Ep 72 | Solo Traveling with Gemma Thompson

Spark Joy

Taking to the road alone is a brave decision. We're exploring solo traveling with award-winning writer, podcaster, and solo female travel specialist Gemma Thompson.

Today's guest is Gemma Thompson. Gemma is an award-winning writer, podcaster and specialist in solo female travel. In 2014, she published the popular anthology ‘A Girl's Guide to Travelling Alone’, and has also recently launched a podcast of the same name.

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In this episode, you’ll enjoy:

• Gemma’s favorite adventure: The Great Barrier Reef

• Why it’s a good idea to try solo traveling at least once

• How to stay safe while traveling solo:
  -- Be aware of cultural differences
  -- Be aware of civil unrest

• How a door wedge can keep you safe: Security Door Wedge

Tips for a great solo trip:
-Make sure the things you want to do most are accessible from where you are staying
-Plan your route beforehand at least from the airport to your hotel
-Make sure you have a couple of alternative routes to the hotel just in case
-Have the address and route written out on paper in case your phone doesn’t work
-Have a currency conversion chart and common words translated ("please," "thank you," "how much?")

Tips for eating alone:
-If you want to go to a fancy place, lunch is a good option to feel a little more comfortable
-Don’t overthink it. People aren’t really paying attention to you
-Research spots first to find the most solo friendly places
-It’s ok to take a book
-But, try not to look at your phone the whole time

What Sparks Joy for Gemma:
Her daughter!
The joy of waking up in a new country.

To connect with Gemma Thompson, you can find her at:
girlsthattravel.com or on Facebook and Instagram

Gemma's podcast: A Girl's Guide to Travelling Alone

Gems:

"The best things happen when you're just wandering around."

"Doing the research is absolutely key when you're traveling alone."

"You have to respect the culture of the city or the country you're going to."

"Once you've eaten out on your own a couple of times it gets easier and it doesn't feel awkward."

You can find Karin Socci at The Serene Home
You can find Kristyn Ivey at For the Love of Tidy

Special Guest: Gemma Thompson.