Sunday, July 1, 2007

Traveling alone

Most people like traveling ,but may not know how to travel alone.These are very generic tips which will help you to travel alone without trouble.

* Find out information about the place from the web .There are lot of information available on Wikipediaand wikitravel.
* Be aware, in some places hotel owners dont give the room for a lonely traveler,since they think that these people have a "potential " to commit suicide.Avoid these places ,or try doing a booking over phone before you reach there.
* Carry a light backpack.Backpacks are easy to carry if you are forced to walk a long distance.
* Dont keep all cash in one place.Carry only one credit card (preferably) or debit card.If someone snatches your purse ,make sure you dont have much to loose.
* Carry biscuits or other "ready to eat" food items and water .If you dont find any good hotel to eat you can have this.Dont drink water from outside.
* Have a light meal and eat lots of banana.Banana will help you to achieve a "stable stomach" and ensures smooth bowel movement.
* Carry mosquito repellent always.
* Wear comfortable clothing (t shirts /track pants/kurtas/cargos/khakis).
* Dont carry expensive cellphones and other gizmos.Carry a basic cellphone .Criminals always nails down a "prey" based on looks and gadgets they carry.Always try or pretend to be commoner .
* Use public transport ,buses and train.Try avoiding auto rickshaws or taxis since they charge horrific rates and may be operated by criminals.
* Dont go walk /trek all alone especially in forest or other lonely places.Try walking along with other groups.Criminals and animals are a real threat.
* Ask shop owners or policeman if you are unsure about a place.They can give very good information on other nearby tourist destinations and good hotels.Avoid touts.
* Manage your time very well.Travel becomes horrible if you run out of time.
* If you want the travel to be memorable, you need to walk or trek and this requires lot of fitness.