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Winter Packing Guide For Solo Female Travelers

Important logistics + safety tips:

  1. Valid passport (at least 6 mo. prior)
  2. Print your passport
  3. Set up apple pay incase you lose your credit card
  4. Drink Vitamin C 1 week prior
  5. Share your location indefinitely
  6. Share your itinerary with someone
  7. Set up an international data plan (for google maps- life saver!)
  8. Download google translate

What to Expect:

Europe is cold in the winter; mid-50s in the day and low 40s to 30s in the evening. I landed in London, took the Eurostar to Paris, then flew to Portugal, and ended my trip in Barcelona. I experienced more rain in Paris than in London. Since this was my first solo trip and my first trip to Europe, I was concerned about safety. However, I felt incredibly safe- all the main streets were busy, and the attractions were crowded. I typically started my day around 8am until 11pm or midnight. In regards to transportation, I used the metro or walked. I stayed in Hostels or Airbnbs. As a solo traveler, you meet people everywhere, especially while figuring out the metro and how to get to popular attractions- this is because most tourists are lost, and people tend to team up to problem-solve.

Necessary Items:

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  • Bring light thermals – buy at Uniqlo
  • Wool socks- to avoid blisters
  • A warm jacket- Patagonia’s women nano puff (you can use the secret chest pocket to hold money & passport)
  • Comfortable shoes- Blundstone 500 series original heel boot

Two Week Trip Items:

1 universal suitcase and 1 small backpack (Travelon Luggage Anti-Theft)

  • Thermal Leggings (2)
  • Jeans- at least one back (2)
  • Dress or skirt (1)
  • Shirts (3)
  • Socks (4)
  • Bras (3)
  • Undies (7)
  • Scarf (2)
  • Jacket (1)
  • Gloves (1)
  • Waterproof boots (1)
  • Lock (1)
  • Sandals (1)
  • Laundry bag (1)
  • Umbrella (1)
  • Pen (1)

Things to Buy:

  • Universal suitcase – European airlines require smaller carry-ons
  • Travel plug adapters – UK are different from the rest of Europe
  • Compression cube set- To pack your clothes; creates more space in luggage
  • Portable charger

Staying Safe:

  1. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
  2. Don’t tell people you are a solo traveler
  3. Share your itinerary with a friend or family member
    1. Update them daily use WhatsApp and Life360
  4. Don’t carry large amounts of money
    1. use ATM if needed
  5. Keep cash and passport safe
    1. Amazon has passport/wallet holders
  6. Avoid keeping items in your back pockets (phones or cash)
  7. If using google maps, plug in your headphones, walk like you know where you are going
  8. Monitor your alcohol intake
  9. Enjoy the scenery but also stay alert

Suggested Items:

Happy Travels!

Tips for Travelers- Lisbon, Portugal

What to Expect:

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, known for it’s beautiful architecture and scenery, traditional Fado music, and progressive thinking. The people there are friendly and help you get to your destination. There are many things to do, like walking the beautiful streets of Alfama, enjoying a delicious pastel de nata, and relishing the views of the city from the top of St. Jorge Castle!

Transportation: I mainly used the metro, bus, or trains to get around within the city. Sometimes I took Uber. I recommend using google maps to select bus and train times. I preferred the trams rather than the buses- sometimes the buses were late, and the stops were difficult to find (look for the bus number at each bus stop). I recommend buying them unlimited 24 hour Viva Viagem pass- your pass can include 48 hours of unlimited travel on metro and Carris, including bus, tram, funicular and lift. Check out these websites for more information: https://www.lisbon.net/transport https://www.lisbonguru.com/viva-viagem-card-metro-bus-tram-ferry-train/

Free Elevator rides: The Elevador Baixa is free! The Elevador Baixa is an elevator in Alfama that reaches the St. Jorge Castle! Unfortunately, I figured this out on the way down, but it’s worth taking because the walk from Alfama to St. Jorge Castle is steep. The elevator is located: https://www.weheartlisbon.com/en/sights/elevador-castelo

Weather: I traveled to Lisbon in November; it was low to mid-60s during the day and 50s in the evening. I recommend visiting in October when it’s still considered low season, and typically low to mid-70s; the perfect weather for outdoor activities! This way you get to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches of Lisbon!

Solo Travelers: I felt utterly safe traveling to Lisbon. People are amiable- for example, at the Alpendre restaurant, the employees make jokes and prank their customers- it felt like home. I had the best time there, and definitely plan to come back! I mainly used public transportation and often walked by myself. I never felt unsafe. Even as I was walking the narrow streets of Lisbon to look for street art, I felt safe. I also crossed paths with many tourists doing the same thing, whether it was looking for a restaurant or finding the St. Jorge Castle. 

Language: Portuguese is the main language in Portugal, but locals speak English and Spanish. Luckily for me, I can speak both. If you are not fluent or know very little, I suggest downloading google translator. Not speaking the language shouldn’t stop you from visiting Lisbon- people are friendly and will help you either way.

Where to stay? I recommend staying by Alfama. That neighborhood is absolutely beautiful! Baixa is also a great location, in the center of Lisbon, you will find many restaurants, shopping centers, transportation services, historical landmarks, street art, and more. The Bairro Alto is also a great location and full of culture!

http://sabiri.nosorgu.com/image

https://i.pinimg.com/

Itinerary: organized by proximity

Day 1

12pmUber from Airport and Check in
2pmWalk around to Alfama/street art
3pmEat at Restaurant Alpendre
4pmMiradouro de Santa Luzia
5pmSt. Jorge Castle
7pmDinner at Centro Comercio

Day 2

8am Breakfast
9amBus to Rossio, Linha de Sintra Train to Sintra
10amUber to Palacio National de Sintra
1pm Uber to Castelo dos Mouros
2pm Lunch
3pmTake Train to Rossio
4pmExplore Rossio square
5pmCarmo Convent
6pmSanta Justa Lift
7pmDinner + Explore

Day 3

8am Breakfast at praca de comercio
9amArco da Rua Augusta
11amPraca Luis de Camoes
12pmLunch at Time out Market
2pmElevador de Bica
3pmShopping around + street art
5pmParque Eduardo VII
7pm Dinner at Praca de restauradores

Day 4

9am LX Factory + Breakfast at View top
12pmPasteis de Belem (pastel del natas)
12pmVasco de Gama Garden
1pmJeronimos Monastery
2pmLunch
3pmPraca de Impero
3pmBelem Tower
5pmPalace Fronteria
7pmDinner + Explore

Tips for Travelers-Paris, France

What to Expect:

Paris brings millions of visits for its beautiful architecture, art collections, and divine cuisine. There are many things to do, whether it’s going to art museums, seeing the Eiffel Tower, or visiting the neighborhood of Montmartre. Most Parisians understand English, especially in touristy locations. I recommend downloading google translate app, as some locals don’t speak English. Parisians are hustlers (they work hard!); you notice this at restaurants, you are served quickly and then given the bill shortly. The customer service is not like in the U.S., where people will say, “how are you?” “have a good day!” Therefore, don’t take things personally. In my opinion customer service was better in smaller restaurants or bars. Overall, I enjoyed my visit.

Paris Locations:

There are 20 Paris Arrondissements (Paris districts). For example, the Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th district. There are also neighborhoods within the Arrondissements, such as Montmartre. There is plenty to see in Pairs! The best view of the city is at the top of the Arc, the Eiffel Tower is beautiful- I recommend pre-paid tickets, the Louvre will be crowded (even in November), and you may find the Notre Dame under construction due to the fire in April. Museums are not free, except on the first Sunday of the month, and some days of the week are open until 10pm. The is a line to see the Mona Lisa in the Louvre (usually about 15 minutes). I did not have enough time to see the Moulin Rouge or Catacombs- my friends highly recommend it. You’ll find crepes everywhere, they are delicious, eat as many as you can! I really enjoyed dining at Boteco VM, L CE NOMANIAC and L’ EClair.

I stayed in the 7th ARR. to see the Eiffel Tower more often. My friends recommend also staying by the 1st ARR, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter.

photo located: http://blog.holidaydiscountcentre.co.uk/2013/10/holiday-time-saver-60-second-guide-to-paris/
Metro:

The metro will be challenging, especially if you don’t know French. The best way to learn is to get lost. I used the metro three times but typically walked; everything was usually a 15- 20-minute walk. You can also use electric scooters or Uber. Metro signs are labeled M or as Metropolitan (in green). I found them difficult to find while using google apps.

Metro: https://parisbytrain.com/paris-metro/

Weather:

The weather is around low 50s to low 40s, but when it rains, you feel it. Make sure to buy gloves and a beret. Visit in October when it’s slightly warmer (low to mid-60s) and considered low season. Though, I still found it quite busy in November. I recommend buying tickets online for the Eiffel Tower, Sainte-Chapelle, and all the museums (especially the Louvre).

Solo Travelers:

I felt completely safe in Paris. You will see many tourists at every attraction, even in November! You make friends while getting lost and while waiting in line or exploring. I mainly walked, used the metro, or an Uber in Paris. Once you start traveling alone, you will be surprised to how many others travel alone as well. I recommend staying at a Hostel if you want to travel solo but feel nervous. Hostels often provide tours and provide many opportunities to make friends. How to select a Hostel? Go to Hostelworld.com, compare by ratings and reviews. Anything above 8 is good. Things to keep in mind- laundry facilities, 24 hour reception services, tour services, security lockers/entrance, and luggage storage.

Itinerary: organized by proximity

Day 1: District 7th and 8th ARR.

3:00 PMCheck in Airbnb
1:00pm – 2:00pmArc De Triomphe
2:30pm – 3:30pmEiffel Tower
3:45pm – 4:45pmMontparnasse Tower
5:00pm – 6:00pmDinner
6:30pm – 7:30pmEiffel Tower

Day 2: District 4th, 5th, and 2nd ARR.

8:00am – 9:00amCoffee + Breakfast
9:00am – 9:30amJardin Des Tulenries
9:00pm – 2:00pmMusee d’ Orsay (Van Gogh)
3:00pm – 4:30pmSainte-Chapelle
4:40pm – 6:00pmConciergerie
6:00PM – 6:30pmNotre Dame Cathedrale
SometimeAu Vieux Paris
7:00pm – 8:00pmDinner + Explore

Day 3: 16th ARR.

8:00am – 2:00pmPalace of Versailles + gardens
2:00pm – 3:00pmLunch
4:00pm – 6:00pmMusee de Monet
7:00pm – 8:00pmDinner + Explore

Day 4: 18th, 2nd and 1st ARR

8:00am – 9:00amMontmartre
9:30am – 10:00amSacred Heart Basilica
10:30am – 2:00pmLourve Museum
(Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Samothrace, Venus de Milo)
2:00pm – 3:00pmLunch
3:00pm -3:30pmLaduree
4:30pmExplore + Dinner + Explore

Tips for Travelers- London, UK

Transportation:

Landed: London- Gatwick airport
Train: Gatwick Express to London $25 US (about 30 minutes)

Planning Your Itinerary:

To use your time wisely – it’s better to plan your trip by proximity. However, you don’t have to follow your itinerary completely, if you spend more time in one place, you can decide to skip the next attraction. Use Day 1 to relax, have dinner, explore near by, and learn how to get around.

The Tube: You can purchase Oyster passes to use the underground stations (metro, aka the tube); these can be purchased by zone and length of stay. Oyster passes are reusable (you can add money as needed), and therefore, cost an additional 5 Euros to buy the card. If you are only traveling to touristy places, I recommend the Oyster pass with 1, 2, and 3 zones. You can purchase Oyster passes inside any underground station. Underground stations are easy to find thanks to the LED lights and are very clean (when compared to Paris). I felt completely safe traveling solo!

Tube: https://tfl.gov.uk/maps/track/tube

Oyster pass: https://www.londonpass.com/

Tips: It’s worthwhile to see attractions in the day but also in the evening (some of them light up at night). Museums are free in London! London is also not crowded in November, therefore, you don’t need to buy attraction tickets in advanced. This gives you the flexibility, especially if you get lost or decided to ditch an attraction for something else. Nevertheless, in Paris, I recommend purchasing all tickets because it’s still crowded in November (waiting can last up to an hour). Use the London Pass website to visually see where each attraction is located- https://www.londonpass.com/london-attractions/

Itinerary Sample

Day 1: Arrival

You will be jet-lagged! I recommend staying up until 10pm or drinking tea to help you sleep at night. I wasn’t able to sleep and stayed up until 3am. I was really tired the following day!

1:24pm -2:30pmGatwick, London
2:30pm- 3:00pmCheck in
3:00pm-4:00pmBritish Museum
4:00pm-5:00pmSherlock Homes Museum
6:00pm-7:00pmRock n roll street
7:30pm-8:30pmDinner
8:45pm-9:45pmSOHO

Day 2: Westminster

8:00am-9:00amCoffee + Breakfast
9:00am- 10:00amBuckingham Palace State
11:00am-12:00pmBig Ben
12:00pm-1:00pmLondon Eye
2:00pm-3:00pmLunch
3:00pm- 4:00pmWestminster Abbey
4:00pm -5:00pmPlace of Westminster/House of Parliament
5:30pm-6:30pmDinner
6:45pm-9:30pmBig Ben
9:30pmExplore

Day 3: South of Whitechapel

8:00:am-9:00amCoffee + Breakfast
10:00am-11:00amMarble Arch
11:15:am- 12:00pmTower of London
12:15pm-1:30pmTower Bridge
1:30pm-2:00pmLunch
2:15pm-3:30pmSt. Pauls Cathedral
4:00pm- 5:00pmExplore
5:30pm-6:30pmDinner
7:00pm-8:00pmTower Bridge

Day 4: Full day trip with TripAdvisor

8:00am-8:00pmStonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath and Pub Lunch in Lacock; about 112 euros
8:00pm-10:00pmExplore

FYI: You can visit Windsor Castle straight from London. The Paddington Station (rail station), takes you straight to the castle.

Trip Recommendations:

If short on time, I recommend the Marble Arch, St. Paul’s Cathedral (go all the way up to see the view, it will be narrow, but it’s worth it!), Westminster Abby, and seeing the tower bridge at night. I would make time to see Stonehenge and Bath- it was magical! If you can, I would stay longer at Bath, a day or two. If you like art, check out the Camden Market- delicious food and interesting art work (have tea at The basement Tea Rooms). See a play at Shakespeare’s Globe (plan dinner accordingly).

Places to stay:

London is pretty expensive, so check out your options. Airbnb, hostels, or hotels. In regards to location, that depends on your itinerary. Where do you want to spend most of your time? Where are your attractions located? I stayed near oxford street, everything was 15 to 30 minute Tube ride.

https://www.hostelworld.com/

https://www.airbnb.com/

Food:

Below are a few places to eat that I recommend for delicious food and great service! Though, my biggest regret was not making time to look for restaurants. Don’t forget to download YELP!

  • SOHO
  • Mango Indian-I recommend making a reservation beforehand.
  • Caravan Restaurant
  • Camden Market – very unique; shopping centers, art, and delicious food
  • Borough Market
  • Bread Ahead- I don’t like donuts, but these donuts were a game changer! You can also take classes too. https://www.breadahead.com/