“Never did the world make a queen of a girl who hides in houses and dreams without traveling.”

As most people know, I tend to travel alone. This freaks a lot of people out that I, a single, tiny, female, would travel alone. So, for those of you that would like to do this as well, but have crazy relatives like me that are in a constant state of panic, here are some tips to help put some minds at ease:

• Create a detailed itinerary and share it with a family member and/or a friend. That way they know where you're supposed to be at all times.

• Don't post things in real time on social media.

  • Even though you might be on private, just make sure to post photos to your profiles once you're safe in the place you're staying for the night.

• When walking around, make sure to have your Airpods in. Leave one in, one out so you're aware of your surroundings. But have one in so you are listening to instructions from your GPS rather than looking at your phone.

• I like to walk right in the middle of the sidewalk. Not to close to the wall so I can look and see shadows of people walking behind me. And not too close to the street because, well...cars...

• Have one person you check in with every night to let them know you're safe. I usually will text my mom as I board a plane and when it lands.

• Share your location on your phone with someone. My grandmother and my best friend are constantly able to track my location.

• Have fun! Yes, it can be an intimidating experience but it's so worth it. It's the most I learn about myself once I travel to different places.

There are very few times where I didn't feel safe traveling throughout the US or Europe. I usually trust my gut. I do what I can to not walk alone at night. But I also don't let it prevent me from enjoying myself. You can be safe and have a good time. Yes, with true crime documentaries and podcasts so easily accessible it feels like you're going to be kidnapped just walking to your grocery store. But if it could happen just walking to your grocery store...then what is the sense in having that be the reason you don't go experience some bucket list items? Go and live your life. Be prepared. Be smart. Trust yourself.