Solo Travel with Beth Santos – More Travel Episode 1

In this first bonus episode of Amateur Traveler, we discuss how and why to travel solo, even if you are not single.

My Guest

Beth Santos is the founder and CEO of Wanderful, a global community and lifestyle brand that aims to empower and connect women who travel. She is also the author of Wander Woman, in which she shares insights and advice on solo travel, particularly for women.

Beth focuses on encouraging women to explore the world independently and safely. She challenges common misconceptions about solo travel, especially the notion that it is only for single people or those without families. She emphasizes that solo travel can be a valuable and empowering experience for anyone, regardless of their personal circumstances.

In addition to her work with Wonderful, Beth is known for advocating female empowerment in travel and her efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women travelers.

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Questions

In the podcast episode, several key questions and topics related to solo travel are addressed:

1. What is solo travel, and who is it for?
   • The podcast explores common misconceptions about solo travel, such as the idea that it’s only for single people or those without families. Beth discusses how solo travel can benefit anyone, including those with partners, children, or caregiving responsibilities.
2. What are the benefits of solo travel?
   • Beth talks about the personal growth and self-discovery that can come from traveling alone. She emphasizes how solo travel helps individuals connect with themselves, build confidence, and gain independence outside their usual contexts.
3. How can women travel solo safely?
   • The discussion includes a nuanced view of safety, challenging the overemphasis on safety concerns for women travelers. Beth introduces the concept of a “personal risk profile,” highlighting how different factors (like location, experience, and personal characteristics) affect safety perceptions and realities.
4. What practical advice is there for planning a solo trip?
   • The podcast covers practical tips for planning a solo trip, including budgeting, choosing accommodations, and preparing for different travel experiences. Beth also discusses how to approach destinations and activities to maximize enjoyment and safety.
5. How do you handle loneliness when traveling solo?
   • The episode addresses the challenge of loneliness, offering suggestions for meeting people and engaging in activities to help solo travelers feel connected. Ideas include joining walking tours, staying in social accommodations like hostels or co-living spaces, and attending local meetups or group activities.
6. What are the challenges and rewards of eating alone while traveling?
   • Beth and Chris discuss some people’s discomfort about dining alone and provide tips on enjoying meals solo without feeling self-conscious. They also touch on the broader societal perceptions and pressures around being alone in public.
7. How can solo travelers balance planning and spontaneity?
   • Beth recommends strategies like “Day Zero,” where travelers spend their first day in a new place without a rigid plan to acclimate and explore at a relaxed pace. This approach helps solo travelers adjust to their new environment and make decisions more freely.
8. What should you pack for a solo trip?
   • Practical packing tips are shared, including the importance of packing light, bringing versatile clothing, and ensuring essentials are covered without overpacking.
9. What can someone learn from solo travel?
   • The conversation explores how solo travel can lead to self-discovery, better decision-making skills, and a deeper understanding of one’s preferences and boundaries.
10. How can someone prepare for their first solo trip?
    • Beth suggests starting with smaller trips close to home to build confidence and comfort with solo travel before embarking on more significant adventures.