1. Know before you go! Research, research, research your destination before you leave - make sure you are aware of any safety risks you may face. The old adage "Knowledge is power" is so true when traveling solo. It helps to keep the troublesome surprises at a minimum while navigating a new destination alone.
2. Pack light and stay organized - it’s easier to keep an eye on your belongings when you’re not weighed down with too much stuff.
3. Connect with locals - locals are great sources of information, and it’s always nice to have local contacts to help you out if you get stuck.
4. Walk with confidence - present yourself as if you know where you're going and what you're doing. 
5. Use common sense - trust your instincts and if something doesn’t feel right, go with your gut.
This list is just the start of things solo travelers should do to be safe. Here are a few others:
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Register with your country's STEP - Smart Traveler Enrollment Program - this ensures the Embassy/Consulate for your country knows where you are and who you are with. You will provide your itinerary and contact information to anyone you will interact with. This is key so that if anything should happen they know who you were with and how to find them. Each country has its own program. Visit USA Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for additional information on the US program.
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Choose someone to be your accountability partner. Let them know you have left one location and when you arrive at the next. Check-in with them daily so if they do not hear from you longer than 24 hours they know that's not normal. They can say the last time they heard from you and where you were. It's a starting point for the authorities if it becomes necessary.
Love can happen anywhere, however, don't go off alone with the coolest guy/gal that you have ever met in your life. Sounds like a great love story but can be disastrous. Get to know them with others around you and arrange to continue after you get back home. You never know it could be a return trip down the line but for now, be wise.
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Use a travel advisor to assist with planning your solo trip. We will help you navigate the choices and ensure you are not surprised when you get to your destination. We provide you with safety tips, and travel requirements and also provide reputable licensed suppliers to make sure you are safe. Plus we double as one other person who knows your full itinerary.
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