I still
remember using holding my Sarajevo ticket and backpack as I stood at the airport
entrance.
My mind was racing with a hundred ideas, including worry, excitement, and that little voice that asked, "Are you really going to travel the Balkans alone?" Indeed, I was. And I'm quite happy that I did.
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| My Safe Solo Trip Through the Balkans |
Why I Chose the Balkans for My Solo Trip
As a woman
traveling solo, my primary priority is always safety. I had heard stories of
the Balkans, both positive and negative.
But I was
attracted to this area for some reason. Possibly it was the bright energy
of Belgrade, the ancient alleyways of Bosnia, or the beautiful views of Montenegro.
I wanted to
experience firsthand the pure, authentic, and culturally rich Balkans.
First Stop - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo, a
city that proudly shows its scars, is where my adventure started.
I had the
strongest coffee I've ever had, went about Baščaršija (the old bazaar), and spoke
with residents who were more than happy to share their stories.
Even at
night, I felt very comfortable going around, despite its history of conflict.
Safety Tip: To familiarize yourself with the area, take walking tours and stay in hostels with strong recommendations from female travelers.
Embracing Kindness in Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor had the
feel of a fantasy. It soon became one of my favorite locations, surrounded by
the sea and mountains. The trail was nearly empty when I hiked the fortress
early in the morning.
When she saw
that I was having trouble using my map, a local woman walked with me for ten minutes
to help me find my way.
Solo doesn't
mean alone, I knew then. Particularly when you travel with interest and
respect, people are friendly.
Safety Tip: Maps should always be downloaded offline before leaving. Signals from mobile devices may fail in mountainous areas.
Bustling Belgrade - Confidence Grows
Belgrade was uproar
of activity. I danced until three in the morning in gritty underground clubs
and hip cafes, something I never would have thought to do on my own.
What was
beneficial? A local travel group told me about a pub crawl that was just for
girls.
I became even
more confident after meeting other female travelers who were traveling
solo and exchanging stories.
Safety Tip: To interact in real time, sign up for female travel groups on Facebook or use solo travel applications.
Lessons I Learned Traveling Solo in the Balkans
1. Fear is Normal - But It Doesn’t
Have to Stop You
On some
evenings, I locked my door twice. There were days when I doubted my path. Yet,
such experiences increased my confidence.
2. Locals Are Your Best Safety Net
They will
inform you which buses are safe, where you can eat by yourself without being
stared at unnaturally and where you should avoid.
3. Pack Smart, Walk Tall
I wore little
jewelry, carried a fake wallet, and always gave the impression that I knew
where I was going, even when I didn't.
Final Thoughts - The Power of Solo Travel as a Woman
In addition
to being safe, traveling solo as a woman in the Balkans felt powerful. I never
imagined that I would leave feeling more self-assured, curious, and a part of
the world.
Do not allow
fear keep you from traveling solo as a woman. I think the Balkans will welcome
you with open arms, just like they did me.
Packing Essentials for Solo Female Travelers
- Whistle and portable door lock
- Maps.me and other offline map applications
- An anti-theft crossbody bag
- A printed copy of the emergency contacts and passport
Places I Recommend in the Balkans
Mostar,
Bosnia - for the famous bridge and friendly residents
North
Macedonia's Lake Ohrid is a serene and beautiful place.
Serbia's Tara
National Park is a hiking paradise for solo hikers.
Have You Traveled the Balkans Solo?
Leave a comment with your experience. Together, let's create a sisterhood of brave travelers who support one another in feeling noticed and safe.
Read: What
I Learned About Safety After Getting Followed in Paris
