City traveling may feel overwhelming: the people, the sights, the sounds. The motion, light and this action is really a feast for the senses, but it's easy to feel overcome by everything. And while safety is the number one concern for solo travelers, there are other things to think about to make your town experience an enjoyable and successful one!
Having lived and worked in New York for some time now, I have picked up a couple of pointers to help make handling your solo city sojourn easy.
Get a lay of the land
Make sure you have a map on hand. If you are using Google Maps in your smart phone , download and produce your city map so it is available offline to save on data and battery use. Pay attention. Traversing hillier cities such as Seattle and San Francisco may be more challenging than you might expect.
Follow the Neighborhood news
Following local news stations on the web or on social media may keep you up to date on what's happening on the floor at your destination. If a huge demonstration threatens to snarl your aims, it is possible to work around it (or join in if this suits you). News outlets are usually great resources for learning about all the chances that are great to enjoy interesting off-the-wall displays smaller art exhibits, and the arbitrary block party or street fair. Local news will be like the traveling home security system for your trip, alarming you of any dangerous activity.
Ditch the Auto
Without fail, each time I've visited a huge city driving a car, I've regretted it. Not only do you waste precious travel time becoming lost browsing around for what seems like the millionth time is bothersome the same street, sitting in traffic and demoralizing. Let's not forget the cost of parking. Ditch the car to save your sanity.
Cluster your daily actions
If you are traveling to a city that is spread out--like Los Angeles in a 503 miles in size--concentrate your everyday sightseeing. You'll spend less time zigzagging from place to place.
Utilize public transit
Public transit is a good option, often less expensive than driving a car. I like to take light rail as it's quicker and street congestion is less of a problem, While I have the option. Be cautious about traveling during rush hour commuters can be unforgiving In the event you opt to use transit. Also, if you do not enjoy being in close quarters or crowds, consider utilizing transit.
Use your feet
Walking around a city is a experience that is special --you feel the scale and scope of the city in a way you would not traveling in car, a bus, or subway. It might take time, however moments you may have missed while zipping past become a regular deal when you're on your feet. Additionally, with each of the delicious eats you'll likely find in a city that is large, a small exercise that is extra is a bonus.
Do what you care about
Spend time on things that matter to you. Don't waste your valuable vacation on sightseeing or events which aren't interesting to you, even if blogs and all of the guidebooks say it's the best thing.
Jump the packed schedule
Plan a program that is mild although it's tempting to max out your itinerary. Big cities there might be long lines and lots of waiting around you have not anticipated, and have a tendency to be tourist destinations that are popular. A schedule can lessen your enjoyment of your adventure and can cause you to feel anxious.
City traveling can be daunting, however, it does not have to be. Educate yourself strategy how and when and how you are likely to get around, and don't forget to enjoy yourself. Which large city are you prepared to handle?
