CHRIS, there are both "pros & cons" to travelling solo, but don't let the lack of a travelling companion hold you back -- go for it!!!
I hope to get back to Europe sometime in 2005 (if the funding works out?), and plan on going by myself again. While it can be a bit lonely at times, I like the freedom to set my own agenda and visit attractions which are of most interest to me (I'm interested in military history, and few people have the interest or patience to visit the sites that I want to see). I've found that if the day is filled with activities and sightseeing, one doesn't have time to worry about being alone.
I also heartily agree with Tracie's comments -- you'll meet lots of people in your travels, and you will probably learn a lot about yourself as well.
I would suggest a couple of things however:
> make sure you plan fairly well, so that you don't have to worry about "the basics" -- lodging, food or transportation. That way you will be able to focus on sightseeing and enjoying each destination.
> use good quality gear - you don't want this failing part way during your trip and causing problems (Kim, the owner of these Boards, can relate the perils of using less-expensive Backpacks).
> it's a good idea to have a "backup" for your primary source of funds. For example, if you take only one ATM card and this "fails" for whatever reason, you could have a problem! I usually have at least three methods of accessing cash when I travel, in addition to credit cards. Also, keep copies of your Passport and other important documents.
> use a Money Belt! I saw a report on TV yesterday which stated that someone is victimized by a "pickpocket"
once a minute in the City of London. I've heard some other cities are worse (Barcelona, Rome???).
> plan a logical route so that you don't waste either time or money on your trip. Usually, flying "open jaw" is the best option so that you don't have to return to your starting point.
> finally, if you haven't been there before, do some research on how things work in Europe. Guidebooks are a good source of information (many people like the Lonely Planet books, but I really like the Rick Steves books as they fit my travel philosophy a bit better). For example, you need to be familiar with how the rail systems work, the 24-hour way of expressing time, which days certain Museums & other attractions are closed, best way to make reservations for certain attractions, even something as simple as which is the "1st floor" of a building. I got a lot of information from reading "Europe Through The Back Door"; it really helped, and I felt better prepared.
You might want to read the "Solo Travel" section at
www.ricksteves.com (Graffiti Wall), as there are some interesting comments there from lots of travellers who have travelled this way. Many of them seem to prefer solo travel.
Also, check other Posts on this Board with regard to travelling with Digital Cameras, Cell Phones and other stuff that's helpful to know.
Finally, if you're going to be a regular visitor here you might want to register on the boards so that you have a profile (it would be nice to know a bit about you, as it's easier to be a bit more specific with suggestions).
Hope this helps. Cheers!!!
