Traveling solo isn't always about sangrias and sunsets. It occasionally puts your strength, bravery, and instincts to the test.
In the center of Mexico City, here is the tale of the event that put me to the test.
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| From Panic to Power - How I Handled a Scary Moment Alone in Mexico City |
Scary Moment Alone in Mexico City
- The Day Started Like Any Other
I was totally charmed with Mexico City on my third day
there. It was delighted by the vibrant colors of La Roma, the aroma of street
vendors' sizzling tacos, and the music that seemed to float through each lane.
I made the decision to check out a neighborhood artisan
market close to the historic core that morning.
I felt comfortable navigating the subway, had my tiny
backpack on, and was wearing a flowy skirt. I felt as though I was finally pursuing
my goal of traveling solo.
By late afternoon, yet, everything was different.
The Moment Everything Shifted
I saw a man standing close to a shuttered pharmacy as I was
leaving the market and heading down a side street toward the subway.
Nothing appeared strange at first. But two blocks later, I
spotted him once more. He was following me this time.
My stomach tightened. It didn't feel right, but I wasn't
sure whether I was overreacting. I went across the street. He did, too.
Turning a corner, I stopped close to a bustling street
vendor and pretend to look at some earrings. He came close.
At that point, panic began to spread.
Choosing Power Over Panic
At times such as this, your mind is racing with ideas. Shall
I run? Shall I give someone a call? Was I being suspicious?
I inhaled deeply and performed the action I had planned but
never intended to use: When I turned on my phone's emergency contact shortcut,
my best buddy back home was able to see my current position. Additionally, I
opened Google Maps and searched up the closest public café.
I went inside a bakery approximately 200 meters away without
looking at them. He didn't come in after me. I saw him pass by and then
disappear from the window.
What I Learned (and What I Want Every Solo Female Traveler to Know)
I was shaken by what had happened, yet I felt inspired as
well. I didn't get cold. I followed my instincts. I made a plan and followed
through on it.
Since then, I always bring these items with me when I
travel,
- Offline maps of the area
- Emergency contact access
on my lock screen
- Local language phrases
saved for quick access
- A mindset that I can
handle whatever comes my way
Traveling solo has great power. In ways that nothing else
can, it teaches you to rely on yourself.
I was reminded by that experience in Mexico City that bravery does not equate to confidence.
.
It involves getting over the fear yet.
Final Thoughts
Be aware that there will be difficulties if you are a female
traveler traveling solo or if you want to be one. But you can. You're
intelligent. In addition, you're never really solo.
Every experience whether it's a language barrier, a spooky
street, or simply the anxiety of being far from home, contributes to your
narrative.
This was mine, from panic to power.
Leave a comment below or share this tale with another solo traveler if it spoke to you. Someone else might feel a bit more courageous today because of your experience.
Read: What
I Learned About Safety After Getting Followed in Paris
