There’s something utterly magical about a woman setting foot in a new city, armed with nothing but a backpack, a dream, and a well-rehearsed “I totally know where I’m going” expression. Whether it’s sipping coffee in a Parisian café, trekking through the Himalayas, or twirling in front of the Colosseum (guilty as charged!), travel isn’t just about places—it’s about discovering the world and yourself.
But let’s be real—female travellers also face unique challenges. While the idea of solo travel is exhilarating, safety is always a priority. As a PhD student in Neuroscience in France, I’ve had my fair share of adventures (including an unforgettable trip to Rome) and learned a few golden rules along the way.
So, dear wanderers, buckle up as we explore inspiring female travellers, hilarious travel moments, and, of course, some rock-solid safety hacks to keep you roaming smartly.
Trailblazing women who showed us how it’s done
Before we get into practical tips, let’s tip our hats to some iconic female explorers who paved the way for us to wander freely.
- Jeanne Baret (1740–1807) – Disguised as a man, she became the first woman to circumnavigate the globe. Imagine traveling the world and playing dress-up—legendary.
- Nellie Bly (1864–1922) – This fearless journalist travelled the world in just 72 days, proving that solo female travel is as exciting as a Jules Verne novel.
- Freya Stark (1893–1993) – An explorer before it was cool, she navigated the Middle East’s uncharted territories in the 1920s—solo!
- Jessica Nabongo (b. 1984) – The first Black woman to visit every country in the world—talk about a passport flex!
These women ventured out without Google Maps, travel insurance, or airport Wi-Fi. If they could do it, surely, we can handle a weekend trip to Italy or wherever your heart dreams of!
My Roman Adventure: Pasta, Pizzas and Pickpockets
Ah, Rome—where ancient ruins meet modern chaos, and where I, a starry-eyed PhD student, embarked on an adventure filled with art, history, and (too much) gelato.
What I didn’t expect? The sheer intensity of tourist traps and pickpocket ninjas in crowded areas. I saw one guy snatch a wallet with the smoothness of a magician—impressive but terrifying!
Lesson learned? Blending in is key. Locals weren’t walking around with backpacks strapped to their chests or giant cameras around their necks. I ditched my obvious tourist gear for a sleek crossbody bag and a confident “I totally belong here” vibe. Instant upgrade!
Also, confidence is a weapon. Street vendors can smell uncertainty from a mile away. A simple “Non, grazie” (no, thank you) with zero hesitation works wonders in getting them to move on.
Safety Measures: Because Smart Women Travel Smarter
We don’t let fear stop us, but we also don’t walk into dark alleys alone at 2 AM. Here are my go-to safety hacks that every traveler should know:
1. Trust Your Gut (Neuroscience-Approved!)
Your brain is a pattern-recognition genius. If something feels off, trust that instinct. That charming stranger offering to “help” you find your hotel? Maybe not. That shortcut through a deserted alley? Hard pass.
2. The Fake Phone Call Trick
Feeling uneasy in a cab or near a persistent stranger? Pretend to call someone. Say things like: “Yeah, I’m almost at the hotel. See you in two minutes!” “Yes, I sent you my live location.” Most sketchy people will back off immediately.
3. Dress Like a Local (Or at Least, Not Like a Tourist Billboard)
Avoid looking like a lost tourist with a huge map, camera, and open backpack. Observe how locals dress and adapt. In Italy, for example, wearing shorts and sneakers screams ‘tourist’—opt for simple, stylish outfits instead.
4. Keep Your Valuables Safe (Because Pickpockets Are Basically Ninjas)
Use a crossbody bag with a zipper. Keep a dummy wallet with expired cards and a few euros to hand over if needed. Store your passport, emergency cash, and credit cards separately—never all in one place.
5. Know Your Emergency Plan (Google Won’t Always Save You!)
Memorize the local emergency number (in Europe, it’s 112). Have your hotel’s address written down in case your phone dies. Download offline maps before arriving.
6. Stay in the Digital Loop
Join female travel groups on Facebook, use apps like bSafe (which shares your location with trusted contacts), and keep family updated about your whereabouts.
7. The “I’m Not Alone” Trick
If someone is making you uncomfortable, casually drop a: “Oh, my friend is meeting me here in five minutes.” “My husband is waiting inside.” Even if your “husband” is actually the café barista:)
The Fun Side of Solo Travel (Because It’s Not Just About Avoiding Trouble!)
While safety is key, let’s not forget why we travel—for adventure, freedom, and those unforgettable moments that make life richer.
- Making friends with fellow female travellers (instant sisterhood!)
- Saying yes to spontaneous adventures (while staying smart—see rule #1)
- Mastering solo dining like a boss (because you deserve that fancy meal!)
- The confidence boosts from knowing you can handle anything
And let’s be honest—nothing beats the feeling of navigating a foreign city on your own, ordering food in another language, and realizing you’ve totally got this.
Final Thoughts: The World is Yours; Go Get It!
Traveling as a woman isn’t about being fearless—it’s about being fear-aware and prepared. It’s about knowing the risks but refusing to let them stop you. Yes, safety matters, but so does adventure, growth, and the pure joy of wandering into the unknown.
As I continue my PhD journey in France, I know Rome was just the beginning. Where next? Morocco? Japan? Argentina? Who knows! But one thing’s for sure—I’ll be traveling smart, staying safe, and collecting stories worth telling.
So, to all my Wander Women out there: pack your bags, trust your instincts, and remember—you’re capable of so much more than you think.
Or as they say in Rome: Veni, Vidi, Vici! (I came, I saw, I conquered!)
By: Chahat Pathania
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