Little Blonde Girl Travel Tips

Solo travelling can be rough, and I generally learn things the hard way, the hard, expensive way. It also does not help that I speak zero foreign languages. But, what I lack in linguistics, I make up for in frugality and street savvy. I have learned several ways to make your experience more authentic and less expensive while on the road.

1-Open a Charles Schwab checking account. There is no minimum balance required and they will refund all your foreign transaction fees and ATM fees at the end of each month, regardless of the balance you carry. I know there are several other fancy credit cards out there that offer the same deals, but they usually carry an annual fee. Charles Schwab is the best, trust me.

2- Don't always believe Kayak or Google Flights. Although these 2 websites are invaluable for comparing international flights, they often do not have local airlines listed. Do the research and find what local airlines fly where you are going. Also check one ways, I have booked several flights using one ways and they were $100's of dollars less. Take the time and look, it can be pain in the ass, but it’s usually worth it.

3- Use your debit card and your credit card whenever you can. You will always get the best exchange rates when you use ATM's. Beware of foreign transaction fees too, unless you have a travel specific credit card, you will be charged 3-4% per transaction. Traveller’s cheques are archaic, and most international places don't take them anymore. Don't bother ordering money from your bank in advance. Unless you are going to a very remote country (or Cuba), there will be a working ATM at the airport. It's always best to withdraw money as you need it and not carry much cash with you. On that note... I have never carried a money belt… ever.

4- Don't follow the 'restaurant recommendations' in your travel guides. More often than not, they are overcrowded and unauthentic. If you have a fear of street food and getting food poisoning, you really shouldn't be travelling outside of a guided tour anyway. Street food is the best and most authentic food you can get. It’s cheap and delicious and easy.

5- Avoid hotels, unless you need a posh night. They are expensive and don't really give you an opportunity to experience the country you escaped the US to see. Book homestays and use Airbnb. It is a much more authentic experience and you can't really get better advice than from a local. Many homestays offer meals as part of the accommodation, I love this. What’s better than a home cooked meal?

6- Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Traditional customs very widely in every part of the world. Get used to haggling, get used to being stared at and touched and cat called, it happens. Sometimes you will have to squat and take a crap in a hole; sometimes there is no TP or soap. GET OVER IT. If you know you have limits, make sure you have what you need to be comfortable, but remember... being uncomfortable is a beautiful part of traveling. You are a visitor, be respectful of local customs. If you act like an idiot, you'll be treated like and idiot. Confidence is key.

7-Safety- I mostly travel alone, as a 5ft tall blonde. I have never felt unsafe internationally... ever. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Just like in any part of the world, don't get yourself into stupid situations. Don't get black out drunk or do too many drugs unless your with a buddy, there is safety in numbers. Know your limits and always follow your gut. Most people are good, especially fellow travellers. It is kind of an unspoken ‘code’; respect the people around you and you will in turn get respect. I have gone and done lots of crazy shit with people I had just met. Be cautious, but remember that you are there to have a good time, not sit in your hotel room.