Traveling for Single Women

Travel

For many, summer is the time for vacation.  It may be because the weather is nice, it may be because your kids are out of school or you have time off from work. Whatever  the case may be for you, summer travel for single women need to be safe, secure and most of all fun.  Here are some tips and some resources to make summer travel safer and fun for single women.

The most important thing to do before you travel is to do you research. 

My favorite go to resource for travel is Frommer’s.  Frommers.com has access to destinations across the world.  All you need to do is put in your destination and check on what the experts suggest.  One of the best things about Frommer’s is that they offer tips for singles.  This can be your guide to making sure you pick the safest lodging and the safest way to explore your chosen destination.  Whatever tool you use be sure to research thoroughly to ensure your safety while not sacrificing fun and excitement.

Budget

The second most important thing to remember when traveling is to budget.  This means knowing what you vacation will cost, transportation, lodging, food and any extras you wish to participate in while traveling.  You should also have a little cushion to cover unexpected emergencies or things that may pop up while you are away from home.  Budgeting will ensure that you can enjoy yourself both during and after your vacation.  Make sure to budget appropriately.

Plan your trip. 

Look at what is popular in your travel destination.  What month are you planning to travel?  Are there any festivals or other events going on at the same time you plan to be in the area?  What are the attractions you wish to see and experience while you are there?  Make sure you have these questions in mind when you plan your trip and make sure they fit your budget and safety plans.  Look at the suggestions from Frommers and check online with the Police departments as well as the hotel you plan to stay at to see what is going on at your travel destination.  This will save you time and help you to stay on track with your budget.

Know your market

It is important to recognize that the single travel market is a very important market.  Look for tips and websites and organizations that cater to singles that travel.  There are sites that cater to single who enjoy cruises.  Sites that cater to singles who hike or singles who like adventure such as sky diving or mountain climbing.  Check with the concierge at your hotel, if they offer this service, to find out how to navigate the area around your hotel and places where you may plan to visit while you are traveling.

Share your plans

Always make sure that someone knows where you are going and where you will be.  Write out a detailed itinerary with flight numbers and times, hotel information and the days and times of trips and sightseeing, if you know ahead of time.  Once you have a complete itinerary email it to friends and family and make sure that you check in at least once a day.  This gives those that love you peace of mind as well as allowing you an extra layer of safety and security while you travel.

Whether you choose to travel in the summer, winter or throughout the year, traveling for singles can be fun but should ultimately be safe.  There are many things should be considered before traveling to make sure that you have a safe and peaceful travel experience.  Knowing your destination, making sure that you stay in a safe place and looking for tips and advice for traveling singles will provide a great resource and assist you in having a great vacation.

Summer Fun

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Many single women dread summer time and seek to hibernate and retreat because of the abundance of families and couples.  This does not have to be the case this summer.  If you live in a big city like me (Chicago) there are many activities and events to partake in.  Many can be enjoyed alone and many can be the catalyst for a girl’s day out or a girl’s get away weekend.  There are literally thousands of events going on around the country that will be great events for singles and for friends; they will also pose a great opportunity to meet more people. 

If you have been waiting for winter to be over as we have here in Chicago, you may have cabin fever.  Of course there are many indoor events you can go to and of course the restaurant scene is always a viable option, but there is nothing like being outside in the fresh air.  Even though there is always a parade going on throughout the year, being able to enjoy an event without a coat and gloves is a welcome change.  So whether you want to enjoy local activities or travel to another area, get ready for May to start the summer fun season.  The fun begins in May with Memphis in May a wonderful music festival near Beale Street.  Check your local newspapers or city websites for more information. 

June is a month where many cities and states have state fairs or county fairs.  This is another activity that can be enjoyed in groups or solo.  County fairs offer music, food, shopping.  One of the biggest celebrations in Chicago in June is Chicago Pride, which has a Parade and other activities throughout the weekend.  This is a weekend to celebrate with LBGT community and enjoy the music, costumes, dancing, food and fun.

July has even more to offer.  While there are neighborhood festivals with food and music all over this city I am sure that wherever you live may have the same offerings.  The biggest summer event in Chicago is the Taste of Chicago.  This event takes place right off of Lake Michigan and has food, music, entertainment tents and events for the entire family.  For house music lovers there will also be the Chosen Few Picnic which is a huge festival in the park with the world’s best and greatest House music DJ’s. 

August in the descent into the fall and though for those with children and those who are school teachers it signals the end of summer and there are just as many events as in June and July.  The Illinois State Fair begins in August.  The Illinois State Fair last year had a wine tasting tent, which provided much needed relief from the sun and a refreshing adult beverage or two to assist with cooling me off. 

While many of these events can be enjoyed in groups or with friends, a single woman can have just as much fun at the events alone.  Don’t forget to check your local listings for what your own offers.  If there is somewhere you want to go do your research and check websites like Frommer’s and other sites that offer tips for singles as well as proposed itineraries.  As we prepare to be out and about for summer remember to have fun, enjoy yourself and most importantly BE SAFE!