At a glance
Sofia Pineiro, an avid traveller, shares her experience of solo travel as a woman. Travelling alone shouldn't discourage you!
Sofia Pineiro, partner of Tom de Dorlodot and passionate traveller, shares her experience of travelling solo as a woman.
Even though it isn't always easy, travelling alone shouldn't discourage you!
"Travelling as a Woman"
The final "e" in the French word for "alone" (seule) changes everything when preparing a trip. Even though we've never been so mobile, and access to travel has become so widespread, the idea of the lone female traveller can still be a hard sell.
The scenario is a familiar one: a dream destination, the urge to escape to new horizons, a carefully thought-out plan, savings set aside... all the pieces are in place to start the adventure. Only one problem: you're on your own.
More risk for a woman?
This simple fact can stop your plans in their tracks, for several reasons — starting with doubts and preconceptions of every kind. Worried family and friends, the bad reputation of a so-called "risky" place, and simply the fear of finding yourself in a vulnerable situation.
Let's not kid ourselves: travelling alone does carry risks. That initial fear is a healthy feeling that you need to accept and learn to manage. Such a trip isn't out of reach — the secret lies in good preparation and information: have you weighed the pros and cons and decided to take the plunge?
My experience in Pakistan
Based on my trip to Pakistan, here are a few tips to help things go smoothly. What matters most is not imposing your own worldview but instead trying to adapt, understand the local culture, and above all, listen to your host country.
Pakistan is one of my favourite destinations. It's a country that holds a very special place for me and my husband, Tom de Dorlodot. It's where we got to know each other while he set the paragliding distance record in the heart of the Karakoram, and it's in those very mountains that he proposed to me three years later. On every trip, we set up our base camp in Ushe, a beautiful little village tucked away in the mountains. Unfortunately, Pakistan is a country troubled by conflict and doesn't always have the best reputation. It's flagged as a "high-risk" country.
Alone in Islamabad
At 21, I boarded a plane for Islamabad for the first time. Before getting on the flight, I changed outfits four times until I found the most neutral one possible, to avoid drawing attention once there. I even put on a fake wedding ring (a small detail that can help avoid a few diplomatic incidents)! Once I arrived in Islamabad, I immediately blended into the crowd. I quickly felt a few heavy stares. Dressed in jeans and a hoodie, my European look already set me apart from the locals. There was no point persisting, so I took a taxi to the local clothing market. An hour later, I walked out wearing a traditional dress. It was a gesture of acknowledgement that showed my willingness to take part in a culture that wasn't my own! The warm (even amused) looks from the locals immediately put me at ease. Women approached me more readily to ask questions, and even invited me into their homes for a chai (tea). This simple gesture opened doors for me throughout the trip. I left Pakistan with a unique memory of an extraordinary place and people of rare kindness.
Get informed
It's often the fear of the unknown that makes us make (glaring) mistakes, which can spoil or deprive us of wonderful discoveries and even incredible experiences. The best way to fight this risk is through information: learning as much as possible about the country's history, geography, current affairs, and customs. Learning a few basic vocabulary words and useful phrases can save you a lot of trouble and, even better, break down barriers and open you up to fantastic encounters.
A few useful websites
More and more organisations are working to help you along the way. The following two websites offer sharp analysis of every country. You'll find the information you need on safety at: www.travelguardworldwide.com/aig-travel-for-women and www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
I also check the website www.tourdumondiste.com. It's full of great articles and useful tips.
Tourist offices are often very responsive when you're looking for specific information about your itinerary. I have very fond memories of a project set up in Slovenia with the Lotto Young Adventurers team. We had contacted the tourist office www.slovenia.info to fine-tune our itinerary. Brina, the agency manager, was an invaluable help, and thanks to her we discovered the country's most beautiful sites!
The Belgian embassies and consulates in your destination country provide information sheets, emergency contacts, risk areas, and places worth the detour.
Information, experience and safety
It's often ignorance or a lack of information that makes everything more complicated. Tom and I have always dreamed of setting up a sailing project and travelling around the world. Only problem: I had practically no experience at all on a boat. So we organised ourselves and trained. We took intensive sailing courses at Les Glénans, spent hours poring over books on the subject, and completed specialised courses with professionals. Experience is also built by pushing the limits of our comfort zone.
Besides, when I go diving, I have an internal checklist that I know by heart and repeat automatically. It's an essential rule that my diving instructor, Sammy Hermand, kept repeating to me. You need to check your equipment, safety instructions, and keep in mind the right moves that can save you in a dangerous situation. This advice will help you improve your performance in any sport or recreational activity.
And above all, make sure your insurance covers you from the moment you leave. It's by taking responsibility for yourself that you become your own best travel companion. Once you feel ready, trust yourself!
And above all, never forget to leave a little room for spontaneity.
Are you ready? Then it's your turn!
Safe travels!
Sofia
Follow Tom de Dorlodot's adventures and read his top tips in the "Travel and adventures" section
Also read the article: "5 tips for women who travel alone"
