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Tips for Traveling Solo
2006-03-29 14:59:02    CRIENGLISH.com
 (Audio available for download)

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Are you heading off on a big adventure in the coming weeks BY YOURSELF? You've got your plane tickets, your luggage, your passport and your portable music player. You've got all the basics? But if you're traveling by yourself for the first time, you should take note of a few handy hints and tricks.

China Drive's James West is here to bring you these tips and tricks.

Guys - what are some of the benefits and disadvantages about traveling by yourselves that you have discovered?

For me the biggest advantage is that you can really plan everything for yourself, all your time is yours, so you can do exactly what you want. With big groups you often have to accommodate and juggle many peoples different interests. By yourself you can really read, and write and explore your chosen destination freely, meet people without having to make friends in a group. You become completely open to encounters with people. Pairs are closed units sometimes. You can also indulge your hobbies like photography without being hindered.

There are disadvantages too. You can't talk about stuff you've just seen. Eating alone is lonely and you tend to eat poorly on the road by yourself. Security can be a problem. And of course Money - more expenses for the solo traveler which can be split.

But if you are heading out by yourself there are some important things to consider. Here are some basics.

DON'T BLOW YOUR BUDGET

OK. So you've saved up for a long time. Don't blow it all at once on alcohol. Work out ho much you are going to spend each day and really stick to it. Do research before you begin for the cheapest options in terms of hostels and transport options. Check out online deals. You might find that the usually more expensive plane router is cheaper than a railway line that won't discount. Also if you don't ask, you won't know. So ask for discounts everywhere you go, especially at Museums and cultural events. 2 tips I've found useful. For theater and music, most venues offer cut price tickets on the day of the event, sometimes even 2 hours before the event. This means you can see cutting edge national productions for a fraction of the price. Also - carry a student card. Most cultural institutions heavily discount for students.

EAT WELL ON THE ROAD

It's worth staying switched on about your diet. It's very tempting to eat poorly.

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