Embrace the benefits of solo travel with seasoned tips to conquer fears, make the most of any trip and respond confidently to concerned loved ones. From the best places to visit solo to how to make plans for unexpected hiccups— in this episode of Unpacked by Afar, audio engineer and solo traveler Nicolle Gatleland chats with Pamela Holt, the host of TV Show, Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, and Bonderman Travel Fellowship advisor, Brook Kelly, to give you the tools to safely enjoy traveling alone. 

Going Solo, But Not Alone.

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• How to conquer common fears and feel safe while traveling alone. 


• Tools to embrace the benefits of a solo trip and connect with others. 


• Tips to ease the concerns of loved ones and translate your experiences. 

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When Women Embrace Solo Travel. 

Don’t miss these memorable moments: 

[02:13 ] 80 countries by age 50. The origins of a solo travel evangelist. 

[12:06 ] French fries, new friends and avoiding arrest in Russia. 

[40:32 ] Overcoming self (and parental) doubts about the safety of solo travel. 

Feeling Nervous About Traveling Solo? 

At age 23, Afar audio engineer, Nikki Galteland, traveled solo for 8 months with The Bonderman Travel Fellowship. Her advisor, Brook Kelly, continues to help hundreds take safe and meaningful solo trips. She shares how to prepare for the unexpected, ease the concerns of loved ones and get the most of a solo trip. 

In this episode, Nikki also interviews Pamela Holt, the host of Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, who vowed to visit 80 countries by the time she was 50 (mostly solo). She shares anecdotes and advice to help you overcome barriers, connect with others and embrace the joy of solo travel. 

Resources

• Read the transcript of this episode. 


• Explore more Afar content for solo travelers—from the best places to go solo to how to make friends on a solo trip. 


• Need help getting travel insurance? We got you. 

Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us.

And a special thanks to our Unpacked sponsor, Tourism Ireland, who shares our belief in the life-changing power of travel. It’s always a good time to visit Ireland—explore more and book your trip today.