How to Make Traveling Solo Less Scary

Traveling alone may be a leap out of your comfort zone, but it can also be a great time to learn about yourself and enjoy a truly singular experience; while visiting places with familiar faces can provide a more boisterous trip, a solo getaway can be the perfect time to clear your head and grab some much-needed relaxation.

The Huffington Post's Linden Schaffer recommends five tips for a solo excursion, put into easy steps: arrange, arrive, meet, respect, and trust.

Prearranging your travel accommodations can be stressful, but it will save a lot more stress — for you and for your loved ones left behind. Just remember that once you've arrived, better opportunities can pop up, so it's not a bad idea to find something refundable.

When you arrive at your destination, try to make sure it's in daylight. The atmosphere is bound to be more comfortable. And when you've arrived at your temporary home-away-from-home, spend some time talking to people - it can make a big difference not only in your safety if you know the concierge or proprietors, but you could find out where the best local spots are.

The last two are simple: respect the culture around you (especially with what clothing you wear), and trust your instincts. During our daily lives, we sometimes ignore our gut feelings, but in travel it's a warning sign to keep you safe. Perhaps the most important aspect is to enjoy your time alone exploring the places around you.