Traveling alone can be a very rewarding experience. It gives you the freedom to do the things that you want to do without taking another person's to-do list into consideration, encourages you to meet new people, and gives you time for self reflection. However, planning your first solo trip can be overwhelming. By keeping things simple and considering your safety first, you'll take the stress out of your first solo vacation.

Get Acquainted with the Area's Transportation Options

One of the most stressful parts about traveling alone is learning how to navigate the city that you're visiting. Many people are afraid that they'll get lost, which is a lot scarier when you're by yourself. So, when you're planning your trip, take some time to determine how you want to get around. A few things to consider include:

• Taking an airport shuttle to your hotel. Before you arrive, schedule an airport taxi service like Yellow Cab to take you from the airport to your hotel. This way, you don't have to worry about using public transportation or finding a cab right away. Instead, you can get to your hotel and relax a little bit before venturing out on your own.
• Educate yourself before you arrive. Before you leave, use the Internet to research the transportation options that your destination offers. Take the time to study bus and train routes, learn the cost of cab fare, and determine whether or not you want to rent a car.
• Scope out the bus and/or train stations when you arrive. If you've decided to use public transportation during your visit, take a few minutes to explore the train, bus, or subway stations and stops when you arrive. This way, if the area feels a little sketchy, you can find an alternative option.

Arrive During the Day

When you're booking a flight choose one that lands at your destination during the day. This way, you aren't trying to navigate a new city for the first time in the dark. Plus, you'll feel more comfortable if you can see where the airport shuttle service is taking you. It helps you get your bearings.

Meet New People

Once you arrive, feel free to mingle with the locals. However, be smart about who you're spending your time with and where you're meeting people. Traveling alone does make you more vulnerable, but that doesn't mean that you have a target on your back. Allow yourself to talk and share with new people, but don't trust too quickly. It's important to be open minded, but make sure you keep your guard up.

Take a Tour

If you're leery about mingling with strangers, consider taking a tour. Organized tours attract other travelers so it's a great way to meet other people who are traveling alone or visiting the destination for the first time.

Knowing how to get around and meeting new people is the key to having a successful solo trip. Once you're familiar with the area, and comfortable talking to new people, you'll discover that traveling solo is actually quite fun. Just remember to always put your safety first, relax, and have fun.