Exploring the world alone has never been more rewarding. Solo travel surged in popularity after 2020, as adventurers sought independence and personal discovery. These five countries – India, China, Colombia, France, and Spain – capture diverse experiences across four continents. Each offers unique landscapes, rich cultures, and friendly social scenes for travelers on their own. India’s vibrant streets and spiritual retreats, China’s ancient wonders and high-speed cities, Colombia’s transformed cities and tropical rhythms, France’s art, gastronomy and Alpine slopes, and Spain’s lively cities and pilgrimage trails each promise adventure and cultural immersion. This guide weaves together practical tips, cultural insight, safety advice, and itinerary ideas for solo travelers in all five destinations. Read on to discover where your personal style – budget-conscious adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxed exploration – will thrive.
Deciding where to travel alone often comes down to safety, cost, language, and personal style. This table summarizes key factors for each country:
Aspect | India | China | Colombia | France | Spain |
Safety | Moderate (varying by region; some petty scams) | High (strict law enforcement, few crimes against tourists) | Moderate-High (major cities safe but avoid certain areas) | High (well-policed, pickpockets in cities) | High (low crime; watch for petty theft in tourist areas) |
Daily Budget (mid-range) | \$30–50 (low cost of living) | \$50–80 (mid-cost; expats note reasonable prices outside Beijing/Shanghai) | \$40–60 (cheaper than Europe; affordable lodging/food) | \$100–150 (Western Europe standard) | \$80–120 (Western Europe standard) |
Language | English widely spoken in cities and by guides; Hindi/other regional languages locally | Mandarin Chinese; English limited outside hotels/tourist sites | Spanish language; English variable outside tourist areas | French; English common in cities and tourist zones | Spanish; English common in cities/tourist regions |
Social Ease | Very high – locals are friendly and curious (often invite conversation) | Moderate – locals polite but shy with foreigners; group tours can help socialize | Very high – Colombians are outgoing and welcoming; social gatherings common | High – Parisians may seem reserved but solo cafés and tours bridge gaps | Very high – Spaniards are social; late-night tapas and festivals encourage mingling |
Best Season | Oct–Mar (cooler, dry season nationwide) | Apr–May & Sep–Oct (pleasant weather, avoids extremes) | Dec–Mar (dry season, coastal regions warm), Jun–Aug (mountains green) | Year-round (spring/fall ideal; summer crowded) | Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct (mild weather, festive events, fewer crowds) |
Decision Matrix: If you crave culture and history, France or Spain might fit best. For adventure and affordability, consider India or Colombia. New to solo travel? Spain or France (with familiar comforts and English use) can ease the transition. On a tight budget, India and Colombia offer the greatest savings.
Traveling alone anywhere requires good preparation. These universal strategies apply whether you’re trekking through Himachal or wandering Madrid:
India’s kaleidoscope of culture, history, and landscapes delivers a profound impact on solo travelers. Few places offer such a mix of extremes: bustling bazaars and silent ashrams; ancient temples and tech hubs; serene mountains and sunny beaches. For those traveling alone, India can be both challenging and rewarding in equal measure, demanding an open mind and curiosity.
Regional Highlights:
Practical Info:
| Category | Budget ($/day) | Mid-Range ($/day) | Comfort ($/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5–15 | $20–40 | $60–150 |
| Food | $5–10 | $15–25 | $30–50 |
| Transportation | $5–10 | $15–25 | $30–60 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $20–40 | $50–100 |
| Total | $20–50 | $70–130 | $170–360 |
Safety and Etiquette: India requires awareness, not alarm. Crime against foreigners is rare; the main issues are petty scams or overly persistent vendors. Women traveling solo often report minor harassment (leering, unwanted attention) especially in big cities. Effective precautions: avoid remote areas after dark, take licensed cabs or app-based rides (Ola, Uber), and dress modestly (cover arms/legs in villages and religious sites). Always keep a mobile phone with local SIM and hotel info. Travellers note that drinking bottled water only and careful street food choices minimize illness. Lastly, simple gestures like saying “Namaste” (pressing palms together) or “Dhanyavaad” (“Thank you”) are appreciated.
Cultural Note: India’s social fabric emphasizes warmth and hospitality. It is common for friendly strangers to invite you to share chai (tea) or snacks. Accept such offers when in doubt—locals often help find taxis or translators in return.
Getting Around: India’s transportation is affordable but crowded. Train travel offers an authentic experience: booking via the IRCTC website (often requires a local booking agent for foreigners) or 3rd-party apps can secure tickets. Overnight sleeper trains save lodging costs. In cities, pre-paid taxi booths (at airports/stations) ensure fixed fares. Ride-hailing apps are convenient in major metros. Inter-state buses are cheapest, though long and bumpy; many solo travelers prefer the comfort of private vans or flights for longer distances.
Accommodations: A thriving hostel network caters to solo travelers. Hostelworld and Booking.com list many options from dorms to private rooms. Good chains include Zostel and Backpacker Panda with communal kitchens and events. Homestays and mid-range hotels (often called “guesthouses”) are abundant; inquire locally for safe family-run options. In rural areas, eco-lodges or basic guesthouses can be pre-booked or reserved on arrival. Always check recent reviews online for safety and cleanliness.
Sample Itinerary (2 weeks): Delhi → Agra → Jaipur (Golden Triangle) – then Varanasi – then Rishikesh – finally Goa. This balances culture, spirituality, and relaxation, with trains or short flights between regions.
Local Perspective: In a busy Indian train station or temple queue, a shared smile or offering to take someone’s photo can spark a conversation. Relationships here begin with small gestures.
India’s kaleidoscope of culture, history, and landscapes delivers a profound impact on solo travelers. Few places offer such a mix of extremes: bustling bazaars and silent ashrams; ancient temples and tech hubs; serene mountains and sunny beaches. For those traveling alone, India can be both challenging and rewarding in equal measure, demanding an open mind and curiosity.
Regional Highlights:
Practical Info:
| Category | Budget ($/day) | Mid-Range ($/day) | Comfort ($/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $5–15 | $20–40 | $60–150 |
| Food | $5–10 | $15–25 | $30–50 |
| Transportation | $5–10 | $15–25 | $30–60 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $20–40 | $50–100 |
| Total | $20–50 | $70–130 | $170–360 |
Safety and Etiquette: India requires awareness, not alarm. Crime against foreigners is rare; the main issues are petty scams or overly persistent vendors. Women traveling solo often report minor harassment (leering, unwanted attention) especially in big cities. Effective precautions: avoid remote areas after dark, take licensed cabs or app-based rides (Ola, Uber), and dress modestly (cover arms/legs in villages and religious sites). Always keep a mobile phone with local SIM and hotel info. Travellers note that drinking bottled water only and careful street food choices minimize illness. Lastly, simple gestures like saying “Namaste” (pressing palms together) or “Dhanyavaad” (“Thank you”) are appreciated.
Cultural Note: India’s social fabric emphasizes warmth and hospitality. It is common for friendly strangers to invite you to share chai (tea) or snacks. Accept such offers when in doubt—locals often help find taxis or translators in return.
Getting Around: India’s transportation is affordable but crowded. Train travel offers an authentic experience: booking via the IRCTC website (often requires a local booking agent for foreigners) or 3rd-party apps can secure tickets. Overnight sleeper trains save lodging costs. In cities, pre-paid taxi booths (at airports/stations) ensure fixed fares. Ride-hailing apps are convenient in major metros. Inter-state buses are cheapest, though long and bumpy; many solo travelers prefer the comfort of private vans or flights for longer distances.
Accommodations: A thriving hostel network caters to solo travelers. Hostelworld and Booking.com list many options from dorms to private rooms. Good chains include Zostel and Backpacker Panda with communal kitchens and events. Homestays and mid-range hotels (often called “guesthouses”) are abundant; inquire locally for safe family-run options. In rural areas, eco-lodges or basic guesthouses can be pre-booked or reserved on arrival. Always check recent reviews online for safety and cleanliness.
Sample Itinerary (2 weeks): Delhi → Agra → Jaipur (Golden Triangle) – then Varanasi – then Rishikesh – finally Goa. This balances culture, spirituality, and relaxation, with trains or short flights between regions.
Local Perspective: In a busy Indian train station or temple queue, a shared smile or offering to take someone’s photo can spark a conversation. Relationships here begin with small gestures.
Colombia surprises solo travelers at every turn. Once written off by bad press, it now stands as one of South America’s most inviting destinations. The country’s youthful energy, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty come with a spirit of friendliness. But understanding Colombia’s geography and context is key to a smooth trip.
Cities and Regions:
Local Perspective: Colombians often say “Mi casa es su casa” (My house is your house). In practice this means a warm invitation – for example, being offered a share of someone’s arepa (corn cake) on a bus or a quick meal with new friends is common. Accepting these gestures often leads to insider tips and local friendship.
Safety: Updated advice emphasizes that major tourist areas of Colombia (Cartagena, Medellín, parts of Bogotá, coffee towns) are generally safe for solo visitors. Crime is still present: bag-snatching and scams (fake officials, taxi tricks) occur. Practical steps: do not flash cash or jewelry, use only official cabs or app taxis (Uber/Bolt in major cities), and avoid walking alone after dark in quiet streets. Stay on major bus routes and use reputable airlines for long distances. Drug cartel and guerrilla activity are mostly rural issues far from tourist circuits. Always ask locals or hostel staff about current “no-go” zones in city outskirts.
Culture and Connectivity: Spanish is the national language; in rural areas English is rare. Learning key phrases (dónde, agua, baño) builds goodwill. Tap water is mostly safe in cities but bottled is standard. The Colombian diet (empanadas, arepas, fresh fruit) is easy on travelers’ stomachs; smaller tacos or bandeja paisa meals can fill you cheaply. Solo travelers report rich interactions at local markets and festivals: Colombians love dancing to salsa or cumbia, so don’t miss a dance night in Medellín or Cali if you have the chance.
Budget: Colombia is cheaper than Europe or North America, more akin to India or Thailand. A solo traveler’s mid-range budget might be \$40–60/day (including modest hotel, meals, local transport). Hostels can cost \$10–15/night; dorm beds are often air-conditioned. Street food (fresh juices, cheeses) is very affordable. Beware tourist traps in Cartagena, where prices can spike – a mediocre restaurant meal could be \$20-30 in the old town; stick to where locals eat in Getsemaní for half that.
Getting Around: Long distances are usually flown. Domestic airlines (Viva Air, LATAM) often have sales. For budget travel, Bogotà–Medellín is ~1.5 hour flight (~\$50–\$80). Bus travel is extensive: the main bus terminal in Bogotá (Terminal Norte) dispatches coaches nationwide. Solo travelers should book good companies (Bolivariano, Expreso Brasilia) which offer semi-cama seats. Within cities, metro (Medellín) and TransMilenio buses (Bogotá) are clean but crowded at rush hour. Taxis are cheap – always insist they turn on the meter, or use an app to avoid confusion.
France holds a special place for solo explorers: its public transit, safety, and long tradition of welcoming travelers make it a comfortable and enriching destination. Beyond Paris, France offers varied solo experiences from food tours to mountain adventures.
Iconic Regions:
Morzine & the Alps:
Nestled in the French Alps, Morzine is a village tailor-made for solo skiers and hikers. It sits in the Portes du Soleil ski area (650 km of pistes across France/Switzerland), offering vast terrain. Key solo perks here:
Practical Info: In Morzine, consider staying in a chalet dormitory or hostel run (e.g. Les Cimes du Soleil), which organizes nightly communal meals. These are goldmines for sociable solo skiers looking to swap trail tales.
Safety & Solo Habits in France: Overall France is very safe for solo travel. Serious crime is uncommon; pickpockets target Paris and southern train stations, especially in summer – so be discreet with belongings. Restaurants and hotels expect and welcome solo guests. In fact, the French dining culture often involves solitary meals: cafés offer newspapers at the bar for lone patrons, and restaurants will seat you at a small table with a view. Learn a few polite phrases like “Bonjour” (hello) and “S’il vous plaît” (please) — even a quick phrase shows respect and often triggers kinder service.
Transit: France’s TGV trains make city-hopping swift (Paris to Lyon in 2 hours). Night trains can save accommodation costs (e.g. Paris to Nice overnight sleeper). Metro and bus networks in cities are frequent – take a carnet (10-ride ticket pack) for savings. Outside cities, renting a car gives flexibility in the countryside. As a solo female, renting a car is straightforward (car insurance is typically comprehensive); always choose a reputable company.
Spain is often cited as one of the friendliest destinations for solo travelers, and for good reason. Its easy-going culture, late-night social life, and robust tourism infrastructure make it welcoming whether you speak Spanish or not. From Gaudí’s architecture to the Camino pilgrimage, Spain has something for every kind of solo adventurer.
Top Spots:
Historical Note: Spain’s Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) is an age-old pilgrimage route across northern Spain. Solo pilgrims of all ages hike this route to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. An astounding feature: the “albergues” (pilgrim hostels) along the Camino create nightly communal meals and bunk rooms – the perfect environment for making travel companions organically.
Camino de Santiago — The Ultimate Solo Trek: The Camino is ideal for those seeking community on a solo trip. Common routes (Camino Francés from the Pyrenees, ~800 km) take ~4–6 weeks walking; shorter options (Camino Portugués from Porto, ~230 km) take ~10 days. Daily routine: walk 20–25 km in the morning, arrive at an albergue (shared hostel) by afternoon, then join others for dinner. Even without speaking Spanish well, the shared experience encourages chatting in broken English or gestures. Many walkers go alone and leave as a group, so it’s easy to meet people.
Safety: Spain is among the safest major Western countries. Nights are busy and well-lit in cities. Minor crime risk: beware “moto-burglary” (motorbike bag snatching) especially in Barcelona’s crowded areas; carrying your bag on the inside shoulder or across your chest minimizes risk. Women alone can feel secure in cities, though male shoppers often report more late-night hassle in big metro areas (so taxis or rideshares are advisable late at night). In the countryside and smaller towns, relaxed customs prevail. The emergency number is 112 (works across EU) and police speak some English in tourist hubs.
Cost & Budget: Spain’s costs sit between Eastern and Western Europe. A mid-range solo traveler might budget \$80–120/day, including a private room (\$40–60), meals at local restaurants (\$10–20), and transport. Street food (tapas, churros, bocadillos) can be very cheap. Use city travel cards or Tarjeta TUS for buses/metros (for example, 10-ride cards in Barcelona are ~€11). In high season (July-Aug), accommodation prices spike on party islands and beach resorts; consider shoulder seasons for better deals.
Solo Social Tips: Spanish culture revolves around groups, but solo visitors quickly tap into it. Example: in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol or Barcelona’s Plaça Reial, nightlife spills into the streets – simply plopping yourself on a café terrace counts as participating. In daytime, join free “running tours” (jogging with history commentary) or “free tours” (pay-what-you-wish walking tours) to meet others. Spaniards appreciate making foreigners feel welcome; try to greet shopkeepers with a friendly “Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” to get a smile back.
Choosing among these five depends on your interests and concerns:
Ultimately, each of these countries holds unique magic. No matter your style, thorough planning (adequate visa, insurance, and itinerary research) ensures you reap the rewards of solo travel. The first step – choosing to go – often proves the most transformative.
Q: Which of these five is best for a first-time solo traveler?
For an easy introduction, European France or Spain often top the list. They have reliable infrastructure, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and cultural differences are smaller for many Western travelers. These countries handle tourists daily, so you’re unlikely to face chaotic logistics. India and China are incredible but require more planning (visas, apps, language). Colombia can be safe but monitor local advisories. If it’s your very first solo trip, a big city like Paris or Barcelona can build confidence before venturing further.
Q: What’s the safest pick right now?
By most measures, France scores highest on official safety indexes – very low violent crime and strong emergency services. China also rates very safe for violent crime, though remember the political context (avoid protests, follow local laws). Spain and Colombia fall in the middle; both have safe cities but also know pickpocketing (Spain) and certain risk areas (Colombia). India has isolated safety concerns (petty theft, traffic risks), but most visits are trouble-free if you take basic precautions. Always check current travel advisories (for example, the U.S. State Dept or your country’s foreign office) as situations can change.
Q: Which destination is best for making friends quickly?
Spain and Colombia shine for socializing. Spanish tapas culture or Colombian café bars naturally encourage conversation. Both countries have tons of hostel hangouts and friendly locals who speak enough English to chat. In Spain’s cities, sitting at a busy bar or joining a group tour yields instant company. Colombia’s warmth means random people may strike up a conversation in a coffee shop. In India and China, meeting people might take more effort (language is a barrier and social interaction styles differ), though international hostels exist in big cities. In France, solo travelers do make friends but might need to be more outgoing or join structured events (like a wine tasting class).
Q: Which country is best for traveling on a budget?
India and Colombia are the clear winners for cheap travel. In India, you can eat a satisfying meal for $1–3, and dorm beds under $10. Hostels and local trains are extremely cheap. Colombia is also cheap by Western standards: local meals for $3–5, buses are low-cost, and hotels often surprisingly affordable outside peak season. China is moderate – cheaper than Europe but more expensive than India, especially for hotels. Spain and France are expensive. Madrid or Barcelona hostels start ~$20, and restaurants easily $15–30 per meal. But savvy travel (street food markets, shared dorms) can shave off some cost.
Q: What’s best if I don’t speak the local language?
English will get you far in France/Spain in tourist zones, though learning a few local phrases is always polite (bonsoir/gracias). India is surprisingly English-friendly in cities and tourist areas (English is an official language, though pronunciation varies). Colombia – English is less common outside tourism spots; carrying a phrasebook or language app is helpful. In China, English signage is minimal beyond big hotels and airports. A translation app (with voice input) or phrasebook is crucial; learning basic Mandarin greetings can break ice. In all cases, a smile and simple hand gestures bridge gaps, and pointing to maps or menus works too. Locals appreciate any effort to speak a few words in their language.
Q: What’s a good itinerary for a 7–10 day solo trip in these countries?
India (10 days): Delhi – Jaipur – Agra – Udaipur (north India loop) or Kerala backwaters – Kochi – Kovalam (south route).
China (7 days): Beijing – Xi’an – Shanghai (mainland triangle).
Colombia (10 days): Bogotá – Medellín – Cartagena – possibly a day in Salento (coffee region).
France (10 days): Paris – Loire Valley – Lyon – Nice (touching north, center, south).
Spain (10 days): Barcelona – Valencia – Seville – Granada (covering coast and south).
Focus on one region per week, travel by train or short flight, and spend 2–3 days in each spot.
Q: Is India safe for solo female travelers?
Many women travel solo in India, but cultural differences mean extra vigilance is wise. Public spaces are male-dominated, and catcalling or staring can happen. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) especially in smaller towns or religious sites. Avoid lonely areas after dark, and always use metered rides or ride apps for taxis/rickshaws. Women-only dorms are available in many hostels. Fitness and confidence go a long way; many female backpackers recommend a firm tone when saying “No,” and smiling. If you ever feel unsafe, head to a tea shop, hotel lobby, or any place with women present. Indian society overall is respectful of foreigners; just blend prudence with respect.
Q: Which areas should I avoid in Colombia?
Avoid rural border zones (with Venezuela, Ecuador, or Panama) as they can host smuggling and guerilla activity. Within cities, neighborhoods known for crime (e.g. parts of Callao in Cartagena, some outskirts of Bogotá) should be skipped. Stick to well-trodden areas: Medellín’s Poblado and Laureles, Bogotá’s Chapinero and Zona Rosa, Cartagena’s walled city. Do not travel alone at night through isolated parks or neighborhoods far from the city center. Always ask hostel staff or locals if a route seems dubious. The vast majority of tourist itineraries (city tours, national parks like Tayrona) are fine with normal travel caution.
Q: How do I avoid common taxi/transport scams?
Always use official or app-based transport. In India/Colombia, book rides on apps (Ola/Uber in India, Beat/Didi in Colombia) so the fare is set. In Europe, use licensed taxis or Uber (though availability varies by city). If negotiating a private taxi, insist on the meter or agree on a price before boarding. Keep an eye on the route via your phone map. Watch out for “helpful” strangers offering to guide you to a taxi; politely decline and walk to the official stand. If a driver tries to take a longer route, speak up or stop and consider taking another car. For trains and buses, only buy tickets from official counters or apps – avoid touts selling “spare” seats.
Q: What are the most common scams in France/Spain?
Pickpocketing tops the list. In France’s metros or on Paris buses, bags can be slit; in Spain, watch your wallet in crowded bars. Use anti-theft backpacks (which lock) or keep a slim wallet in a front pocket. Other scams include “gold ring trick” (they pretend to find a ring on your chair and pressure you into giving money as reward) – just ignore it and move on. In touristy spots like La Rambla (Barcelona) or Eiffel Tower lines, random people may distract you (e.g. ask you to sign a petition) while an accomplice pats down your pocket. Politely say you don’t know enough Spanish or are in a hurry. Overall, stay alert but don’t let fear ruin your experience.
Q: Is it safe to go out alone at night?
Barcelona: Busy areas like La Rambla and Gothic Quarter are safe on a summer night, but stick to well-lit streets. Avoid empty side alleys.
Medellín: In neighborhoods like Poblado or Laureles, nightlife is active late. Taxis or the metro (until midnight) are safe at night. In less-touristy areas, take a cab.
Delhi: Stick to busy tourist zones. The metro stops by 11pm, so after that use prepaid cabs. Some areas like Chandni Chowk close early. Generally, have a local SIM to book vehicles rather than wandering.
As a rule, wherever you are, stay in a group if possible after bars, or use a taxi/app. Let your accommodation know if you plan to be out late.
Q: What should I do if I’m being followed or harassed while traveling solo?
First, trust your instincts: if someone’s making you uneasy, get to a public, well-lit area immediately (a café, busy street, or shop). If on foot, increase pace or cross the street abruptly. If it continues, loudly call for help or pretend you’re on the phone speaking urgently (“I’m being followed” loudly works). Going into a shop and locking the door behind you is a good tactic. In a vehicle, ask the driver to stop and make a scene (shout “help”). Always have emergency numbers on speed dial and use them quickly if needed. Remember: your safety is most important—don’t worry about politeness if you’re in danger.
Q: How do I plan a solo trip itinerary without overplanning?
Start with fixed essentials: book your flights, first night’s stay, and any must-see tickets (like the Taj Mahal or Louvre) well ahead. Then sketch a rough route: 1–2 major activities per day, but allow blocks of free time. Solo travel shines with flexibility. For example, plan morning museum visits and leave evenings open to wander or meet people. Use guidebooks or travel blogs for spacing: e.g., limit yourself to one region per 7–10 days to avoid burnout. The aim is a framework, not a minute-by-minute script. If you find a local tip or feel like staying an extra day somewhere, you can adjust. Carry a small notebook or app to jot down spontaneous must-sees you learn about on the road.
Q: Should I book accommodation in advance or stay flexible?
A mix is ideal. Book your first 1–3 nights ahead so you have a base on arrival. If traveling high season or a holiday weekend (summer Europe, New Year), book more nights ahead. After that, you can decide day by day by using apps or walking hostels in the evening. In India or Colombia off-season, many hostels have beds available even same-day. In Europe, a same-day budget hotel might cost more or be full, so a strategy is to reserve free-cancellation options and finalize plans a week or two out. Always have the name of at least one backup hostel in each city.
Q: Is it better to base in one city or move around?
It depends on your style. Slow travel (base in one city): You unpack once, meet locals or expats, and get to know the rhythm. Good for introverts or if you want cultural immersion (study, volunteer, or take long classes). Hopping around: You’ll see more sights in a short time, which many solos prefer (especially on limited time). If you do move, try the “hub-and-spoke”: Stay 3–4 nights in one city, taking day-trips from there instead of re-checking in/outs. For example, base in Madrid and take trains to Toledo/Segovia, or stay in Goa with one-day trips along the coast.
Q: What travel insurance do I need for solo travel?
Don’t skip insurance. At minimum, you need medical evacuation cover (airlifting back to a good hospital) and decent medical coverage (at least $50,000). Check that it covers high-risk activities if you plan trekking or scuba diving. Some European or Australia insurance covers just the basics; you may need a supplement for tropical countries. Also get a policy that covers theft of personal items (laptops, passports) – these happen. Print your policy and emergency hotline, and store an online copy. If your home country has a travel advisory system, note if your insurer pays out under political unrest/warnings (some exclude areas flagged at traveler alert level 3-4).
Q: How much cash should I carry and where to store it?
Carry just enough local currency for 1–2 days’ expenses (lodging tip, small vendors, snacks). For example, $50–100 local currency. Keep a second credit or debit card as backup in a separate place (hotel safe). Always split money: hide some in your day bag, some in a money belt or pocket, some in your suitcase. If you need larger sums, use ATM withdrawals at reputable machines (inside banks or hotel lobbies) and do it during daylight. In high-risk areas (some big cities in India or Colombia), keep most cash hidden until you need it; pickpockets often operate by bumping into tourists on the street or train.
Q: How to use trains in France/Spain vs buses in Colombia/India?
France/Spain (trains): High-speed trains (TGV/AVE) cover long distances quickly. Book at least 1 month ahead for the best prices (some tickets released 3-6 months out). Use the official sites or apps (SNCF for France, Renfe for Spain). Validate tickets if required (usually done automatically with e-tickets). Seats are reserved on high-speed trains. Metros and regional trains in cities are convenient for short hops; buy a day pass if you’ll make multiple trips.
Colombia: Intercity buses are the main mode. Companies like Expreso Bolivariano, Transmiera, etc., run well-maintained coaches. Book longer routes online (e.g. Bogotá–Medellín) but local buses can be bought at terminals. ADO is the Mexican bus company sometimes in Colombia too. Flying domestic (Avianca, Viva Air) can save time but cost more.
India: For distance, trains are safer and more comfortable than long-distance buses. Use IRCTC.in or Cleartrip to book. Sleeper class is crowded; second AC is best compromise. If trains sell out, long-distance Volvo/AC buses (RedBus app, private operators) are a backup. Within cities, local buses run everywhere, but can be chaotic—metros or ride-hail are easier.
Q: What should solo travelers do if they get sick?
First, self-care: stay hydrated, rest, and use over-the-counter meds (ibuprofen, Pepto) for mild cases. If symptoms persist or worsen (fever above 38°C/100°F, severe diarrhea, breathing issues), see a doctor.
India/Colombia: Pharmacies are everywhere; you can often get antibiotics or antivirals with minimal hassle. For anything serious, use walk-in clinics (“normalización”) or private hospitals (with insurance, English-speaking staff). Telemedicine is also an option via apps.
China: Clinics often have English services in major hospitals. Carry basic prescriptions. Some insurance providers partner with local hospitals.
Europe: EU citizens can use the EHIC/GHIC card. Others find English-speaking doctors easily in tourist areas.
Always keep your insurance helpline handy – many have 24/7 phone support with multilingual staff to direct you to the right hospital or advise care. Never tough out something serious for fear of cost; a short hospital stay abroad is cheaper than an untreated illness. And remember: food poisoning or flu aren’t crimes – others will understand you being laid up.
Q: What do I do if I lose my passport?
Immediate steps: Go to the nearest police station and report the loss/theft. Get a copy of the report – your embassy will want it. Contact your country’s embassy or consulate; they issue emergency travel documents (often just enough to get home or to your next country). Many embassies offer a walk-in “consular section”; hours vary, so check in advance. Replace all important cards: ring your bank to cancel stolen cards and email backups. If you had travel insurance, report it now. Carry any extra ID you had (old copies of passport, driver’s license) until the new docs arrive. Expect lines and bureaucracy, but consular staff are usually efficient and helpful when they know you’re alone.
Q: How do I stay safe on trains, buses, and night transport?
Trains: Keep your belongings secured. Use an inside pocket or a small lock for your bag. On overnight trains, strap your bag to the berth with a cable lock or belt. If in a cabin or private compartment, lock the door from inside. In shared sleepers, roommates are often friendly, but trust your instincts – good judgement goes a long way.
Buses/Coaches: Many buses have overhead bins; keep valuables on you (money, documents). In India/Colombia, fill your water, snacks, and a small blanket before boarding – local stops can be unpredictable. Use well-lit overnight terminals and line up for known bus companies rather than ambushing a departing bus.
Rideshares/Taxis at Night: Double-check license plates or driver details before boarding. If possible, share the trip with an app friend or tell someone where you’re going and the driver’s name. In the rare event the route is clearly wrong, say you need to exit.
Q: Do I need ETIAS for France/Spain now?
Not yet. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to start in late 2026. Until it’s live, visa-exempt travelers (Americans, Canadians, etc.) do not need any pre-approval – just a valid passport. However, always check the latest news: this could slip. So by the time you travel, you may need to apply online at least a few days before your flight (similar to US ESTA). Keep an eye on official EU travel sites for updates.
