My story of solo female travel

Hello there, I'm Katie and live in Glasgow, Scotland.

This blog has come out of 30 years of travelling the world, mainly solo. I've visited almost 70 countries (and counting). Having been to lots of weird and wonderful places, I wanted to start this blog to inspire other women, - younger and older - that not only is solo travel possible but is enjoyable and transformative. I've been told that my travel writing takes the fear out of solo travel for women - so I thought I'd give blogging a go.

You'll find stories that reveal a new or less obvious side to a destination. So, don't worry, you won't  find any descriptions of a visit to a tourist café in the main square. What really excites me, is interacting with local people and learning about their unique lives and culture. 

As a feminist,  I'm concerned with gender based violence (GBV) and the broader issues surrounding social justice. I've a professional and personal interest in GBV - both in the UK and internationally.. So, I'm particularly interested in weaving the lives of women I meet, from around the world, through my stories. 

I've found, particularly in the developing world, that when you speak to a women and listen to her, it's often the first time anyone has shown any interest in her life or opinions. 

Through conversation and observation, I bring alive the specific socio-cultural factors that impact on women's lives. Overall, as a travel and culture writer, I give the less powerful in society a voice. The aim being to raise awareness of the role that individual and structural factors play, in shaping the lived experience of people around the world..

You'll also find stories entwined with accounts of the male experience. and the unique ways their lives are impacted by racism or caste/social class.  So, whilst male oppression exists, its not based on gender but rather structural systems.

However, it's not all gloom and doom, I'll be keeping you abreast with examples of strong citizens wrestling against the odds to bring about change in their communities. There's also a lot of very dry humour.

I'm not a big fan of planning a packed itinerary when I travel, I go with the flow. This allows me to take up opportunities as and when they arise, spontaneously. Travelling at my leisure has led to experiencing the world as a rich, eye opening, perspective building and cultural experience.  

In recent years, I've tended to use homestays. So, there won't be any service information eg about accommodation. Although I'd be able to provide ideas for any routes in and around any countries you intend to visit.. 

So, you'll get a rich flavour of life in a range of cultural contexts and maybe some ideas of places  to visit yourself. If you want further information about any of the Non Government Organisations (NGOs) mentioned or want to find out more about a particular issue, please get in touch.

I'm also a qualified English (ESOL) teacher. I've lived and worked in Taiwan, Vietnam, Tunisia, Egypt and Mexico. Being based in these diverse countries meant places 'closer from 'home' switched from Europe to Asia, Africa, and Central America. 

So, I have pretty good knowledge of travel in and around these countries - if you are planning on going. I'm also a big fan of all the countries in the Balkan peninsula (ex-Yugoslavia) and know my way about there too. 

As a visitor here, you are part of a fantastic community and there are ways you can get involved.. I will try and answer any questions you have about travelling solo or offer suggestions about how to take that first step. into the world on your own. 

You can also get in touch if you have any interesting stories about women and men you have met on you journeys. Or just to say hi!

I also have a Facebook page Feminist Travel Blog so feel free to join me here and like my page..

https://www.facebook.com/womenandtravelfirst/?view_public_for=110822173959649

Also, since I'm pretty new to blogging, if there are any aspects of solo travel you would like included please let me know. Or if you want to learn more about travelling in specific countries. 

After all, I want YOU to get the most out of your trip!. And of course, any comments will be welcomed, that will provide the encouragement I need!

What are you waiting for!