style changed as you’ve gotten older?  Share your stories.
 

Birthday Trip

 Every year at this time I begin planning my birthday trip.  It is the perfect time for a getaway and a special way for me to celebrate the occasion.  The tradition began many, many years ago when I decided to go to Mexico for my birthday.

It was the first trip I had ever taken out of the country and what a grand adventure that was.  I spoke very little Spanish, I did not know or understand customs, foreign currency exchange or very much about getting around in a strange place.  I was terrified and exhilarated all at the same time.

I began by purchasing a holiday package that included most of my arrangements and that helped a great deal.  I found when I arrived that although most of the basics were covered, I still had to manage quite a bit on my own.  What I discovered was that it was so much fun and easier than I expected.  

I met so many wonderful people both locals and other tourists, ate incredible food, had fantastic excursions and even had a little holiday romance, it was truly enchanting.  

Ever since then it has been an annual event and even though this year may be a bit different, I can't wait to see what fantastic journey awaits!
 

How Travel Has Changed

Still basking in the afterglow of my recent trip to France, it reminds me of how I used to travel.  Rushing from place to place, trying to see and do everything I could possibly squeeze into whatever time I had.  Always thinking, I have to do this now because I will probably never come back again.  With my itinerary overflowing and a dizzying array of stops, I needed a vacation when I returned home. 

It was all very exciting and I had no desire to slow down.  I was also much younger and had enough energy to get me through even the busiest schedule.  Now, all of that has changed.  Slowly, over the years, I found that I wanted to take my time, do a little less and spend more time enjoying my new surroundings.

This trip was a perfect combination of activities and relaxation.  My family rented a lovely home in the countryside just outside of Paris.  Beautiful, peaceful gardens and close proximity to visit the city.  To be able to wake to the sounds of birds chirping and know that the only thing on my agenda was to sit and have coffee in the garden was divine.

Now, as I’m planning my travel, I keep the schedule very light and open.  I plan to have one or two activities that I would like to do but nothing set in stone.  Flexibility is the key; I want to be able to decide what I want to do and not be tied to a strict schedule. 

I also plan my transportation very carefully, allowing extra time for travel delays, recovery of jet lag and any others issues that inevitably arise from travel.  I’ve learned how my body reacts to long, overnight flights and now plan accordingly.  It is so much more pleasant to arrive knowing that I have a couple of days to rest and acclimate to my new environment before I have to move on. 

I love to book a nice, quiet hotel with a restaurant and room service so I don’t even have to leave my room if I’m so inclined.  Usually, after the first day, I’m ready to go out and explore a little.  Walking around where I’m staying always gives me a good sense of the local area and gets me energized for more activities. 

One of my favorite things to do in any area that I’m visiting is to go to the market.  Preferably outdoor, but any nearby shop will do.  Even if it is only to pick up a few light snacks to take back to my room, I love feeling like a local and not a tourist.  The absolute best is when I have a kitchen, which is why renting an apartment or house is fantastic.  I can cook and shop and it makes me feel right at home.  It is a wonderful way to experience a new place.

I do enjoy seeing the sights, just at a different pace.  For me, this type of travel gives me more pleasure and much less stress.  These are the experiences that I remember and enjoy long after the trip has ended. 

What is your travel style?  Have you changed how you travel over the years?  Do you like a full schedule or is it more relaxed?  Share you experiences and join the conversation!

Wishing you Happy Travels!

Published on Sixty and Me

Why Cruising is Great for Solo Travelers and Introverts

There aren't many holidays that are so well suited to solo travelers and introverts as cruising.  Where else can you go that you have the perfect balance of social interaction and as much quiet personal time as you desire.

Honestly, I never expected to find myself on a ship with thousands of my closest friends.  It sounded like my worst nightmare, until I tried it.  My first cruise was on a very small ship, 700 passengers and was not full, so it was a great way to try it out.  I was so pleasantly surprised that I booked my next cruise just a few weeks later.

This was the grand experiment.  It was a much larger, more traditional cruise ship with every possible amenity and 3,000 passengers.  I was very nervous when I saw all the people getting ready to board our vessel.  I knew there was no going back.  Good or bad, I would be stuck on this ship for the next 10 days.  I kept reminding myself of the fantastic experience I'd just had and that if I didn't do anything but stay in my stateroom and order room service I would be fine.

That is the biggest and most critical tip I have.  Pick the cabin that you really want because if you're like me, you'll be spending a good amount of time there.

Location is everything - don't book below public areas like the pool or nightclubs or near lifts, unless you need the access.  You'll hear everyone coming and going and be trapped with the noise that you are hoping to retreat from.  I always choose a cabin with an unobstructed balcony, mid ship on a high deck for the best privacy and views.

Dining is fantastic onboard, you can go to any one of the complimentary or specialty restaurants any time of the day or night or you can join the main dining room if you're in the mood for a little company.  Most days, I prefer the buffet or one of the smaller places where I can enjoy my meal while looking out at the water.

If it gets a bit too busy, I can just leave, same goes for all the other options.  Sometimes, I will dress up and go out to see one of the shows and discover it's more than I bargained for.  It's easy enough to go back to my cabin, sit on the balcony and listen to the sound of the waves as we sail along.

Always bring earplugs, headphones and entertainment of your choice.

I like to keep books, movies and some music on my kindle.  That way, if I happen to be situated too close to a loud party or noisy neighbors, I can still maintain my quiet environment.

There are several places onboard that offer respite from the maddening crowds.  The library and internet cafes are particularly quiet.  If you want to sit on deck just find an area away from the pool and you can soak up the sun, read or just relax.  Most ships have a walking track on the upper deck, so you can go for a walk while looking out at the ocean.  Also, the spa is a fantastic place to unwind and be guaranteed peace and serenity.

I love being able choose whatever I want to do whenever I feel like doing it.  No deadlines or commitments.  I don't have to worry about scheduling anything unless there is something I want to do.  If it appeals, I simply show up and enjoy. 

Most cruises have relaxed their dress code so dining is casual to dressy with only a few cruise lines requesting formal attire on certain evenings.

Even with that, I've found a cocktail dress to be more than adequate and if it doesn't suit you simply go to one of the other restaurants.  Sometimes, putting on my bathrobe and ordering in is the perfect evening.

Have I mentioned how much I love room service?  Some ships still offer in-room dining free of charge, others have a small service charge, which has long time cruisers very upset.  For me, paying less than I would tip someone to bring my meal is a charge I'm happy to pay.  To sit on my balcony and have my breakfast delivered is a true luxury.

Part of the fun of cruising is being able to visit different destinations without having to change accommodation.  I generally don't book shore excursions through the cruise line.  I prefer to hire a taxi or some other local transport, so I can explore the area on my own.  Two things to keep in mind when going by yourself - first and foremost be safe and give yourself plenty of time to return to the ship.  If you are late getting back, they will sail without you.

That's the advantage of booking with the ship, they will make sure you get back in time and will likely not leave if you are delayed.  

You have many resources to assist you and they are wonderful about keeping you informed.

Each evening you will receive a full listing of information for the following day.  Activities, port and safety information, weather etc.  Also, there will be various television programs and announcements with more detailed information. 

A personal cabin steward that will make up and turn down your room each day and is also a great source of information about the ship and many of the ports you will visit.  Also, guest services are very friendly and happy to help in any way they can.

I now understand why so many people love cruising.  It is by far the most relaxing way to travel and I can't wait for my next adventure on the sea!

Have you ever taken a cruise?  Was it alone or with a group?  Do you prefer more activities or quiet time?  Share your stories and join the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Planning the Perfect Short Getaway in Florida

Sometimes you need a break but don’t have the time or budget for a big trip.  Short little getaways can be the perfect solution.  For me, the combination of sun and sand can really set me right in a short amount of time.  Making me feel like I’ve stepped into a tropical paradise even though I may only be a couple of hours from home.  All my stress seems to vanish when I’m sitting on the beach, eating fresh seafood and watching the world go by.  

I always look for specials and let that help determine where I will go.  I also travel off or shoulder season as much as possible, which helps to avoid the crowds and is less expensive.  I was pleasantly surprised to find that certain areas in Florida have low season during the summer.  Unless you are going to a major tourist attraction or large city a lot of the smaller towns have great deals when the “snowbirds” have gone back home.

This trip I decided on Fort Myers, Florida, a small town on the Gulf of Mexico.  I had heard good things about the area but had never been, so I decided it was time for a visit.  

I love going somewhere new, it always refreshes my love for travel and everything feels like an adventure. 

I check airfare and hotels at the same time to make sure that both will be in line with my schedule and budget.  Sometimes, I can find a great package that will provide both at a discounted price.  There are so many different resources on the internet that you can get lost in the maze, so I stick with one or two major travel sites like Expedia or Travelocity.  After making my selection I check online reviews for the area and hotel to make sure it will be to my liking.

The hotel I chose was very affordable, situated just 10 minutes from the beach and they had kitchen units, so I could cook my own food while I was there.  I like to go out occasionally when I travel but I don’t want it to be a requirement, so this was perfect.

I flew in late Thursday and was instantly charmed by the small, very friendly town.  

Getting to the hotel was very easy with 24-hour taxi service right outside the door.  I rarely rent a car when I’m out of town and much prefer to take public transportation whenever possible.  Also, talking to the driver you will get a lot of great local information.  They’ll tell you about things to see and do that you might not have found on your own.  The same goes for the hotel, they are a wealth of information about the area and are a fantastic resource.

Between the taxi ride and checking in at the hotel I found that not only was there a great place to buy fresh food right down the block but there were several places to eat and a shuttle that would take me directly to the beach. 

I had only been gone a few hours, but I felt like I was a world away. 

Anxious to get started, I woke early the next day and went downstairs for breakfast before heading out on my grand adventure.  I always like to take a little walk around where I am staying and familiarize myself with the area.  Also, I have made some fantastic discoveries, like a great little bakery right around the block.  So, I’m always eager to see what I might find.

Now it was time to find the bus stop for the beach shuttle.  Which was just as advertised, very close to the hotel and a full day schedule to and from so I could stay as long as I wanted.  The bus driver was happy to give me some great pointers on where the best stops were along the way.  Something that I found after so many years of traveling is not to plan too much.  You want to give yourself the time and luxury of letting things evolve. 

I got off at the stop recommended by the driver and was thrilled.  It was a beautiful little park at the edge of the water with almost no one there.  The gorgeous white sand beach was like powder with lots of beautiful seashells everywhere.  I walked down the beach to the pier and stopped by a waterfront café for lunch before heading back to the hotel.  

What a wonderful time I was having, and it was just the first day. 

This was exactly what I needed, something so relaxing and away from my daily routine and it was so easy to do.  Sometimes I forget just how great a short little getaway can really be.

Do you like short or longer trips?  Are you a planner or more spontaneous with your travel?  What type of environment is the most fun or relaxing for you?  Join the conversation and share your stories.

Happy Travels!

Published on Sixty and Me

Why I Love to Travel

Some people stay in one place most or all their lives and are very content.  Then there are some, like me, who crave change and move frequently from place to place.   I don’t know if it because we moved a lot when I was growing up and that is what I became accustomed to or if it is because I have a genuine desire to go somewhere new.  It may be a little of both.

Am I running away from something or toward it?

I think the answer to that has evolved over time.  As I’ve grown older, I have begun to appreciate how important it is to be comfortable in your environment.  I truly love the experience of seeing new places and living there allows me to really immerse myself in the community, something you can’t do if you’re just a visitor.  Then there is the homebody in me that needs a peaceful, nurturing environment to thrive. 

A big sign that I am ready for a change is when I begin to feel trapped or isolated.  No matter how comfortable my surroundings may be, if I feel uneasy in my space I must leave.  My answer to that is to seek out a new location.  It doesn’t matter to me if it’s near or far, I have moved out of state and out of the country with a suitcase and plane ticket.  Sometimes I don’t even have a place to live when I arrive.

It is a thrilling adventure.

Arriving in a new city with only a hotel or B&B booked feels very fun and carefree.  Then reality sets in and you realize that you actually need to find a place to live if you are going to stay for any length of time.  Suddenly, making those arrangements and trying to get settled in your new place takes on a life of its own and can consume all your free time.  Sometimes I wonder if that is part of the appeal to me.

I’ve always loved the start-up of any project I’ve worked on.  It’s the ongoing maintenance I don’t really care for and soon will become bored and start looking for the next new thing.

As soon as something catches my interest the planning begins.

I enjoy preparing to go almost as much as the actual event.  Deciding what to do with my personal belongings, how and when I will leave etc., it’s great fun to plan for the adventure.  There is also an element of fear that seems to enhance the experience.  I am always cautious about what I am doing and know that if, for any reason, I don’t want to be there, I can come home.  It feels like a good safety net and gives me more confidence to give it a try. 

I always miss my family when I’m away and after a certain amount of time, visits will no longer suffice and I must return home again and I begin to arrange that.

With each change comes a new perspective on my life.

Looking back, I realize how much each of those experiences has taught me and how much it makes me appreciate the wonderful life I have.

Whenever I am in a new place it is an opportunity to explore an entirely different side of myself.  I am very good at blending in and becoming part of that environment, much like a chameleon.  It gives me a chance to try something new and see what fits and what doesn’t. 

Metamorphosis

Every time I return from one of my extended excursions, I feel transformed.  I have added something new that was not there before and my world has expanded.  It is that experience that keeps me wanting more.  It helps me remember that no matter how old I get, I still have the capacity to grow and change in ways that I never imagined.

I don’t know if it is bold, brave or stupid but it is something that makes me feel more alive than staying in one place ever could. 

For now, I’ll enjoy the respite of my new home-base and wait to see where the next adventure takes me.

Do you prefer to stay in one place or do you like to move around?  What is the biggest change you’ve made and how did it make you feel?  Share your stories and join the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Postcards from a Solo Traveller

Solo Travel Souvenirs 

Cheese and wine from Paris, tea and biscuits from London and a pair of flip-flops from Barcelona when it was simply too hot to wear anything else.

These are the purchases that remind Lynn Clare of the wonderful places she's visited as a solo traveler.

Wherever she goes, she likes to buy something authentic, whether it's something to wear or a local delicacy to treat her taste buds. She used to try to save the latter for the journey back to Denver, but more often than not, she found them too irresistible to resist.

Now Lynn prefers to buy gifts for others. “I love to bring back gifts for my family,” she says. “I usually keep the bag the gift came in as a souvenir; I use it for my future travels, and it always reminds me of the trip where I got it.”

“My grandchildren love hearing about all the places that I visit,” she says. “We try to Skype so they can see a little of it.”

Her passport is full of stamps from New Zealand, Canada and Italy, but her most treasured memories are from her many trips to Ireland.

“The first time I visited, I found that the beauty of the Irish countryside is only surpassed by the kindness of the people,” she says. “I was so touched by the warmth and generosity that after my first visit, I came home and quit my job, so I could spend more time there.”  “That was 10 years ago, and I still go once or twice a year,” she adds.

Lynn's first solo trip outside of the US - over 30 years ago - took her to Mexico. “I did have quite a few reservations initially, but my desire outweighed my fear,” she says. “I planned as much as I could, which helped to alleviate some of the anxiety around things like where I would stay, learning a little Spanish and understanding currency conversion.”

Any concerns that Lynn had previously harboured about travelling alone quickly evaporated. On the flight home, she was already thinking about her next adventure.

With each trip, Lynn grew in confidence, gradually venturing further afield. “I kept having such a fantastic time that it gave me the confidence to travel alone anywhere in the world,” she says.

Anyone who has travelled alone will likely recognize the newfound confidence that Lynn describes.

It can be an intoxicating feeling, but Lynn has been careful not to let this feeling turn into overconfidence, particularly when visiting countries where the culture is very different.

“Some destinations are not what you are expecting, and that can be challenging,” she says. “I have to reset my expectations very quickly, so I can enjoy whatever environment I find myself in. That can be great fun as long as I stay flexible.”

“It's very important for women to stay safe while travelling,” she adds. “You must stay aware of your surroundings, protect your personal information and belongings, and always let someone know where you are.”

For peace of mind, Lynn always chooses to stay at a hotel with a restaurant on site. When eating out, she's careful not to become easily distracted, and whenever she feels uncomfortable about booking a table for one, she simply orders room service.

That's not to say that Lynn feels uncomfortable very often. Having found a way that works for her, the experience of dining out in a restaurant on her own is now one of her greatest pleasures.

Now, she always allows herself at least one night to dress up and indulge in the local cuisine, sharing pleasantries with her fellow diners or simply enjoying some peace and quiet.

The whole experience of travelling alone is one that Lynn finds to be liberating. “I have travelled solo most of my adult life, and I just love the freedom of it,” she says. “I have always enjoyed seeing new places and meeting new people, so I take trips near and far at every opportunity.”

See the full interview at Staysure.co.uk

The Best Travel Memories Come in Orange Plastic Bags

As I was packing for a short work trip recently, I pulled out a bright orange plastic Sainsbury’s bag that I had from my last trip to London. It brought back such a flood of great memories that you would have thought it was a priceless memento.

Something as simple as this little bag represents a special place and time and I can instantly recall all of the wonderful experiences I had when I was there.

Building Travel Memories and Watching the World Go By 

I stayed at a great hotel right at Paddington Station, which is one of my all-time favorite places. This is not just because of the trains – with all of the shops and restaurants right there it feels like a little city unto itself.

The hotel has a fantastic lounge, overlooking the train platforms and some of the shops. I loved to just sit and watch all of the passersby coming and going on their daily commutes. It felt like I was sitting at the window of the world and just imagined all the stories and lives that were intersecting there.

Wherever I Go, I Feel Like a Local

I love to shop at the market or grocery store, it always makes me feel like I live there and am not just visiting. Just browsing through the aisles looking at all of the interesting and unfamiliar products is so much fun.

When I’m in England, I always buy biscuits, tea, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers to take back to my room. I used to try to save some for the journey home, but very seldom did they last that long. That said, I always ended up with a bag or two and found that just that small reminder was enough to relive the entire experience.

My Favorite Keepsakes

When I travelled, I was so excited about all of the new experiences that I would save almost everything from my trip. This included bus tickets, boarding passes, maps and, of course, the required tourist souvenirs of all sorts. Sometimes, I would actually buy a tote or bag from my destination to make sure I had room to bring it all home.

Now, wherever I go, even when I buy gifts for friends or family, I always save at least one small plastic bag from every trip. Each one has a special memory attached. One reminded me of being stuck at the Barcelona airport in the sweltering heat and buying a pair of flip flops. 

Another brought back memories of the fantastic French wine and cheese I had in my hotel room. Then, there was the bag that once held the lovely scarf I bought for the train trip to Italy. Another bag took me back to the wonderful bacon sandwich I had for breakfast in Ireland. There are too many memories to list!

The Gift I Give Myself is the Memory

I love that I can recall exactly how it felt to be in that environment – who I met, what I did, the food I ate, the places I went and the things I saw. It all becomes part of that special experience I had along the way.

Something as simple as seeing one of those cherished bags instantly transports me back to that moment in my life and I will always remember my wonderful journey.

What are the most meaningful mementos from your travels? What are your favorite travel memories? Do you like to buy traditional souvenirs or is there something special that evokes a memory for you? Share your stories and join in the conversation.

Published on Sixty and Me

Celebrating My 60th Birthday in Mexico

Every year, I plan an international trip for my birthday. It’s a wonderful way to mark the passage of time and an excellent excuse to go somewhere fun. I especially love milestone birthdays and since this year was my 60th, I wanted to do something extra special for myself.

Even though I usually travel solo, a friend of mine wanted to meet in Mexico and I jumped at the chance to have a girlfriend’s getaway. She was going to be in Tulum, so, I flew down to join her.

It Was All Very Last Minute

I just booked the flight, packed my bag and left. It has been a while since I did anything quite so spontaneous, but I knew I would have a fantastic time and I was up for the adventure.

We ended up at a lovely resort right on the beach and my friend arranged to have me put in the room right next to hers. The room was perfect, full of rustic Mexican charm. It even had a balcony with a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea. I was thrilled and I knew this was exactly what I needed.

On the Very First Night, We Decided to Go Into Town

We went to a gorgeous, beachfront dance club. It had all the fun and flair you would expect to find in a lovely little Mexican town. To top it off, it was a full moon and a Saturday night, so, everyone was in very high spirits.

To me, it felt like everyone was there to celebrate my 60th birthday. What an incredible evening it was!

Years ago, celebrating would have been a nightly occurrence. After such a great first night in Mexico, I was simply content for the rest of the trip to relax under a shady palapa and visit with my friend.

Turning 60 Was a Big Event for Me

I have always loved the aging process and truly appreciate every passing year. This birthday felt different – somehow more significant.

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Turning 60 felt like a new beginning – a brand new start to the rest of my life.

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Things that might have concerned me in the past seemed unimportant and I had the sense that nothing would ever be the same. I had given myself permission to enter this chapter of my life with the wonder and excitement of a child. I suddenly had no more expectations – just anticipation for what may lie ahead.

My Life Has Been a Series of Fantastic Experiences and Wonderful Lessons

Now, beginning a new decade, I feel that I am becoming more myself. All of the self-reflection, joy and sorrow are blending into this beautiful mosaic that is my life.

Watching the crystal blue waves, rolling in and out, feels like a metaphor for my life – one continuous, beautiful flow.

There is a lovely symmetry to reaching a golden age and going on vacation. Both experiences are a wonderful reflection of who I really am. They remind me to enjoy every single moment.

I am so grateful for this incredible journey that is my life – and that I got to celebrate it in Mexico!

Have you ever gone on vacation to celebrate a milestone birthday? What do you like most about life after 60? Join the conversation!

Published on Sixty and Me