First time traveling solo – Portugal

This post has been a long time coming, and I have SO MUCH to share with you all!

Back in August I decided to throw myself into deep waters and go on my first trip alone, as well as my staying in a hostel for the first time. The thought of doing this was scaring the shit out of me. I am a total introvert; I love being by myself and avoid company whenever I can. But I booked the flights and accommodation (The Shelter in Lagos – SO AMAZING – but more about this later!), and set out on a solo adventure.

So this trip was me stepping out of my comfort zone BIG TIME. And you know what? It was so worth it! I can’t stress enough how important it is to push yourself to do new things and overcome your fears. It was such an incredible trip! I met the nicest, friendliest and most welcoming people, and quite frankly the only time I was alone was in the bathroom. Portugal was A-MA-ZING. I totally fell in love with the country.

Here’s my little guide for first time solo travelers

1. If you’re scared of being lonely, let me tell you that if you’re traveling solo you’re NEVER alone – I know it sounds weird. You naturally gravitate towards people and a smile can really help to make some new friends – trust me on this one 🙂 Be open, kind & friendly, spread good vibes and simply do your thing – people will come to you! Bring a bottle of wine and a pack of cards to the common room and let the magic happen! Unless you’re running away from people you will meet plenty of fellow travelers. It’s awesome to travel alone because you can always tag along with someone when you have no plans, but you can also do whatever you want without compromising – because you’re your own boss on this trip!
2. That’s why choosing the right hostel is essential. Do your research and don’t always base your decision on price – if something doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. Make sure that hostel offers lockers to store your passport and any other valuables. A free breakfast can be really good when you’re on a budget. Also free towels are helpful when you travel with hand luggage only. Get to know people in your room so you can get an idea about whether you can trust them or leave your stuff in the room. Choose 6 bed female/male only dorm if you don’t feel too comfortable mixing with people too much. I stayed in The Shelter and couldn’t recommend it more – amazing atmosphere, very safe, close to town, quiet, and a great homey vibe – you truly feel like you’re staying with friends. The owners are fabulous and Luca (white retriever) is everything you could ask for!
3. Do your research about prices and bring more than you think you’ll need. Sticking to a budget is important, especially when you’re not swimming in money like me, but having a good time is equally important. I took £300 for a week and spent every penny – it was totally worth it! Some days you’ll hardly spend anything because you’ll be lounging on the beach drinking all day, and cooking dinner with peeps from the hostel is a great way to save some cash. Other days you’ll go crazy with pizza and sangria followed by an all nighter – and it’s ok!

   To give you an idea about prices in Lagos, Portugal (summer 2017 / backpacker essentials haha)
   Beer – €1/€1.50 in a bar / shops are cheaper
   1l jug of sangria – €9
   Pizza (restaurant in town) – from €6
   Portuguese dinner (fish dish+beer) – €14
   Bottle of wine (shop) – from €3
   Cigarettes – around €4
   Kayaking (2,5hrs) – €30
   Surfing (all day trip) – €50
   Groceries (fruits, hummus, cake, veg) – €8-12
   Transport – €7.20 Faro to Lagos train (2hrs), Taxi to Faro airport €10

4. Google Maps is your best friend! You can download offline maps and the world is yours 🙂 In Europe we don’t have roaming anymore so you can flood Instagram with your travel pics 24/7 but traveling in other countries may be more difficult without internet – so offline maps are so helpful. Saying that – go out, explore, get lost, ask people for directions and recommendations and simply enjoy!I think that’s it for now – remember be sensible but don’t stress too much. Trust your gut and you’ll be fine! People are lovely in general and the more you travel the more confident you become and can spot danger much quicker.
   And most importantly have an amazing time traveling solo ❤
   Here are some pics from Lagos – ENJOY