Florence, Italy

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

TOP 10 TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR IPHONE SAFE ON SOLO TRAVEL

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Well, you know that I recently returned from a 3-country trip to the African Continent. During that time, I visited Zanzibar Tanzania and I completely fell in love with it. Zanzibar is the ultimate Fly 40+ solo travel destination. It is:

Breathtakingly Beautiful
Safe
Affordable

Consider this blog post your personal invitation to join me for a Girls Trip for Fly 40+ Women to Zanzibar Tanzania from January 8-15, 2024!

This will be the first of many opportunities to Meet Up With Me in 2024 and beyond to favorite place of mine or places I have been dreaming of visiting with a small group of other like- minded people who love or aspire to travel! I realize that not everyone can wrap their minds around traveling completely alone across the world so I want to make it possible for more of us to travel to cool places where your accommodations, excursions/tours and experiences are already in place. All you have to do is buy your plane ticket and meet me there!

The trip to Zanzibar will be a bucket list experience. The Trip itinerary, all included in the cost, will feature:

Visits and stays in two locations filled with epic excursions and experiences

📍STONETOWN

Spend 2 nights in the Historic Seaside Capital of Stone Town

*5-star Hotel Accommodations at the Park Hyatt Zanzibar with Breakfast included daily

Also included:

📌 Welcome Dinner

📌 Feed the Turtles at Prison Island

📌 Walking Tour of the Historic Stone town

📌Night Market Shopping at the Famous Forodahani Market

📌Spice Farm Tour

📌 Lunch and photo op at the world-famous Rock Restaurant

📍NUNGWI BEACH

Spend 5 nights in one of the most beautiful locations, in the World, Nungwi Beach

📌 4-star all-inclusive Hotel Accommodations at the Hotel Riu Jambo

📌 Mnemba Island Tour

📌 Sunset Dhow Boat Cruise

📌 Swim with Turtles Go Dolphin chasing

📌 Sunday Group Brunch

📌 Dinner on the Beach

📌 Happy Hour and Dancing

📌 Farewell Dinner

single and double occupancy rooms available

If you’ve been dreaming of Zanzibar, this is your opportunity!

Payment plans are available with a $350 deposit and up to seven months available to pay in full.

There are only 17 slots available and I sure hope you will grab one of them.

Click Here to Grab Your Spot!

See you in the sun! 🌞🌞🌞

You have probably read my prior blog post about my visit to Puerto Vallarta when I was scouting places in Mexico for relocation.

But this blog post is about why I think Puerto Vallarta is a perfect place Fly 40+ Solo Travel.

Puerto Vallarta is a perfect combination of being a tourist destination while retaining a very Mexican cultural aesthetic. It is a tourist location that also feels very Mexican IMHO which is why I love it.

If you’re a solo traveler looking for a destination that’s both safe and exciting, Puerto Vallarta is a perfect choice. Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta offers a mix of stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and delicious food. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Puerto Vallarta is a great place for solo travelers and highlight some of the best things to do, places to eat, and areas to stay.

Things to Do

When it comes to things to do in Puerto Vallarta, there’s no shortage of options. The city’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Playa Los Muertos is a popular choice for both locals and tourists, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. Other beaches worth checking out include Playa Mismaloya and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Beyond the beaches, Puerto Vallarta offers plenty of opportunities for cultural experiences. The Malecon boardwalk is a must-visit, with its stunning views of the ocean and outdoor art installations. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is another popular attraction, known for its iconic architecture and ornate interior. For a taste of local culture, consider taking a cooking class or visiting one of the city’s many art galleries.

Things to Eat

Puerto Vallarta is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and eateries serving up delicious cuisine from all over the world. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, Mexican specialties, or international flavors, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best places to eat in Puerto Vallarta, including Maria Baja, Freddy Tucans, Oregano, The Blue Shrimp, and Cafe de Olla.

Maria Baja Located in the Romantic Zone, Maria Baja is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. This restaurant serves up amazing affordable seafood tacos and tostadas. Their Tuna Tostadas are amazing. They are also famous for their poke bowls. The atmosphere is low key and they only accept cash but it totally worth it if you love fresh Mexical seafood dishes.

Freddy Tucans If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot, Freddy Tucans is a must-visit. This casual restaurant serves up classic American breakfast favorites with a Mexican twist, such as huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, and breakfast burritos. The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable, making this a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Cash only.

Oregano Located in the Versalles neighborhood, Oregano is a popular choice for traditional Mexican cuisine. This family-run restaurant serves up Mexican food with a Caribbean twist like oxtail tacos and oxtail tostadas. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with colorful decor and friendly service.

The Blue Shrimp For seafood lovers, The Blue Shrimp is a must-visit. This restaurant serves up a wide range of seafood dishes, including ceviche, grilled octopus, and shrimp cocktails. The highlight of the menu is their famous garlic shrimp, served in a sizzling skillet with a side of rice and beans. My favorite is the seafood soup.

Café de Olla is a popular Mexican restaurant in Puerto Vallarta that specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine.

The menu at Café de Olla features a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, mole, and ceviche.

One of the standout dishes at Café de Olla is the mole, a complex sauce made with chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. The restaurant’s mole is made in-house and is a customer favorite. Another must-try dish is the ceviche, a refreshing seafood dish made with lime juice, cilantro, and diced vegetables.

The atmosphere at Café de Olla is cozy and welcoming, with colorful decor and traditional Mexican motifs. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, including a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the city. The service is friendly and attentive, with staff who are happy to make recommendations and explain the dishes to customers.

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodations, the Romantic Zone is a popular area for solo travelers. This neighborhood is known for its charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, and it’s within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. Popular hotels in the area include the Casa Dona Susana and the Hotel Mercurio. There are also many great Airbnb options which is usually my first choice.

Climate in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The city experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season, which runs from November to May, and the wet season, which runs from June to October.

During the dry season, temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C), with very little rainfall. The skies are generally clear and sunny, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities such as beach-going, hiking, and exploring the city’s many attractions.

The wet season, on the other hand, brings higher temperatures and more rainfall. Temperatures can reach the mid-90s Fahrenheit (35°C) during the day, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms occurring in the afternoons and evenings. While the wet season can make some activities more challenging, such as hiking or exploring the city on foot, it can also be a great time to enjoy the lush vegetation and cooler temperatures in the surrounding hills.

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta depends on personal preferences and the type of activities you plan to do. For beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts, the dry season from November to May is the ideal time to visit, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. For those who don’t mind a bit of rain and prefer to avoid the crowds, the wet season from June to October can be a great time to visit, with lower prices and fewer tourists.

If visiting in wet season I highly recommend packing your favorite mosquito repellent and for all year round bring sunscreen. Here are my top favorite mosquito repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70
For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Getting Around

When it comes to getting around in Puerto Vallarta, there are several options available.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Puerto Vallarta and are a convenient way to get around the city. They are easily identifiable with their red and white colors, and most are equipped with a meter. It’s always a good idea to confirm the price with the driver before getting in the taxi. Taxis are also a great way to travel to nearby towns or attractions.
Ride-share services. Ride Share services such as Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Puerto Vallarta. These services offer a convenient and reliable way to get around the city, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation system. You can easily download the Uber or Lyft app on your smartphone, and the service is available 24/7. One of the benefits of using ride-share services in Puerto Vallarta is that you can easily get a price estimate before booking your ride, and you don’t have to worry about negotiating with the driver. Additionally, ride-share services are usually safer and more comfortable than traditional taxis, as the drivers are required to pass a background check and maintain a certain level of vehicle cleanliness.
Public Transportation: Puerto Vallarta has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and mini-vans known as “colectivos.” The buses are cheap and operate on a fixed route, making them a great option for those on a budget. The colectivos are shared taxis that operate on a similar route as the buses, but are slightly faster and more expensive.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is another option for getting around Puerto Vallarta. Several car rental companies have offices in the city, and rates are generally reasonable. However, driving in Puerto Vallarta can be challenging due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. It’s also important to note that parking can be difficult to find in some areas.
Walking: Many of Puerto Vallarta’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other, making walking a great option for getting around. The city’s malecón, or boardwalk, is a popular destination for walkers and joggers, offering stunning views of the ocean and nearby hills.
Biking: Biking is becoming increasingly popular in Puerto Vallarta, with several rental companies offering bikes for rent. Biking is a great way to explore the city at a leisurely pace, and there are several bike-friendly routes throughout Puerto Vallarta.

Safety and Security

As with any travel destination, safety and security are important considerations for solo female travelers visiting Puerto Vallarta. While the city is generally safe and welcoming, there are certain precautions that solo female travelers can take to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

One of the most important things that solo female travelers can do is to stay aware of their surroundings and exercise caution when out and about. This includes avoiding walking alone at night in isolated areas and taking taxis or rideshare services instead. It’s also a good idea to dress modestly and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, which can make you a target for theft or robbery.

When it comes to accommodation, solo female travelers should choose reputable hotels or hostels in safe and well-lit areas. It’s also a good idea to inform the hotel staff of your itinerary and check in with them regularly, so they can keep an eye out for your safety.

Puerto Vallarta also has a number of women’s-only transportation options, such as the Pink Taxi service, which can provide an extra level of safety and comfort for female travelers.

Another important safety consideration is drinking responsibly and being cautious when accepting drinks from strangers. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your drink and to avoid leaving it unattended, as well as to trust your instincts and remove yourself from any uncomfortable situations.

Overall, while it’s important to be aware of safety concerns when traveling solo as a female, Puerto Vallarta is generally a safe and welcoming destination. By taking basic precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, solo female travelers can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful city.

As with anywhere you solo travel, it is important to exercise situational awareness and common sense as a female solo traveler. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

Here is a YouTube Short featuring some of my favorite things about Puerto Vallarta!

Catch the Sunset!

Sunsets in Puerto Vallarta are truly magical and one of the city’s most popular attractions. With its stunning location on the Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see.

There are many great spots to watch the sunset in Puerto Vallarta, but one of the most popular is the Malecon boardwalk. This pedestrian walkway runs along the city’s waterfront, and it’s lined with restaurants, shops, and art galleries. As the sun begins to set, people gather along the Malecon to watch the sky turn into a beautiful mix of colors, from soft oranges and pinks to deep purples and blues.

Another great spot to watch the sunset is from the top of the iconic Puerto Vallarta Cathedral, located in the city’s historic center. From the cathedral’s rooftop, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the ocean as the sun sets over the horizon.

If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to watch the sunset, you can take a short boat ride to the secluded Las Caletas beach. This beautiful beach is only accessible by boat, and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset in peace and quiet. You can relax on the beach, sip on a cocktail, and watch the sun go down over the ocean.

For a truly unforgettable sunset experience, consider taking a sunset cruise along Banderas Bay. Many companies offer sunset cruises that take you out on the water for a few hours, where you can enjoy music, drinks, and appetizers while watching the sun set over the ocean.

In conclusion, sunsets in Puerto Vallarta are a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Whether you choose to watch the sunset from the Malecon, the top of the Puerto Vallarta Cathedral, Las Caletas beach, or on a sunset cruise, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the beauty of the sky and the ocean as the sun sets over the horizon.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

AIRLINE MILES AND CREDIT CARD PROGRAMS YOU CAN USE TO SAVE ON TRAVEL

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

HOW TO SAVE MONEY WHEN BOOKING SOLO TRAVEL: 3 THINGS TO DO

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I will explain the benefits of using airline miles and credit card points programs to save on Travel.

Traveling can be an exciting experience, but it can also be expensive. Luckily, there are several ways to save money on travel, one of which is by using airline miles and credit card points. In this blog post, I share my favorite credit card programs available for travel rewards.

American Airlines AAdvantage Program. American Airlines offers the AAdvantage program, which allows you to earn miles when you fly with American Airlines or their partners. You can also earn miles by using the American Airlines credit card. Here are some of the benefits of the AAdvantage program:

Earn miles on every flight you take with American Airlines or their partners
Redeem miles for flights, car rentals, hotels, and more
No blackout dates for award flights
Elite status benefits, such as priority boarding and free checked bags
$99 domestic companion certificate after spending $20,000 on the card in a membership year

United MileagePlus Program: United Airlines offers the MileagePlus program, which allows you to earn miles when you fly with United Airlines or their partners. You can also earn miles by using the United credit card. Here are some of the benefits of the MileagePlus program:

Earn miles on every flight you take with United Airlines or their partners
Redeem miles for flights, car rentals, hotels, and more
No blackout dates for award flights
Elite status benefits, such as priority boarding and free checked bags
Premier Qualifying Miles (PQM) earned on United flights can help you reach elite status faster

3. Chase Sapphire Preferred: Here is a list of credit card benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred:

100,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants worldwide
Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Transfer points to leading frequent travel programs at a 1:1 ratio
Get 1:1 point transfer to many frequent travel programs like Southwest Airlines, United, Marriott, Hyatt, and more
No foreign transaction fees
Primary rental car insurance coverage
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Travel accident insurance
Extended warranty protection
Purchase protection
Annual fee: $95 annual fee.

Note that the benefits may be subject to change, and other terms and conditions may apply. It is always best to review the latest terms and conditions provided by the credit card issuer before applying for a card.

4. American Express Hilton Aspire: The American Express Hilton Aspire is a premium travel rewards credit card that allows you to earn points on all your purchases. You can redeem these points for stays at Hilton hotels and resorts, as well as flights, car rentals, and more. Here are some of the benefits of the American Express Hilton Aspire:

Welcome bonus: Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.
Hilton Honors Diamond status: Cardholders automatically receive Hilton Honors Diamond status, which includes benefits like room upgrades, free breakfast, and late checkout.
Weekend night rewards: Receive one weekend night reward each year after renewal, which can be used at nearly any Hilton property worldwide.
Annual resort credit: Receive up to $250 in statement credits each year for eligible purchases at participating Hilton resorts.
Airline fee credit: Receive up to $250 in statement credits each year for incidental fees charged by one qualifying airline of your choice.
Priority Pass Select membership: Receive complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide for you and up to two guests.
ShopRunner membership: Receive a complimentary ShopRunner membership, which includes free two-day shipping and returns at over 100 online retailers.
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit: Receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
No foreign transaction fees: Cardholders can use their card abroad without incurring any foreign transaction fees.
Purchase protection: The card comes with purchase protection, which can help protect eligible purchases against accidental damage or theft.
Car rental loss and damage insurance: Receive secondary coverage for rental cars when you use your card to pay for the rental.
Baggage insurance plan: Receive coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage when you use your card to purchase your ticket.
Extended warranty: Receive up to one extra year of coverage on eligible purchases with a manufacturer’s warranty of five years or less.
As you can see, the American Express Hilton Aspire credit card offers a wide range of benefits that can make it an excellent choice for frequent travelers who frequently stay at Hilton properties. With benefits like Hilton Honors Diamond status, weekend night rewards, and annual resort credits, the card can quickly pay for itself. Additionally, the card’s other perks, such as Priority Pass Select membership and purchase protection, can be valuable in a variety of situations.
Overall, the American Express Hilton Aspire credit card is an excellent choice for travelers who frequent Hilton properties and want to enjoy premium benefits and perks. While the annual fee is high, the card’s benefits can make it a worthwhile investment.
Annual fee: $450

5. Capital Venture Card: Here are some of the benefits of the Capital One Venture credit card:

Earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.
Miles don’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn.
Enjoy flexible redemption options, including travel, statement credits, gift cards, and more.
Get a one-time bonus of 60,000 miles (equivalent to $600 in travel) when you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of opening the account.
No foreign transaction fees, making it a great card to use when traveling abroad.
Receive up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® application fees.
Auto rental collision damage waiver coverage and travel accident insurance are included.
24/7 personalized concierge service available to assist with travel planning, dining reservations, and more.
Zero liability protection means you won’t be held responsible for unauthorized purchases on your card.
Access to exclusive cardholder experiences and benefits, such as pre-sale tickets to popular events and experiences.
Annual fee: $95

6. United Airlines Quest Card: Here are some of the benefits of the United Airlines Quest Card:

Earn up to 80,000 bonus miles: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn an additional 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $10,000 in total purchases within 6 months of account opening.
3 miles per $1 spent on United purchases: Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United purchases including tickets, seat upgrades, in-flight purchases, and more.
2 miles per $1 spent on dining and streaming services: Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining at restaurants, and on select streaming services.
1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases: Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases with your card.
Up to $125 credit for United purchases: Get up to $125 in statement credits each anniversary year for eligible United purchases, including seat upgrades, baggage fees, in-flight food and beverages, and more.
Free checked bag: Enjoy your first checked bag for free on United flights (up to $140 value per round-trip) when you use your card to purchase your ticket.
Priority boarding: Get priority boarding on United flights so you can settle in sooner and enjoy your flight.
25% back on in-flight purchases: Receive 25% back on purchases of food, beverages, and Wi-Fi onboard United-operated flights when you pay with your card.
No foreign transaction fees: Make purchases abroad without any foreign transaction fees.
$0 intro annual fee: There is no annual fee for the first year. After that, the annual fee is $250.

Please note that these benefits may be subject to change, so be sure to check the official United Airlines Quest Card website for the most up-to-date information.

These are just my favorite airline mileage programs and my favorite credit cards. There are, of course several other options on the market. But my general stance on credit cards is to only use the ones that provide travel points or cash back and make sure that the balance is paid in full each month to avoid the very high interest rate charged.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLOTRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I share 10 things you can do to keep your iPhone safe on Solo Travel.

Are you planning on traveling with your iPhone soon? Here are my top 10 tips to keep it safe during your journey:

Use a protective case and screen protector to prevent scratches and cracks.
Set a passcode or use biometric authentication (like Touch ID or Face ID) to secure your device.
Turn on Find My iPhone so you can locate your phone if it gets lost or stolen.
Keep your phone close to you and never leave it unattended in public places.
Avoid connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, as they may put your personal information at risk.
Disable automatic Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections to avoid connecting to untrusted networks and devices.
Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy.
Enable two-factor authentication for your Apple ID to prevent unauthorized access.
Back up your phone before you leave to ensure your data is safe in case your phone gets lost or stolen.
Use a portable charger to keep your phone charged and avoid using public charging stations that may be compromised.

Don’t let your phone become a liability during your travels. Follow these tips to keep it safe and secure.

If you found this travel tip helpful, grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

My second stop on my Africa adventure was Nairobi Kenya. While this was my third visit to Nairobi, it was my first where I wasn’t working and all my time was mine. I decided to get to know the city by doing some of my favorite things: shopping, sightseeing and relaxing.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the things to do, eat, and see in Nairobi, Kenya, as well as discuss safety and security which can be an issue in this bustling city of 5.3 million people.

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a bustling metropolis that offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. From exploring the rich cultural history of the city to getting up close and personal with African wildlife, there’s something for everyone in Nairobi. Here are some of the top things to do, eat and see in Nairobi.

Things to do in Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi National Park. Nairobi National Park is a must-visit for anyone travelling to the city. It’s located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making it one of the only national parks in the world that’s easily accessible from a major city. The park is home to a diverse range of African wildlife, including lions, leopards, rhinos, and giraffes. To book a day safari to Nairobi National Park visit Viator.com.
The Giraffe Center. The Giraffe Center is a popular tourist attraction in Nairobi, Kenya, and a must-visit for animal lovers. Established in 1979, the center was initially created to protect the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe species, but has since become a conservation education center for visitors of all ages. Located in the suburb of Lang’ata, just 20 minutes from the city center, the Giraffe Center sits on a 140-acre plot of land within the Giraffe Manor estate. The center is home to a small herd of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, which are found only in Kenya and Uganda. Visitors to the center can enjoy a close-up encounter with these gentle giants and even feed them. The Giraffe Center offers visitors the unique opportunity to stand eye-to-eye with the giraffes on a raised platform, and to feed them pellets. Visitors are advised to be careful, however, as the giraffes can be quite enthusiastic when it comes to eating. In addition to interacting with the giraffes, the Giraffe Center offers visitors the chance to learn about conservation efforts in Kenya. The center’s staff conducts educational talks on the importance of preserving endangered species and the role of the Giraffe Center in these efforts. The Giraffe Center also has a nature trail that leads visitors through a lush forest, where they can spot a variety of birds and small animals. The trail also provides excellent views of the Ngong Hills, which are located just outside of Nairobi. Overall, the Giraffe Center is a unique and exciting way to experience the beauty of nature and learn about conservation efforts in Kenya. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with young children, or a group of friends, a visit to the Giraffe Center is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Nairobi.
The Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary. The Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary is a non-profit organization located in Nairobi, Kenya that is dedicated to the conservation and protection of elephants. Founded in 1977, the sanctuary was established to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants and release them back into the wild. Visitors to the sanctuary can witness firsthand the amazing work being done by the dedicated staff and volunteers who care for the elephants on a daily basis. The sanctuary is open to the public from 11 am to 12 pm every day, during which time visitors can see the baby elephants being fed and interact with them. The sanctuary provides a safe and nurturing environment for the elephants, who are often traumatized after losing their mothers to poaching or other natural causes. The elephants are hand-raised by human caretakers who provide them with the love, attention, and care they need to thrive. The sanctuary has successfully rehabilitated and released over 250 elephants back into the wild, making it one of the most successful elephant rescue and rehabilitation programs in the world. Aside from the daily feeding and interaction with the baby elephants, visitors can also learn about the various conservation efforts being undertaken by the sanctuary to protect elephants and other wildlife in Kenya. The sanctuary also offers the opportunity to “adopt” an elephant, which provides ongoing support for the care and protection of the orphaned elephants. The Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary is an amazing organization that is doing critical work to protect and conserve elephants in Kenya. Visitors to the sanctuary can witness the incredible care being provided to these magnificent animals and learn about the important conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them. The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants, while also supporting an important cause. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife conservation or who simply loves elephants.
Massai Market. Nairobi has a vibrant shopping scene, and one of the best places to shop is the Massai Market. The Maasai Market is a popular open-air market located in Nairobi, Kenya, which is renowned for its wide selection of traditional African handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and other cultural artifacts. The market is named after the Maasai people, who are an indigenous ethnic group in Kenya that are known for their distinctive customs and attire. The Maasai Market is a vibrant hub of activity and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is typically held at various locations around Nairobi on different days of the week, with some of the most well-known locations including the Village Market, the High Court parking lot, and the Galleria Mall. Visitors to the market can expect to find a wide range of unique and colorful items, including hand-carved wooden sculptures, woven baskets, beaded jewelry, traditional clothing such as kikois and khangas, and intricate masks and figurines. Many of the items sold at the market are handmade by local artisans, which adds to their authenticity and cultural significance. One of the most appealing aspects of the Maasai Market is the opportunity for visitors to haggle and negotiate with the vendors for a fair price. This can be a fun and exciting experience, and it is recommended that visitors come prepared with some basic bargaining skills. Overall, the Maasai Market is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kenya and the wider African continent. The vibrant atmosphere, unique selection of goods, and friendly vendors all combine to create an unforgettable shopping experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Visit the Nairobi National Museum. The Nairobi National Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kenya. Located in the heart of Nairobi, this museum offers visitors the chance to learn about Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, natural history, and contemporary art scene. The museum was established in 1929, and over the years, it has grown to become one of the most extensive and well-curated museums in East Africa. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, ranging from traditional African tribal artifacts to contemporary Kenyan art. One of the most popular exhibits in the Nairobi National Museum is the Hall of Mammals, which showcases Kenya’s rich and diverse wildlife. The exhibit features life-sized models of animals such as elephants, lions, and giraffes, as well as preserved specimens of smaller animals like birds and rodents. Visitors can also learn about Kenya’s marine life through the museum’s marine exhibit, which features a range of fish and marine creatures found in Kenya’s coastal waters. The museum also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about Kenya’s cultural heritage through its various exhibits. The Kenyan Cultural Center features exhibits on traditional Kenyan artifacts, including masks, musical instruments, and clothing. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the country’s prehistoric past, including a replica of the famous Turkana Boy, one of the most complete early human skeletons ever discovered. In addition to its extensive collection of exhibits, the Nairobi National Museum also hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year. These include temporary art exhibitions, cultural festivals, and workshops on traditional crafts and music. For those looking to take a break from exploring the museum, the museum has a restaurant and gift shop on-site. The restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes, while the gift shop features a range of locally made crafts, books, and souvenirs. The Nairobi National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, natural history, and contemporary art scene. With its extensive collection of exhibits, interactive displays, and a range of events and activities, the museum offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with young children, or a group of friends, a visit to the Nairobi National Museum is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to Nairobi.
Buy Beads and Leather at Kobe Tough. Kobe Tough Beads & Leather is a unique shopping destination for tourists visiting Nairobi, Kenya. Located in the heart of the city, this store offers a wide range of handmade leather products, such as bags, belts, wallets, and shoes, as well as traditional African beadwork. The store’s name, “Kobe,” means “turtle” in Swahili, which is fitting since the store specializes in creating durable and long-lasting products. The leather used to create these products is sourced locally and is of the highest quality, ensuring that each item is both beautiful and functional. One of the highlights of Kobe Tough Beads & Leather is the opportunity for visitors to watch the artisans at work. The store has an open workshop where skilled craftsmen and women can be seen creating their unique pieces using traditional techniques. Visitors can witness the intricate process of making leather products from start to finish, which provides a rare insight into the local culture. In addition to leather products, Kobe Tough Beads & Leather also offers an impressive collection of African beads. These beads are intricately designed and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They can be used to create stunning jewelry, clothing accessories, or even to decorate the home. Tourists can purchase these unique items at affordable prices, making it an excellent place to pick up a souvenir or gift for loved ones back home. The store also ships internationally, so visitors can easily have their purchases delivered to their doorstep. In conclusion, Kobe Tough Beads & Leather is a must-visit for tourists looking to experience the rich culture of Nairobi, Kenya. With its high-quality leather products, traditional African beadwork, and open workshop, visitors can gain a unique insight into the local community and purchase a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember their trip by. Gracepatt Ecotours Kenya offers a range of sustainable tours that allow visitors to experience the local culture and wildlife. From visiting local communities to exploring national parks, there’s something for everyone. I booked my tour of Giraffe Center, Sheldrick Elephant Sanctuary and Kobe Tough Beads & Leatherusing Gracepatt Ecotours through Viator.com. and I had a great time.

Places to eat

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is known for its vibrant food scene that offers a variety of international and local cuisines. From street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone in Nairobi. Here are some of the best places to eat in the city.

Beit e’ selam is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Ethiopian cuisine. The restaurant is located in the Westlands area of Nairobi and has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a range of Ethiopian dishes, including injera, doro wat, and kitfo. The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch.
Me So Modern Asian Izakaya is a chic and stylish restaurant located in the bustling Westlands area of Nairobi, Kenya. As the name suggests, this eatery serves up a modern twist on classic Asian cuisine, creating a menu that is both unique and delicious. One of the standout features of Me So is its Izakaya-style dining experience. In Japan, an Izakaya is a casual bar that serves small plates of food to accompany drinks. Me So has taken this concept and elevated it, offering a range of small plates that are perfect for sharing with friends. From the sushi platters to the Korean Fried Chicken, the dishes are all expertly prepared and packed with flavor. The atmosphere of Me So is also noteworthy. The restaurant is popular with both locals and tourists alike, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic date. In addition to the food, Me So also has an impressive drinks menu. From creative cocktails to local and international beers, there’s something for everyone. The staff is also knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. Overall, Me So Modern Asian Izakaya is a must-visit for anyone in Nairobi who loves great food, drinks, and a fun atmosphere.
Seven Seafood and Grill is a popular restaurant located in the Karen area of Nairobi. The restaurant serves a range of seafood dishes, including lobster, prawns, and fish. The food is always fresh and cooked to perfection, and the restaurant has a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant also has a great selection of wine to complement the seafood dishes.

Nairobi has a vibrant food scene with a range of international and local cuisines on offer. Beit e’ selam, MeSo, Modern Asian Izakaya, and Seven Seafood and Grill are just some of the best places to eat in the city. Whether you’re looking for traditional Ethiopian cuisine or contemporary Japanese-inspired dishes, Nairobi has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Places to Stay

I booked my stay using points from my Chase Sapphire Preferred at the Sarova Stanley Hotel. I was not disappointed!

If you’re looking for a luxurious and historical stay in Nairobi, then Sarova Stanley Hotel should be on your list. This iconic hotel has been a landmark in the city since 1902 and has played host to many famous guests over the years, including Winston Churchill and Ernest Hemingway. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, making it the perfect base from which to explore Nairobi. You can also book a stay at the Sarova Stanley via Booking.com.

Climate in Nairobi

Nairobi is located close to the equator, which means it has a relatively stable tropical climate throughout the year. However, the city’s high altitude of around 1,795 meters (5,889 feet) above sea level means that temperatures are generally cooler than in other parts of Kenya.

Nairobi has two distinct rainy seasons, from March to May and from October to December, and two dry seasons from January to February and from June to September. The rainy seasons are characterized by heavy rain showers that can last for several hours, while the dry seasons are usually sunny and dry.

The average temperature in Nairobi is around 21°C (70°F) throughout the year, with daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 26°C (79°F) during the warmest months of January and February. At night, temperatures can drop to as low as 10°C (50°F) during the cool months of July and August.

When visiting Nairob, should pack appropriate clothing for the climate, including light and comfortable clothes for the warm months and warmer clothes for the cooler months. It’s also advisable to bring a rain jacket or umbrella during the rainy seasons.

Overall, Nairobi’s climate is generally pleasant and comfortable, making it a great destination for tourists looking for a year-round destination with stable temperatures. However, it’s always a good idea to check the latest weather forecasts and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Here are my top favorite repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70
For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

If you are visiting the coast of Kenya do NOT forget to bring water shoes! There are often sea urchins on the beaches and you do NOT want to step on one of them. I wore water shoes every time I stepped out on the beach. I really like these Unisex VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Yoga Socks Slip-ons. They were my go-to shoes on all my beach days!

Safety and Security

As a popular tourist destination, Nairobi has made significant strides in improving safety and security in recent years. However, like any other big city, there are still risks and potential dangers that tourists should be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Crime is one of the main safety concerns in Nairobi, and tourists should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim. Some of the common crimes in the city include pickpocketing, theft, and robbery. To minimize the risk of theft or robbery, tourists should avoid carrying valuable items, such as expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. It’s also advisable to avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Another potential safety concern in Nairobi is terrorism. The city has experienced several high-profile terrorist attacks in recent years, including the Westgate Mall attack in 2013 and the Dusit D2 attack in 2019. To minimize the risk of being caught up in a terrorist attack, tourists should be aware of their surroundings, avoid crowded areas, and follow any security advice given by local authorities.

In addition to crime and terrorism, road safety is also a concern in Nairobi. The city’s roads can be congested and chaotic, with many drivers ignoring traffic rules and regulations. Tourists should exercise caution when crossing the road and avoid walking on the roads where possible.

Despite the potential risks, many tourists visit Nairobi every year without incident. By taking precautions and being aware of the potential dangers, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable visit to this vibrant and diverse city. It’s also advisable to check the latest travel advice from your embassy or consulate before travelling to Nairobi.

Nairobi is a vibrant city with a diverse range of experiences on offer. From exploring the rich cultural history of the city to getting up close and personal with African wildlife it’s a “must visit’ on the African continent.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is a vibrant city full of energy, culture, and delicious food. It is located on the westernmost point of Africa, and is known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and unique attractions. Common languages spoken are Wolof and French. No visa required for tourist entry on United States of America passport holders.

In this blog post, we will explore the top things to do, see, and eat in Dakar, as well as provide important information about safety and security.

Top things to do

1. African Renaissance Monument

The African Renaissance Monument is one of Dakar’s most impressive landmarks, standing at 49 meters tall. It is a symbol of the strength and resilience of the African people, and depicts a man, woman, and child emerging from a volcano with their arms outstretched towards the sky. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for a stunning view of the city.

2. Lion Walk at Fathala

If you’re looking for a unique and exciting experience, head to Fathala Wildlife Reserve to take a Lion Walk. This is an opportunity to walk alongside lions in their natural habitat, under the guidance of experienced handlers. The reserve is located about two hours from Dakar, but it’s well worth the trip.

3. Pink Lake and Salum Lake

Senegal is known for its pink lakes, which get their color from a type of algae that thrives in salty water. Two of the most popular pink lakes to visit are the Pink Lake and Salum Lake, both of which are located about an hour outside of Dakar. Visitors can take a swim in the salty water, which is said to have therapeutic properties. The lakes are not always pink. The Pink Lake was not pink when I visited in February 2023 due to heavy rain fall.

4. Les Pallateuvier

Les Pallateuvier is a beautiful beach in Dakar that is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. The beach is surrounded by mangrove trees, which provide a natural shade and create a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can rent a beach chair and umbrella, and enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many restaurants located along the shore.

5. Goree Island and Door of No Return

Goree Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located off the coast of Dakar. It was once a hub of the transatlantic slave trade, and visitors can take a tour of the House of Slaves and the Door of No Return, which is a small opening in the wall that was the last glimpse of Africa for millions of enslaved Africans. The island is also home to colorful colonial-style buildings and a vibrant art scene.

6. Sandaga Market

Sandaga Market is Dakar’s largest market, and is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the city. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and clothing. It’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, as the market can get crowded and chaotic.

7. Phare Des Mamelles

Phare Des Mamelles, also known as the Mamelles Lighthouse, is a historic lighthouse located on a hill overlooking the city of Dakar. The lighthouse was built in 1864 by the French, and it stands at a height of 66 meters (217 feet). It is the tallest lighthouse in West Africa and one of the tallest in the world. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Lighthouse

The lighthouse was built in 1864 and stands at 52 meters tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the ocean. The climb can be steep and tiring, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The entrance fee is around 2,000 CFA, or about $4 USD.

The Restaurant

Next to the lighthouse, there is a restaurant called Le Phare des Mamelles that offers delicious Senegalese and French cuisine. The restaurant has a large outdoor seating area that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal after visiting the lighthouse.

Some of the dishes that are recommended include the thieboudienne, a traditional Senegalese dish made with fish and rice, and the mafe, a peanut-based stew that is often served with chicken or beef. The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including local beers and cocktails. There is live music several nights per week. Reservations are recommended.

Visitors to the Lighthouse at Phare Des Mamelles can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the city and the ocean. The climb to the top is a bit steep and can be challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. The lighthouse also has a small museum where visitors can learn about its history and the history of lighthouses in general. There is a van services that ferries visitors to the top if you do not wish to walk. When visiting Phare Des Mamelles, it’s important to keep in mind that the area can be quite windy, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater. The climb to the top of the lighthouse is also not recommended for those with mobility issues, as there are many steps to climb. Overall, a visit to Phare Des Mamelles is a must for anyone visiting Dakar. With its stunning views and rich history, it is a true gem of West Africa.

I highly recommend planning your excursion using Viator. I found an amazing tour company, Senegal Tourist Guide (they are on IG) via Viator. Whatever the excursion, Viator has the perfect option.

What and Where to Eat

Dakar is a foodie’s paradise with a variety of delicious dishes to try.

Thieboudienne: Senegal’s National Dish

When in Dakar, one cannot miss the opportunity to try Thieboudienne, which is the national dish of Senegal. This delicious meal consists of rice cooked in tomato sauce with fish and vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and eggplant. It is usually served with a spicy sauce called “dakhar,” which adds an extra kick to the dish. Thieboudienne can be found in many restaurants throughout the city, but one of the best places to try it is Tabaski Mbourake Maam SY (@tabaskimbourakemaam1 on IG). The Thieboudienne was life changing. Truly.

2. Yassa

Yassa is another popular Senegalese dish that originated in the Casamance region in southern Senegal. It is typically made with chicken or fish marinated in lemon juice, onions, and spices, then grilled or simmered in a sauce made with the same marinade. The dish is often served with rice or couscous. To taste Yassa, visit La Calebasse in the Ngor neighborhood, which is known for its delicious grilled chicken yassa.

3. Maafe

Maafe, also known as groundnut stew, is a hearty dish that is commonly served in Dakar. It is made with a rich, creamy peanut sauce and can include chicken, beef, or lamb. The dish is typically served with rice or fufu, a starchy dough made from cassava or yams. To try Maafe, head to Keur Ndiaye in the neighborhood of Almadies, where it is served with a side of attiéké, a couscous-like side dish made from cassava.

4. Thiou

Thiou is a delicious, tomato-based stew that is popular in Dakar. It can include a variety of ingredients, such as fish, chicken, lamb, or beef, and vegetables like okra, eggplant, and carrots. The dish is typically served with rice or couscous. To taste Thiou, visit Le Récéptif in the neighborhood of Point E, which is known for its flavorful beef Thiou.

5. Pastels

Pastels are a popular street food in Dakar that are similar to empanadas or samosas. They are made with a savory dough filled with spicy fish, meat, or vegetables and then deep-fried until crispy. They are often served with a side of spicy tomato sauce. To try Pastels, head to the Sandaga Market in the city center, where you’ll find vendors selling them alongside other street food.

Getting Around

Getting around in Dakar can be an adventure in itself, but with a little preparation, it can also be a fun and convenient way to explore the city.

Taxis

Taxis are one of the most popular forms of transportation in Dakar. They can be hailed on the street or booked through a reputable taxi company. It’s important to agree on a price before getting into the taxi, as some drivers may try to overcharge tourists. It’s also recommended to use a taxi with a meter when possible to avoid disputes over fares. Taxis are generally safe, but it’s important to keep your belongings close and avoid sharing a cab with strangers.

2. Ride Share

There is a ride share service called Heetch avaiable in Dakar. Download it to your phone upon arrival, it works similar to Uber.

3. Public Transportation

Dakar has a variety of public transportation options, including buses, mini-buses, and ferries. Buses and mini-buses are the most affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during rush hour. Ferries are a great way to explore Dakar’s surrounding islands, such as Gorée Island and Ngor Island. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep your belongings close when using public transportation, as petty theft can occur.

4. Car Rental

Car rental is also an option in Dakar, but it’s important to note that driving in Dakar can be chaotic and unpredictable. If you do decide to rent a car, make sure to choose a reputable company and to get insurance. It’s also recommended to avoid driving at night, as visibility can be poor and there may be fewer street lights.

5. Walking

Walking is a great way to explore Dakar’s neighborhoods, especially in areas like Ngor and Almadies, where many restaurants and shops are within walking distance. However, it’s important to exercise caution when walking, especially at night. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone if possible.

6. Motorcycles

Motorcycles, or “motos” as they are commonly called in Dakar, are a popular way to get around quickly and cheaply. However, they can also be dangerous, especially for inexperienced riders. Make sure to wear a helmet and avoid taking a moto with a driver who appears to be reckless or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

There are many options for getting around in Dakar, but it’s important to choose a mode of transportation that is safe and convenient for you. Whether you opt for a taxi, public transportation, or a motorcycle, be sure to exercise caution and keep your belongings close at all times. With a little preparation, you can explore all that Dakar has to offer and enjoy a memorable trip.

Mosquito Repellent and Sunblock is a Must

The weather was pleasant in January while I was in Dakar but during the rainy season of summer, the climate in Dakar along with is hot with high humidity and malaria is a concern. As a result, especially if you visit during rainy season, be prepared for mosquitos. Lots of mosquitos which transmit many diseases, as such you should avoid being bitten by using repellent especially in the evenings. You will not enjoy Dakar during rainy season without STRONG mosquito repellent. You will need a repellant with Deet, Citronella oil alone will not help.Even in January you will also need VERY strong sunscreen as Dakar is on the sea and in the West of Africa, it is quite hot.

Here are my top favorite repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70
For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Do NOT forget to bring water shoes! There are often sea urchins on the beaches in Senegal and you do NOT want to step on one of them. I wore water shoes every time I stepped out on the beach. I really like these Unisex VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Yoga Socks Slip-ons. They were my go-to shoes on all my beach days!

Safety and security

Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is a bustling city with a rich culture and history. However, as with any city, it is important to be aware of safety and security concerns when visiting. I

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is the most common type of crime in Dakar. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep your belongings close to you at all times. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, as this can make you a target for thieves. It’s also recommended to use a money belt or a secure bag to keep your valuables safe.

2. Scams

Scams are also a common concern in Dakar. Some of the most common scams involve taxi drivers who overcharge or take tourists on longer routes to increase the fare. It’s important to agree on a price before getting into a taxi, and to make sure the driver uses the meter if it’s available. It’s also a good idea to ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel to find reputable taxis.

3. Demonstrations

Demonstrations and protests can occur in Dakar, particularly around political events. These events can sometimes turn violent, so it’s important to avoid large crowds and to stay informed about current events. It’s also recommended to avoid discussing politics with strangers, as this can sometimes lead to heated discussions.

4. Traffic

Traffic in Dakar can be chaotic, with many drivers disregarding traffic laws and signals. It’s important to exercise caution when crossing the street, and to avoid walking along busy roads whenever possible. It’s also recommended to use a reputable taxi service or public transportation to avoid the stress of navigating traffic on your own.

5. Neighborhoods

Some neighborhoods in Dakar are considered less safe than others, particularly at night. It’s important to research the areas you plan to visit and to avoid walking alone after dark. Some of the safest neighborhoods for tourists include Ngor and Almadies, which are known for their upscale restaurants and hotels. I stayed in a boutique bed and breakfast hotel in the Ngor Almadies neighborhood called La Villa 126. I had a very positive experience there. You can find it on Booking.com.

In conclusion, Dakar can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists if proper precautions are taken. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and to use reputable taxis or public transportation whenever possible. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy all that Dakar has to offer without compromising your safety and security.

I very much enjoyed the time I spent in Dakar. I highly recommend it for solo travel, especially for us Fly 40+ women.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

My very first stop in Zanzibar was Matemwe. Upon landing on the island I just wanted to go straight to the ocean and just relax for a couple days doing absolutely nothing. So I drove past Stonetown and headed right to the perfect place to get away and do nothing but relax.

If you’re planning a trip to Zanzibar, then Matemwe Beach should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Located on the northeast coast of the island, Matemwe Beach offers a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the things to do, eat, and see in Matemwe Beach, as well as discuss safety and security in the area.

Things to Do

Dolphin Watching – One of the most popular activities in Matemwe Beach is dolphin watching. You can take a boat tour to the nearby Mnemba Atoll, where you’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins swimming and jumping in the wild.

Snorkeling and Diving – Matemwe Beach is home to some of the best snorkeling and diving sites on Zanzibar. The clear waters offer great visibility, and you’ll have the chance to see a variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, turtles, and tropical fish.
Relax on the Beach – With its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Matemwe Beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of loungers and umbrellas available, and you can even rent a private cabana for the day.
Visit the Local Village – Take a stroll through the nearby village of Matemwe, where you can see traditional Zanzibari homes and meet the friendly locals.

Things to Eat

Seafood – Matemwe Beach is known for its fresh seafood, with many of the local restaurants offering a variety of grilled fish, prawns, and lobster.
Zanzibari Cuisine – Don’t miss the chance to try some of the local Zanzibari dishes, such as pilau rice, coconut curry, and chapati bread.
Tropical Fruits – Zanzibar is known for its abundance of fresh tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. Be sure to try some of the delicious smoothies and juices made with these fruits.

Where to Stay – Mambo Paradise Hotel

If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Matemwe Beach, then Mambo Paradise Hotel is a great option. Located just steps from the beach, this hotel offers spacious rooms with ocean views, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving a variety of local and international cuisine. The hotel can also arrange tours and activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching. I booked this hotel on Booking.com and I absolutely enjoyed my stay.

Sunscreen & Mosquito Game Must be on Point!

The weather was pleasant in February while I was in Zanzibar but during the rainy season of summer, the climate in Nungwi Beach along with all of Zanzibar is hot with high humidity. The streets have lots of potholes that fill with standing water after heavy rainfall an instant breeding ground for mosquitos. As a result, especially if you visit during rainy season, be prepared for mosquitos. Lots of mosquitos. You will not enjoy Zanzibar during rainy season without STRONG mosquito repellent. Even in February you will also need VERY strong sunscreen. You will need a repellant with Deet, Citronella oil alone will not help.

Here are my top favorite repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70
For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Do NOT forget to bring water shoes! There are often sea urchins on the beaches in Zanzibar and you do NOT want to step on one of them. I wore water shoes every time I stepped out on the beach. I really like these Unisex VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Yoga Socks Slip-ons. They were my go-to shoes on all my beach days!

Safety and Security

Matemwe Beach is generally considered to be a safe and peaceful area. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions when traveling, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings at all times. It’s also recommended to only use licensed taxis and tour operators. I used Friendly Taxi and Tours Zanzibar for all my hotel transfers in Zanzibar and I highly recommend them. Safe, reliable respectful, reasonably priced and on time! You can find them on Instagram @friendlytaxiandtours.

I very much enjoyed the time I spent in Matemwe Beach, Zanzibar. It is the perfect place to just relax and do absolutely nothing. I highly recommend it for solo travel, especially for us Fly 40+ women.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I will tell you about Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar and the best things to do, see and eat.

Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar is a tropical paradise that attracts travelers from all over the world. Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, Nungwi is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as for those seeking relaxation and indulgence in the sun. Primary languages spoken in Zanzibar are Swahili and English. A visa is required to enter Tanzania as a tourist. You can apply for the visa online.

Top things to do

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Nungwi is home to some of the best coral reefs in Zanzibar. There are several snorkeling and scuba diving operators in the area, offering guided tours to explore the colorful marine life. You can see turtles, dolphins, and a variety of fish and coral species.
Visit Baraka Aquarium: Baraka Aquarium is a marine conservation project that aims to protect the marine life of Zanzibar. It is located on the northern end of Nungwi Beach and offers visitors the opportunity to see a variety of marine creatures up close. You can touch and feed the sea turtles, rays, and starfish in the aquarium’s touch pool.
Take a Dhow Cruise: Dhow cruises are a popular activity in Zanzibar, and Nungwi is no exception. You can take a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow boat and enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean while sipping on a refreshing drink.
Enjoy the Beach: Nungwi Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Zanzibar. With its white sand, turquoise water, and swaying palm trees, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella or take a stroll along the beach and watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch.

Nungwi Beach is an idyllic destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the vibrant marine life or simply relax on the beach, Nungwi has it all. Don’t miss the chance to visit Baraka Aquarium, a unique marine conservation project that provides an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Plan and book your excursions through Viator and have curated experiences in Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar.

What and Where to Eat

Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar is a beautiful destination with a rich culinary culture. Here are some of the best things to eat and places to eat in Nungwi Beach:

Zanzibari seafood: Zanzibar is famous for its seafood, and Nungwi Beach is no exception. Some of the must-try seafood dishes include grilled lobsters, prawns, calamari, and fish curry. You can find seafood restaurants along the beach, such as The Rock Restaurant and Langi Langi Beach Bungalows Restaurant.
Zanzibari pizza: Zanzibari pizza is a popular street food that you can find in Nungwi Beach. It is made with a thin layer of dough and filled with a variety of ingredients such as minced meat, cheese, vegetables, and eggs. You can try Zanzibari pizza at Mama Mia Pizza or at one of the street vendors along the beach.
Swahili cuisine: Swahili cuisine is a fusion of African, Arab, and Indian flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include pilau rice, biryani, and samosas. You can find Swahili restaurants in Nungwi Beach, such as Kilindi Zanzibar and Amaan Beach Bungalows Restaurant.
Tropical fruits: Zanzibar is known for its tropical fruits such as mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. You can find fresh fruits sold by street vendors along the beach.
Zanzibari coffee: Zanzibari coffee is known for its strong, rich flavor. You can find coffee shops along the beach, such as Nungwi Coffee Shop and Zanzibar Coffee House.

Some of the best places to eat in Nungwi Beach include The Rock Restaurant, Langi Langi Beach Bungalows Restaurant, Mama Mia Pizza, Kilindi Zanzibar, Amaan Beach Bungalows Restaurant, Nungwi Coffee Shop, and Zanzibar Coffee House. Additionally, there are many beachfront restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy your meal with a stunning view of the ocean.

Getting Around

There are several ways to get around Nungwi. Here are some options:

Walking: Nungwi is a small village, so walking is a great way to explore the area. You can easily walk along the beach or through the village to get to your desired location.
Bicycles: You can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Nungwi. It’s an affordable and convenient way to get around, and you can cover more ground than you would on foot.
Taxis: There are plenty of taxis available in Nungwi. You can either hail one on the street or ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you. Be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi.
Dala-dalas: These are local buses that operate in the area. They are cheap, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. If you’re on a tight budget and not in a rush, this is an option.
Private transfers: If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient option, you can hire a private transfer. This can be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator.

Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, make sure to stay safe and aware of your surroundings at all times.

Sunscreen & Mosquito Game Must be on Point!

Here are my top favorite repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70
For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Do NOT forget to bring water shoes! There are often sea urchins on the beaches in Zanzibar and you do NOT want to step on one of them. I wore water shoes every time I stepped out on the beach. I really like these Unisex VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Yoga Socks Slip-ons. They were my go-to shoes on all my beach days!

Safety and security

Nungwi Beach is a popular tourist destination in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and like any other tourist destination, safety and security are important concerns for visitors. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and secure while visiting Nungwi Beach:

Stay alert and aware of your surroundings: Be vigilant and pay attention to what is happening around you, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.
Use trusted transport services: Make sure to use reputable taxi services or public transportation, and avoid traveling alone at night.
Respect the local culture: Zanzibar is a predominantly Muslim society, so it’s important to dress conservatively and respect local customs and traditions.
Avoid isolated areas: Stick to well-lit and busy areas, especially at night, and avoid walking alone on the beach or in secluded areas.
Be cautious of scams and frauds: Be wary of unsolicited offers or deals, and avoid giving money or personal information to strangers.
Follow health and safety precautions: Use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take precautions against mosquito bites and other potential health risks.
Stay in accommodation with good security: Choose accommodation with good security measures such as 24-hour surveillance cameras, secure locks, and well-trained staff.

It’s recommended to only use licensed taxis and tour operators. I used Friendly Taxi and Tours Zanzibar for all my hotel transfers in Zanzibar and I highly recommend them. Safe, reliable respectful, reasonably priced and on time! You can find them on Instagram @friendlytaxiandtours.

Overall, if you stay alert and aware, respect local customs, and take necessary precautions, you can enjoy a safe and secure visit to Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar.

I very much enjoyed the time I spent in Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar. I highly recommend it for solo travel, especially for us Fly 40+ women.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post, I will candidly share a social observations and experience with white privilege during my visit to Dakar Senegal.

These are my observations opinions and experiences. While others probably have had similar experiences but choose not to talk about them, I am choosing to share mine.

I want to preface this by saying, I overall had a wonderful time in Dakar. The people are amazing. The food is outstanding, and I will share a blog specifically dedicated to that subject separately.

But in this blog post, I want to share an encounter I had with white supremacy and privilege, because I think it is something that comes up often that many of us choose not to speak of, but we should.

Storytime

I was out at a bar and restaurant called Phare Des Mamalles.

Phare Des Mamalles is located at the top of one of two major mountains in Dakar. The African renaissance monuments is on the other. The restaurant is located right below a lighthouse. You have to take a shuttle to get to the restaurant and back. The atmosphere was great, the food was OK, the drinks were strong, and it was a very diverse group of people present in other words lots of “whytes” were present. I assume a lot of them work for their country’s embassies and some of them were probably tourist, but whatever.

My friend snagged us a table overlooking the dance floor, and the live band set up, but on the upper level and we were sitting directly in front of it with a great view of everything.

Then a group with a table right next to us with a similar vantage point and view, decided to come stand right in front of where we were sitting and completely block our view, while they laughed and chatted apparently completely unaware of how incredibly rude they were being.

I loudly commented about the fact that they were blocking our view and being rude AF (direct quote), and the woman said “well, we’re celebrating his birthday“. To which I replied “I do not care you’re still being incredibly rude.” She then apologized and started to move with the rest of them but birthday boy Brad had the nerve to say “I’m sorry but you could say it nicer.” And I replied “why do I need to be nice when you’re the one being rude?” What struck me in this interaction was the assumption exerted in western society that black and brown people are expected to be “nice“ i.e., deferential, even in our correction of their bad behavior. But in the words of Drake “nice for what?“

Deference and colonialism

I want to talk to little bit about the entitlement that so many Whytes have and how their assumptions of entitlement and privilege show up during travel. And I also want to note that this sense of entitlement and privilege allows them to be blind to the fact that they’re being rude in the first place because they assume that they have a right to engage in rude behavior just because they are who they are. Many of them really do seem to feel the right to be rude especially to local people.

Many seem to not even notice that the locals exist unless they’re there to do something for them.

I don’t do nice with whyte folks or anybody else if they are out of order. If you’re out of order, I’m going to say so, and I’m going to say so in whatever tone of voice that I deem appropriate because I wouldn’t have to say anything if you weren’t out of order in the first place.

I noticed that there is a lot of deference shown to the whytes on the African continent, and that is very clear in Dakar. I chalk it up to colonialism, which has inbred the desire for white proximity acceptance and approval not just in Africa but all over the world.

I frankly don’t think that they deserve our deference anywhere in the world especially not on the continent of Africa.

Considering it has gained us nothing it’s time to start treating them as what they are, equal to us, and not better than us.

To my African brothers and sisters, as well as my other black and brown brothers and sisters around the world, especially in the diaspora – stop treating the whytes like they’re magical creatures – they’re not.

I understand that a lot of it is about the money that they bring into your country but frankly they’re getting as much out of the experience as the locals are.

You’re equal to them so stop treating them like they’re special. It’s painful to watch and I can imagine it’s just as painful to perform. Just stop it. you can be nice and welcoming without sucking up to them. I know how much they love it but you don’t owe it to them and you don’t have to do it.

More candid observations about my experience, traveling in Africa and elsewhere will be shared, so make sure you are subscribed.

I’m going to share with you observations that might not be as popular and thoughts that others might not be willing to express because I think it’s important to be completely honest about what I see and observe as a Black woman of a certain age solo traveling around the world.

Note

I use the term”Whyte“ because I like it, and it references a very specific type of white person. Even though they are the majority of white people I encounter, I leave room for the possibility that some don’t adhere to these norms, but in my experience, unfortunately, most do especially those that like to say “not all white people“. So if you’re white and you’re reading this and you feel triggered or offended that’s good. Spend some time figuring out why it bothers you so much maybe it’s because you feel singled out. maybe because I’m talking directly about and to you and if that’s the case, do better.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this Blog Post I will share my current solo travel plans for 2023, where I am going, and why I picked these destinations and other locations on my secondary list.

So, without further ado, here is a list of where I am going in 2023. These are destinations that are already booked and set so you can keep following me here to learn more about each place, things to do, eat and see.

Where I am going in 2023

Dakar, Senegal

Nairobi, Kenya

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar es Salaam view of the port from the leaving ferry

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Palermo, Mondello and Cefalu, Sicily

Cathedral of Palermo is a prominent landmark in Sicily, Italy

Cairo, Egypt

Accra, Ghana

And in Mexico where I currently live, I hope to visit the following places for the first time:

Chiapas

Morelia

Mazunte

Hualtuco

Puerto Escondido

La Paz

Los Cabos

I have been wanting a return visit to the African continent for some time and decided that 2023 will be the year when I return to Mother Africa and see, do and EAT! I have specific plans and excursion plans that I will share when I chronicle each visit individuals. So, stay tuned!

So how did I make these plans? My trips to Senegal, Kenya and Tanzania were booked over a year ago primarily using Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights) and Booking.com. I am doing organized group trips to Egypt and Ghana. I do not usually do organized group travel but I am trying it next year and will compare that experience with my solo travel experiences.

My solo trip to Sicily for a milestone birthday was kind of an impromptu decision. I found a decent air fare to Sicily in peak summer season and I will spend time in Palermo and visit the beach town of Mondello and possibly Cefalu.

For my many excursions I relied on Viator and GetYourGuide to find great deals on Safaris, walking tours, and airport transfers. As a woman traveling alone, I make a special point to ensure that I have all my ducks in a row before I get on my departure flights as I don’t like surprises though they still happen from time to time.

I cannot wait to return to the African continent to see and do things I have had on my bucket list like:

The African Renaissance Monument, Dakar Senegal
Shopping the Masai Market in Nairobi Kenya
Strolling with lions in Dakar Senegal
Visiting the Pink Lake in Dakar Senegal
An overnight safari in Tanzania
Feeding and swimming with turtles in Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Pyramid of Giza in Egypt
Cruising on the Nile in Egypt
Sunning myself on the beaches of Mondello and Cefalu in Sicily
Eating ALLLL the food in every destination I hit!

And so much more! And I will take you along every step of the way!

If you are planning to solo travel in 2023, I would encourage you to start your planning now!

Tips for starting your Solo Travel Planning

Monitor travel apps and websites for the best deal. Download and follow websites for travel rate aggregators like Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights) Skyscanner, Kayak and Google Flights to identify deals
Let the deal guide your destination. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go to the places you have dreamed of but be prepared to go whenever a great deal shows up.
Book the bulk of your travel in Winter/Spring and Fall shoulder season. The best deals are after New Year’s and before Spring break (early March). The second best are after Labor day and before Thanksgiving. Especially avoid Europe in the summer month and instead do the Caribbean which will cost less in the summer.
Book early. While there are often last-minute deals, especially if you don’t have set travel destination targets, if you are looking to travel to specific places, the earlier you book the better.
Use credit card point programs to lower your travel cost. If you already use credit cards, err on the side of only using cards that pay you back in some way, either cash back or points. I like the Chase Sapphire and the American Express Hilton Aspire.
Research appropriate dress for you destination. Especially if traveling to Muslim countries, do your homework about what is or is not acceptable attire so that you blend in instead of standing out. You can create a Team Carry-on Clothing Capsule that is country appropriate if you research and plan early.

My Top 2023 Solo Travel Destinations for First Time Solo Travel

If you are planning a solo trip and need some destination ideas you may consider in addition to my 2023 picks, here are my top 5 place to consider for 2023 solo travel if you are Black Woman over 50 traveling solo for the first time.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico is an amazing destination for solo travel for Black Women over 40. Recently voted the friendliest city in the World, San Miguel de Allende boasts mild climates all year round, natural hot springs, wineries. Safe and affordable with endless things to do, see and eat.

Oaxaca City, Mexico

Oaxaca City, Mexico is The New Orleans of Mexico is a safe wonderful destination. If you love great food as I do and a deep cultural history visit Oaxaca.

Florence, Italy

I could wax poetic all day long about the wonder that is the city of Florence in the Tuscany region of Italy. Florence is the complete package. Food, Culture, Art, Music everything. It is home to some of the most timeless pieces of art. It is safe and friendly and an ideal place for a first-time solo traveler.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgia (the country not the state) is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe. Tbilisi, its capital is affordable, beautiful, safe with great food and wine.

Tobago, West Indies

Tobago, the sister island of Trinidad and part of the republic of Trinidad and Tobago, is true hidden gem in the Caribbean. Home to waterfalls, rain forest, rare birds hidden coves and gorgeous beaches, it is an island you may have never heard of but should definitely get to know. It is also a foodie paradise where you can eat some of the most delicious food you will ever sample in your life. It is believed that the island in the novel Robin Crusoe is based on the island.

No matter where you plan to solo travel in 2023 your travel should include a travel safety plan. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

There you have it, my 2023 Solo Travel plans. I hope you will continue to follow me here and on social media as I take my passion for travel to the African continent and elsewhere!

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

SAFETY TIP FOR HOTELS & SHORT TERM RENTALS

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Welcome to my ongoing series on solo travel for the Fly 40+ Black woman in Mexico! Throughout this series, I will share some of my favorite solo travel destinations in Mexico, as well as places I visited. You will get my honest opinion about safety, affordability, and enjoyment.

Some of you may know that I moved to Mexico in May 2021. Jumping off the hamster wheel to live a slower, more peaceful life just made sense to me. I don’t just live in Mexico, I also enjoy solo travel around Mexico. If you’ve been with me from the beginning, you may have picked up my digital guide about discovering 9 Mexican cities while deciding where to live.

One of the best things I did was visit Isla Holbox

There is a magical island in Mexico with a laid-back vibe off the coast of the state of Quintana Roo. Isla Holbox pronounced “Whole-Bosch” or “Holbox Island” is a beautiful island on the North of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, in Quintana Roo State. It is home to multiple sandbanks, mangroves inhabited by flamingos and pelicans. The island is only accessible by ferry. It is a destination growing in popularity.

As soon as I stepped onto Isla Holbox’s white sands, I knew it was the right choice!

I visited this truly secluded paradise on the northern tip of the Yucatan peninsula during a six-day trip in July 2022. There are sandy roads, relaxed vibes, the Caribbean sea, beautiful beaches, and plenty of happy travelers. Make sure to include Isla Holbox on your itinerary. This is not just because you can swim with whale sharks see Flamingos and witness but you will also witness some of the most amazing and spectacular sunsets, enjoy white sand beaches and amazing food.

Where is Isla Holbox, Mexico?

This stunning island is located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo. The word Holbox is a Mayan word meaning black hole. Separated from the mainland, it is a protected area for its endangered species and natural flora. Thus, it’s part of an ecosystem where there is minimal impact. This means there are automobiles on the island. The streets are enchanting white sand that you can only traverse on foot, or via golf carts, bicycles, or ATV taxis. Who doesn’t love the experience of traveling around in a golf cart?

How to get to Isla Holbox, Mexico

From Cancun to Holbox

Holbox is about 30 minutes from Cancun. There are multiple ways to get to Chiquila, including by car and bus. At Chiquilá, you will embark on a ferry to the mainland.. The crossing takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a private boat.

Buses from Cancun bus station take 2.5 hours with stops, and private cars around 1 hour forty-five minutes.
It takes roughly 5.5 hours by bus from Merida, and between 3-4.5 hours by private car, depending on the route.

The ferry ride is every 20 minutes between 6:00 am and 9:40 pm, and tickets can be purchased in advance in Cancun or Chiquila to Isla Holbox. From Chiquila Tickets are 160 pesos ($8) one way, as of a few months ago.

By car, you can only drive as far as Chiquila since no vehicles are allowed on the island. Despite its unassuming appearance, you should still park safely but don’t leave anything valuable in your car.

Traveling by bus throughout Mexico is my favorite mode of transportation. BusBud and Omio are two excellent options if you are seeking information about bus transportation options around Mexico or any other part of the world.

Things to Do and Places to Eat

The best thing to do in Isla Holbox is to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and the ambiance of this magical slow-paced island. Here are some things to do:

Taking in the sunset at the Whaleshark Pier
3 Islands Tour- 3-hour boat tour. You will visit Bird Island, Passion Island, and the Yalahau Cenote
Cabo Catoche Tour – a 6-hour tour where you can enjoy snorkeling and wildlife
Swing in Sea Hammocks
Kitesurfing
Visit Mosquito Point
Street Art
Bioluminescent plankton

Holbox also has amazing food options, here are some of my favorites:

Lobster Pizza at The Roots
Guacamole K’u’ at K’u’ restaurant
Some of the best shrimp ceviche I’ve ever had at Restaurant Raices
Authentic tacos at Barba Negra
Vegan Options. Find delicious smoothie bowls at Painapol.
Authentic Mexican food at La Tapatia.

The Best Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers

As with any other destination Mexico has crime in certain areas of the country. Most of these places are not areas or states frequented by tourist. While there have been some issues in Cancun, overall Mexico is safe as long as you stay out of areas known for cartel related violence. Review US State Department advisories for specifics.As with any other destination, observing situational awareness and common sense, and having a travel safety protocol in place will go a long way to keeping you save on solo travel in Mexico as well as anywhere you visit. Do not let your guard down, because you are in a tropical oasis. Here are some precautions to keep you safe, especially if you are a solo traveler or solo female traveler:

Choose hotels over hostels. Avoid sharing a room with strangers and worrying about your belongings
Blend in. Try not to look like a rich tourist, here for the first time
Do not walk the beach alone at night
Avoid walking in deserted areas alone, especially if you have been drinking.
Do not drink excessively so as to keep you mind clear especially at night
Never leave any drink unattended for even a few seconds
Be aware of your surroundings. Just as if you were back home
Avoid using ATMs at night. Plan to get any cash needed during the day in locations with lots of people
Use Uber or registered Taxis for transit. Every time you take an Uber, there is an option to share your plans on the app.
Share your travel plans with family and friends.
Have a check-in buddy and ensure they have your itinerary and know where you are. Talk to them multiple times a day and check in at the end of each day when you return to your hotel or short-term rental
Observe situational awareness and trust your instincts. If it feels wrong do not do it’

Despite the overall safety of the Isla Holbox, it is still important to exercise situational awareness and common sense as a female solo traveler. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

Sunscreen & Mosquito Game Must be on Point!

Especially during the rainy season of summer, the climate in Holbox is hot with high humidity. The streets have lots of potholes that fill with standing water after heavy rainfall an instant breeding ground for mosquitos. As a result, especially if you visit during rainy season, be prepared for mosquitos. Lots of mosquitos. I will honestly say I experienced more mosquito bites in Holbox than anywhere else in Mexico or on a trip in recent memory. You will not survive or enjoy Holbox without STRONG mosquito repellent AND strong sunscreen, especially during the rainy season. You will need a repellant with Deet, Citronella oil alone will not help.

Here are my top favorite repellent and sunscreen that keep me covered:

Face: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70

For my arms, back, and legs: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55
Insect repellent. I recommend a combination of wipes and a spray. My favorites are:
OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Where I Stayed

I had a very unfortunate experience my first night in Holbox at the hotel I originally booked. There was a power outage and no support or customer service from the hotel to address it. I spent a hot and miserable night filled with mosquito bites and was thrilled to find and transfer to Hotel Para Ti the next day. The staff at Hotel Para Ti provided top notch customer service. In terms of comfort and sustainability, Hotel Para Ti checks all boxes, as it develops practices that reduce its impact on culture, the environment, and the economy. Located in the center of Holbox, Para Ti is designed with wood and materials found locally to blend with its natural environment. They diligently aim to conserve natural resources and prevent child exploitation. Conscious and environmentally responsible, here are some other features you will enjoy:

Personalized attention
Beds equipped with mosquito nets
Stylish rooms with a distinct design, equipped with large beds, AC, fan, hammocks, and balconies with picturesque views
Delicious Yucatecan cuisine, organic, and natural amenities.
Pool, and jacuzzi, amidst palm trees and flowers

You can find this paradise here on Booking.com. As with all of Mexico, Spanish is the primary language spoken in Holbox, though many locals speak English. If you are not fluent, I recommend downloading Google Translate and purchasing a language guide ¿Como se Dice?  Practical Spanish Phrases & Words for Travelers to help you communicate throughout your visit.

Overall I recommend a visit to Isla Holbox but I do not recommend visiting during rainy season on the island. The mosquitos were relentless and they did impact my enjoyment of my overall time on the island. I would visit again but not during the summer. Instead I recommend a visit between October and April.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

It is that most wonderful time of the year. If you have an avid solo traveler on your Holiday Gift List check out my favorite gift picks especially for the avid 40 plus Team Carry-on solo traveler. These are practical items that every solo traveler will love appreciate and USE! You will notice that my favorites focus on comfort during air travel as us solo travelers spend so much time on airplanes but other picks are about being fashionable and enhancing the travel experience. You can watch this video to see all of my picks

But here are my Top 10 picks!

The Imak Compression Pain Relief Mask. There is nothing quite like having a good eye mask especially on a long haul flight. An eye mask is a must and I just love this one. It is weighted.

2. Travel Rest Ultimate Travel Pillow & Neck Pillow. This pillow is a must especially for bus and train travel. It is inflatable and fits in small spaces. It is also great for air travel especially short flights (1-8 hours) though my preference for long haul flights is number 3 below.

3. trtl Pillow. If you have followed me for any period of time you KNOW this is the pillow I love for long haul economy class travel. It doesn’t look sexy but it is much better on your neck for 8 hour plus air travel. It will take up more space in your personal item bag so do plan for it. But you will sleep and that is worth everything on a long flight.

4. The Mossime Metal Pill Organizer Weekly, Stackable Waterproof Travel Pill Box is the answer for traveling with your vitamins while traveling. I love that it is adjustable and you only use what you need. It can also be attached to your suitcase or backpack.

5. Olly Blackberry Zen Restful Sleep Gummies are just what is needed to make sure you get those Zzzzz during air travel.

6. KISEER Mini Portable Travel Soap Paper Sheets are an amazing way to carry hand soap everywhere you go! The solo traveler will love you for this. These paper sheets are packable and allows you to wash your hands as needed whenever.

7. Enyur Laundry Detergent Sheets, Sheets,32 Loads This is another must have for the solo traveler! These laundry sheets remove the need to bring or buy detergent as you travel. If like me you stay in short term rentals for longer stays and like to wash clothes as you travel (cause who want to keep rewearing dirty clothes), these detergent sheets will come in handy!

8. Compact Full Zip Travel Jewelry Organizer for Necklaces, Bracelets and Rings (Red) If like me you use accessories to dress up and down your Team Carry-on wardrobe, this travel jewelry organizer is a wonderful gift. I love this case in red. For an extra touch, add a piece of jewelry for that special someone.

9. Baggallini RFID Cross City Bag is a great cross body bag for solo travel. It has RFID technology and is a great stylish cross body for team carry-on travel.

10. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector,Replaceable Battery-Operated CO Alarm with LCD Display,YJ-901 is not a sexy or stylish gift but it is likely the most important gift idea on this list! There have been several news reports of carbon monoxide poisoning deaths by travelers. Many countries do not require carbon monoxide detectors in hotels or homes neither do short term rental companies like Airbnb. For that reason I strongly recommend traveling with your own. So gift the person you love a smoke and carbon monoxide detector. They can thank you later.

Don’t forget to watch my YouTube video where I share ALL my picks. For other Gift Ideas check out my FoundItOnAmazon Lists. Happy Holiday Shopping Everyone!

Thank You For Reading!

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Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I will share some safety tips you should use when checking into and staying at, a hotel or short term rental like Airbnb, VRBO, etc.

As some of you may know, in my prior life, I oversaw Operations for multiple international development firms. Within my duties was oversight of Global Security. In other words, I was responsible for ensuring that thousands of people traveled the world and worked abroad safely. So, you could say I do know somethings about travel safety and security. I have also traveled to over 35 countries (and counting) many solo.

Here are my top tips for Hotels and Vacation Rentals. They are grouped separately because while both types of accommodations there are differences you should pay attention to.

For All Accommodations

Do your homework before booking. Read the reviews before booking. If you see anything negative pick a different hotel or rental accommodation. If booking with Airbnb stick to super hosts.
Research the area or neighborhood where you will stay before booking. If a short-term rental, ask your host though they are unlikely to give you an honest assessment. Who is going to say the neighborhood surrounding their rental is unsafe? Conduct an independent investigation of your own. Great sources for information of this kind are Wiki articles, TripAdvisor, Tripit. Booking.com, Facebook groups and travel blogs are also helpful.
Have a check in buddy. This is a friend or relative who has access to your itinerary and knows where you are at all times. Let them know when you’re leaving the hotel and when you return each day.

Hotels

At check-in, ask the Reservation desk to write down your room number. They should not announce it or say it out loud. If the front desk announces your room number, politely ask for another room assignment and that they write it down instead of saying it out loud. When traveling alone, it is best to ensure that no one knows your hotel room unless you want them to know it.
Avoid the first floor. Ask to stay on floors 2 thru 4 no higher. It is advisable to select floor where you can get to the first floor or out of a window easily. High floors are great for views, not so much for prompt exit during an emergency.
Upon arrival and after check in, take a moment to identify the exit points and the emergency exits. Consider taking the stairs once a day (Mornings are best) so you know how to get out of the hotel without the elevator.
Keep the privacy tag on your door. Only take it off when you want your room cleaned.
Keep your doors locked. If the door has multiple locks, use them all. Consider using supplemental locks like a Door Jamm and Addalock as supplemental security for your door.

There are a lot more people with potential access to your room at hotels. Building security, housekeeping and maintenance. Don’t assume you’re safer then at a short-term rental because you are not so be sure to keep your room door locked properly at all times.

Short Term Rentals

Do your homework before booking. Read the reviews and house rules before booking. If you see anything negative pick a different rental. If booking with Airbnb stick to super hosts.
Research the area or neighborhood where you will stay before booking. You can ask your host though they are unlikely to give you an honest assessment. Who is going to say the neighborhood surrounding their rental is unsafe? Conduct an independent investigation of your own. Great sources for information of this kind are Wiki articles, TripAdvisor, Tripit. Facebook groups and travel blogs are also helpful.
Ask the host any and all questions that you have before booking. Be sure to ask whether anyone else will have entry access to the rental during your stay. This could be housekeeping or building security.
When you arrive walk through the space, and videotape it. Check the locks of all entry/exit points and internal doors especially the bedroom and bathroom doors. Note whether any do not lock. If any of the external doors do not lock properly contact the Host immediately and consider finding somewhere else to stay if the issue cannot be resolved immediately (same day).
If you check into a high-rise building, note location of emergency exits. Take the stairs once a day (Mornings are best) so you know how to get out of the building without the elevator.
Bring your own Door Jamm and Addalock as supplemental security for your bedroom or external entry point door.

I hope you find this safety tip helpful!

Get more Travel Safety and Security Tip in the downloadable Bald Girl Will Travel: Guide to Travel Safety & Security for Solo Female Travelers.

I spent 15 of my 20+ years in Management overseeing global security. I put together this guide to share some of the many things I learned over those years so that women can feel more confident traveling alone.

The most important thing to remember when traveling alone, especially as a woman, is to practice situational awareness and common sense. If it feels wrong even for a minute don’t do it.

Thank You For Reading!

Subscribe to this website and GET YOUR FREE DIGITAL TEAM CARRY-ON PACKING GUIDE FOR THE FLY 40+ WOMAN!

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Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I will share places in Italy that are popular but I did not love .

Everybody loves Italy especially me but there are places in Italy that are very popular that I really wanted to love but didn’t.

They are:

Venice, Italy

Venice is pretty there’s no question of that. But it’s also overcrowded. It can smell especially in the summer months when it’s hot because the canal water is dirty. It is over priced, probably one of the most expensive places to visit in Italy. The food is good but not great. Oh and it’s sinking. I encountered obvious antiblack racism during my recent visit. I have visited Venice twice I don’t have plans to visit again anytime soon. IMHO it’s highly overrated

Rome, Italy

I would say the same about Rome as I would about Venice but it’s not sinking. Rome is worth a single visit if you’ve never been. It’s packed with history and culture and the Sistine chapel is a joy to be hold. But it’s also dirty and filled with graffiti. The food is good but the people are not very friendly and I also encountered antiblack racism there. Rome to me now is just a transit point to other parts of Italy but it is not a destination.

Milan, Italy

I will be honest and say I only spent a day in Milan but I was not impressed by it at all. The area around the Duomo is interesting and the Duomo itself is beautiful but I found the city to be dirty and just not particularly interesting.

Positano and Capri

Both Positano and Capri were beautiful but very very expensive. Positano is very sloppy and hilly and not fun to walk. I recommend staying in Sorrento and just doing day trips to both. I would also recommend visiting in off-season not in the summer.

Cinque Terre, Italy

I will say that the five towns or Cinque Terre, are beautiful. But the hills and the slopes almost broke my knees😳. It is just a lot to deal with if you are not into hiking up and down steep streets. The villages are charming but the walking up and down the hills was too much for me. So if you visit bring very comfortable shoes and you better have good knees! Check out my Team Carry-on Style list on my #FounditonAmazon List for comfortable shoes and clothing I love for solo travel.

Places in Italy that I absolutely love?

Sicily

Yes technically Sicily is not mainland Italy but it is part of the nation and it is amazing.

Taormina is just as beautiful as Positano and Capri more affordable and walkable. Also visit Catania, Ragusa and Palermo.

Tuscany, special mention Vicopisano

Tuscany as a region is definitely worth exploring but special mention goes to Vicopisano. I completely fell in love with the small town about 2 hours from Florence. I stayed at a lovely bed-and-breakfast run by Marie of Authentic Tuscany (follow her in Instagram). I highly recommend it.

Florence, Italy

And of course in my opinion if you visit Italy and you don’t visit Florence you haven’t really visited Italy.

IMHO Florence is the most beautiful city in the world. I could go over and over and over again and always find something new to love. Great views great food great people great art great culture great everything. So if you wanna know where I think you should go in Italy now you have my list.

A great way to plan travel excursions especially in Italy is through Viator. Check them out for great deals on walking tours, tours of popular places and airport transfers. As a woman traveling alone, I make a special point to plan my excursions in advance and I especially love Viator because I have the option of not paying in full until 48 hours before my tour date and I can get a refund until 24 hours before my tour!

How do I get the best prices on flights to all my adventures. I rely on Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights) and Booking.com. I am always confident that the prices I find on Going are the lowest I will find anywhere.

Watch this video on the Popular Places in Italy I didn’t love and the ones I did!

Thank You For Reading!

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Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I love Camouflage but I don’t travel in it.

One of my favorite style options in my everyday life is Camoflauge or “camo. It is so versatile and easily mixes and matches. And a little bit goes a long way.

Check out this Video Short of some of my favorite camo looks right now:

If you like the looks in the video short, check my #FoundItOnAmazon list and see the end of the Blog post for details on each look in the video.

Despite my love for camo I highly recommend that when you are on travel you skip it altogether. Why? Because wearing camouflage is illegal in many many countries. In some places you can be arrested for wearing camo or at a minimum you will be required to change out of it immediately upon arrival and often times your clothing can be confiscated on the spot. I saw this happen with my own eyes to an American family in the airport in St. Lucia. Yikes!

For example in the Caribbean several countries ban camouflage being worn by anyone who is not a member of the military. Countries include: Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. In these countries, it is against the law for civilians to wear camouflage clothing or accessorize with anything that has a camouflage print. Here is a complete list of the countries that ban wearing camouflage.

Thankfully, Mexico, where I live is not on this list but its important to check ahead of any travel plans to make sure your destination is not a “no camo” country.

When planning travel I like to use Booking.com to find hotels and vacation rentals. When doing so, make sure you reach out to your host or hotel and ask them whether camo is allowed in the country. But also do some research of you own.

But as for my part, despite my love for camo, I simply leave it at home when I travel. For me its the less complicated option.

Looks in this Blog Post

Look 1

Camo Sweater: Venus.com

Military Green zippered ankle Pants (old): BCBG Max Azria

Boots: Louis Vuitton Beaubourg Ankle Boot

Bag: Louis Vuitton Bum Bag

Look 2

Cold Shoulder Turtleneck Sweater: Amazon.com

Faux Leather Shorts: Express.com

Pony Hair Camoflauge Bucket Bag (custom): Love Cortnie.com

Lug sole over-the-knee boots (Old)

Look 3

Cold Shoulder Turtleneck Sweater: Amazon.com

Faux Leather Camo Leggings: Spanx.com

Pony Hair Camoflauge Bucket Bag (custom): Love Cortnie.com

Lug sole over-the-knee boots (Old)

Look 4

Camoflauge Embroidered Jacket (old): Zara.com

Black Turtleneck Short sleeve Sweater: Amazon.com

: Amazon.com

Faux Leather Camo Leggings: Spanx.com

Boots: Prada Monolith Chelsea Boot

Queendom Bucket Bag Large: Love Cortnie.com

Look 5

Emerald Green Lambskin Leather Jacket (Old)

Black Turtleneck Short sleeve Sweater: Amazon.com

Look at Me Now Seamless Cropped Leggings Black Camo: Spanx.com

Boots: Prada Monolith Chelsea Boot

Bag: Louis Vuitton Carry-all

Look 6

Max Studio Black Ruched Sleeve Sweater: NordstromRack

Camoflauge Cargo Jogger pants (old)

Top Shop Black Chain Sandals (old)

Queendom Bucket Bag Large: Love Cortnie.com

Thank You For Reading!

Subscribe to this website and GET YOUR FREE DIGITAL TEAM CARRY-ON PACKING GUIDE FOR THE FLY 40+ WOMAN!

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Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Here is a summary of my visit to Mahahual Mexico in August 2022.

Welcome to my series on solo travel for the Fly 40+ Black woman in Mexico! In this series, I am sharing some of the places I visited in Summer 2022 as well as some of my favorite solo travel destinations in Mexico.

As some of you may know I immigrated to Mexico in May 2021. I just decided to jump off the hamster wheel get out of the rat race and live a slower and more peaceful life.

During summer 2022 I visited several cities and towns in Mexico and via these blog posts I am sharing the places I visited, the ones I loved and some that I didn’t love as much.

I will give you an honest opinion about whether I think they are safe, affordable, and enjoyable places for “us” Fly 40+ solo travelers.

So, without further ado, let’s talk about my solo visit(s) to Mahahual, Mexico.

NOTE: This is a summary of my visit to Mahahual, (“Maha-well”) Mexico. I visited Mahahual, over three (3) days in August for my birthday. A friend and I arrived on the evening of the 15^th and left on the morning of the 18^th. We had one perfect day – thankfully my birthday – on August 16^th but it rained torrential for the entire day on August 17 so we stayed in our villa all day and only went out that evening when the rain had abated. So, this review really encompasses one full day spent out and about in Mahahual.

About Mahahual

Mahahual, pronounced “Maha-well”) is a former fishing village in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is in the area known as Costa Maya on the Caribbean Sea coast.

The village is about 1.9 miles from the Costa Maya cruise port and cruise ships come in multiple days a week. The village has white sand beaches and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef runs along the coast. There are several hotels, bars, restaurants, and shops along its Malecon.

When ships come into the port, it is very busy but on days where there is no cruise ship, it is a pretty sleepy place to be.

Climate

I visited Mahahual in August 2022 when the temperatures in that part of Mexico average 85 to 95 degrees and humidity is quite high. In the summer months it is both HOT and HUMID. While the place where I stayed had nice breezes and winds off the sea in the evenings which minimized mosquito issues, the heat and humidity does give rise to mosquitos if the winds are down so bring not just sunscreen but insect repellent as well. Avoid being outside between 5 and 7 pm when mosquitoes are their peak and the winds are not yet up because they will eat you alive. Summer is rainy season and boy does it rain! We lost our second day of our 2 day stay to torrential rain and the drive to the airport was a bit harrowing as it rained heavily for most of the one-and-a-half-hour drive.

My driver was highly skilled thankfully but it was still a bit heart stopping at certain points as you literally could barely see the road for all the rain. Do keep this in mind if you visit in the summer months.

The weather and climate in Mahahual in the summer months demands reliable sunscreen and insect repellent. I like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body, Broad Spectrum SPF 70 for my head and face. For my arms back and legs I like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion, Broad Spectrum SPF 55 , Travel Size, 3 fl. Oz. For insect repellent I like to use a combination of wipes and a spray. I highly recommend OFF! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz, Unscented Bug spray with Aloe-Vera, 7% Deet, 9 oz and Cutter All Family Mosquito Repellent Wipes, 15 Wipes.

Safety

Mahahual is safe for Fly 40+ solo travel. It is a good place to visit as a female solo traveler, though I would recommend staying in one of the boutique hotels off the Malecon rather than where I stayed, a villa that was further from the Malecon than I expected.

My friend and I walked at night and early evening with no concerns. There were also sidewalks along the Malecon and even a person with some but not major mobility issues, could traverse the streets there. Despite the overall safety of the town, it is still important to exercise situational awareness and common sense as a female solo traveler. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

Getting to Mahahual

The best way to get to Mahahual is by airplane if you are coming from outside or inside Mexico. If you are already in the Cancun/Playa del Carmen/Tulum area, you can take the ADO bus to the area but it would still be a relatively long trip. So flying is the best means of getting there.

The best airport to fly into Chetumal airport (CTM). You will likely have to connect through Mexico City (CDMX) which has the most flights but Cancun (CUN) may also have connections.

Mexico has no COVID-19 testing requirements for entry. Upon arrival, take a taxi from Chetumal to Mahahual. It is a one hour and thirty-minute drive.

It costs us 5,000 pesos roundtrip for the airport transfer. About $250 USD roundtrip ($125 USD per person). We also paid separately for rides to/from our villa to the Malecon at about 50 pesos per person per trip.

If you want to save money on transportation, you can take a 20-minute taxi into Bacalar and then take a Colectivo (local van transportation system) from Chetumal to Mahahual. The cost is 120 pesos per trip. It will drop you off at the Lighthouse in Mahahual and you can take a taxi or walk from there to the Malecon. There is also the Caribe bus which is a park and ride style bus that departs from the ADO bus station in Bacalar. Note: Both of these options require a taxi to/from Chetumal airport into Bacalar. To take the Colectivo ask the taxi driver to take you to the to the Van for Mahahual* or por favor, necessita el Van para Mahahual, gracias.”

To take the Caribe bus ask for a ride to the ADO bus station in Bacalar. I love to travel around Mexico by bus. If you want to look into bus transportation options around Mexico, or any part of the world, I highly recommend BusBud and Omio.

Bacalar, which I highly recommend visiting, is 20 minutes from Chetumal airport so you might opt to stay there and just do a daytrip to Mahahual. See the end of this blog post for my reasoning.

Getting Around Mahahual

The only means of transportation around Mahahual is taxi. There is no ride share service there. Taxis fares are on par with Cancun. I was told that this was due to the frequency of visitors from the cruise ships and the fact that they are willing to pay taxis 400 pesos one way for very short trips from the pier to the Malecon. It is likely best to identify a driver and agree upon a flat rate for the day. If you are staying overnight, opt to stay at a boutique hotel ON not near, the Malecon as there really is nothing happening elsewhere in the town anyway.

As with all of Mexico, Spanish is the primary language spoken in Mahahual. If you are not fluent I recommend downloading Google Translate and purchasing a language guide ¿Como se Dice? Practical Spanish Phrases & Words for Travelers to help you communicate throughout your visit.

Where I Stayed

The pier outside Villa Jaguar, Mahahual, Mexico

I stayed at this villa on the beach that I found on Booking.com. Whlle it was nicely furnished, and the beach view and adjacency was nice, there were key problems with the place during my stay so I do not recommend it. Specifically, the A/C in the master suit NEVER worked. The host promised to have someone come and fixed it but that never happened.

Thankfully the AC in the living room worked so I had to keep the bedroom door open all day and night to be comfortable. Also, the cappuccino machine never worked, less of an issue but again he said it was fixed but it wasn’t. The location was also an almost 30-minute walk to the Malecon not 20 minutes as advertised in the listing so we had to have a driver pick us up daily to get us to/from the rental at about 50 pesos each way. The driver was very nice and I would recommend him and use him again in the future if I ever went back to Mahahaul.

Things to Do and Places to Eat

***Seafood Paella, Nohoch Kay, Mahahual, Mexico***

There are wonderful fresh seafood options to be had in Mahahual so I encourage you to take advantage of the seafood eateries down by the Malecon. You can also buy tourist trinkets, hire a boat to take you diving and/or snorkeling if that’s your thing on the Malecon. You can also rent a bike and ride around the area and along the Malecon. I had really great seafood on my birthday at restaurant called Nohoch Kay. We went back twice as we liked it so much. My friend had gelato on the Malecon that she said was fantastic! Lunch was about 250 pesos per person with cocktails so not bad. The gelato was about 70 pesos a bit steep for Mexico but not for tourist areas. We wanted to try the Krazy Lobster but it rained torrential for our second day so we didn’t make it there but I hear it’s amazing. There are also beach clubs you can try out during your visit for a cocktail, a bite, people watching and sunning. I missed out on this due to the rain on the second day which I planned to dedicate to hanging at a beach club all day. You can find top rated restaurants in Mahahual on TripAdvisor. Check them out for great places to eat and options for hotel accommodations as well.

You can book excursions and find things to do in Mahahaul on Viator. I highly recommend both for guided activities for solo travel especially for women traveling alone.

Final Word

Overall Mahahaul is a nice little beach town, I understand why it’s a great stop for cruise ship tourist. It’s a great place for a daytrip but you are likely to get bored after a single day visit. I would recommend spending a weekend in Bacalar and renting a car or getting a driver to drive you for a day to Mahahual. It is definitely safe for Fly 40+ Solo Travel but not a very exciting place to be for an extended period of time. Especially considering that the prices are on par for accommodations and transportation with Tulum, Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres, for a fuller tourist or solo visitor experience, you would be better off going to one of those place with more infrastructure, nicer beaches and activities for a longer visit especially in the summer months when all of the beaches have seaweed issues.

Enjoy This Vlog of my Visit to Mahahual, Mexico

Thank You For Reading!

Subscribe to this website and GET YOUR FREE DIGITAL TEAM CARRY-ON PACKING GUIDE FOR THE FLY 40+ WOMAN!

Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

In this blog post I will share about my visit to Querétaro, Mexico and why I think it should be on your solo travel list.

Welcome to my series on solo travel for the Fly 40+ Black woman in Mexico! In this series, I am sharing some of my favorite solo travel destinations in Mexico. I am happy to kick off this series with a solo travel guide to Querétaro, Mexico, one of my favorite, but often overlooked cities in Mexico – Santiago de Querétaro, aka Querétaro City, or just Querétaro.

As some of you may know I immigrated to Mexico in May 2021. I just decided to jump off the hamster wheel get out of the rat race and live a slower and more peaceful life.

In addition to enjoying living in Mexico, I also very much enjoy solo travel around Mexico. If you have been with me since I began my relocation journey, then you know that I wrote about my visits to 9 cities in Mexico when I was trying to decide where to live. You can grab A Tale of 9 Cities: A Guide to my Mexico Research & Relocation Trips to learn more. I was supposed to visit Querétaro during those relocation trips but I fell in love with San Miguel de Allende and I never got there until after my move to Mexico. However, Querétaro has her own special charm and deserves a visit when you are in Guanajuato state as the state of Querétaro sits right next door.

This summer I am visiting several cities and towns in Mexico and sharing my favorites for solo travel. I will give you an honest opinion about whether I think they are safe, affordable, and enjoyable places for “us” Fly 40+ solo travelers.

So without further ado, let’s talk about my solo visit(s) to Santiago de Querétaro, the capital city of the state of Querétaro, also known as (aka) “Querétaro.”

About Querétaro

Querétaro, also called “Querétaro City is 2.5 hours from Mexico City by car and 50 minutes from San Miguel de Allende by Car. Its international airport is a major transit point for those visiting San Miguel de Allende. Its historic center “Centro Historico”, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

Climate in Querétaro

Queretaro is located at a high altitude so the city maintains an eternal spring-like climate throughout much of the year. The city is situated over a mile high (1,820 meters). The cool & dry mountain air provides moderate temperatures. It gets a little warm between April and June but once the rainy season begins the climate becomes temperate again. Temperatures are usually around 78 to 85° during the day and in the 50s to 60° in the evenings between June and September. Temperatures then switch to between 68 to 78° highs during the spring and winter months and from the 50s to even low 30s at night. Summer month weather begins in April to June when it is hottest.

Getting to Querétaro

If flying to Querétaro the best airport is the Querétaro international airport (QRO). You can fly directly into that airport from Texas both DFW and IAH have direct flights.

Mexico has no COVID-19 testing requirements for entry. Upon arrival, take a taxi into the city. Taxis cost about 350 pesos ($18 USD) if you’re going to Centro. The taxi stand is right outside of the arrival’s entry point. Just walk over to your left to the kiosk and tell them where you want to go.

If you are already in Mexico you can get to Querétaro by plane or luxury bus. Check out BusBud.com to check your route and buy a ticket.

Getting Around Querétaro

Uber works in Querétaro and is a great way to trip around the city center, especially on very hot days when walking is not as fun. Overall, the city is walkable if you choose to stay in the historic Centro or right outside of it. It is surprisingly flat considering its altitude and location.

As with all of Mexico, Spanish is the primary language spoken in Queretaro. If you are not fluent I recommend downloading Google Translate and purchasing a language guide ¿Como se Dice? Practical Spanish Phrases & Words for Travelers to help you communicate throughout your visit.

Where to stay in Queretaro

Querétaro is a proper city with beautiful suburban towns and subdivisions outside of the Centro area. Neighborhoods like Millenio3, Alamos, El Refugio, and Juriquilla Are all quite popular places to live and stay if One wants to be in a lot quieter location than Centro. Querétaro is also home to one of the largest shopping malls in Mexico the Antea Mall And my favorite Paseo de Querétaro.

I stayed in an Airbnb right outside of Historic Centro about a 5-minute drive. It was a great location for me. Close enough to walk on a nice day but far enough away not to hear any of the day-to-day noise that’s common in Mexican historic Centro locations.

Here’s a link to my review of the short-term rental I found on Airbnb where I stayed on my YouTube channel:

If you would rather stay in a hotel, check out Booking.Com for boutique hotel options that are budget-friendly and comfortable.

Safety in Querétaro

Querétaro is known for being one of the safest cities in Mexico. As a result, it is a great place to visit as a female solo traveler, especially for those of us over 40. Historic Centro is also incredibly clean and well maintained. Despite its safe reputation, it is still important to exercise situational awareness and common sense as a female solo traveler. Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers and ensure you follow the safety tips to ensure a safe solo travel experience.

Places to Eat in Querétaro

The restaurant options are plentiful. And run the gamut from authentic regional Mexican fare to really great Chinese, Japanese and Thai options. I had excellent Chinese food in Querétaro at a restaurant called Fa-Yian. And of course, you can have American fare like The Olive Garden, Chili’s, and even PF Chang’s.

I highly recommend the following restaurants in addition to Fa-Yian

Restaurante La Llave – authentic Mexican, the enchiladas were amazing!

Sayil Centro – Authentic Yucatecan cuisine. Definitely get dessert the Tres leches is delicious!

Other honorable mentions:

Carola Terraza

Carranza 50 Terraza & Grill

Things to Do in Querétaro

Take a Walking tour of Historico Centro. I booked a walking tour of historic Centro on Airbnb experiences. It was really excellent. I learned a lot about the history of not only the city but its role in the history of Mexico it so particularly around Mexico’s independence. I highly recommend the tour. Book it HERE. Check out Viator Get Your Guide, and TripAdvisor for other tour options in Querétaro.

The tour started near the Aqueduct and took me on a scenic walk thru the Historic Monuments of Queretaro. Here is a link to the description by UNESCO.

My favorite monuments are:

Fuente de Neptuno – Fountain of Neptune, Roman God of the Sea (1797)

Fuente de los Perritos – The puppy fountain dedicated to the benefactor of Queretaro

Monumento de La Corregidora – Large statue of female Mexican independence hero doña Josefa Ortiz

There are several museums to visit in Centro. I recommend the following:

The Art Museum of Querétaro Hours: 10-6. Closed Mondays.
Querétaro Regional Museum – Housed in a monastery, the museum contains many artifacts with significance to Querétaro’s past, spanning centuries from its indigenous roots to independence and on through the modern era.
Hours: 9-6. Closed Mondays.

Make sure you go up to the Mirador. Great overlook of the City. A perfect place for those Instagramable shots as well as a great view of the city!

Visit El Cerrito archaeological zone to see the Pyramid

The pyramid was found in 2005 and is definitely worth a visit. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Centro. Hours: 9 am to 4 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Entry Fee: 65 pesos. Visit the Website

DayTrip to Peña de Bernal and Tequisquiapan

A trip to Queretaro is not really complete without a visit to the neighboring Pueblo Magico (Magic Town) of Bernal and Tequisquiapan and at least one stop for a tasting at a winery.

I took a day trip and visited Pena de Bernal, Tequisquiapan, and the La Redonda Winery (Vineyards La Redonda). The day trip experience was amazing and I highly recommend making the time to see both of these magical places when you are in the Querétaro. Here is a quick summary of my Daytrip.

Peña de Bernal

The first stop on my day trip was Pena de Bernal and it may be one of my favorite places in Mexico so far. Pena de Bernal means Bernal’s Peak in English. It is 1,432 feet tall and is one of the tallest monoliths in the world.

What is a monolith? A monolith is a prominent mountain, boulder, or tower that consists of a single, large rock. In most cases, monoliths are composed of hard, erosion-resistant igneous or metamorphic rock and are exposed by erosion of the surrounding landscape.

Source: TreeHugger (https://www.treehugger.com/largest-monoliths-world-4869091)

It is listed as being the 4th largest monolith in the world. It is in San Sebastian Bernal in the state of Querétaro. It has been named one of the 13 wonders of Mexico and it deserves the hype! It is believed the rock formation came from a volcano. Many people visit the town of Bernal to hike to the top of the monolith. I am no hiker! I just wanted to see it with my own two eyes and it was well worth the trip.

We took a golf cart taxi up to the path that is taken to hike to the peak. You will find little stalls and a market up there and the view of the town below is gorgeous. I stopped my trek there and just admired Bernal from afar.

In the valley of the monolith sits the town of San Sebastian Bernal. It is quaint, rustic, and charming. Of course, there is the open-air markets and shops where you can buy trinkets, textiles, and clothing. You can also stop into Dona Coco and have their famous Gorditas. Gorditas are a type of sandwich pocket made from small corn tortillas and stuffed with meat, veggies, and/or shrimp. They are amazingly delicious. This was my first time having them but definitely not my last. My guides talked me into trying a Michelada a drink made from beer, tomato juice, and spices. I didn’t love it but I will try it again with other flavorings.

Tequisquiapan

Tequisquiapan is a Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) located in the southeast of the State of Querétaro. It is a weekend destination for residents of Querétaro and Mexico City. It has a mild climate similar to Querétaro and is well known for its natural water springs and wine and cheese shops. At the center city lies the beautiful Iglesia Santa Maria de la Asuncion in the Main Plaza. I arrived a couple of weeks after the annual Feria Nacional del Queso y el Vino (the National Cheese and Wine Fair) that highlights wine and cheese from the Querétaro region. The festival takes place every June. Highlights of my visit to Tequis was stopping in an ice cream parlor and trying their cheese ice cream red wine float. The parol features several ice creams made from local wines and ice cream made from regional cheese. Here is a video of my visit. The ice cream float was amazing and I highly recommend stopping through when you are in Tequisquiapan. Here is a video of that adventure.

In addition to many wine and artisan cheese shops, there is an Artisanal market where you can purchase wicker and rattan and other handcrafts and folk art. The town is also home to several water parks and hot springs. While I did not time to visit, I definitely have it on my list for my next visit. The ones mentioned to me were Balneario La Vega, Parque Acuático El Oasis, Parque Acuático Termas del Rey, Fantasía Acuática and Balneario San Joaquín. There are also hot air balloons that take off each morning I am afraid of heights so that was a no for me! Tequisquiapan is perfect for a day trip or weekend visit if you are in the Querétaro city area. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on a weekday instead of the weekend when I hear it is packed to the gills with visitors. I visited on a Tuesday and it was perfect for me.

La Redonda Winery

“Tequis” as many call it, is a part of Querétaro’s Ruta de Vino (Wine Route) and home to the wonderful La Redonda winery which was my final stop on the day trip that took me from Querétaro’s to Pena de Bernal, Tequisquiapan and the winery. We stopped at the winery and sampled their Ruby Rose and a cheese platter. I was too tired to do a full winery tour so I plan to return to the area just to do a one-day winery hop. La Redonda’s Ruby Rose is amazingly delicious and I now regularly keep a bottle at my place.

Exoleisure Hosts and Tours

I highly recommend doing a day trip to Pena de Bernal and Tequisquiapan with Exoleisure (www.exoleisure.com). You can reach them on Facebook and Instagram at Exo.leisure. I enjoyed the tour with them because they made it fun and include information about Mexican history and culture made the tour even more enjoyable and informative. Their prices were more than reasonable. If you’re visiting Querétaro and want to do a tour, reach out to Berto and Nat (Alberto and Natalia), you will be happy you did.

Dating and Social Scene in Querétaro

Querétaro is definitely where the boys are 😊 My Tinder was popping and I definitely could’ve been out every night of the week if I wanted to. It’s definitely a fun place to be if you’re a single solo traveler.

There are lots of cool bars and restaurants in Centro Historico to explore alone or on a date.

Date Responsibly!😊

Final Word on Querétaro

Querétaro is a perfect place to do a solo travel trip. Especially if you’re a person who’s not interested in being in a tourist-heavy environment like me! It’s also only a 50-minute drive away from San Miguel de Allende another magic city you will want to visit! You easily do a day trip there.

It has a vibrant and gorgeous historic center packed with fascinating Mexican history. Great shopping options all across the city and wonderful places for day trips like San Miguel de Allende, Bernal, and Tequisquiapan.

Enjoy this video log of my visit to Queretaro.

Queretaro is a definite must-visit and I highly recommend it!

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Here are 3 things to do to save money when booking solo travel.

1. Let the price determine where you go.

Everywhere I go is based on the price. While I have a list of places I would like to visit, WHEN I will get to those places is completely determined by when I see a deal. This is why I do most of my travel in the winter and in the fall because that’s when airline and hotel accommodations prices are lowest. Save money when booking solo travel by letting the price determine where you go.

2. Book early

Whenever I find a great rate, I book it! Often the travel dates are 8 – 12 months in the future. I book early. The earlier you book the better rate you’re going to get. So, if there are places you know you want to visit in 2023 you should be booking them now. You should be tracking the best rates you can find using a service like Scott’s Cheap Flights and you should be booking them as soon as you see the best rate. Save money when booking solo travel by booking early.

3. Use credit card points

I only use credit cards that give me points and do not charge foreign transaction fees. My favorites right now are Chase Sapphire Preferred and my American Express Hilton Aspire.

If I see a good flight deal on Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights), I pay for it with credit card points if I can instead of cash. If I use my Chase Sapphire Preferred, I get five times the points if I book my trip directly through them using the information I got from Scott’s.

Or alternatively, if I have enough points, I just use the points for the trip that I found at the lower price either way I’m saving.

So, I make sure I get the deal but I’ll use points to cover it. For example, I found an inexpensive flight to Lisbon Portugal last year (2021) for travel this past March 2022 and I used Chase Sapphire Preferred points to cover the cost of the flight which was about $350

I love my Chase Sapphire Preferred card!

Benefits include:

2X points on travel
No foreign transaction fees
3X times point for Uber rides and 5X for Lyft
2X points for restaurant meals worldwide
No blackout dates or restrictions when you book reservations through Ultimate Rewards
Trip cancellation and trip delay reimbursement benefits for any trip booked using the card

If you have a big-ticket purchase that you know you’re going to have to make anyway charge it to your credit card and get the points.

The key is to pay your full balance every single month and avoid interest because interest rates on these cards are extremely high.

Apply for a Chase Sapphire Preferred and take advantage of its great benefits.

Another relevant tip:

I tend to use hotel accommodations for short stays 4 nights or less and short-term rentals for longer stays 5 days or more.

If I’m staying in a hotel, I am going to look at hotels where I have a loyalty points program. My favorite is Hilton Honors.

I also like to use Booking.com because I can find hotels with free cancellation policies and often places where there is no pre-payment required for booking.

So, if I can’t find a Hilton with a nightly rate that works for me, I go with Booking.com.

But my first choice nowadays is Hilton because I get a reduced rate for being a member of Hilton Honors and I earn double points on my stay when I use my American Express Hilton Aspire card. I also earn points for future stays. Benefits also include Travel Insurance, trip cancellation, and Trip reimbursement.

The way the airlines are behaving nowadays it doesn’t make sense to use a credit card to book airline reservations that will not provide you with trip cancellation and Trip reimbursement benefits.

With the American Express Hilton Aspire card, I not only get points for my stay at Hilton hotels but it includes:

$250 Airline Fee Credit
$100 Property Credit
Priority Pass^™ Select
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance
Baggage Insurance Plan

So consider applying for the Ame rican Express Hilton Aspire card and take advantage of its benefits when planning solo travel. Save money when booking solo travel by using credit card points.

So, to recap my top 3 tips for saving money when booking solo travel are:

1. Let the price determine where you go.

2. Book early

3. Use credit card points.

Check out my Youtube Video where I talk a bit more about how I use these 3 steps to save money on solo travel!

Enjoy these top 3 tips for saving money when booking airlines and accommodations for solo travel. I hope they are helpful!

Thank You For Reading!

Subscribe to this website and GET YOUR FREE DIGITAL TEAM CARRY-ON PACKING GUIDE FOR THE FLY 40+ WOMAN!

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Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

This blog post is about the Top 5 Things to do on your visit to Tobago!

I visited Tobago, a sister island that is part of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, in May 2022 for 12 days.

I even have a extremely precise courting with the island due to the fact each of my dad and mom have been born there. I had been journeying the island of Tobago on the grounds that I changed into nine years old. As an adult I have a deeper appreciation for its uniqueness and beauty.

COVID-19 Travel Requirements

Trinidad & Tobago had some pretty stringent testing requirements when I was traveling there. As a non-national of the country, I was required to complete a questionnaire and have a negative PCR test to enter. To learn about current COVID-19 requirement visit the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Health Website.

Getting There

I booked my trip to Tobago for May 2022 because I found an amazing roundtrip fare on Scotts Cheap Flights from IAH (Houston International) to POS (Port of Spain, Trinidad). The fare was $250 (yep) on American Airlines (AA)! I booked immediately and paid $325 roundtrip as the quoted $250 was a basic economy rate and I don’t fly Basic Economy. I like my carry-on to be included in any fare that I pay and I like e flexibility of upgrades which is excluded when you book Basic Economy with AA.

American Airlines is my least favorite USA airline but they fly regularly to Trinidad’s Piarco International Airport so often the best rates can be found with them or via Caribbean Airlines which has flights out of Miami International and JFK International Airport. Once I booked my flight to POS (Piarco International), I went to the Caribbean Airlines website and promptly booked my transfer from Trinidad to Tobago.

It is important to understand that Trinidad and Tobago are two separate islands that forms a single Republic. To get to Tobago, fly into POS (Piarco International) and then connect on a separate flight via Caribbean Airlines to its smaller sister island of Tobago. You will fly into ANR Robinson Airport (aka Crown Point International Airport/TAB). At the time of the writing of this blog post, Caribbean Airlines is the only airline that flies directly to Tobago from the United States of America. Roundtrip tickets from POS to TAB are usually about $50 USD ($25 each way) but can be higher during Carnival season or if you book same day or same week.

Tickets can sell out so booking promptly after confirming your flight to Trinidad is key. There is a ferry that travels between Trinidad and Tobago but it takes longer and requires transfer from Piarco to Port of Spain to get to the ferry. I recommend flying instead of the ferry. Flights are 18 minutes each way and much faster than the 3.5-hour ferry ride. For more information about the Trinidad and Tobago Ferry visit their website.

Currency

Trinidad currency (TTD) exchange is about six TTD to one USD. I do not recommend exchanging money at the airport it is probably better to use an ATM machine when you get into the Crown point area.

Communications\phone service

While my phone carrier did work in Trinidad and Tobago to keep my cost down, I opted to purchase a BMobile Sim card at Piarco airport upon arrival in Trinidad provided me with unlimited data and calling for 30 days and cost about $40 USD. Service was decent for the most part throughout my stay.

Finding Accommodations

Because my flight was arriving later in the evening from Houston via Miami, I opted to spend the night at a hotel near the Piarco airport in Trinidad. I made this decision because transfers from Trinidad to Tobago are often inconsistent and delayed. I chose to skip the hassle and risk of missing my connecting flight and planned a flight into Tobago for the following morning. I booked a stay at The Grand Diamond Hotel in Trinidad through Booking.Com. I swear by Booking.Com for hotel accommodations if I am not using my Hilton Honors to stay at a Hilton my preferred hotel chain.

The Trinidad Hilton is an amazing property but too far from the Piarco airport for a one-night stay. So, I opted for The Grand Diamond Hotel. The property is a short less than 10-minute drive from the Piarco Airport. The staff at the Grand Diamond were incredibly accommodating. My flight from Miami to POS was delayed a bit and it took about 40 minutes to get through customs due to COVID-19 documentation that had to be reviewed by the customs personnel. I was not out of the airport until about 10:00 pm.

The hotel sent a transfer to pick me up at the airport and they also provided a transfer back to the airport the following morning. This service was included along with a delicious Trinidadian breakfast of bakes and saltfish the next morning at their restaurant. As I knew I would be needing to stay overnight in Trinidad for my return to the USA, I immediately booked another night’s stay at the Grand Diamond because of how easy and wonderful their staff is. The hotel is not fancy, but it is clean and welcoming especially after a late-night arrival I generally do not recommend that women traveling solo arrive after sundown but in this case, it could not be avoided on both ends of my transits to and from Tobago.

Upon arrival in Tobago the next day I stayed with a relative for a couple of days and then I checked into a Short-Term rental that was a 10–15-minute walk to Store Bay (10 minutes), Swallows Beach (9 minutes), and Pigeon Point (15 minutes) beaches.

The best place to stay is in Tobago if you want to be close to social activities and great beaches is the Crown Point area. I found my short-term rental in Crown Point on Airbnb but many wonderful short-term rentals can also be found on sites such as VRBO and Booking.com so always make sure you check them all out prior to making a choice.

If I am on a solo trip for more than 4 nights, I prefer a short-term rental to a hotel and I shared 4 reasons why I like Airbnb better than hotels for solo travel on my YouTube Channel. Since I was in Tobago for 10 days I opted for a short-term rental and I was not disappointed. It was conveniently located, nicely appointed, and conveniently located not just close to multiple beaches including my favorite – Store Bay, but it was also walkable to multiple bars and restaurants on the Milford Road strip the main road running from the airport through the Crown Point area.

Getting Around Tobago

Getting around Tobago if you want to venture outside of the Crown Point area can feel complicated if you are not prepared. But if you know what to do it doesn’t have to be. The best way to get around in Tobago is via Car Rental, Taxi, or Private Car Service.

Car Rental

You can rent a car at Crown point international airport. Booking.com has plenty of options. Please note that in Trinidad and Tobago they drive on the opposite side of the road then in the United States and Mexico and several other countries. For that reason, I do not feel comfortable driving on the island.

Taxi

There is no Uber in Trinidad and Tobago but there are taxis. However, the taxis do not quite work the way those of us in the west might expect. Cars that are licensed as taxis have license plates that start with the letter “H.” H means for Hire which is how you know they are a legal and licensed Taxi. But there are many other drivers that also provide taxi services with their private cars. All private cars have license plates that start with the letter P. Additionally taxis pick up multiple people on their routes. So, if you hail a Taxi, you will not be the only person riding in the taxi there will be other people i.e., strangers that will be in the car with you.

Ordinarily, this would be fine with me but because we are still in a “Panini” I opted not to use Taxies during my trip. I did not feel comfortable getting in a private car that was not licensed, and I also did not feel comfortable sitting in a licensed taxi with strangers during a pandemic mask or no mask. For that reason, I opted for a private car service.

Private Car Service

There are private car services available in Tobago. I found my private care service through a personal referral and on TripAdvisor. Reading a review ahead of booking gave me the confidence to use the service. I used CP Tours and Taxi Service owned and operated by Mr. Chris Perry. I was definitely not disappointed. I contacted Mr. Perry ahead of my trip. He arranged for a driver to pick me up at the airport and deliver me to my aunt’s house where I stayed for the first week of my visit.

He also arranged for the same driver to take me on the excursion to Speyside and Charlottesville and the same driver was also available to pick me up and run me on some regular errands that I wanted to do. Mr. Perry checked in after each transfer and he also checked in regularly throughout my stay to ensure I got where I needed to go. At all times I felt safe secure and respected during each transfer. It really gave me a lot of peace of mind not having to worry about how I was going to get where I needed to go. While I also have relatives on the island, I liked having my own way of getting from here to there, and having the private car service to call a needed was a Godsend!

Because I was staying so close to the beach, I really didn’t need a car every day because I was able to walk to most of the places where I wanted to go. This kept the cost of transportation at a reasonable level for me.

The fare for transfers on average was about $7.00 USD one way. The day excursion to Speyside and Charlottesville was more but definitely reasonable for the time and distance. I was definitely pleased with CP Tours and Taxi Service and would recommend them. If you’d like to get in contact with Mr. Perry and read his reviews you can do so on TripAdvisor.

For the total 10 days trip, I spent under $250 USD for transfers around the island. Much of what I spent was on the one-day excursion that was multiple hours long from Crown Point to Speyside, Charlottesville, and back with multiple stops along the way.

Here are my Top 5 Things to do Tobago. These are not the only things I did but they are and were my favorite things. At the end of the Blog Post, I also suggest some other activities to consider.

1. Hang out at Store Bay & eat all the food at Miss Jeans

2. Take a Glass Bottom Boat Cruise with Cool Running Boat Tour

3. Take a scenic ride around the island and visit the Argyle waterfall, Speyside and

Charlottesville. Have lunch at Jenna’s Treehouse in Speyside or Sharon & Phebs in Charlottesville.

Charlottesville Tobago — **Charlotttesville Tobago**

4. Visit Buccoo beach, get breakfast @Luvenias then rent a boat and go out and see the

reef.

5. Walk down to Swallows Beach and grab a drink seaside and take a dip. Then head over

to Pigeon Point for a bite and another swim.

Here’s a video with more details about my five top favorite things to do In Tobago:

Other things to do:

Fort King George

Visit Fort King George. Fort King George is a perfect place for pictures for “the gram.” The mountaintop Fort has stunning views of Scarborough Bay and the town of Scarborough the capital city of Tobago The Fort was once a military base built by the British.

The museum on the grounds has pre-Columbian artifacts found in Scarborough alongside old Tobago maps and photographs.

Admission is free To visit the grounds but to enter the museum is about five dollars TTD

Turtle Beach

If you are a nature lover you will love Turtle Beach. Visit turtle beach in the evening during nesting season and see the Turtles come up on the beach to lay their eggs Turtle nesting period is usually from March to August.

Birdwatching

Go birdwatching!! There are incredible varieties of birds all across island. The hummingbirds are in abundance as are birds and species that I can’t even name! Book a tour via Viator, TripAdvisor, or GetYourGuide and go see some birds!!!

Last Words

Tobago is an absolutely beautiful island unspoiled in many ways. It is not overdeveloped like many other Caribbean islands and that is part of its charm. You will not find large chain hotels on the island but they are small boutique hotels as well as short-term rentals that can be found on Airbnb and VRBO.

I stayed at an Airbnb for about seven days of my stay and I enjoyed it very much. It was a very short walk to the beaches In the Crown point area.

Tobago is a wonderful place for solo travel for women over 40. It is safe yet it has lots of relaxing things to do.

Walking is pretty easy sidewalks are relatively wide and level. If you stay in the Crown point area you can walk to most places including bars and restaurants and restaurants all along the road leading to Store Bay and the Airport in either direction. While you may need auto transportation to sightsee the island and go beyond the Crown point area into places like Scarborough, Castara, Speyside and Charlottesville, which I highly recommend, if you choose to stay in the Crown point area you probably don’t need much transportation assistance. You can walk most places easily and feel safe and secure.

There’s a Sunday night dance party every weekend called “Sunday school“ in Buccoo so if you are a person who likes dancing you have a great time doing that. There’s also nightly music and nightlife all along Milford Road heading towards the beach and there are fun beach bars to be found in Store Bay, Swallows Beach, and Pigeon Point all within walking distance in the Crown point area. If you are traveling alone use common sense personal safety precautions and you should be fine.

Visit Tobago you’ll be glad you did!

Thank You For Reading!

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The photo was taken by Guide in Ubud Bali, Indonesia

Read this blog post and learn how to get good photos of yourself on solo travel. Here are 5 tips and tricks.

I am often asked how I take good pictures of myself while on solo travel. Here are the 5 methods I use to get good pics of myself on solo travel. They are all relatively low cost. Many just require your mobile phone. I use an iPhone XR for most of my pictures.

1. Master the Selfie

You can get really good photos of yourself if you master the art of taking the Selfie. Always take Selfies in front of amazing backdrops. Practice taking selfies at home and outdoors. Determine the best light and best facial expressions. For example, take your photo with a smile, without a smile, smile with your teeth, and without, with your mouth closed or slightly closed. Figure out what looks you like by practice.

Here is a selfie I took at Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia.

The selfie may yield lower-quality pictures but if your backdrop is on point, it will still be quite nice.

2. Bring along a remote Tripod with Bluetooth (my favorite)

Another way you can get good photos of yourself is to travel with a Selfie stick with a remote wireless shutter. I always travel with a Selfie Stick, 40-inch Extendable Selfie Stick Tripod with Wireless Remote Shutter. I never leave home without it! It is small enough to fit easily in my personal bag or backpack. It allows me to take great selfies as well as posed pictures. I also like this smaller tripod with a flexible stand and Bluetooth Remote that I can sit on a table to take photos as well. It’s amazing! I can wrap it around a tree branch, or the top of a chair, and get a perfect shot. It is very lightweight and takes u very little space.

Again, practice makes perfect so take some time to take photos in your leisure time. Figure out what poses and facial expressions work and then go for it! One of my favorite poses using my selfie stick tripod is the back of the headshot. Here is a favorite from a solo trip to Tulum Mexico that I took with my selfie stick tripod.

3. Take a Tour and ask your Guide

Another way you can get good photos of yourself is through tours. I love tours when I solo travel! It’s a great way to learn a lot about a city or town in a limited period of time. I regularly do guided tours with Viator and GetYourGuide, guided individual tours, and walking tours through Airbnb Experiences. All are great ways to get quality photographs if you have a tour guide with a good eye.

If you buy a guided individual tour ask your guide to take some photographs. They are usually happy to do it. You’re not always going to get the best photographs this way because most guides are not photographers. Make sure you set up the photo exactly where you want it taken, gauge your light and then just have them point and shoot. Guides make better photographers than random strangers or fellow solo travelers on your tour. They usually have experience taking pictures and usually have a better eye for a good shot. Here is a favorite photograph taken by a guide on a tour in Bali, Indonesia.

4. Ask another solo traveler

Yet another way I get good photos of myself is by asking another solo traveler. I look for someone else taking selfies traveling on their own and ask if they would be willing to take a couple of pictures of me in exchange for me taking pictures of them.

I don’t like to just walk up to random people and ask them. Instead, I will pick someone with a nice camera also trying to take a snap with a tripod, or a couple taking pictures of each other. I often zero in on younger women because younger people have a better grasp of photo technology. and young women know how to get a great snap for the gram! I will offer to take a picture for them in exchange for one of myself.

I try to assess carefully who I ask to ensure that someone doesn’t run off with my camera. Most of the time I only ask a stranger to take a photo of me on walking tours or a day trip booked through a reputable tour company. I like to use Viator and GetYourGuide, Walking tours are also a great way to make new friends while traveling solo and to get a good snap!

Here is a pic from my solo trip to Thailand that another follows solo traveler on a tour took for me.

I find this to be the method that will yield the least predictable result. So be careful. You need to pick the spot, the light and just have the person point exactly where you selected and shoot and you STILL may end up with a lackluster result.

5. Book a photographer

The final way I get good photos of myself on solo travel is by booking a photographer. This is the most expensive method but the one most likely to give you the best result! Another great thing about using a photographer is many of them will also share history, cultural intel, and restaurant recommendations with you during your photo shoot. I have gotten great information about restaurants, activities, and historical facts during photo shoots. You can find a photographer on a tour website like Viator, GetYourGuide, TripAdvisor, or Airbnb Experiences.

Be careful to READ all reviews to ensure the best outcome. Also, ask for referrals from fellow solo travelers whose photographs you admire.

I’ve gotten really great pictures this way. Prices can range from $25-$65 and up.

Here are a couple of photographs from shoots I did in Queretaro, Mexico, Florence Italy, and Venice, Italy. These photo shoots were all booked through Airbnb experiences and I love the results.

Pro Tip: Do NOT provide a review until you get your edited photos. No matter how much you like the initial photographs. I recently had a photographer take several months to send me my fully edited photographs. I had no recourse because I had already given her a good review and Airbnb was not very helpful. Lesson Learned.

Final Tip

Take your photos early or during the golden twilight hour! The best time to take your own photographs is early in the morning or right at sunset. My favorite time is early morning before key spots get crowded and the sun is still low. The golden hour is also nice but there are likely to be more crowds so I stick to early morning.

Practice practice practice. Practice taking pictures and posing. When you’re at home, practice setting up your tripod with your phone camera and taking selfie shots and posed shots. Be patient with yourself.

Don’t take your eyes off your things when shooting in public. Always keep your eyes on your phone and never put your purse down when taking photographs in public. I suggest carrying a nice cross-body purse or waist bag that you can keep on you throughout your photo shoot.

There you have it! My five tips on how to get good pictures of yourself while Solo Travel. Don’t forget to subscribe to this website and to my YouTube channel for video blogs (vlogs), video shorts, and more tips and tricks to make your Solo trip memorable and fun!

A great way to plan safe and fun travel excursions especially is through Viator. Check them out for great deals on walking tours, tours of popular places and airport transfers. As a woman traveling alone, I make a special point to plan my excursions in advance and I especially love Viator because I have the option of not paying in full until 48 hours before my tour date and I can get a refund until 24 hours before my tour!

How do I get the best prices on flights to all my adventures? I rely on Going (formerly Scotts Cheap Flights). I am always confident that the prices I find on Going are the lowest I will find anywhere.

Thank You For Reading!

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4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

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Here are 12 tips that will ensure your next Long Haul Flight is Comfortable.

1. Upgrade to economy premium for business class for extra room if the $$$ are available

Two ways to do this: 1) use points if you have an airline-sponsored credit card; and 2) use an airline-sponsored auction. If you’re flying internationally many non-US airlines will let you bid on business class seats. I recently upgraded to business class for $500 from Washington DC to Lisbon by responding to a bid solicitation from TAP Portugal.

2. Wear a Kn95 mask

Covid19 is still with us. I like this KN95 mask and always wear one in flight! Bring a mask and avoid the germs!

3. Select a window seat

Select your seat ahead of the flight and always get a window seat so that you can lean on the window to go to sleep. Perfect if you also have the right neck pillow.

4. Recline your Seat!

Reclining Your Seat makes your flight more comfortable. Ignore those who would tell you not to, and recline that seat you paid for and get your rest!

5. Bring a good neck pillow

For long haul travel flights I think these two pillows are the most comfortable plane for long flights: Travelrest Ultimate Travel Pillow & Neck Pillow or the trtl Pillow – Scientifically Proven Super Soft Neck Support Travel Pillow. You need to sleep on a long flight and one of these pillows combined with an eye mask, high-quality ear plugs, and a window seat will ensure you get some rest!

6. Invest in a good pair of ear plugs and an Eye mask

Bring along some high-quality ear plugs and an eye mask. I like to use High Fidelity Earplugs for Long Haul Travel. These are concert grade. I also love the Bedtime Bliss Sleep Eye mask I never travel without either of these items.

7. Bring an extra pair of socks

Make your flight more comfortable by bringing an extra pair of comfy compression ankle socks. I like these ankle socks by CWVLC Unisex Cushioned Compression Athletic Ankle Socks Multipack for Long Haul Travel. I never walk barefoot on a plane but I will wear ankle socks and walk around. At the end of the flight, I take them off put them in a plastic bag, and wash them post-flight! Compression clothing is important for ensuring good blood flow in your feet and legs to avoid blood clots. See #12

8. Invest in some good noise-canceling headphones

Pack some Noise Canceling Headphones. I love my Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Noise-Cancelling, I swear by them. Yes, they’re probably one of the most expensive but they are the best. An affordable alternative to the Bose headphones that I have owned and recommend are these 6S Wireless Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear, Hi-Fi Stereo Foldable Wireless Stereo Headsets. They are not comparable to Bose but they are decent and affordable.

9. Bring your own entertainment

download your favorite movies from HBO Max and Netflix to an iPad or iPhone so you have other options besides what the airplane offers
download your favorite podcast, mine is Ratchet & Respectable
download your favorite audiobook
download the latest subscriptions to your favorite magazine to your my iPad or iPhone

10. Drink a lot of water

Starting the day or so before and throughout your flight, drink extra water Hydration is extremely important on long haul travel flights. Consider bringing a refillable bottle like the LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle with 2-Stage Integrated Filter Straw for Hiking, Backpacking, and Travel which you can fill with water after the security check and it will clip to your carryon! If you travel to places without easy to access clean drinking water. This bottle is a Godsend! Drinking a lot of water will also get you to the most important thing for you to do on a long-haul flight get up and move (see #10). Avoid excessive alcohol preflight and during the flight and drink water instead.

11. Move your body during the flight

Get up and move or walk every 2 to 3 hours. Walking ensures proper blood flow and can help you avoid blood clots. If you drink a lot of water it will activate your bladder and you’ll have to get up much more often. Consult your doctor for more information on avoiding pulmonary embolisms/blood clots after a long flight.

12. Purchase and Wear Compression garments

Blood clot risks on long flights are REAL. Invest in a good pair of compression leggings and wear them on your flight. I love these High Waisted Women’s Leggings Compression Pants, these High Waist Compression Shorts, and these High Waisted Compression Capri Leggings. If you will fly for 8 hours or more, I recommend wearing compression garments plus exercising #10 and #12

For more tips about Solo Travel safety and security while traveling solo grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers its packed with tips and advice for maintaining your personal safety during solo travel.

Check out my YouTube video on this subject.

There you have it — My recommendations for making your long-haul flight more comfortable!

Thank You For Reading!

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4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

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One of the questions I get asked a lot about solo travel is “how do you travel to all those places alone? Don’t you feel lonely aren’t you afraid?

The honest answer is No. I don’t feel afraid of solo traveling because I prepare and plan my trip meticulously so that I feel comfortable. I have shared several blog posts about how I prepare for solo travel from a personal security perspective. In this post, I will share things I did to develop the comfort level to keep my own company on international trips abroad for extended periods of time.

3 easy steps you can take to build the courage and mindset to take your first solo trip!

Take Yourself to Dinner Alone. This is something I do often. I find a great restaurant everyone is raving about, book a reservation, and go solo dolo! I love saying “La Mesa para uno personas por favor.” “Or a table for one person please.”
Go To The Movies Solo. This is another favorite of mine. I hate talking in the movies so going alone allows me to focus on what is happening on screen without having to focus on anyone else. While my favorite thing will always be going to the movies with my son, a close second is going to the movies on my lonesome. It has really helped me be comfortable with being by myself for an extended period of time. Buy a ticket to an evening (not matinee) and see a movie all on your own. I promise you will enjoy it.
Do a local weekend getaway. Take two days and check out a bed and breakfast you’ve been curious about. Or book a hotel downtown in your city and treat yourself to a spa day. But do it alone. Doing this will give you the experience of staying in a hotel room alone for a short period in a town or city where you are comfortable. After this, think about doing a weekend in another major city nearby and see how it feels.

Solo travel is a great way to meet new people and see the world. But it can be risky, too. Here are some mistakes you should avoid if you want to stay safe

These 3 practical steps will help you build the confidence needed to do fun things solo! The key is to practice doing things you might ordinarily do with one or more people, solo! Practice doing things completely alone and envision a solo trip domestically and then internationally. Try them and see how you feel after each one! Then start planning your first solo trip!

A great way to plan safe and fun travel excursions is through Viator. Check them out for great deals on walking tours, tours of popular places and airport transfers. As a woman traveling alone, I make a special point to plan my excursions in advance and I especially love Viator because I have the option of not paying in full until 48 hours before my tour date and I can get a refund until 24 hours before my tour!

Thank You For Reading!

Subscribe to this website and GET YOUR FREE DIGITAL TEAM CARRY-ON PACKING GUIDE FOR THE FLY 40+ WOMAN!

Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

Join my Facebook Community for Fly40+ Black Women who Love to Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates, and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

You should put Lisbon on your solo travel bucket list!

I spent two weeks in Portugal this past Spring from March 14 to April 2^nd. This blog post is about the time I spent in Lisbon which was from March 14 to March 23.

I had been wanting to visit Portugal and specifically Lisbon, for many years. When I first decided I wanted to move abroad Portugal was at the top of my list until I discovered paradise right next door to the United States of America in the United States of Mexico. But Lisbon, Portugal remained high on my list of places I wanted to visit once the “panini ”settled down. I had to cancel my initial visit in May 2020 due to Covid19 but Portugal was one of the first trips I booked once the world began reopening again.

How I got to Portugal

I flew from Dulles to Lisbon on TAP Portugal. I paid for my ticket with credit card points (come thru Chase Sapphire) for under $400 one-way. I then upgraded to Business class on TAP Portugal using their auction option. The auction option allows you to offer the airline a price you think is fair for an upgrade and then the airline either approves it or declines. They accepted my offer. I must confess I was not particularly impressed with the lay-flat beds in TAP Portugal’s business class. They were quite uncomfortable. I wouldn’t do it again. I woke up still tired and with lower back pain which would impact my trip later. The flight was 7 hours so in the future I will likely opt for an upgrade to Economy premium instead of flying on TAP Portugal.

Portugal COVID-19 testing

As an American citizen, I was not required to have a visa to enter Portugal but I was required to have proof of a negative rapid antigen test to enter the country and to complete and present a passenger information form barcode. Update: As of April 22, 2022, the Passenger information form is no longer required for entry to Portugal.

You can get other information about COVID-19 protocols as well as General visiting Portugal information at the visit portugal.com website I found it to be very helpful.

I took an at-home proctored COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test through QURED a day ahead of my trip to Portugal. It was easy to do. Read this article to learn more about at-home COVID-19 testing accepted by the airlines.

Please note: These were the rules at the time I traveled they may have changed so make sure that you do your own homework on travel to Portugal before booking so you know what is required of you.

Accommodations in Lisbon

Throughout my time in Portugal, I stayed in an Airbnb. I only stayed in a hotel for the last night I was in the country so that I would be close to the airport this was after my return from Porto which was my last stop.

I’ve said many times that I prefer Airbnb to Hotel and in Portugal, they did not disappoint.

The Airbnb in Lisbon was in a perfect location in the Baixa-Chiado neighborhood. The apartment was in a very nice building with an elevator. The apartment was located in a place central to everything that I would want to do and see in that neighborhood and in a large part of Lisbon without my having to take an Uber or the train. This means I was able to walk which is my favorite thing in a new city.

The only negative is the walls were thin and I could hear people above me and, on my floor, moving around 24 hours a day. But that is not uncommon in hotels and apartment buildings in Europe as the buildings are very old and do not have the kind of sound insulation included in construction in the United States

I found the walls to be thin everywhere in Portugal. If you’re not used to this, you may need to bring air plugs. Also, assume that if the people next door can be heard then you can be heard as well.

For Lisbon, I think the best neighborhoods to stay in are the ones adjacent to the waterfront.

I would recommend Belem, Alfama or Baixa-Chiado, not the Lisbon city center. A review of the Airbnb where I laid my head is on my YouTube channel HERE

I would stay there again I really enjoyed it. The very walkable neighborhood has slopes and hills so you will have to navigate those but that is all of Lisbon. But Chiado is very central to a lot of the places and things that you will want to see like the Time out city market, shopping district, and riverfront. My two favorite places to eat we’re all within walking distance from my Airbnb.

Getting around Lisbon

Lisbon has a vibrant and easy-to-use subway system. I did not use it because of the Panini but when this pandemic eases up, I would probably use it in the future. Uber rides were relatively reasonable on average I probably spent about four dollars USD or I just used my feet. It’s so easy to find things on foot that I walked most places. Now I have knee issues so I’m very careful walking up and down hills. . If you have significant mobility issues Lisbon, Portugal generally may be a challenge for you.

For regional travel, I used the bus and the train. I took a commuter bus from Lisbon to Portimao (the Algarve). I took the train from Lisbon to Porto.

If you have mobility challenges, please be aware there are many steep streets and hills and it’s kind of part of the charm of the city so you have to decide whether you can deal with them before you come. But it will be well worth it if you can.

What I ate in Lisbon

As I shared in a couple of posts on social media, I did have some challenges finding food that I enjoyed in Lisbon and generally in Portugal. I didn’t love the way seafood was prepared there was very little seasoning but I was able to find very flavorful and great food and Lisbon but it took some research referrals and walking.

Here are the places at ate that I really enjoyed and I highly recommend:

Tabernaculo by Hernani Miguel

Guinea-Bissau cuisine, has really top-notch food, Have the Moqueca and the spicy grilled shrimp.

Great live music and happy hour. The Owner, Hernani is wonderful as is the bartender and host Mauro.

Tamarindo

Cape Verdean cuisine. I went there with a group after the African Lisbon tour and the food was very good and inexpensive. I highly recommend it. See more about the African Lisbon tour below

The Little wine bar #17

Also located in the Chiado neighborhood- is The Little Wine Bar. I heard about the spot in the Travel Portugal Facebook group and they were absolutely correct it was very good. They primarily share small plates and they will pair them with wines from Portugal. There are two little wine bars I went to number 17 so that is the one I am recommending.

DaPrata 52

Hands-down the best meal I had for my entire stay in Portugal was at DaPrata 52. Their risotto de polvo (octopus risotto) is sublime. It is an all-tapas menu with good wine pairings. The restaurant was also a short walk from my Airbnb in the Chiado neighborhood and the waterfront.

I went to several other restaurants that were highly recommended either in magazines, travel blogs, and one even by the late Anthony Bourdain himself. I didn’t really enjoy any of them but I will say the garlic shrimp at Ramiro (Bourdain’s favorite restaurant in Lisbon) is delicious. It’s worth a visit to go just have that alone. I didn’t enjoy anything else I had on their menu and they are not an inexpensive restaurant. But the garlic shrimp was well worth it!

Portuguese restaurants get crowded around 7:30 pm time. I tend to eat early and I don’t like crowds because the panini is still happening so I booked my meals at 12:00 pm or 12:30 PM for lunch and about 6:30 pm for dinner right to avoid crowds. Wherever possible I ate outside. This was not always possible because it was raining so much in Lisbon.

I probably spent more on food than I should have by going to restaurants recommended by hosts and locals that I ended up not enjoying. I won’t that mistake on my return visit.

Things to Do in Lisbon

These are the things I did in Lisbon that I recommend.

The Lisbon Card. If you plan to do a lot of site seeing in Lisbon, The Lisbon Card which you can buy at the airport is worth it. It gives you free or discounted admission to many museums and other sites around Lisbon. It also includes trolley car rides around the city. You can purchase a day card or multiple days. The time on the card starts to run from its first use. I used it to gain entry to the museums I visited. It did not include entry to castles in Sintra.

Sintra Day Trip. Even if you don’t love castles, the town of Sintra is still worth the visit. But loving castles, as I do, makes it a must. I visited the Pena Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira.

Pena Palace

Pena Palace sits at the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains above the town of Sintra. I was told that it can be seen from Lisbon clear days but we had none of those while I was there.

It is a national monument and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was first a monastery and then a home for the Royal Family starting with King Ferdinand who oversaw its renovation between 1842 and 1852. It has medieval and Islamic elements that you can clearly see in the architecture. There are two options for tickets for visitors to Pena Palace in Sintra. You can either purchase a “Palace and Park” ticket, which includes access to the park, grounds, outer terraces of the palace, and the staterooms within, or a “Park” only ticket. I opted for the park ticket and just walked the grounds for 7.50 euros. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.

I also visited the Quinta da Regaleira.

The Quinta is near the historic center of Sintra, Portugal. It along with the other castles in Sintra is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO within the “Cultural Landscape of Sintra”. The property consists of a Romantic palace and chapel, and a beautiful park that features lakes, grottoes, wells, benches, and a fountain. Its grounds are breathtaking and well worth the price of admission which is 10 euros. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.

I booked my Sintra tour with Sophia Tours. My tour guide Nuno was amazing. He gave a lot of information about the history of Portugal, Sintra, its castles, and the surrounding areas. He also took me to see Cabo da Roca or Cape Roca which forms the westernmost point of mainland Portugal, and continental Europe. We also took a scenic drive through Cascais the “Riviera of Lisbon.”

Cascais Day Trip. I skipped the day trip to Cascais but my drive-through on the way back from Sintra definitely made me wish I hadn’t. It’s a pretty beachside town filled with shops and boutiques and restaurants. It’s a short train ride from Lisbon and worth a visit.

You can contact Sophia Tours at www.sophiatours.pt

African Lisbon Tour

The most impactful excursion I did in Lisbon was the African Lisbon Tour. It is a four-hour walking tour that takes you through Lisbon and teaches you about the history of Portugal through the eyes of the colonized and enslaved. It ends with a fantastic meal at a Cape Verdean restaurant as the cap to a phenomenal day. If you are visiting Lisbon you owe it to yourself to do this tour. You can find a link about it HERE. You can also find them on Instagram @AfricanLisbonTour for more information

I was very sad to hear that the current Mayor of Lisbon is holding up the erection of an already completed monument honoring the contributions of Africans to Lisbon. I would not have known this without having done this tour. Juxtaposed to what I learned on my tours of Sintra and even on my Airbnb Experience photoshoot in Lisbon, the history learned here was quite enlightening. There is clear “whitewashing” of Portuguese history when you do other tours so I really appreciated learning some “Black History” in Lisbon in this tour.

Other Points of Interest.

I found the Museu Nacional do Azulejo Aka The National Tile Museum enthralling and breathtaking. The museum is dedicated to the art of tilework that Portugal is known for. I highly recommend it.

Points of Interest in Lisbon — A tile from the Museu Nacional do Azulejo

I also enjoyed The Museum of Ancient Art. Entry to both is included with the Lisbon Card.

Frankly just wondering about the streets of Lisbon and specifically Chiado and getting lost is a wonderful experience. Hit my new favorite Zara in all of Europe while you are there. Grab a drink at the Beer Museum café off the Rossio Square and people watch or grab a glass of port and Pastel de Bachalau at Casa Portugesa and people watch from there. Stop by the Timeout Café and try some seafood or other authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Walk down Avenida da Libertade from the Chiado shopping district to Rossio Square and check out the Santa Justa Lift and eat gelato or Pastel de Nata on the way. Stop into the Timeout Market food court for a nice lunch or dinner.

Make your way to Belem via tram or Uber and learn more about Portugal’s history of exploration and colonization. Check out the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos which dates back to the 16th century.

The architectural style is both gothic and Mujedar and Italian and is referred to as “Manueline” style. The tomb of Navigator Vasco de Gama is inside the main chapel.

Be sure to check out the Belem riverfront and see the Padrao dos Descobrimentos or the Monument of the Discoveries. It celebrates the Portuguese 15th and 16th century Age of Exploration. Portugal invaded and colonized many countries including Brazil, India, Mozambique, Malaysia, and Macau among others.

Then walk along the Tagus River and visit the Torre de Belem or Belem Tower.

Then stop into Belem fora Pasteis de Belem the original custard tart (Pastel de Nata) was invented there and the original bakery still is in Belem. Expect to wait in line if you get there in the afternoon!

Weather

The Weather was not the greatest during my visit. It was mostly wet, rainy, and cold for most of the week I was a Lisbon. If you’re traveling to Lisbon in March bring a good rain slicker, a hat, scarf, umbrella, and rain boots. To avoid the wet and cold weather, try a visit at the end of April or early May instead. I shared what I wore in Portugal in anticipation of its weather. You can check out my video shorts on my YouTube channel.

Dating and Social Scene

I did not do any dates in Lisbon but my Tinder Likes were popping so if I had chosen to make the time, I have no doubt I could’ve found many options in Lisbon. The bars, cafes, and waterfronts are great places to see and be seen. I found the men overall to be friendly and respectful, I will plan to be more socially active the next time I am in Portugal.

Check out this video log from my YouTube channel on my visit to Lisbon.

Final Word on Lisbon

Overall I highly recommend a visit to Lisbon. I think to really see everything you need about 5 days. I lost about 2 days of my trip to jetlag which I explain in a YouTube video about what NOT to do upon arrival in Lisbon. I still got to see almost everything I wanted to see. Lisbon was safe, and easy to navigate on foot, Uber or Train though some of the hills can be daunting if you have bad knees or joints. The people are very kind, friendly and helpful. In Lisbon, almost everyone I met spoke some English, most pretty fluently. I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

Lisbon is a “must-go” for the Fly 40+ crowd. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. If I had consistently enjoyed the food more it would have been a solid 5-star experience.

I am already plotting my return to Portugal and Lisbon in 2023 if I find an affordable plane ticket!

Thank You For Reading!

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Here are 10 mistakes to avoid when you are on solo travel.

I’ve made some of these mistakes myself so I’m speaking from experience

1. Posting Your Whereabouts in Real-Time – Don’t

Especially for those of us who are travel influencers and bloggers, this is an important one to remember. It’s best to share your location, specifically where you were staying, AFTER you’ve left not while you were still there.

There are a lot of weirdos out there so to protect your safety it’s a good practice to share about the places you visit after you’ve left.

2. Pay Attention to Your Stuff at All Times. Don’t Get Distracted.

I recently walked away for about 60 seconds from the self-check-in kiosk in the Cancun Airport and left my carry-on bag there. Luckily, I realized what I had done pretty quickly and ran back and grabbed it even though it cost me my spot in a very long line. But even in that short period, someone could’ve taken my bag that had my electronics and other valuable items in it.

Another time at the DC National Airport, I had my poodle traveling with me and I left my carry-on bag with my laptop my camera, and lots of other valuable items at a bar. I grabbed my dog’s carrier as if it was my carry-on and forgot my actual carry-on. Again, I was very lucky because I didn’t realize what I had done for at least 10 minutes. When I got back to the bar my bag was still sitting where I had left it. The lesson is before you walk away always check and make sure you have every single thing you brought with you.

Both times my brain got a little distracted for just a short period and it could’ve cost me a lot.

Always check to make sure you have all your things before you walk away from the check-in counter, self-check-in kiosk, or even when grabbing a drink or food at a restaurant. Always check and make sure you have all your things with you.

Special Mention: YOUR CELL PHONE AND PASSPORT. Take special care to keep track of your passport and cell phone. In addition to your passport, your cell phone is probably the most important thing you will carry on your person. Make sure you know where both are at all times. I’ve seen so many stories about people leaving their cell phones in Ubers on counters etc. and losing their passports to pickpockets. Here is my specific advice about keeping track of your cell phone and passport.

CELLPHONE: Always keep your cell phone on your actual person in a Crossbody bag or a belt bag. When you take out your cell phone make sure that you put it right back into your Crossbody or belt bag when you’re finished using it don’t put it down anywhere – always keep it on your person. The last thing you want is to lose your cell phone in a foreign country with all your information on it.

PASSPORT: Have at least 5 color copies of your passport. Keep a copy of your passport on your person at all times. Keep backup copies in your suitcase. Keep your actual passport in the safe in your hotel or Airbnb. Do not carry it everywhere with you!!!! Caveat: In some countries by law, visitors are required to keep their passport on their person at all times. Senegal, for example, has this rule. Unless such a law exists (do your homework), I do not recommend carrying your passport around everywhere. It is too important to lose and too much of a hassle to replace while on travel. Lock it up!

I personally always carry a copy of my passport and my US driver’s license on my person. I have yet to have the copy rejected. Of course, when traveling to a country where the actual passport was required, I kept it on my person in a belt bag under my clothing.

3. Invest in a Vpn to Safeguard Your Location, Especially in Cafés and Anywhere with Open Wi-Fi

Never use free or open WIFI without activating a VPN on your device.

I like Nord VPN and I recommend it. If I am using free Wi-Fi, I always make sure my NordVPN is running. But I still avoid accessing information like my bank account on my credit card account on free/open Wi-Fi if I can. There are people laying in wait to hack your phone or laptop. Don’t make it easy for them, use a VPN when traveling and especially while using free/open WIFI at airports, cafes, and so on.

To avoid using free Wi-Fi I often carry an extra older phone with me that has a local sim and I use it for Wi-Fi in places like restaurants at the airport With my newer phone which still has a US number.

4. Buy the Travel Insurance

I can’t stress this one enough. Especially for those of us who are over 40 and especially for those of us who are over 50 with specific health issues or mobility issues. Buy the Travel Insurance you just never know when you may need it. I have almost fallen multiple times while on solo travel. The sidewalks are not always smooth and even in the United States. It’s easy to trip even when you are being careful. Between the uneven pavements and other health issues, as we get older, slips and falls happen easily. Add to that the possibility of auto accidents and other unforeseen health issues and the case for travel insurance is made. You want to know that you can walk into a hospital and get assistance and that if anything really bad happens you have insurance to cover your transport back home. Buy the Travel Insurance. I like World Nomads but there are many others that are just as good so do your homework but buy the Travel Insurance.

5. Keep a Low Profile

Don’t stand out blend in. Stay low-key and don’t do or wear anything that will bring you unwanted attention. For example, I like and own some luxury items and designer accessories but I’m very careful about when and where I wear them. I am more likely to wear them on travel in Europe or the US, but less likely in other places. I always research appropriate dress when traveling to predominantly Muslim countries to make sure I blend in when I arrive as much as possible by following local attire expectations.

I avoid wearing expensive or flashy jewelry and I never carry large amounts of cash or credit cards on my person. I avoid having my passport on me unless local law requires it. I try to stay super low-key. I often wear baseball hats or headwraps just to be less of a standout as I am bald.

When you’re traveling alone stay low-key. This is not the time to be getting drunk and loud at a bar. If I want to dress up and take pictures, I book a photoshoot via the hotel or Airbnb experiences. Other than that, I stay low-key.

6. Plan to Arrive and Depart During Daytime Hours.

It is not always possible but as much as possible, try to arrive and depart your destination during daytime hours. Especially when you’re traveling to a place you’ve never been, you don’t want to be navigating your location in the dark. You don’t want to be trying to find an Uber or taxi driver who may not speak English at night. So, plan your arrivals and departures for the daytime. Especially if you’re going to be staying at an Airbnb upon arrival this is especially important. For example, I am planning a trip to Africa and for one of my destinations, the only flight I could find at a reasonable rate was at 1 o’clock in the morning. I planned to stay at a hotel upon arrival and check into the Airbnb the next day but I found an even cheaper rate thereafter arriving during daylight hours (Winning)!

I almost never arrive or depart any location in the dark if I can help it. Daytime hours are best. If you must arrive in the evening make arrangements for a vetted and reputable pick up at the airport. I do not recommend Uber for very late night (after 9:00 pm)arrivals if you are unfamiliar with your destination. Instead, ask your hotel to arrange for a transfer from the airport or use vetted services like Booking.com.

7. Have a Security Plan

I talk about Personal Security all the time because it is the number one reason that women don’t take so long trips. As someone who oversaw security for several large international development companies, and the author of a guide on Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers, I advise that women take security planning seriously when planning solo travel but do not let it be the reason you do not solo travel. A key mistake many solo travelers make is not having an intentional security plan for their trip.

A security plan will include a daily check-in buddy and an electronic itinerary that your check-in buddy can access. You can find more travel safety and security for female solo travelers in the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers.

8. Do Your Homework on Your Destination

Before you go, bother to know some basic things about your destination.

Are there cultural and social norms you need to be aware of?

Are there specific clothing and dress you should avoid?

Are there mobility issues?

What is the climate like?

You need to know more than where the nice bars beaches and restaurants are located. For example, if you have any mobility challenges you want to know what the city is like. Is it a town on the top of the hill? Are you going to have to climb a lot of steps to get to the place where you are staying or does your Airbnb or hotel have an elevator? In a lot of places in Europe, the buildings are very old and they do not have elevators. Are you prepared to climb 20 or more steps? Are you physically able to do so? To see the beautiful views in the pictures are you prepared to walk up the hills to get there or will you need transportation? Do you have the right shoes and clothing for climbing and walking extensively?

I know there are many social media travel personalities who are telling you to go here and go there including me. But do your own homework as well. Don’t just travel to the country because it looks pretty in videos and pictures. Make sure you understand where you are going so that you are equipped and ready to have a good time.

One of the reasons I didn’t enjoy Cinque Terre in Italy as much as I could have been that I didn’t do any research about it. A friend recommended that we go and I never even looked it up till I got there. If I had done my homework, I would’ve learned that the beautiful “Five Towns” are nestled in the mountains; that I needed comfortable shoes to trudge up and down the many hills and steps, and I would’ve had my mind right for climbing the many hills and stairs. But I didn’t do my homework and I didn’t enjoy being there as much as I would or could have.

9. Get Some Familiarity with the Local Language

While it’s not necessary to fluently speak the local language of every place you visit, learning some basic phrases will be very helpful to your enjoying your solo travels. I live and travel in a country where Spanish is the official language. I also travel to many Spanish-speaking countries. While I am taking Spanish lessons to become fluent, I also use Google Translate and download basic phrases so that I know how to say things like:

Good Morning

Good Afternoon

Good evening

Thank you

Please

You’re Welcome

How are you?

I need help.

Where is the . . . .?

Can you help me?

I do the same when traveling anywhere that is not an English-speaking country. When traveling to Portugal and Italy, I downloaded phrases in the local language so that I could communicate as needed.

I co-authored ¿Como se Dice? Practical Spanish Phrases & Words for Travelers, a guide with common words and phrases in Spanish that has helped me a lot while traveling in Spanish-speaking countries. It includes over 50 words and phrases you will need when solo traveling in Spanish-speaking countries.

Having some basic phrases downloaded to your phone and brain really comes in handy on Solo travel. Don’t make the mistake of expecting everyone to speak English because they won’t and shouldn’t have to for your comfort.

10. Take Some Time to Just Enjoy Where You Are

Take the time to just enjoy where you are.

As a travel influencer and blogger, this is especially important for me to remember. Take a deep breath put the phone in your purse and just really take in where you are. Everything doesn’t have to be shared with “the gram.” And every picture doesn’t have to be perfectly posed.

You don’t have to share every single moment with the world, save something for yourself.

Now that you know my Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid on Solo Travel, try not to make them.!

Now go book that Trip Sis! The World is waiting!

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4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

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1. Team Carry On

I am a minimalist when it comes to solo travel and I generally try not to check bags. As a result, it’s important for me to be able to wash my clothes while I’m on the road. While you can get your laundry done at hotels it’s much easier and less expensive to stay at an Airbnb that includes a washer/dryer and wash your clothes on your own. I always opt for Airbnb‘s that have washers and dryers included.

2. Affordable and Comfortable for Long-Term Stays

I prefer Airbnb from a budget and comfort standpoint. When I solo travel I’m usually gone for at least three weeks. It’s much more affordable to stay in an Airbnb for three weeks than a nice hotel generally in my experience. I also like to be comfortable and so I need things like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, heat, washer/dryer and close walking proximity to the city center. I find that it cost me a lot less to buy this through Airbnb than hotels, especially in major cities across the world. At least that has been my experience so far.

3. Better Cultural Experience

Staying in an Airbnb allows me to get a really great sense of neighborhoods in new cities. I do my homework about the town and the area where I want to stay and I find Airbnbs that are no more than a 15-minute walk to the city center or any key destination I want to see. For example, when I visit Florence I like to stay in an Airbnb off Santa Croce Square. It’s not as popular a square as the Duomo so it’s not as expensive to stay there but it’s very close walking distance to pretty much everything I want to see. I like walking around and finding the supermarket, the drugstore, and the breakfast places where the locals go. I like being near the city center but not right in the middle of it. It’s a great way to learn about a country and its culture.

4. Safety

Believe it or not, I feel safer at an Airbnb. I don’t have people coming in and out of my place every day to clean. I always inquire about who has access to my apartment or home during my stay prior to booking. I exercise the safety precautions that I outline in the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers. Overall I feel better and safer in an Airbnb than I ever do in a hotel where maids and maintenance people have access to my space all the time

The key to having a good Airbnb experience is doing your homework beforehand. In my blog post “5 STEPS TO CHOOSING THE PERFECT AIRBNB EVERY TIME” I explain the steps I take to select an Airbnb. And so far these steps have served me well.

So there you have it, the 4 reasons I prefer Airbnb over hotels when I am Solo traveling.

Thank You For Reading!

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Here are 4 More of my Favorite Safety Apps & Gadgets for Solo travel! These are items you add to your travel safety list when you are traveling at 40 or older.

Traveling when you’re older isn’t hard but it can be different so here are 3 apps and one item you should never go without if you’re traveling post-40.

Some of you have read my blog post about my favorite 5 things for safe solo travel and my recent blog post about 7 more things you can do to keep yourself safe during solo travel.

Well, here are 4 more of my favorite safety apps & gadgets for solo travel.

First, download the following apps to your phone:

1. Smart Traveler App

The US State Department Smart Traveler App allows you to get real-time information about health and security issues in every country around the world. You can also register and tell the US embassy where you will be and when so that they can alert you if ish jumps off in a country while you are there.

2. Sitata App

The Sitata App is great for domestic and international travel. You can use it to plan your trip, manage your itinerary and avoid travel disruptions plus connect for help if you need it.

3. FirstAid App

The American Red Cross App gives you access to real-time information for emergencies, locations to the nearest hospital in the United States (not international), and quizzes to educate you about what to do in certain emergencies. You can download it to your phone

Quick Tip: For any of these make sure you have the VPN on your device OFF so that the locator is pinpointing your location NOT your VPN location 🙂

Then make sure you pack the following item along with everything I listed in my Blog Post about My Five Favorite Things for Safe Solo Travel.

4 .Rapid Covid-19 Antigen Test (proctored version)

As of the writing of this post, these are the tests available on the market that allow you to take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test in the privacy of your vacation rental or hotel room that will be accepted by major airlines. The key difference with these tests is that a portion of them must be observed by a third party on video.

There are varying prices and requirements for each test so it’s important to visit each website and read the details.

BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Test

Ellume COVID-19 Home Test with Azova

Cue COVID-19 Test for Home or OTC Use

Detect Covid-19 Test

Qured COVID-19 Test

I recommend buying a couple of these proctored home tests and taking them along on your trip. That way you can get tested on your own schedule and based on your needs.

I recently used the Qured rapid antigen COVID-19 for travel to Portugal. It was an easy seamless process. I took the test on the morning of a trip that would take place later that evening. I had my results within an hour of submission. The Proctored portion of the test was quick, easy, and thorough. It is important to purchase the test once you book your flight so that it arrives on time. You must also reserve the date for the observation of your test. So this is not something you should do at the last minute.

It doesn’t hurt to also take a couple of the regular at-home Rapid Covid-19 Antigen as well if you just want to know your status as you travel, just understand you can’t use those results to travel. I like the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test, COVID Test.

Check out this video from my YouTube channel where I explain how I used the Qured proctored COVID19 test for a trip

There It Is – 4 More Items to Keep You on the Road to a Happy, Fun, and Safe Solo Trip!

Want the full skinny on safe solo travel for the Solo Traveling Woman? Grab the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers!

Travel Happy, Travel Safe!

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Recently I did a quick unscientific poll on my YouTube channel where I asked my followers to tell me what aspect of solo travel worried them the most. Of the choices given, overwhelmingly, the answer was personal safety.

Should Women be worried about their personal safety while traveling? Worried? No. Aware – Yes. You should not worry but you should have awareness.

In many Facebook groups, I find that the questions that I hear most relevant to safety are about abductions and assault. Many seem to think that someone is going to come to snatch them from their hotel room or steal their organs. And while I can’t say that these things don’t happen they are not as prevalent as many would have you believe on the Internet.

In my prior life in executive management, I oversaw the safety and security of thousands of people. I was responsible for ensuring that we had the right standards for offices and personnel not just in the United States but across the world. In countries like Ukraine, Serbia, Kenya, Tunisia, and Turkey.

As women, there absolutely are steps that we should take to safeguard our personal physical safety. But did you know that a car accident is a much higher risk than an abduction? Because traffic and safety rules are very different in many countries and the way that drivers operate their vehicles are very different there’s a higher likelihood that you could be in a traffic accident than that you will be abducted from your hotel or Airbnb. Another more likely mishap is that you may slip and fall while walking and twist an ankle, break an arm or tear an important muscle.

There are specific things you can do to safeguard your safety when traveling abroad especially solo to decrease the likelihood of being a victim of a crime or experiencing a vehicular mishap.

I’ll walk through the seven things you should do not just in preparation for a trip but also while you’re on your trip.

1. Exercise Situational Awareness and Common Sense

This means being aware of your surroundings and paying attention to your instincts and your inner voice what we call intuition. If something feels wrong remove yourself. Don’t second-guess it just go. Don’t announce that you are alone. If someone asks you say you’re with a friend or friends. Don’t drink excessively especially when you are out at night. Make sure you have mapped how you’re going to destinations and how you’re getting back ahead of time. Avoid walking alone at night and use a ride share or taxi.

2. Arrive at Your Destination during Daylight

Schedule your arrival at your destination during daylight hours and prior to sunset. My rule of thumb is to arrive no later than 3:00 pm local t Arrival during the daytime allows you to scope out the area surrounding your hotel/vacation rental during the day and determine whether it is a safe and good fit. After check-in, take a walk and find the grocery store, pharmacy, and cafe(s). Figure out where the bus and train lines are located if you did not use them during your transit to the location. Take a walk around the hotel/vacation rental and confirm proper external lighting. If anything is concerning raise it with the hotel or your host, and relocate if major safety red flags arise.

3. Safeguard Your Personal Belongings

Frankly, you’re more likely to be a pickpocket victim than an abduction victim. Invest in a wrist wallet or a money belt to keep most of your money and credit cards close to you.

Book a hotel or vacation rental with built-in safes. Don’t assume that a hotel room or your Airbnb will have a safe. Ask ahead of time whether there is a safe on the premises and use it. If there isn’t a safe I recommend sleeping with your money belt containing your passport, your credit cards, and your cash.

Don’t walk around with all of your cash and credit cards on your person. Do not carry your passport around with you unless the country requires it by law (do your homework). I recommend making several photocopies of your passport at least three. Keep a copy on your person at all times and leave your original passport in the safe in your hotel room or vacation rental. In many countries outside the United States cash is king so research and find out whether most places prefer cash versus credit cards. Only carry the amount of cash that you will need and one credit card. I recommend VISA because it’s generally excepted everywhere.

Be especially vigilant on trains, buses, and crowded areas in major city centers. They are the playground of pickpockets. Keep a money belt under your clothing or use a wrist wallet. If you are carrying a purse, I recommend a small cross-body or waist belt that you can keep your hands firmly while on trains, buses, or walking in crowds.

4. Upon Check-In, Make Sure Entry Points to Your Hotel Room and or Vacation Rental Lock Properly

Upon arrival at your hotel room or vacation rental, check all the entry point doors and ensure they lock properly. If you are in a vacation rental there may be multiple entry points onto the property and into the home or condo. CHECK THEM ALL. Make sure they lock properly and make sure they are locked. If any of them are not working immediately report it to management or your host and demand immediate action. Relocate to another hotel room or rental if necessary. Do not spend the night or leave your valuables in a hotel room or vacation rental without fully operational locks. Supplemental locks and door jams are also great things to bring with you. I like the Addalock and the Jamm Doorstop.

5. Be Very Thoughtful and Careful About Auto Transportation

Auto safety standards vary from country to country. Ensuring that you are traveling in an automobile that is safe is your responsibility. When getting into a taxi or Uber make sure that there are seatbelts that are working and that the vehicle looks to be in good order. Don’t let the driver start driving until you have put on your seatbelt and if the car does not have a seatbelt get out of the car. If the driver has child safety locks on ask them to turn them off immediately. When getting into an Uber or any other rideshare service make sure that you check the license plate to match it with the car on the app. Also, ask the driver for their name before you get into the car.

6. Know Where the Closest Hospital or Urgent Care Centers Are Located in Each City You Will Visit.

As I shared, slips and falls are high risks when on travel, especially to low and middle-income countries. Many of the sidewalks may not be evenly paved, are often narrow and it’s easy to miscalculate your steps and take a tumble. In some places there may not even be sidewalks and you may have to walk in the street risking being hit by a car. If an accident occurs you want to know how to access medical care promptly. As you plan your travel notate the location of urgent care or hospital facilities in your itinerary. Read this blog post where I share 4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL! It shares key apps and tools you should use to organize your itinerary and health information. Also don’t forget that COVID-19 entry requirements may still be in place in many countries. Be sure to travel with your vaccine card and K95 face masks.

7. Be Confident and Have a Good Time

After you’ve done all these things on this list as well as those in my other blog post and guides: Go on your trip do and so confidently. Get out there and see some world!

Check out other Solo travel safety and security tips in prior blog posts HERE, and HERE.

Download the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers It’s packed with tips and information about how to solo travel safely and securely.

Thank You For Reading!

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4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO TRAVEL!

In this blog post, I will share some tips for dating on vacation or solo travel from my perspective as a GROWN AF 50+-year-old woman.

I am happily single and over 50. I relocated from the United States last year and I live in Mexico as my home base and I solo travel on a regular basis.

While I am not looking for or interested in marriage, I am open to a partnership with the right person.

But I haven’t met him yet so as a single girl, I am out here dating and I do not let solo travel or living abroad, i.e. outside of the United States, stop me from meeting new people and living my best dating life.

My friends and follower often ask me questions about dating in Mexico, where I live as well as dating while I am on solo trips.

I am a Black heterosexual 50+-year-old woman, so this post is written from that perspective. But I suspect much of the tips and advice I will share may be applicable regardless of sexual orientation, preference, or age. Apply them as you see fit. These are tips and hacks that work for me. They may not work for you and that is ok.

If you have not already, also check out The Skinny on Dating while on Solo travel and/or Living Abroad, a free-wheeling chat with a couple of my Fly 40+ gal pals where we talk about dating in Mexico and while on solo travel. It was a fun conversation, so definitely watch, like, comment, and subscribe.

Before I we get started a couple of last caveats, my approach to dating might be different because my objectives may be different.

For example, I do not limit my dating options by race or age. I date whoever I want. I have dated men 20 years younger than me and I have dated almost every ethnicity as well. Some of these things I do may not work for you if you are, for example, looking for a husband. So, the first thing to do is be clear and honest with yourself about what you want, and what your dating objectives are. Men are not mindreaders; nobody is. So being honest with yourself and the people you meet while dating will better position to get what you want, whatever it is.

Here is my approach to not only dating while living abroad and traveling solo but dating generally.

1. Put yourself out there and put your best face forward

You can’t win the game if you won’t play. You have to be in the game to win it. Mr. Right or Mr. Right-now is not going to find you at home in your bed unless he’s the Amazon delivery man, so you are likely going to have to put yourself out there in some way.

While I think Black Love is a beautiful concept, I do not limit my dating options to only dating Black men. I date anyone that I find physically attractive and with whom I also feel an intellectual and spiritual connection. This allows me to have lots of diverse experiences while on travel as well as just dating in general.

I find the easiest way to meet new men is through online dating. Yes, it can feel like a cesspool filled with crap, but it’s a big wide pool filled with opportunities as well so pull on your tall wading boots and get in there!

There are MANY online dating apps and I have used them all. But I have had the most success with Tinder, OkCupid, and Facebook Dating. Frankly, I am very busy and do not have time to check multiple apps but other options include Bumble, Hinge Plenty of Fish and many others. I currently use Facebook Dating and Tinder the most because I feel they have a large pool and are easy to use regardless of my location. The reality is that men are visual creatures so the pictures you use are most important in attracting swipe rights. Put up pictures where you felt and looked your best. Your photographs matter most. Make sure they are clear, sexy and recent. Sexy doesn’t mean half naked but it does mean a picture where you are not scowling and dressed in a baggy sweatsuit zipped up to your throat as that may not get many likes.

Put up pictures that show you in your best but most realistic light and get to swiping.

Your essay matters less because most of them won’t read it. I do generally direct men who message me to read my profile before I bother to talk to them as I am very clear about my dealbreakers.

They include:

Anti-Vaxxers

Trumpers

Smokers

Drug Users

Married Men

These are MY dealbreakers. They aren’t open to debate. I also clearly state my disinterest in unsolicited D**k pics (Emphasis on the word “unsolicited”) and older men. Yep, I don’t date men older than me, I prefer men my age or younger. Again, my preference. I am honest and upfront about those preferences. Now does that mean I don’t get an unsolicited D*&k pic from time to time? No. But, I rarely get them.

I have Tinder Platinum (a paid membership subscription). It allows me to see who has viewed me and to swipe backward (in case I skip someone by accident). One of the thing I like about Tinder Gold and Platinum is that you can set your location to the country where you are visiting and then be matched with people in that location. It’s called Tinder Passport. If you are using the free version of Tinder you will likely have less optimal matching than I do for solo travel purposes. For that reason, waiting until you’ve arrived in country may be a better option for you.

Another way to get the same result as Tinder Passport is to use a VPN on your phone and switch your location when you are on Tinder. Not as optimal though. Because I have a paid subscription on Tinder, it is the app I usually use to set up dates while I am on solo travel. I use Tinder and Facebook Dating for local dating in Mexico.

I personally don’t see Tinder as a great place to meet a long-term partner but it is a great place to meet friends and it’s a really great place to meet people who can show you around a new city and tell you things about a new city that you might not otherwise learn as a tourist and a visitor.

Dating While Living Abroad Side note 1:

I have honestly found the caliber of the interactions I have with men in Mexico on dating apps to be different and better than in the United States. Less unsolicited sex talk and D&^k pics and more genuine interest in me as a person. I have found Mexican men to be incredibly chivalrous, affectionate, and fun. They are true gentlemen and very respectful of women. The biggest barrier I have found to date in Mexico is economic disparities and language. Language is the biggest barrier so far for obvious reasons. Because of where I live in Mexico, I have more access to professional men with similar educational backgrounds to mine than other ex-pat women in other parts of the country. Many of the men I meet speak fluent English as well as Spanish but many of them do not and sometimes the economics don’t always match despite our having similar professional and educational backgrounds. I explain some of this on the YouTube conversation on this subject so make sure you check it out HERE. I am not yet a fluent Spanish speaker and that is something I am working on. I expect my dating options in Mexico will be even wider as my Español improves.

So, you’ve swiped and made some matches, and now the fun truly begins.

2. Treat Dating like a social activity instead of a partner or husband search.

Approach it the way you approach meeting any new person for the first time. If you are using Tinder or any dating app with a Global Location option, put your location to the place where you were going at least two weeks before arrival and start chatting with local people. Be open about the fact that you are just visiting and for how long.

Examples:

“Hey, I am visiting for a couple of days, or weeks but would love to make new friends while I’m there.”

“I’m visiting your city for the first time and I’m very interested in checking out places that are not necessarily tourist traps or spots. What’s your favorite thing to do in your city?”

“I am visiting your city for the first time and one of my favorite things is eating a great dessert. Do you like dessert? And if so what’s your favorite dessert and where do you get it?”

You can substitute the word dessert for anything that’s of interest of to you like wine, coffee, food.

If you are not interested in anything physical don’t be afraid to make that clear upfront. Unfortunately, or fortunately (depending on your perspective), in many countries American women, and specifically Black Women, are sometimes viewed as being “easy” and “loose” when it comes to sex. So be clear in your communications about what you want and do not want.

Communicate with multiple people and make plans with those with whom you vibe most.

If a person crosses a line in any way, use the Block button. Do not be too quick to give your phone number for WhatsApp or Signal. I usually stay on Tinder at least a week or more before I give up the digits unless I really connect with someone, which is VERY rare. And remember the block button works on WhatsApp too.

Ask the questions that you want to be answered. If you want to know whether they’re married or have a girlfriend – ask. Just as is the case in America, many men feel perfectly comfortable seeing other women while they are in “committed” relationships if this is something that makes you uncomfortable then it’s your responsibility to ask the questions. Many of them will still lie but at least you will have asked. But many of them will actually tell you the truth if you ask but not if you don’t. So again ASK, because don’t nobody have time for a crazy girlfriend or wife running up on them at a café or bar!

A man who is attracted to you will still try to get the cookies, but honesty is the best policy all the same. Note I did not say that you should say you are traveling solo, I will talk more about safety in the next section. I think it’s smart to let a potential date know you’re just visiting but would love to make a new friend. Ask for advice about great places to eat, and important cultural sights to see. I have found that local people always turn me onto some of the best restaurants off the beaten path. I like to start connecting and chatting at least 2-3 weeks before my arrival in a country as it allows me to vet people through my questions to them and also get intel and info about the country I’m visiting that I might not otherwise receive. I always ask questions about places for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Places for great pictures, historical places of significance, and nightlife.

Dating While Living Abroad Side note 2:

I am less upfront about myself when dating locally. I do not share information about what I do or where I specifically live immediately. I ask a lot of questions about a man’s life (marital status, what he does for a living, his family, pets, social interest, etc). I do engage them about things to do in the city and have been turned into really great restaurants as a result. But I share a lot less initially because frankly, I have more time to learn about a person if they live in the same town or vicinity as where I live in Mexico. I tend to be more open about what I do and where I live (ie Mexico) when meeting someone online ahead of a solo travel trip because I know if I do meet them and spend time with them, it won’t be very long. But I NEVER tell them I am traveling to their city alone nor specifically where I will be staying in their city (more on that below).

3. Be Smart and Safe

One of my favorite sayings relevant to love is “follow your heart but take your brain with you.”

That goes double for dating on solo trips.

Here is a couple of my safety do’s and don’ts while dating on solo travel:

First Meet-Up Rules. Do not allow a person you’ve never met to pick where you will meet for the first meet-up. If you meet them and you hit it off and you feel comfortable then you can do that the second time you meet up.

Ensure your first meeting is in a public place of your choosing. Do not be afraid to say “since we are meeting for the first time, I prefer to meet in a public place, how about X at X time and date?”

If they choose the place (which I don’t recommend), make sure it is a public place and arrive at least 15 minutes early. If you get a bad vibe – LEAVE.

My rule is what I call breakfast, lunch, then dinner.

You don’t have to meet for a meal or drink or coffee. Instead, you can pick a place that you’re interested in visiting and have them meet you there. For example, a zoo, a museum, a famous railway station or Plaza and then do a walk and talk.

What’s a Walk and Talk? One of the nicest things to do on a first date or first meeting is meet in a spot of your choosing like a zoo or museum and you just walk and chat. Some of the best first dates I’ve had in my life started with a walk and talk! You get to see a place you’re visiting in a different light with a local person on a walk. You can also grab a coffee to go for example in a famous plaza and then just walk and talk while you’re drinking it.

Dating While Living Abroad Side note 3:

If for any reason you choose to meet up for the first time in the evening, make it early evening before the sun goes down. Pick a place that you feel comfortable rather than a place that they select. Again, I do not recommend this for a first-time meeting.

End of the Date. If you don’t feel completely at ease don’t let your date walk you back to your place. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or an Airbnb it’s not necessarily smart for a person you just met to know where you are staying. Be thoughtful about how much you share and when you share it. Even if you really like them but just aren’t ready for them to come back to your place, you can have them walk you to somewhere that’s close by and then say good night and go on your own the rest of the way via taxi or Uber.

Remember you call the shots and you set the tone and the pace of how and where things go. So, if you want to take him home with you, do it but just be sure (and have your own condoms!).

Use Your Check-in Buddy. If you’ve been following my Travel safety tips and posts you should know what a Check-in Buddy is.

Make sure somebody knows where you are at all times and if you’re going out on a date with someone you met whether online or otherwise make sure someone knows about it and has a picture of the person and their phone number and any other pertinent information you think they should have.

If you are solo traveling anywhere you should be checking in with someone every day at least twice per day. Before you meet up on any date, make sure you send a picture of the person and their phone number to your check-in buddy. When you return to your hotel room or Airbnb make sure you send your check-in buddy a quick message so they know you got back ok.

4. Stay in the Driver’s Seat

Finally, stay in the driver’s seat. You are going on dates, not looking for marriage or your next great-grand romance.

If you are simply dating for fun as I do, then use your conversations with potential dates to get the information you want. Don’t divulge more than you want to, and only be available if and when you want to be.

Depending on the length of time you will be in town, you may not even have time to actually meet up for an actual date but chatting helps you make connections that could serve you when you return to that destination at a later date. Regardless of whether there is a whirlwind romance or just a friendly connection. Good connections and friendships are valuable. Remember that.

Listen to your intuition at all times. If the person feels wrong, they are wrong. Do not meet up with them, do not go out with them. I don’t care how handsome their picture is or how charming they are.

Solo Travel Date Side Note: In many cultures, someone may invite you to a family event or to go out with a friend after just meeting you for the first time. While it may be harmless on their part if you don’t feel comfortable with it decline politely. Tell them that you would feel more comfortable meeting them for coffee. If they insist pull the plug. Why? if they’re not respecting your wishes that’s not a good way to start any friendship

By following all these steps, you are setting boundaries from the very beginning.

People generally, and men specifically, will treat you how you teach them to treat you. Anyone who pushes back on any of your boundaries is NOT someone you should meet I don’t care how cute, handsome or sexy they may be.

Remember: you are no safer with a person you randomly meet at a hotel restaurant or hotel bar, gym, or supermarket, than a person you meet online. Use the same level of situation awareness. Use the same level of discretion. Check out the BaldGirlWillTravel: A Guide to Travel Safety and Security for Solo Female Travelers, my Guide to travel safety for solo women travelers and to learn more about situational awareness and how important it is.

Final Thoughts.

Dating should be fun. Not anxiety-inducing or stressful.

Don’t approach dating with desperation. it’s not attractive. Men are like buses there is always another one coming so if you don’t like one, you may like the next one, just keep swiping.

If things go well on a first or second meet-up, let nature takes its course but be SAFE, bring your own condoms and check those expiration dates before packing them!

Happy Dating while Solo Traveling, Living Abroad, or wherever you are!

Thank You For Reading!

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Stop believing the myth that when you hit 50 you just shrivel up and die.

Frankly, my life started getting better when I hit 50!

Here are 4 reasons why, in my humble opinion, Life may very well begin at 50.

1. You Get to Embrace Your Own Personal FREEDOM

Many of us become empty-nesters, walk away from bad relationships, and come into our own at 50. Being an empty nester gives you more time and freedom to pursue your personal interest because you are no longer responsible for raising another or multiple human beings. You now have the freedom to pursue that thing, whatever it may be, that you always wondered about. Learn a new language, learn an instrument, go on that trip of a lifetime.

2. Financial Security

Most of us are pretty established in our careers by 50 and are close to the top of our earning potential. It gives us more flexibility and options to pursue interests that we may not have been able to finance in the past. It’s the time in your life when you can book that trip to Bali or Thailand that you always dreamed of but weren’t sure you could afford. Many of us finally have the disposable income and financial security to do things that we would not have been able to do when we were younger like take vacations and invest more in self-care through coaching and therapy.

3. You Embrace the Importance of Time Due to Major Life Changes

For better or for worse, many of us lose our parents, or parents in our 40s and ’50s. There is nothing more life-changing than the loss of a parent at any age but when it happens on the cusp of 50, there is a shift that happens in priorities. It makes you think about the fragility of life and the value of TIME in a way that you may not have before. For me, losing my mother and favorite nephew in 2020 stopped me in my tracks and made me really take stock of my life and examine whether I was living it the way I really wanted. I wasn’t. I decided that it was time for some major life changes so I made them. I sold a bunch of my stuff, packed up the rest, and decamped to Mexico. I quit a job that no longer served my interest and that I no longer enjoyed and decided to work for myself. I couldn’t be happier and I am pretty sure I would not have had the courage to do something like this in my 30s or even 40s.

**4. No more F*&ks**

Frankly, to be blunt by 50 we simply have damn near zero F**ks or Damns left. I can honestly say I have reached the age where I give zero damns now about what people think about anything that I do in or with my life. It started in my 40’s but it truly took hold in my 50’s. I live for myself now and not anybody else and it has allowed me to finally live my very best life right now.

So, there you have it!

The 4 reasons why, in my opinion, Life may truly begin not at 25 or 35 or even 40 but at 50.

When you get to your 50s, it seems to me, you truly begin to embrace Freedom, you usually have more financial security, you Value Time much more and strive to use it much more wisely and you care much less about the thoughts and opinions of others.

What do you think of this list? Do you agree?

Let’s stop being scared to go on that solo trip by demystifying Solo Travel one step at a time! You’re over 40 and have never traveled anywhere by yourself? You’re tired of waiting for other friends to come with you? But you’re a bit intimidated and don’t know where to start?

If you’ve been following me you’ve probably already read my blog post about the 7 things you should do if you’re solo traveling for the first time. You can read that blog post HERE Consider this an update and make sure you add these five additional things to your list especially if you’re in the fly 40+ crowd. now let’s get going with your travel plans but,

Do These 5 Things First!

1. Pick a Place Close to Home

If you’re traveling solo for the first time, consider doing your first solo trip nearby! Leaving the state or country for your first solo travel may be daunting so how about the next closest city or town instead for a short trip say a weekend or 4-day adventure? A short airplane, bus, or train trip will make your first solo travel more manageable. Is there a really cool bed-and-breakfast you’ve been thinking about? A really nice spa? A wonderful beach that’s only a 1 to 2 Hour drive away? Use Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia.com or VRBO, or Airbnb.com to find accommodations. A short weekend trip will feel less daunting and still adventurous and prepare you for a longer solo trip in the future.

2. Make a Travel Plan

The more organized your plans are the more confident you will feel about the trip. Itinerary organizers like TripIt are wonderful for putting all your plans in one place. Reminder: Have a plan for how you’re going to get around. Are you going to take the train are you going to get a driver how are you going to get from the airport to your Airbnb or hotel? If driving, what’s the route you will take exactly?

Include all of this in your itinerary. The more organized you are the more comfortable you will feel.

3. Make a Health & Safety Plan

While the fear of abduction is what many women worry about when traveling solo, I am here to tell you that should be less of a worry than getting in a car accident which is the number one safety risk to travelers. Having a solid safety plan is a good way to lessen the anxiety about traveling solo.

Here Are a Couple of Things You Should Make Sure You Do:

i. Make Sure You Have a Designated Check-In Buddy

Give someone you trust a copy of or access to your itinerary. Agree on a daily designated time to check in with them at least twice per day and stick to it! Agree on what they should do if they can’t reach you for any reason. Make sure your check-in buddy is aware of any chronic illnesses you may have or any medication or include this information in your itinerary notes.

ii. Keep a Record of Your Itinerary Using an Online App Like Tripit

Having all your itinerary information at your fingertips will make you more confident about your trip And make it easy for your check-in buddy to keep track of you.

iii. Know Where Nearby Hospitals Are Ahead of Your Trip

Find out where the closest hospital is to your hotel/vacation rental accommodations and include it in your travel itinerary notes. PS: Don’t forget to bring any needed prescription medication (in the original bottle) in your carry-on bag!

iv. Know the Covid-19 Protocols for the Place Where You Will Visit

Is a vaccine and vaccine card required? Are masks required and where and when?

v. Have a Solid Transportation Plan Upon Arrival

How will you get from the airport, train station, or bus station to your accommodations? Booking your transfer transportation ahead of time will reduce anxiety and stress arrival to your destination. For a full guide to travel and safety and security, check out Bald Girl Will Travel: A Guide to Travel Safety & Security for Solo Female Travelers. It is a guide that covers all the dos and don’ts for safe and confident solo travel for women.

4. Make a Budget Plan

Although women over 40 often have more disposable income, create a budget so you have a roadmap of how you are going to spend your money and where.

5. Book a Group Activity or Tour

Doing group tours will make you feel less alone and put you in a position to meet other people who may also be traveling solo. Airbnb Experiences is wonderful as is Viator and Get your Guide. After booking makes sure you have a phone number of who to contact in case anything goes wrong during the tour. For example, I bought a ticket for a hop-on hop-off bus ride in Palermo Sicily but got mixed up about the meet-up spot. Because I had a phone number I was able to make a quick call and they were able to find me and get me to the right place.

So that’s my first five things you should do right now if you are solo traveling for the first time post 40 years old.

Of course, these tips are good at any age but they are especially important if you’re doing it for the first time in an older age bracket.

I hope this list is helpful.

Cheers!

So I’ve been hinting at this but now I am making it official!

As I shared in my blog post here:

and here:

I am refocusing the BaldGirlWillTravel brand on my love for solo travel as a 50+-year-old black woman.

I will also be using that platform and my new Facebook group to encourage more women 40 and over to embrace solo travel.

Via that platform and website, I will continue to take you on my travel adventures near and far In Mexico and wherever the next great Discount flight takes me😊

So what about my work helping my clients walk away from toxic Hostile and Discriminatory workplaces? Have no fear that work will also continue just in a different way.

To continue to get HR tips about escaping a discriminatory Hostile Work Environment with your 💵💰 on your terms and timeline I invite you to follow me on Instagram at The Anti HR, HR lady. and visit my website The AntiHR, HR Lady HERE.

When I worked in HR every day I always saw myself as the anti-HR HR lady because I always felt that HR actually should be there to support and protect employees. But over time it became clear to me that as long as I was working inside HR I would never be able to meet that goal.

I am a licensed attorney and I worked in HR and oversaw HR for a combined 20+ years. The one thing that I know for a fact is that HR as it is commonly practiced in the United States and elsewhere exists to protect institutions and therefore management of those institutions. It exists to shield them from liability at all cost. I talk about that in my YouTube chat HERE.

In an order to get what you need out of HR you have to understand that and then learn how to leverage that knowledge to your benefit.

HR is not your enemy but they are definitely not your friends. They don’t exist to protect you.

That’s where I come in.

I want you to really understand how to use human resources to further your career development interest. Understanding how to interact with HR and your manager will position you to get whatever it is that you need at work. Whether it’s a promotion, a lateral career change, or an exit on your own terms with your coins.

As your AntiHR, HR lady I am here to shine a light and provide all the information you need to help you navigate your workplace on your terms.

You can follow me for this information in the following places:

Website: https://www.theantihr-hrlady.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antihr_hr_lady/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sannemariearcher

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/BaldGirlWillTravel

You can continue to book a time to consult with me on specific HR issues HERE.

On my new site, I share information about how to walk away from bad work environments on your terms, as well as general HR tips to help you keep your career plans and goals on point. Consider me your personal HR coach and consultant. If you can’t get a straight answer from your HR department let’s have a talk. If I don’t know the answer I will certainly will know how to get you the answer.

Even if you never strike out as an UnEmployable entrepreneur, I still want you to know how to make Human Resources really work for you so that you can get the most out of your job or career.

Whether it’s getting that Pay increase or promotion you’ve earned but have not received;

Understanding how to leverage employer-sponsored professional development opportunities and programs so you can move to the next level in your career;

walking away from a toxic abusive and/or discriminatory work environment with allll your coins

I got you.

My goals have not changed. Just my approach.

My goal continues to be helping as many people as possible, especially black women, walk away from jobs that don’t serve them; and helping them get to the mindset to live their best life possible through Coaching, Career change or my personal favorite – solo travel and living abroad!

So if this interest you go follow me or keep following me.

If you primarily follow me because you love solo travel or you’re interested in moving Abroad then keep following me at:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/baldgirlwilltravel/

And definitely join my new group for Fly 40+ black women who love to solo travel or aspire to solo travel HERE.

See you over at my new platforms!

I will be honest.

I have some ambivalence about Black History Month

I always have.

I’ve always hated the fact that America gave us the shortest month of the year.

For me, black people and our history are to be celebrated 365 days a year 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

America’s continued failure to treat Black Americans as equal citizens of the country their ancestors built is one of the many reasons I chose to move abroad.

Our ancestors built America for free. Our contributions to culture music and every positive aspect of American life is undeniable.

So as I thought about what I wanted to say through my store about Black history month it is simply this:

It’s not a month it’s a celebration of the US 365 days a year 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Because Black history IS American history every single day and WE keep making history every single day. And by we I especially mean Black Women.

From turning the tide in the most consequential election of my lifetime to finally getting a Black Woman on the Supreme Court.

We keep making history.

If you agree, grab your T-shirt sweatshirt or mug and tell everybody else.

All February long in recognition and celebration of the contributions that Black people have made to America, there will be a 25% off discount on everything in the

Baldgirlwilltravel Shop $25 or more.

You will get 25% off any purchase of $25 or more. No code is needed. Discount applied at check out.

The only other time of the year you will see a discount this deep is the holiday season so enjoy it while it lasts.

Celebrate All of us this month but make sure you also celebrate us every single day of the year.

Do it by supporting black-owned businesses not just this month but every day.

We earned it.

We deserve it.

Happy Black history month.

Ps: If you’re not signed up as a subscriber to our store list you should. I will be providing exclusive discounts and sale codes just for subscribers. Sign up today here: https://baldgirlwilltravel.com/etsy-shop/

Happy new year everyone. It is still the new year right (smile)?

You guys haven’t heard much from me since the start of the year as I have been trying to think carefully about communications but I wanted to give you an update on some changes I’m making to ensure a better work-life balance for myself.

As I shared in a recent blog post, I am really focusing on doing things that bring me joy in 2022 and ensuring that even in my work I am putting my happiness front and center while continuing to add value to my customers and clients.

I’ve been rethinking my Hostile Work Environment Escape Strategy (HWEES) program and have made some changes to ensure that I am providing the right kind of information and services to current and future clients.

While I will still provide one-to-one HWEES consulting and advice, I have made some adjustments to how I will do that.

my fees have changed effective January 1, 2022.

Starting January 1, 2022, I updated my 1:1 consulting packages and now offering two 1:1 coaching and consulting options:

Option 1: Four weeks with 4 curated and customized sessions
Option 2: Eight weeks with 7 curated and customized sessions

Consulting package prices have increased for the new year but payment plans will continue to be available.

Because I recognize that my new rates may not be accessible for everyone, the reduced price of the 4-part HWEES webinar series will remain the same.

Participants in the webinar will also receive a 30% off discount code for enrollment in the 1:1 package of their choice.

I will also provide a 30% discount on the 1:1 consulting packages throughout the month of February as we celebrate Black History month in the United States.

Another change for 2022 is instead of the live Wednesday’s “Let’s talk about It“ segment on YouTube. I will be pre-recording short HR tips and information sessions and sharing them with you on YouTube starting in March 2022. They will continue to drop on Wednesdays.

If you have a specific HR question you’d like me to answer or an HR topic you’d like me to discuss, please share it in the comments for each segment and I will make sure to address them in future HR tip spots. You can also email it to me at info@baldgirlwilltravel.com. Questions can be related to leaving or navigating a hostile work environment or any other HR question you may have.

As I shared in my recent blog post, I am prioritizing joy in 2022 and seeking to make time for my number one passion – Travel.

While I will continue to do HR consulting, it is important for me to carve out time to ensure that I am enjoying all aspects of my live abroad life and setting an example for others to do the same.

I will be sharing more about my life in Mexico and my solo travels in upcoming blog posts and on social media. I have noticed the dearth of perspectives about solo travel for single black women over 50 and many have asked me to share more from that perspective so I will!

I continue to be grateful for your support as I continue my adventures in Mexico and beyond!

In this blog post I share my thoughts on whether I think Mexico is currently safe for solo travel and share some tips for ensuring safety when traveling around Mexico.

In early March 2023 in the Mexican border town of Matamoros, 4 Black American tourist were abducted in broad daylight. Several days later, two of them were found murdered, one was injured and the other physically unharmed. There was significant coverage of this story in both USA press and in Mexico. This story really hit close to home for many of us because we are unused to seeing people that look like us in a news story such as this one. This incident resurfaced the age old question of whether Mexico is safe for travel. The reality is that bad things can happen to any of us at anytime anywhere. Matamoros is considered one of the most dangerous places in Mexico. It is unclear whether the Americans were aware of how dangerous was when they drove over the border but my heartbreaks for them and their families. In a recent YouTube Live I share my thoughts on whether I think Mexico is safe for solo travel.

Mexico is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture and history, making it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. However, safety concerns have caused many solo travelers, especially those who are Black women over 50, to question whether it’s safe to travel to Mexico alone. In this blog post, we will explore the safety considerations for solo travelers in Mexico and recommend some non-beach destinations and less touristy beach locations that are worth considering for travel and are known to be safe destinations for solo travel.

Firstly, safety should always be a top priority when traveling alone, regardless of your destination. Mexico has a reputation for being dangerous due to drug cartel violence, but the reality is that most of the violence occurs in specific areas, primarily along the US-Mexico border. The Mexican government has taken steps to improve security in tourist areas, and many popular destinations are considered safe for visitors. However, it is still essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night or in unfamiliar areas.

For Black women over 50, it’s also important to be aware of potential cultural differences that may impact your experience. While I have never personally experienced any racism in Mexico, racism and discrimination exist in Mexico, as they do in many other countries, and some travelers may face microaggressions or other forms of mistreatment. However, Mexico is one of the most welcoming and friendly countries I’ve ever been too and despite isolated incidents, many Black travelers have very positive experiences in Mexico.

Now that we’ve addressed some safety concerns, let’s talk about some non-beach destinations that solo travelers might enjoy. Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites. Oaxaca is another excellent choice, with its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine. San Miguel de Allende is a charming town with a thriving arts scene and plenty of boutique shops and cafes to explore, while Queretaro is a lesser-known gem with a beautiful historic center and lovely plazas to relax in.

If you are looking for a beach getaway, there are plenty of less touristy options to consider. Bacalar is a stunning lagoon with crystal clear waters, while Mahahual is a laid-back fishing village with beautiful beaches and great snorkeling. Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres are two island paradises that offer a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Cancun.

When it comes to accommodations, many solo travelers choose to stay in vacation rentals like Airbnb. However, it’s essential to ask about carbon monoxide detection in any property you are considering. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, and many vacation rentals in Mexico do not have functioning detectors. I strongly recommend traveling with your own Carbon Monoxide Detector. I like this Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector, Battery Powered, Combination Smoke & CO Alarm with Voice Alert. It is small enough to slip into a carryon suitcase.

I share some other travel safety advice for short term rentals specific to Mexico in my video chat so be sure to watch it all the way through. As for getting to Mexico, flying into the country is generally safer than driving, as the highways, especially the non-toll roads, can be dangerous, especially at night.

In conclusion, Mexico can be a safe and enjoyable destination for solo travelers, including Black women over 50. As with any trip, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of potential cultural differences. Non-beach destinations like Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, and Queretaro offer plenty of cultural attractions and experiences, while lesser-known beach locations like Bacalar, Mahahual, Isla Holbox, and Isla Mujeres provide a more laid-back vibe. When booking accommodations, be sure to ask about carbon monoxide detection, and consider flying into the country instead of driving. With a little bit of planning and caution, Mexico can be a fantastic destination for solo travel.

Thank You For Reading!

Check out these solo travel blog posts:

HOW TO TAKE GREAT PHOTOS ON SOLO TRAVEL: 5 THINGS TO DO!

4 MORE OF MY FAVORITE SAFETY APPS & GADGETS FOR SOLO
TRAVEL!