International tourism
Solo Trip: Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time
Have you ever planned a solo trip, stepping beyond the rigid schedules and compromises of group travelling? Solo travel is a leap into adventure, where every turn unveils a fresh surprise. A solo trip for the first time is an enriching experience that amalgamates excitement and caution.
While the thrills of exploration are immense, it is crucial to prioritise safety and preparedness. With thoughtful planning and an open mindset, solo travel can be a transformative journey. Here are some tips that will help your first solo journey be safer and much more enjoyable.
Ways to Stay Safe for the First Time Solo Travellers
Preparation is Key
Efficient planning can make your trip easier and less stressful. Before you start your journey, it is a good idea to create a checklist of important things you will need.
Make sure to gather all your travel documents like your passport and tickets. Packing suitable clothes for the weather at your destination is mandatory. Do not forget any medications you might need. Book flights, and hotel rooms ahead of the trip. Besides these, take local currencies and credit cards for travel expenses.
Read more: 10 Most Affordable Destinations in Indonesia: Winter retreats on a budget
Share Information with Trusted Ones
Keeping safe during solo travel is important. Try to share your travel plans with someone you trust, so they know where you will be. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in new places.
Choosing Safe Accommodations
When selecting places where you are planning to stay alone, explore different options like hostels, or guesthouses. It is suggested to pick a spot that feels safe and fits your budget.
Checking reviews is important to ensure that the staycation is secure, especially at night. It would be wise to pick accommodations in well-lit areas and places with good security measures.
It is essential to choose accommodation that makes you feel comfortable and secure during your solo trip. Furthermore, keep an eye on your belongings to avoid theft.
Read more: Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways
Stay Connected
One may consider buying a SIM card from the place they are visiting. This helps one stay connected and reachable. With a local SIM, one can use maps and stay connected even without Wi-Fi. Having a local number allows people to access local services and make calls easily during their solo trips.
Moreover, stay active on the internet during your trip. Having a reliable means of communication helps you stay connected and feel secure while travelling solo.
Stay Emotionally Strong
While travelling alone, you may sometimes feel lonely. Staying positive and staying open to new experiences helps keep your spirits high while travelling solo.
10 months ago
10 Overseas Places Bangladeshis Can Visit Under BDT 10,000
Enjoying the unparalleled beauty of nature cannot be measured by any monetary value. However, everything in the world comes with a price, tourism is no exception. Though travelling costs are getting higher day by day, Bangladeshi tourists can visit overseas within a tight budget with proper planning and right information. Let's explore some popular international tourist attractions to visit with 10,000 taka.
10 Overseas Places to Visit from Bangladesh with a Budget of BDT 10,000
Cherrapunji
This city, which is also called Sohra, is situated in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Notable attractions here include Mawsynram, the Double Decker Root Bridge, Mosmai Cave, and Mokdok View Point. Foreign visitors are drawn to enchanting waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls, Thankharang Park, Mosmai Falls, Kalikai Falls, Rainbow Falls, Krangsuri Falls, and Seven Sisters Falls.
To reach Sohra, travelers must take a train from Dhaka to Sylhet and then a bus to Tamabil. The minimum train fare from Dhaka to Sylhet is around BDT 400, and the bus journey from Sylhet to Tamabil costs BDT 35.
Read more: 10 Most Affordable Destinations in Indonesia: Winter retreats on a budget
Upon reaching Tamabil, complete Bangladesh immigration and cross-border checking at Indian customs. Subsequently, a taxi or minibus will leave for Shillong through Dauki Bazaar. Cherrapunji is a bit further, past the Wardslake gate of Shillong.
For budget accommodation, homestays in Naingriat village can be arranged, with room rents for 4 people ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500, approximately equal to BDT 1,330 to 2,000 (Rs 1 = BDT 1.33).
The cost of food can range from Rs 160 to Rs 200 (approx. BDT 215 to BDT 266) per person per day.
All in all, one can travel from Dhaka via Shillong to Cherrapunji and back to Dhaka in 3 days for around 8 to 9 thousand taka.
Read more: Best Asian Alternatives to the Maldives: Affordable Island Getaways
Delhi
Delhi, the Indian capital on the banks of the river Yamuna, retains its popularity among travelers due to its historical significance. Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Chandni Chowk, India Gate, Red Fort, and Emperor Humayun's Tomb are among the city's prominent sightseeing spots.
Dhaka residents can reach Delhi affordably by first taking a bus to Kolkata. A non-AC coach will cost around BDT 890 to BDT 900 per person. From Kolkata's Howrah, they need to take a train to Delhi, with a non-AC sleeper costing approximately Rs 650 to Rs 700 (close proximity to BDT 865 to BDT 931).
Opting for a tour agency's sightseeing package, which typically costs Rs 300 to 500 per person (hovering near BDT 399 to BDT 665), is recommended.
The average daily cost for food is Rs 390 (roughly BDT 519). Double-bed rooms in Paharganj can be found for Rs 500 to Rs 650 (approx. BDT 655 to BDT 865).
Read more: Shopping in Malaysia: What to Buy, Where to Buy from
Shimla
The capital and largest city of Himachal Pradesh in North India is known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Places to visit in the picturesque city include Mall Road, The Ridge, Summer Hill, Viceroy Lodge, St. Michael's Cathedral, Himachal State Museum, and Jakhu.
Budget visitors must first come to Kolkata from Dhaka by the ways mentioned earlier. A minimum of BDT 1,100 will be spent here along with the immigration process. After that, the explorers have to go to Howrah station in Kolkata as before. From there, the Kalka Mail train will take them to Kalka, for which the ticket price will be around Rs 710 (about BDT 945). Toy Train fare for Kalka to Shimla is Rs.50 (close to BDT 67).
A room in Shimla can be rented for Rs 1,000 (near BDT 1,330), and food per day can cost Rs 194 (almost BDT 258) per person.
Read more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh
11 months ago
Damage to int'l tourism in 2020 estimated at $1.3 trillion amid pandemic
Revenue loss in the international tourism sector in 2020 caused by a decrease in travelers crossing borders is estimated at $1.3 trillion, on the back of strict travel bans imposed by countries amid the coronavirus pandemic, a U.N. body said.
3 years ago