Wanderlust and Wonder: A Gal Traveler’s perspective<3

Traveling for the first time can be scary and nerve wracking. Heck even if you’re an experienced traveler like me and my mom, there are still curve balls that can be thrown your way. As you get older and enter college, you’re going to have more opportunities to travel around the world and I say take them. Don’t click off just yet. I personally know how expensive traveling can be but I also know how to manage money well enough to be able to travel efficiently and still have a wonderful time. If you need $1000 to travel to Miami for example, you’re doing something wrong. Me and my friends have gone to Miami with a $200 budget each and guess what, we had a blast and came back still friends. I did not limit myself to fun, instead I planned and we stuck to the plan. So without further ado, here’s my tips for traveling (the first blog post about travel :), especially as a woman).

“We travel, some of us forever, to seek other states, other lives, other souls.”

Anais Nin

Traveling isn’t feasible for a lot of families because the American education system sucks and so many of us were never taught how to manage our money so that we could be thrown into the cycle of work and sleep so the government could utilize us as working class robots. This is what accentuates the cycle of poverty and socioeconomic problems in our country. So today, even though, I’m going to give you tips for traveling (especially as a women), were going to dive into some of the root causes and potential solutions of financial instability because we don’t discriminate here and a majority of people who want to travel dont have the finances to be able to. Now of course, this isn’t easy, it’s actually sometimes a nightmare, but think once you break the barriers of the United States economic system, won’t you feel proud and accomplished AND you’ll start changing your life around with extra finances.  Its hard and it doesn’t always work but keep trying and stay determined because that’s how we learn and grow along the way.

Here are 7 tips for gaining financial stability and therefore learning to travel and gain new experiences.

1. Ridding our stigmas 
2. Take something you like and turn it into a small side hustle
3. Plan Out your Entire Trip, Make a full itinerary
   1. Bring Activities Whether it be a book, a board game, cards…this is a vacation, take 2 hours to sit in the park or the beach of where you are to destress with something you find relaxing and fun.
4. Research Transportation Before and LEARN it, so you can make use of public transportation
5. If you are going somewhere with a different language, learn a few phrases that can be necessary in the case you need help or get lost.  
6. Buy Groceries to cook with on the first day of your trip; Find Cheap Local Spots that boast cultural flavors for restaurants and clubs
7. Traveling As a women…alone

1. Ridding our stigmas 

First off, we need to throw away our stigmas and re-learn a few things. Just because you are struggling financially does not mean you are lazy, haven’t worked hard enough, or that your life will always be this way. You could be busting your ass and somehow falling even harder, and if no one else tells you, I, Amie Boakye, am so damn proud of you and all the work you’ve put in. It’s important to recognize that financial struggle is often the result of systemic issues rather than personal failings. We must realize that many people living below the poverty line have been victimized by a system in the United States that is working exactly the way it was designed to. This system perpetuates economic inequality and disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. Communities of color and other underserved families have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic and the subsequent economic downturn. Black, Indigenous, and Latinx communities have seen higher rates of infection, hospitalization, and death, as well as higher rates of unemployment. These disparities are not due to any lack of effort on the part of individuals, but rather the result of longstanding structural inequities. Similarly, the disability community has been disproportionately affected. High rates of mortality in congregate facilities, inequitable vaccine rollouts, and delayed stimulus payouts to individuals on Social Security and Supplemental Security Income highlight the systemic neglect and discrimination faced by people with disabilities. Recognizing these issues is the first step toward dismantling the stigmas that unfairly blame individuals for circumstances largely beyond their control.

Ridding stigmas extends beyond financial struggles to encompass other areas of life, such as travel. There is often a stigma attached to traveling on a budget, as if it diminishes the experience or reflects poorly on the traveler. This could not be further from the truth. Traveling on a budget requires resourcefulness, creativity, and planning, and it can lead to richer and more authentic experiences. When we shed the stigma of budget travel, we open ourselves up to the possibility of seeing the world in new and meaningful ways. Another travel-related stigma to discard is the idea that certain destinations or types of travel are only for certain kinds of people. Everyone deserves the opportunity to explore new places, regardless of their background or financial status. The belief that travel is a luxury reserved for the wealthy is just simply ignorant. 

It’s time to rid ourselves of stigmas surrounding financial struggle and travel. We must recognize that economic hardship often stems from systemic issues rather than personal failings and embrace a more inclusive and realistic view of travel. 

“Don’t ever accept anyone else’s preconceived limitations. If there’s something you want to do, there isn’t any reason you can’t do it.”

Amy Dodson

2. Take something you like and turn it into a small side hustle

Some may roll their eyes at the idea of this, but it could help you in ways you never knew. Some of my friends love to draw, create bracelets, clothing, or even the simplest things like sticker designs; you could sell it on Etsy just for a small buck. But that small buck adds up. If you like hiking, start posting tips to hiking and try and attract a social media presence centered around your passions. You can apply this to any idea or sport and you can start doing brand deals. If you were to sell, let’s say, one of these every day for a year and you priced them at 12 dollars, your gross income would be $4,380. You could paint journals, you could sell old clothes, you could advertise services that you are skillful in, and that money will add up. Put it in a lock box, do not touch it, learn to save. And I know so many people will come back and say this is bad advice–you should invest the money blah blah; but if you were never taught how to manage money, jumping into investing right out of the water is a foolish idea. Take some time, 15-30 minutes a day to learn the basics of personal finance and budgeting. Use resources like online courses, books, or even YouTube videos to get a grasp on managing your money. Take notes and don’t pay just to learn how to invest. This foundational knowledge will empower you to make more informed decisions when you do decide to invest. Last things last for this section, your money and wealth doesn’t define you, your clothing that you wear or the rings you show off don’t define you; what defines you is your determination for success, morals and ethical values, and your ability to help other people when the time comes. Character is forever more important than money and that’s definitely something I’ve learned whilst traveling and I hope you can too. I am proud of you! You are important and intelligent and you will get to the point u want someday. <3.

3. Plan Out your Entire Trip, Make a full itinerary 

Making a full itinerary for your trip is so so important. I know it seems like so much work in the beginning but you will be thanking yourself by the end of the trip if you just take the extra hour to sit down and plan. By planning out your schedule, you can manage both your time and money more effectively. Researching destinations, activities, and their associated costs ahead of time helps you avoid unexpected expenses and ensures you stay within your budget. Whenever I travel, I make a document with the times we should be at the airport and a plan for every single day with the costs next to it. When we stuck to the plan, which allowed us to experience everything we wanted without breaking the bank. I do my absolute best to stick to this but of course stuff is going to go wrong or differently than you thought and guess what? That’s OKAY!! Flexibility is key when traveling. Unexpected changes can lead to new adventures and experiences you never planned for. So, embrace the unexpected and enjoy the journey as it comes. 

One of the key aspects of a successful trip that people mention in passing but never say is essential is packing activities along with snacks to enjoy during downtime. (Trust me this is essential). Bring along a good book, a board game, or a deck of cards. Remember, this is a vacation; take two hours to sit in the park or on the beach and destress with something you find relaxing and fun. These moments not only help you recharge but also provide a way to enjoy your surroundings without spending extra money. By planning your entire trip in advance and incorporating simple, enjoyable activities, you can ensure a fulfilling and budget-friendly vacation.

4. Research Transportation Before and LEARN it, so you can make use of public transportation

Learning about the public transportation options at your destination is a step in planning your trip. This can save you a significant amount of money compared to using taxis or rideshares, and it can also give you a more authentic experience of the local culture. 

Start by researching the different modes of public transport available, such as buses, trams, subways, and trains. By the time you’re done with your research, you should know how to get to the bus station, where to buy cards or tickets for riding, and which option is the most cost-effective. For instance, in many cities, purchasing a weekly or monthly transport pass can be much cheaper than buying single tickets for each ride. Understanding how the metro works, if the city has one, is particularly important. Look up metro maps, schedules, and peak hours to avoid crowded times. Familiarize yourself with the routes that will take you to the main attractions on your itinerary. Knowing the quickest and safest way to get around can make your trip much smoother and stress-free. It’s also again so so important to be aware of any safety concerns related to public transportation. Research common scams, pickpocketing hotspots, and areas to avoid, and take any necessary precautions because we are SAFE travelers here. Being prepared and cautious can prevent many potential issues.

Lastly, if you don’t know the language of your destination, learn some key phrases related to transportation. This can include how to ask for directions, how to buy a ticket, and how to understand signs and announcements. Phrases like “Where is the bus station?” or “How much is a ticket?” can be incredibly helpful. This not only makes navigating public transport easier but also shows respect for the local culture, which can enhance your overall travel experience which leads into the next section. 

5. If you are going somewhere with a different language, learn a few phrases that can be necessary in the case you need help or get lost.  

If you are traveling to a destination where a different language is spoken, taking the time to learn a few key phrases can make a significant difference in your experience. These phrases can be essential if you need help or get lost, and they show respect for the local culture. Start by learning basic greetings such as “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.” Focus on phrases that can assist you in navigating and seeking help. For instance, knowing how to say “Where is the bus station?” or “Can you help me?” can be invaluable. Additionally, learn how to ask for directions, such as “How do I get to [destination]?” or “Which way is the metro?” It’s also useful to know phrases for emergency situations, such as “I am lost,” “I need help,” “Is there a hospital nearby?” or “Call the police.” Phrases like “How much does this cost?”. Understanding and using the local language in these contexts can make transactions smoother and more enjoyable. Learning key phrases in the local language not only helps you navigate more easily but also enriches your travel experience by allowing you to connect more deeply with the local culture. It shows effort and respect, which can lead to more positive interactions and a greater appreciation of your destination.

6. Buy Groceries to cook with on the first day of your trip 

On the first day of your trip, take some time to buy groceries. This simple step can save you a significant amount of money and give you a taste of local life. Visit a local market or grocery store to pick up essentials like bread, cheese, fruits, and vegetables. Not only will this allow you to prepare some of your own meals, but it will also give you a chance to explore local ingredients and specialties that you might not find in restaurants. Cooking a few meals at your accommodation can be a relaxing break from eating out and can also help you manage your budget more effectively. Even if you only prepare breakfast or snacks, the savings can add up over the course of your trip. Plus, visiting local markets can be a delightful cultural experience, offering insights into the daily lives of residents and the flavors that define the region.

In addition to buying groceries, make an effort to find affordable local restaurants and clubs that offer authentic cultural flavors. Eating where the locals eat not only saves money but also enhances your travel experience by immersing you in the local culinary scene. Look for small, family-run restaurants, food stalls, or neighborhood cafes that serve traditional dishes. These places often provide more authentic and delicious food than touristy restaurants, and at a fraction of the price. This balanced approach ensures that you get a true taste of the local culture without overspending, making your trip both enjoyable and economical.

7. Traveling As a women…alone

It’s dangerous, human trafficking rates are high, and so on. Guess what? All of that is true in the U.S. too; you just refuse to see it. A girl was killed on a run at a college many of my friends attend—oh, and it was broad daylight. The way I see it is that millions of people go about their everyday lives in these countries that so many western natives fear. Just because their way of life doesn’t look like ours or there are different things to watch out for, most places are no more dangerous than the States. I mean come on, look at our gun violence rates; last year we had nearly 650 mass shootings–almost double the amount of days in the year……..so lets be serious and stop judging other places; remember to drop the stigma.

Don’t tell strangers where you’re staying. Always listen to your instincts when deciding how much to share with the people you meet. If someone’s making you uncomfortable, remember that you do not owe them information about yourself or as a matter of fact anything at all. You also shouldn’t post your every move on social media. There will be time to share when you get home or have moved from a place. Put your devices down and take in all of the sights, sounds, and scents that this new place is sharing with you. Watch how the people interact with each other. Be present. Trust: You’ll be glad you did once you’re back home.

Traveling alone is undeniably one of the most enriching adventures a woman can undertake. I will say, I was slightly apprehensive at first—consumed by the echoes of cautionary tales spun by the media and the skeptics who had never ventured beyond their own backyards. Yet, I was met with an abundance of kindness and generosity. In the embrace of strangers who welcomed me into their homes and lives, thousands of miles from my own, I discovered the inherent goodness that permeates humanity. It opened my eyes to new ways of life and a love of life, as well as the negative strife of people across the globe. But I learned, took it all in, took time to see the world for what it is and the beauty within the ugliness and the success. The world, travel, aging, life–has shaped who I am as a person. Solo travel, unapologetically raw and unfiltered, does not come without its challenges. And yes it is much harder when you are the person who is organizing every part of your trip. Yet, it is within these trials that the true empowerment (and inspiration) of solo female travel reveals itself. The challenges you face and overcome will make you stronger and more confident. Moreover, the connections forged along the way, with fellow wanderers, infuse life with a richness and depth beyond measure. So, if you’ve been thinking about taking that solo trip, go for it.

The world is waiting for you.

Signing Off, xoxo, Amie <3