Staying safe

Lots of people comment that I am "brave" for travelling alone. This may well be true, to an extent, but really it's just about being safe and taking every precaution to ensure I'm not putting myself into any situation where I could be at risk.

Hostels

I always book high-rated, friendly looking hostels - and where possible select the female only dorm option (not always possible). I have brought my super heavy duty padlock (and a smaller one for the hostels with smaller lockers) to make sure my stuff is secure at all times. Most hostels organise and arrange trips to places and where possible, I try to go along rather than visit on my own. It's also an excellent way to meet people. Last night I went for food with 3 Danish ladies and today with some Americans - all met at the hostel.

Personal Safety

I obviously have an alarm. I keep it in my right pocket so I can easily reach it. It has a bright flashing light and hits 130 decibels. I got it here. I also have left all of my valuable items at home. I have "fake" wedding rings - although to be fair they are also of sentimental value, which means a lot to me - but aren't worth stealing. I have sunglasses from Primark and don't wear my nice watch. I try to keep my phone locked at the hostel during the day and use a burner phone that's around 6 years old when out and about. Something I can hand over to a mugger if I'm asked for it. I got a Travelex pre-paid card so I'm not carrying cash - I just take out a chunk every few days. I also wear sensible shoes that I can easily run in. When in crowds I put my backpack on my front.

Common Sense

There are a few things that are just common sense. I don't go out at night on my own, unless I need to get to a bus station, at which point I will use Uber rather than a taxi or walk. I also use the app Life360 so that my husband and parents can see where I am at all times. They also get notifications every time I safely get back to my hostels.