From Costa Rica’s social surf towns to Norway’s remote Arctic landscapes, new data and traveller insights reveal where solo female travellers feel most secure.

All signs point to solo women driving today’s travel trends. Multiple tour operators report that the demographic is among their fastest growing segments, especially women over 50 who aren’t waiting on companions to get up and go. Searches for “solo travel for women” have surged 30% worldwide over the past five years.

Despite increased interest, many women still have valid safety concerns. In a February 2026 survey conducted by Talker Research for Road Scholar, 59% of respondents said walking at night was the aspect of solo travel that gave them the most pause. Women were also more likely than men to cite safety as the reason they hadn’t yet travelled alone.

There is no single global index that captures how safe countries are for solo women travellers. Instead, we analysed the latest Georgetown University Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index – which ranks countries on women’s inclusion, justice and security – alongside the Global Peace Index, and spoke to women travelling alone about where they felt most at ease. Here are five of the countries that stood out this year, and how to best navigate them as a solo woman traveller.

Costa Rica

This Central American country was recently named one of the world’s happiest – and it has also recorded one of the most significant jumps in the WPS Index, rising from 60th to 34th. The shift reflects broader gains in women’s inclusion and security, alongside a growing influx of remote workers drawn by its digital nomad visa.

“Costa Rica is one of the easiest places in the world to meet people as a solo woman,” said Molly Gagnon, a travel agent specialising in solo travel at The Social Solivagant, who has returned every year since 2021. She points to the strong mix of expats, surfers and entrepreneurs clustered around Santa Teresa and Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula’s Pacific side. “You naturally meet people in surf lessons, yoga classes, cafés and even just walking on the beach,” she said. “The culture fosters independence. It’s very normal to see women doing things solo.”

For first-time visitors, she recommends booking one or two structured activities early in the trip – like a surf lesson or a guided hike – to accelerate meeting people, and opting for boutique hotels or social guesthouses over isolated holiday rentals.

The peninsula’s Caribbean side offers its own unique vibe. “The vibrancy and peacefulness along the coastal beaches was something I never had experienced before,” said Ashley Hunter, a communications manager at Signature Travel Network, who recently solo travelled south of Puerto Viejo. “I would take photos during the day, and when the rain rolled in, I’d find a quiet place to tuck away, grab a snack and sketch from those images.”

Estonia

Estonia ranks 11th on the WPS Index – its highest-ever position – with strong gains in women’s health outcomes, financial inclusion and perceived community safety. It also sits 24th on the Global Peace Index, reflecting low crime rates and political stability.

“Throughout my time in Estonia, I couldn’t have felt safer,” said Veronika Romane, who blogs at Aim To Discover. Tallin’s Unesco-listed Old Town is an ideal starting point. “It’s intuitively easy,” Romane said. “Pebbled roads, small shops with traditional crafts and food, an art scene and the rich history of Tallinn’s streets made me feel completely at ease exploring on my own.”

Solo traveller Ioana Moga recommends visiting the Kiek in de Kök Museum and Bastion Tunnels, comprised of multiple medieval towers. “Kiek in de Kökmeans ‘peek into the kitchen’ because people in the tower could see into the kitchens of the people across the street,” said Moga, who chronicled the trip on her blog. “My favourite part was going underground and walking through the tunnels that were used for a variety of purposes for many centuries.”

Just west of the capital, Tabasalu Nature Park offers a scenic nature escape, where limestone cliffs rise above the Baltic Sea. “It was the perfect place for a peaceful and scenic hike,” said Romane. “I felt at peace being there alone. The few people I met in the area were very kind and welcoming, simply there to enjoy nature just as I was.”

Vietnam

Ranking 38th on the Global Peace Index, Vietnam has risen three places year-on-year and remains one of the highest-ranked countries in Southeast Asia. It also performed relatively well in the WPS compared to neighbouring counties, particularly for women’s perception of community safety.

“I found everyday interactions to be warm and welcoming here,” said Gagnon, who also visited Vietnam solo last year. “Simple moments, chatting with a café owner, joining a street food table or taking a sleeper bus create organic social opportunities. It’s a place where your ‘social cup’ gets filled naturally.”

She recommends joining one of the country’s many small-group tours, which focus around everything from cooking to food to riding motorbikes, as an easy entry point for solo travellers. But she also recommends reaping the rewards of spending time with locals.

“I’ve returned to Vietnam multiple times, trekking in Sa Pa with a Hmong guide, staying in homestays in the Mekong Delta and spending Tet in the Central Highlands with a local family,” said Tracy Smith, author of The Purpose of Getting Lost: A Story of Finding Myself. “I was struck not only by the beauty of the country but by how safe and welcomed I felt travelling alone. I’m returning this spring to attend my former guide’s wedding.”

Her advice: move beyond checklist tourism. “Work with local guides, consider homestays and be open to slower, more relational travel,” she said. “Vietnam rewards curiosity and respect, it’s a country best experienced through connection.”

Uruguay

Uruguay has also climbed sharply in this year’s WPS Index, rising from 59th to 35th, driven by strong scores in justice and security, including low rates of violence against women. It is also ranked as the second most peaceful country in South America (just after Argentina) on the Global Peace Index.

“I immediately noticed the easy-going vibe,” said Claudia Tavani, who wrote about her experience at her blog. “Uruguay is incredibly chill with very welcoming people. I visited in mid-March when there weren’t many tourists around, so I got to meet many locals who were always ready to chat and share interesting stories about the country, its history and its culture.”

Visiting Colonia del Sacramento in southwestern Uruguay is a particular highlight, particularly the Barrio Histórico where most of the country’s attractions can be found. “It’s a maze of cobbled alleys with whitewashed walls and colourful bougainvillea pouring over the streets, and the vintage cars add a unique touch,” said Tavani. She recommends stopping for sunset at Calle de los Suspiros (a well-preserved street that once featured the city’s historic brothels) or at the lighthouse of Colonia.

For beach vibes, she recommends Punta del Diablo, a fishing village on the eastern coast over the better-known and busier Punta del Este. “It’s much more easy-going and safer to explore alone,” she said. “The beach is a nice spot to hang out in the sun and swim.”

In Montevideo, renting a bike and cycling among the ramblas beside the Rio de la Plata is an easy way to explore. Tavani also highlights Carnival – which takes place mid-January to late February or early March – as a much more laid-back alternative to Rio’s celebrations.

Norway

Ranked third on the WPS Index (tied with Sweden), Norway scored highly for its welfare protections, equal pay and community safety. The country has consistently placed in the top three since the index began in 2017, and its strong social safety net (which includes universal healthcare, parental leave and state-funded childcare) underpins a culture where women actively participate in the workforce and government.

For solo women travellers, the appeal is as much about nature as safety. “Travelling solo here was effortless,” said Janice Lintz, who said her expedition cruise here was one of the most extraordinary trips she’s ever taken. “The wildlife [in Svalbard] was beyond anything I imagined. We saw polar bears, bearded seals, walruses, Arctic foxes and reindeer. We also saw pancake ice at around 82 degrees north, which was surreal.”

The comfort and sense of wellbeing persist even outdoors in the dark. “I always felt safe, even when photographing the night sky,” said Lisa Michele Burns, founder of travel photography club The Wandering Lens. Burns has visited Norway twice alone, once in winter to photograph the northern lights and once at the end of summer, spending much of her time in the northern region around Bodø and the Lofoten Islands. “The dramatic coastlines provide the perfect environment to wander, soak in the beauty and sounds and photograph slowly and watch the conditions unfold,” she said.

Even though Burns loves the outdoors, she also appreciates the country’s cosy hotels. “The Rorbuer [traditional fisherman’s housing now converted into cabins] and Scandinavian interior design are other reasons I’ll always have Norway on my list of places I’d love to return to,” she said.

Burns recommends solo travellers hire a car and map out a journey through small villages and viewpoints in the Lofoten region, with plenty of unscheduled time built in. She highlights the pink sand shores of Mjelle, the beaches at Unstad and Haukland and the fishing village of Nusfjord.

Here are the top 10 safest countries for women travellers, known for security, friendliness, and unforgettable experiences.

Iceland: Iceland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world. With low crime rates, welcoming locals, and well-maintained infrastructure, women can explore cities, waterfalls, and glaciers with peace of mind. Reykjavik and the Golden Circle are must-see spots.

New Zealand: New Zealand is perfect for solo female travellers who love adventure. The locals are friendly, public transport is reliable, and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring fjords are safe and well-organized throughout the country.

Finland: Finland offers a combination of safety, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Helsinki’s vibrant culture, the magical Lapland, and serene lakes provide peaceful travel experiences. Women travellers can enjoy excellent public transport and a highly secure environment.

Canada: Canada’s diverse cities, friendly locals, and low crime rates make it ideal for solo trips. From Vancouver’s mountains to Toronto’s urban charm, women can explore safely while enjoying multicultural cuisine, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Switzerland: Switzerland is renowned for safety, efficiency, and stunning scenery. Clean cities, punctual public transport, and low crime rates make it easy for women to travel independently. Alpine villages, lakes, and Swiss chocolate add to the charm.

Japan: Japan is incredibly safe for solo female travellers. Its low crime rate, respectful culture, and efficient transport system make cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka easy to explore. Traditional temples, cherry blossoms, and local cuisine enhance the experience.

Denmark: Denmark combines safety with Scandinavian charm. Copenhagen’s bike-friendly streets, clean public spaces, and welcoming locals ensure women can navigate comfortably. Historic sites, modern architecture, and cozy cafés make it a perfect solo destination.

Australia: Australia offers safety, adventure, and vast landscapes for solo travelers. From Sydney’s iconic landmarks to the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback, women can enjoy secure accommodations, friendly locals, and organized tours throughout the country.

Netherlands: The Netherlands is safe, compact, and easy to explore. Amsterdam’s canals, museums, and cycling culture are perfect for independent travelers. Low crime rates and well-connected transport make getting around stress-free and enjoyable.

Sweden: Sweden offers high safety, excellent public transport, and welcoming locals. Cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg provide cultural attractions, parks, and waterfronts. Solo female travellers can enjoy exploring museums, historic sites, and the scenic countryside with peace of mind.

Travel is a privilege, and even small steps towards reducing our impact matter. From the way you get there to where you sleep, what you eat, and who you support— there’s always a greener option

Eco-conscious travel doesn’t have to mean booking into a luxury eco-resort or trekking off to a remote retreat with a hefty price tag. In fact, some of the most sustainable travel choices are also the most affordable—and often, the most meaningful. If you’ve ever wanted to travel lighter on the planet without lightening your wallet, this guide is for you.

Travel Greener, Spend Smarter

The single biggest contributor to your travel carbon footprint? Transport. Swapping a short-haul flight for a train ride can dramatically reduce emissions—and cost less, especially when booked in advance. “Trains are more sustainable and cheaper,” says Bharat Mansata, a writer who runs Earthcare, India’s only environment-focused bookstore in Kolkata, founder-member of Vanvadi, an organisation focused on collective forest regeneration, and a member of the Bharat Beej Swaraj Manch. “I find that there is more learning from conversations around. And train journeys are quite enjoyable too. I generally sleep very well on trains.”

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, use public transport, shared rides, or simply walk. Not only is it better for the environment, but you’ll get a closer look at the places you’re visiting—and likely discover something the guidebooks missed.

You Don’t Need A Luxury Eco-Resort

Sustainability isn’t exclusive to high-end lodges. Locally run guesthouses, homestays, and hostels often operate with far smaller footprints than large chains. Look for stays that use solar-powered heating, provide filtered drinking water, source food locally, or incorporate composting systems. Choosing homestays supports local families and small businesses over large corporations. “We always opt for local homestays when we travel,” say Aparajita and Debal, the couple behind Smell of the Earth, a CSA farm near Santiniketan. “Hotels consume so much energy and are polluting.” They’ve reduced their travel to once a year or less and believe homestays help lower carbon footprints while fostering richer cultural exchange, making travel more responsible and rewarding.

Eat Local, Eat Smart

Skip the imported goods and fast-food chains—local markets and street food (with minimal packaging) are not only cheaper but far more sustainable. Carry your own cutlery, a reusable tiffin box, or a cloth napkin to reduce plastic waste. Many budget-conscious travellers also go plant-based on the road, which cuts both costs and carbon footprints.

Pack Reusables—Your Budget And The Planet Will Thank You

Packing smart is packing green. Pack smart with essentials like a refillable water bottle, reusable shopping bag, travel mug, and cutlery set. Swap plastic bottles for shampoo and soap bars, and carry a water filter if tap water isn’t safe. This reduces waste and saves money. “I never buy water bottles or snacks on the road,” says Simran Chawla, a 25-year-old working in wildlife conservation. “I always carry a reusable bottle and refill it wherever I stop.”

Support Local Communities—Not Mass Tourism

Sustainable travel also means ensuring the communities you visit benefit directly. Choose local guides over global tour operators. Buy crafts directly from artisans rather than in mass souvenir shops. Eat at family-run cafés. These small choices support livelihoods and preserve cultural authenticity. Bonus? These options are usually more affordable and more enriching than the cookie-cutter tourist traps.

Tread Lightly—And Ethically

Responsible travel also means leaving no damage behind. Avoid activities that exploit animals, such as elephant rides, captive selfies, or tiger petting farms, even if they seem “cheap” or common. Opt instead for low-impact experiences: guided nature walks, kayaking, cycling, or community workshops. Staying on marked trails, not picking flowers or shells, and respecting local customs costs nothing but speaks volumes.

Tech Tips For The Low-Impact Traveller

Sustainable habits extend to your phone too. Use offline maps and guides, limit data usage (which affects energy servers), and avoid unnecessary printing. Choose eco-friendly tech like e-readers over physical books, conserve device power by using Airplane Mode and low-power settings, minimize data usage by turning off Wi-Fi Assist, and pack light to reduce the carbon footprint associated with carrying heavier devices.

Whether you’re heading to the hills, hopping flights, or chasing sunsets by the sea, your hair shouldn’t hold you back. These easy, travel-proof hairstyles are designed to keep you looking fresh, stylish, and selfie-ready—wherever you go.

Long airport layovers. Rushed hotel checkouts. Beachside humidity. Mountain winds. No matter where your journey takes you, your hair often faces the brunt of travel’s unpredictability. Whether you’re hopping off a red-eye flight straight into a meeting, capturing content for your travel blog, or simply trying to look fresh in a new city, one thing remains constant: your hairstyle needs to keep up with your pace.

Today’s traveller doesn’t have the luxury of time, but that doesn’t mean they’re willing to compromise on looking polished. With lightweight tools, multi-styling devices, and smarter techniques, it’s now possible to style on the go, without frying your strands or weighing down your luggage.

India Today spoke with Amy Johnson, Global Head of Education at Dyson, who shared her top travel-friendly hairstyles that are easy to recreate, versatile across occasions, and most importantly, gentle on the hair. Drawing on years of expertise, Johnson’s approach blends beauty with practicality—ideal for anyone trying to balance style and speed while navigating the world.

MINI TOP KNOT

This is the perfect hairstyle for active days, humid destinations, or when you just want your hair off your face without sacrificing style.

• Start by straightening your hair for a smooth base
• Apply a light serum or styling cream for shine and frizz control
• Pull your hair up into a high ponytail, leaving out a few face-framing strands
• Twist the ponytail into a bun, tucking in the ends
• Secure with bobby pins and set with hairspray
• Use a shine mist for a clean, polished finish

PRO TIP: Use a flyaway smoothing attachment to tame baby hairs around the hairline.

SCARF PONYTAIL

Chic and statement-making, this style pairs perfectly with day trips, beach brunches, or stylish city strolls.

• Blow-dry your hair into a sleek finish
• Tie it into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck
• Fold a scarf into a long band (1–2 inches wide)
• Wrap it tightly around the hair elastic and tie into a knot or bow
• Let the scarf ends drape down naturally
• PRO TIP: Opt for bold prints or rich fabrics to elevate a simple outfit.

HALF-UP CLAW CLIP

Soft, feminine, and functional—this style works from day to night.

• Use the airwrap i.d. multi-styler and dryer to fast-dry your hair until it’s about 80% dry.
• Create soft waves using a wide barrel with high heat and airflow
• Section the top half of your hair (temples to crown)
• Loosely twist the top section and pin into a bun shape
• Secure it with a decorative claw clip
• PRO TIP: Let a few face-framing strands fall free and lightly curl them for a romantic vibe.

WAVES WITH A SCARF

• For a relaxed, holiday look, pair loose waves with a scarf for a retro-meets-modern vibe.
• Start with towel-dried hair
• Use a curling attachment to alternate between inward and outward curls
• Let curls cool and gently separate with fingers or a wide-tooth comb
• Fold the scarf into a triangle or a band
• Wear it as a bandanna, tying it at the nape or just above your ponytail
• PRO TIP: Gently pull out a few strands near the face for that lived-in, effortless finish.

STYLE THAT MOVES WITH YOU

Whether you’re hopping flights or road-tripping across the country, styling your hair on the go doesn’t have to be a hassle. These travel-ready hairstyles combine elegance with practicality and are easy enough to create in a hotel room, airport lounge, or even a car mirror.

With the right tools and techniques, your hair can look just as good as your vacation memories.

Northern India is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures as high as 45 to 51.9 degrees Celsius. If you’re travelling this summer, here are a few essential travel tips for women.

Summer Travel Tips And Tricks For Women: When summer travel meets soaring temperatures, especially during India’s intense heatwaves these days, safety and smart planning become absolutely essential for women travellers. While solo trips, road getaways, or group holidays offer excitement, the harsh sun can pose serious health and safety risks if not tackled wisely. Here are some simple tips and tricks to help women travel safely and comfortably in India’s summer heat:

6 Summer Travel Tips For Women

1. Stay Hydrated

The most crucial rule when travelling in India’s summer heat is to stay hydrated. The health ministry and doctors emphasise carrying a water bottle at all times and sipping frequently even if you don’t feel thirsty. Including electrolyte-rich drinks like lemon water, coconut water, or lassi helps restore salts lost through sweat. Avoid sugary sodas, alcohol, or heavy caffeine.

2. Dress Light

Women should wear loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing, ideally made from cotton. These fabrics allow better airflow and reflect rather than absorb sunlight. A wide-brimmed hat, scarf, or umbrella can help shield your face, while sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen protect against UV exposure.

3. Avoid The Strongest Sunlight

India’s summer sun peaks between 12 pm to 4 pm, and travel experts strongly recommend avoiding outdoor activities during these hours. Instead, plan outings early in the morning (before 9:30 to 10 am) or evening (after 6 :00 pm). If you must step out midday, take frequent breaks in shaded spots.

4. Pack Cooling Essentials

Heatwaves in north India frequently exceed 45 °C, and humid climates can push the ‘feels-like’ temperature to around 50 °C. When travelling, consider packing a portable fan, cooling neck towel, or even wet wipes to help reduce body temperature quickly.

5. Choose Heat-Friendly Destinations

If possible, opt for hill stations like Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, Uttarakhand or coastal areas like Goa or Kerala with cooler breezes. Or travel during early morning/late evening excursions. Plan smartly as this reduces both heat exposure and heavy tourist crowds.

6. Stay In Trusted Places

When booking hotels or homestays, especially if you’re travelling alone, go for well-rated, women-friendly accommodations. Check for safety measures like secure entrances, CCTV, and staff availability at night. Apps like TripAdvisor and safety-focused platforms such as TripWomen can be helpful.

With a little planning and these summer travel tips, women can travel safely and confidently even during India’s harsh summer heat.

Vacation-ready haircare: Follow these five simple tips to keep your hair healthy and looking great throughout your travels. Happy vacationing!

Maintaining healthy and fresh hair while travelling can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, you can keep your locks looking great on the go. Azeem Qamar, hair expert at Shimmers Cosmetics, shared a few simple steps you can follow to keep your hair looking its best throughout your trip.

“Traveling is all about adventure and relaxation, but the change in climate, water quality, and exposure to sun, humidity, or pollution can take a toll on your hair,” he said, adding, “Just like skincare, your hair needs special attention when you’re travelling. With the right products and protective measures, you can ensure your locks remain fresh, healthy, and vibrant throughout your trip. So pack wisely, protect your strands, and enjoy every moment of your vacation with confidence.”

Here are Azeem’s top tips:

1. Pack smart: Travel-friendly haircare essentials

When packing, opt for travel-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and styling products that suit your hair type. A leave-in conditioner or serum can be a lifesaver to combat dryness and frizz. Don’t forget essentials like a wide-tooth comb, microfiber towel, and silk scrunchies to minimize breakage.

2. Hydrate and nourish

Long flights, exposure to different weather conditions, and frequent washing can strip moisture from your hair. A deep conditioning mask like Morocco golden mask or lightweight hair oil like Moringa oil can help replenish lost hydration and keep your locks soft and manageable.

3. Shield your hair from the elements

Whether you’re heading to a tropical beach or a snowy destination, external factors like sun, wind, and saltwater can weaken your strands. A hat or scarf provides an extra layer of protection, while a UV-protectant spray helps prevent sun damage. If you plan to swim, rinse your hair with fresh water before and after taking a dip to reduce the impact of salt and chlorine.

4. Opt for low-maintenance hairstyles

Travelling often means limited time for hair styling. Low-maintenance styles like braids, buns, and ponytails keep hair neat, reduce tangling, and help protect against breakage. Loose waves or heat-free curls are perfect for achieving a stylish yet effortless vacation look.

5. Stick to a simple routine

While on vacation, maintaining a simple yet effective haircare routine will keep your hair looking its best. Avoid over-washing, detangle gently, and use a lightweight serum or mist to keep frizz under control. If the water quality at your destination is different from what you’re used to, consider using a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove buildup.

Be it for a mere sense of adventure, or an inevitable professional obligation, travelling solo is not as daunting as it sounds! Let these safety tricks blanket you from the unpleasant.

Be it for a mere sense of adventure, or an inevitable professional obligation, travelling solo is not as daunting as it sounds!

A conspicuous paradigm shift in the lifestyle of urban Indian women indicates that they are now more willing to step out of their cocoon and travel solo for business, and pleasure. HolidayIQ, a travel and holiday information portal from India, conducted a survey among 20,000 women, and revealed that 13 percent of women preferred travelling solo, and 8 percent with their significant other.

However, the sisterhood is often ambushed by irritants ranging from elements reeking of fraudulence, to sexual predators, who perceive them as soft targets, and instigate unpleasant circumstances.

Ladies, let not the abominable hinder or curtail your freedom, even a notch. If you love travelling, indulge in your passion, and let these safety tricks amassed from solo women travellers blanket you from the unpleasant.

According to a survey thirteen percent of women prefer travelling alone

1. Shafi Saxena, Chief Brand Officer, News Republic, is an avid traveller and has visited more than 54 countries, many of them sans company. She has devised her own defense mechanism. Here it is:

*Avoid carrying too much cash or important documents – use the hotel safe.

*Lock every lock on your room door and don’t forget to use the safety chain.

*Map areas before going so you always have a general idea of where you are.

*Have a cellphone handy (call or pretend to be talking if you feel you’re being followed).

*Use “trusted” transportation – either public or private cars/driver services recommended by hotel and/or friends.

*Reach out to other women – they make great allies on the road.

2. Ambica Gulati, Travel blogger, (atravellerswishlist.com), says, “When I travel alone, I normally send all my details on the mail to a family member, so they know whom to connect with in case there is an emergency. I also keep a written note in my bag with my address and contact, so that my family can be reached at any time in case an emergency happens.”

3. Neha Bahl, Owner, Qube Communication, has some handy advice for working professionals who have to shuttle between cities for work. “Travelling alone for a female is always a safety concern for her family and the same goes for me. Whenever I am travelling I ensure various things, such as I always keep my parents informed/ ping when I reach the airport, when I board my flight and deplane. These days Whatsapp is the most convenient way to send a message to anyone. So in case you are unable to connect at least leave a message about your timings”, she adds.

Here’s what to keep in mind when travelling abroad

4. Priyanka Desai, Founder and Creative director of a fashion swimwear brand, Praia Couture, has backpacked to cities like France, Italy, London, and many more, and has some expert tips for those of you planning on travelling abroad solo to Europe.

Paris:

* The famous, tourist areas such as Champs Elysees, Sacre Coeur, Montparnasse, etc. are notorious for pick picketers. It’s advisable to keep your bags/purse in front instead of slinging it to the back and/or the side.

* Ensure that you keep your credit cards and debit cards in the deepest compartment of your purse. All thieves need are photographs of the front and back of your cards. No PIN codes are needed by these notorious rings.

* It is better to ask for the prices of products in French to get the real price. It’s quite easy to say “Combien sil vu plait…”

Milan:

* Italian men love to shower women with compliments and most of the time they are harmless. A curt ‘Grazie’ or a nod is okay to give as an acknowledgment.

* Avoid standing aimlessly on bus stops and streets after sunset. Always carry a book or newspaper to look busy while waiting for transport.

London:

* It is better to ignore any compliments or cat calls. If you engage in an argument, it is not going to end very soon.

* If you are planning to go out partying with your girlfriends ensure you’re dancing where the bouncers can see you. Always call the taxi beforehand and leave the club only once the taxi is waiting outside.

* If you think you’re being followed, enter an ATM kiosk. With the fear of being caught on camera in the kiosks, no one will dare enter.

Backpacking can be fun too

5. Mridula Dwivedi, Travel blogger, (traveltalesfromIndia.in) , is fond of trekking alone, and has some helpful tips. “For me the first thing is to pick up a destination that is used to solo female travellers, like Ladakh, or Nepal,” she says. “When I travel alone in Himachal or Rajasthan I stay in government accommodations such as HPTDC and RTDC”, she adds. Mridula also recommends hiring trusted guides, whom you either already know or who come recommended through reliable sources.

6. Women-only Accommodation

Besides travelling with precaution, where you stay during the vacation is pivotal to your safety. Women-only accommodations are an option and offer not only a safe ambiance, but are also managed by an all-female workforce. Several business hotels now have a women-only floor as well, that you can ask for while making a reservation.

Maintaining oral hygiene during holiday travel is crucial. Pack essential dental supplies, stick to your routine, stay hydrated, and opt for healthy snacks. Chew sugar-free gum if brushing isn’t possible after meals. Schedule a dental check-up before traveling and consider wearing a mouthguard for sports activities to keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

The holiday season often involves travel, indulgent meals, and busy schedules, making it easy to overlook your oral health. However, maintaining your dental hygiene during this time is essential to keep your smile bright and healthy. Here are some practical tips to ensure your teeth stay in top shape, even while you’re on the move.

Pack a travel-friendly dental kit

Before setting off, prepare a compact dental kit with essentials like a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, floss, and a travel-sized mouthwash. Choose a toothbrush with a protective case to keep it clean during your journey. If you’re flying, ensure all liquids comply with airline regulations.

Stay consistent with oral care

Despite a hectic travel schedule, stick to your daily oral care routine. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes and floss once daily. Set reminders on your phone if needed to ensure you don’t skip these crucial steps.

Stay hydrated

Traveling, especially by plane, can dehydrate you. Drinking plenty of water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps wash away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and bad breath. Avoid sugary drinks, which can increase the risk of cavities.

Snack smart

Holiday treats are tempting, but frequent snacking on sugary foods can harm your teeth. Opt for healthier options like nuts, cheese, and crunchy fruits or vegetables, which can help clean your teeth naturally. If you indulge in sweets, rinse your mouth with water afterward to reduce sugar’s impact.

Chew sugar-free gum

If brushing isn’t immediately possible after a meal, chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, helping neutralize acids and clean your teeth temporarily. Look for gum containing xylitol, which has additional benefits for oral health.

Visit the dentist before you travel

Schedule a dental check-up before your trip to ensure you don’t have any unresolved issues that could worsen while you’re away. A quick cleaning and check-up will give you peace of mind.

Protect your teeth during activities

If your holiday plans include sports or outdoor adventures, consider wearing a mouthguard to prevent dental injuries.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy your holiday season without compromising your dental health. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your smile stays radiant, no matter where your travels take you.

Solo travelling is an exhilarating experience, especially for women. It gives you the taste of freedom you always craved growing up in an Indian household. On the bright side, the travel community is witnessing a high surge in female solo travellers by 2024 and it’s absolutely delightful! Talking about travelling, it is indeed costly, no matter whether you are travelling in a group or solo. Making travel a part of your lifestyle can weigh heavy on your pocket but not when you are smart enough to strategise your expenditure. For all the female solo travellers out there, you don’t have to be rich to travel, you have to be smart! And that’s what we are going to talk about in this article.

Money-Saving Tips For Female Solo Travellers

Here are some smart strategies to save money while you are travelling solo as a female:

Book A Dorm Bed Or A Private Room In A Hostel Instead Of Choosing Hotels

Accommodation is the second most costly aspect of taking a trip, travelling still remains the first! While you go on a trip, always remember that you require room only for a night’s sleep and not for show-off. Since you will be travelling the whole day and would need a bed only for the night, paying thousands for a hotel doesn’t make any sense. Instead, you can choose a shared female dorm room or a private one in a hotel. Hotels or Zostels are cheaper than hotels and also enable you to cook your own meals in the shared kitchen. That’s a lot of money saved!

Travel Like A Local

If you want to save big on your trip, then shared vans and public transport are a must-try. They are relatively much cheaper than the private cabs, helping you save a lot of money. Travelling by public transport is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Eat Like A Local

Preparing your own food at the hostel was the primary suggested tip but what if you don’t know how to cook or you don’t get the time to cook? Well, in that case the local food shops and street foods are your best alternative. Instead of cafe hopping you can indulge yourself in the local cuisines of the place and know their culture up close.

To become an expert traveler and maximize your vacation days and money, you have to consider a few things:

The Early Bird Gets the Worm
This is something you should really take into consideration. Although you may not like spontaneity or thinking that far into the future, it will be beneficial to do so in order to save money and maximize your vacation days. You have to be willing to do your homework, which includes checking school schedules, high-volume travel times, and even thinking about what the weather will be like. Do your research on the location you plan on traveling to.

Know Your Travel Days and Details
It really pays off to know and work around scheduling. There are some days of the week that are cheaper to travel on than others, for instance Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the least expensive days to travel on. This is because business travelers come in on Mondays and leave on Fridays. If you are not a morning person, get your body ready for that early morning flight because the earlier a flight the cheaper it is. You also want to consider where you will be flying out of because details like this and time and day of travel will be so beneficial to you gaining the best deals.

Be Social
Dial yourself into social media! Just by following travel sites, companies, writers and experts on Twitter or Facebook, you can learn about new last minute deals on hotels, cruises and airfare. Download Apps like hotel tonight to find money-saving travel deals when time is crucial.

Don’t Forget About Cancellations
Life happens and things can be unpredictable. Therefore, it’s best to book early and then you can usually cancel if something comes up. That is not always the case though, therefore you need to make sure there is some a good cancellation policy so you can do so. For instance with cruises you can cancel within 30-60 days before the cruise date and still get all of your money refunded including the deposit! You always have the option of getting travel insurance, or contacting agencies that have a flexible cancellation policy. Be smart and think about these things before booking.