
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
Cheryl Esch-Solo Travel Advocate/Travel Coach/Freedom Traveler
Equipping Women over 50 to Safely Travel in Confidence
Is fear holding you back from traveling because you don’t have anyone to go with? Are you concerned about being a woman traveling alone? Not sure how to prepare for a solo trip? Do family and friends think you are crazy for even considering solo travel in this day and age?
In this podcast, you will become equipped to travel safely by yourself. You’ll learn things like tactical travel tips and how to prepare for a trip, and how to overcome the fear so you can discover the transformation that travel can bring. My mission is to see more women over 50, empty-nesters, discover how travel can empower them. If you want to enjoy your next travel adventure solo, then start your journey here.
Hi Sister Travelers, I’m Cheryl, solo travel advocate and coach. I spent nearly 20 years putting my family/children first and felt guilty about even considering solo travel at the time. After my divorce and transitioning to an empty nest, I began to rediscover my passion for travel, built confidence in myself, and started to explore again. I have experienced life-changing adventures through travel and I want the same for you.
If you are ready to find freedom through travel and build your confidence while safely navigating new places, then this podcast is for you!
Pack your bags, grab your plane tickets and check one more time for that passport. It’s time to explore the world!
Email: [email protected]
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Top 10 Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

How to Pack Light: The Ultimate Guide to Minimalist Packing for Chronic Overpackers
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
03/11/25 • 13 min
Do you stare at an empty suitcase the night before your trip, or struggle to zip one that's bursting at the seams? The chronic overpacker's dilemma is real, but there's a better way to prepare for your adventures.
After years of streamlining my packing process, I've developed six game-changing strategies that transform chaotic last-minute packing into an organized system anyone can master. Starting your packing process early with a comprehensive checklist prevents both overpacking and forgetting essentials. Understanding your destination's weather and planned activities helps you pack purposefully rather than "just in case."
The heart of my approach is the travel capsule wardrobe—a minimal collection of versatile pieces that create maximum outfit combinations. For my upcoming eight-day Iceland trip, I'm taking just three bottoms, three tops, two pairs of shoes, one jacket, and a multipurpose scarf. Everything mixes and matches, creating a week's worth of looks from surprisingly few items. My space-saving techniques include using packing cubes, rolling clothes instead of folding, and following the golden rule: never pack something you'll only wear or use once.
Whether you're preparing for a weekend getaway or extended journey, these minimalist packing principles deliver freedom from heavy luggage and packing stress. Ready to transform your travel experience? Download my free packing checklist from the show notes and discover how traveling lighter makes your adventures more enjoyable. Remember—nobody notices you're wearing the same sweater twice, but everyone notices when you're struggling with oversized luggage!
PACKING CHECKLIST:
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

When God Sends You Halfway Across the World to Find Healing
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
04/22/25 • 38 min
Danielle Hiebert's life took an unexpected turn when, in the midst of a painful divorce after 32 years of marriage and exhausted from the pandemic's toll on educators, she found herself scrolling through job listings in the middle of the night. A curriculum coordinator position in Kuwait caught her eye, and within weeks, she was preparing to move halfway across the world.
What began as an escape from heartache transformed into a profound journey of healing and self-discovery. Kuwait—a country she knew only from Desert Storm references—became the backdrop for Danielle's personal renaissance. "That's how you know God has a wonderful sense of humor," she reflects, "because he sent me to a Muslim country to spiritually heal."
For two years, Danielle immersed herself in Middle Eastern culture, forming deep connections with people from diverse backgrounds. From her Lebanese neighbors who brought her meals to her Filipino colleague singing hymns in the school bathroom, these relationships expanded her worldview while providing the community she needed to heal. Professional validation came too, as she found herself surrounded by educators eager to learn from her—a stark contrast to the burnout she'd experienced in American schools.
The distance gave Danielle something precious: perspective. In her "apartment up in the sky," she found time for prayer, journaling, and processing grief. Weekend trips to Dubai, Jordan, and Oman fulfilled her adventurous spirit while teaching her to approach life with an open heart. Her advice for women considering similar journeys resonates with simple wisdom: "Go with an open heart and mind, because you never know how it's going to play out for you."
Want to explore how travel might support your own healing journey? I'm launching a new travel coaching program designed specifically for those working through grief, trauma, or feeling stuck. Book a free call to join the waiting list for this transformative experience launching in late May.
https://calendly.com/solotraveladventures/book-a-call
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Christmas Markets With European Charm: My 5 Picks
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
12/20/22 • 19 min
Have you ever dreamed of experiencing a magical Christmas market around the holidays? I researched numerous places both internationally and locally (to the USA) and found 5 places that encapsulate both the Old World feel and winter recreation opportunities.
1) Vienna, Austria: Hosts one of the largest on the planet with numerous markets across the city. Nine skiing places in the vicinity.
2) Dresden Striezelmarkt- Dresden, Germany: Germany's oldest markets surrounded by the Baroque city. Germany does host the most Christmas markets in one country, including; Frankfort, Heidelberg, Munich and others. Plus lots of skiing available among all the mountain ranges in the area.
3) Zagreb Christmas Market- Zagreb, Croatia
Focus is on advent throughout the activities within the market.
4) Carmel Christkindlmarkt- Carmel, Indiana (USA)
The town looks like Saxony, Germany and features the only Gluhwein pyramid with 3000 lights and 33 feet tall.
5) Georgetown Christmas Market- Georgetown, Colorado (USA)
A quaint town with horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling, festive shopping and eating roasted chestnuts. Only runs the 2 weekends before Christmas. Being in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, plenty of places to have a winter wonderland experience as well.
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Packing Smart: Your Ultimate Guide to In-Flight Essentials
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
06/25/24 • 10 min
Ever wondered how to transform your long-haul flight into a serene, hassle-free experience? Discover my personal flight essentials that will make your journey comfortable and stress-free. From a versatile men's overnight satchel bag from Target to an eye mask and earplugs for uninterrupted sleep, I reveal my must-have in-flight items. Learn how compression socks can boost your circulation, and why packing reading glasses with a Kindle or book can keep you entertained for hours. Plus, you'll find out why a power bank, European adapter, and personal hygiene items are non-negotiable.
Get practical tips on organizing your in-flight essentials kit for maximum convenience and comfort. Find out how chewing gum can relieve ear discomfort, and why it's vital to keep gum, water, cough drops, and a neck pillow within arm’s reach. I share my go-to strategy for keeping these items in a front pocket or under your seat to avoid unnecessary rummaging. Learn my habit of always keeping this kit ready to go, making last-minute airport prep a breeze. Tune in and make your next long-haul flight the most pleasant one yet!
Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pcUJv4UmfUg
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Travel Smart: Streamlining the Organization of Your Travel Documents
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
01/28/25 • 13 min
Ever found yourself buried under a mountain of travel emails and confirmations, unsure of what’s what and where’s where? You're not alone. I'm here to share how I found my way through the chaos of planning a spontaneous trip to Florida. Discover the magic of apps like TripIt and Wanderlog that can effortlessly gather all your travel details into one streamlined itinerary. Imagine never having to scroll through countless emails again—these digital tools not only save time but reduce stress, ensuring you can focus on the excitement of your journey rather than the logistics.
Organizing travel documents doesn't have to be a daunting task. By adopting strategies that fit your personal style—whether it's a trusty spreadsheet or a feature-packed app—you can achieve travel efficiency like never before. I'll share my insights on maintaining backups for crucial documents, a must for international adventures, and how you can transform your travel experience with organized preparation. Plus, revisit past episodes for solo travel inspiration and learn how leaving reviews can help us reach more women ready to embark on their own adventures. Let's make your next trip smooth and rewarding, one organized document at a time.
Use this link to BOOK A CALL:
https://calendly.com/solotraveladventures/book-a-call
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Utilizing Travel Coaching to Heal from Past Trauma
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
10/22/24 • 17 min
Embarking on a solo road trip from Texas to Maine amidst the vibrant fall foliage, I discovered the profound healing power of travel during a tumultuous time in my life. As I reflect on this journey, it was pivotal in regaining my independence and self-confidence after a tough divorce. Through sharing my story, I hope to inspire you to find solace and strength in your own adventures, big or small, and to explore the transformative impact of travel on personal growth and healing.
I'm thrilled to introduce the Healing Travel Coaching Program, designed to offer three individuals the chance to utilize travel as a path to emotional renewal and self-discovery. Applications are open until November 10th, with participants being announced on the November 12th podcast episode. This is an incredible opportunity to harness the power of travel for overcoming past challenges and building resilience. I encourage you to consider how stepping out into the world might lead you to newfound confidence and empowerment. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just setting out on your first solo adventure, this episode invites you to join a journey of healing and rediscovery, reminding us all that sometimes the most life-changing travels begin right at our doorstep.
APPLY FOR FREE TRAVEL COACHING: Complete Google Form to be considered.
https://forms.gle/487P1tho5qed11eEA
If you have questions about this Travel Coaching offer, please reach out via email or Speakpipe link
[email protected]
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Empowering Tips for Allergen-Free Journeys
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
02/18/25 • 17 min
Traveling with food allergies doesn't have to be a daunting experience. Join me, Cheryl Esch, as I share my personal journey and practical strategies for navigating the world with a host of dietary restrictions. Whether you're allergic to peanuts, soy, gluten, or dairy, learn how to conquer your fears and prepare for safe and enjoyable adventures. I'll guide you through the essential steps, from packing your own food to researching restaurants in advance, ensuring that your next trip is free from anxiety and full of excitement. If you've ever hesitated to explore new destinations due to dietary concerns, this episode promises to arm you with the tools you need to travel with confidence.
Ensuring your health and well-being while on the road is equally important, especially when battling allergies. Discover my tried and tested routine for boosting the immune system with the power of vitamin C, garlic, oil of oregano, and zinc, particularly during air travel. Learn why carrying allergy medications like Benadryl or Zyrtec can be a game-changer in managing unexpected reactions. Through careful planning and execution of these strategies, you can overcome food-related challenges and embrace your travel adventures wholeheartedly. Share these insights with friends or family who might benefit, and embark on your next journey with newfound assurance and preparation.
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

Afraid to Travel Solo? 4 Ways to Overcome the Fear of Traveling Alone
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
11/08/22 • 19 min
Is fear holding you back from traveling solo? Discover 4 ways to overcome these fears.
1) Change Your Mindset. If you are consumed with worry and fear, you will become frozen and not move forward to travel. By looking at things from a positive mindset, can erase those fears and combat all the "what ifs" . I call it "Flip the Script". In most cases we are thinking of the worst case scenario. What if we "flipped the script" and thought of the best case scenario. How much better we would see the world and our situation. Penn State University determined that only 8% of what people worry about comes true. Practice with your everyday life. When you have a worrisome thought, think of the complete opposite.
2) Start Small. Go somewhere local. Take a short day trip somewhere you have never been and see how you do in unfamiliar environments. If you like being outdoors, maybe try a day hike by yourself. Beyond that try an overnight trip.
3) Learn to enjoy being alone with yourself. As a solo traveler, you will be spending a lot of time with yourself and your thoughts. If you don't love yourself, you will be miserable on a solo trip. Find solitary activities you enjoy, such as; reading, listening to music, writing/journaling or reflecting. Test out eating out alone in a restaurant to become comfortable with this scenario.
4) Take a bigger step and book a trip with a tour group or weekend retreat.
There are some tour groups that cater to solo travelers and others strictly for women too. These can be a bit pricey, but if money is not an issue, then this is an excellent step in dipping your toe in the water of solo travel.
3 Groups I recommend that cater to solo travelers and exclusively women:
Jump Adventures
Sisterhood Travels
Solo Female Travelers
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

The Wanderer's Guide to Free Lodging: Insights from a House Sitting Expert with guest Kate Evans
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
04/30/24 • 41 min
Venture into the world of nomadic living with Kate Evans, a true maestro of house sitting, who gracefully shares her tapestry of travel tales and the savvy behind her cost-effective lifestyle. Her story, reminiscent of Pippi Longstocking's whimsical adventures, unfolds to reveal a serendipitous discovery that transformed her globetrotting dreams into reality. As Kate guides us through the art of securing charming abodes across the globe, she brings a spark of inspiration to fellow wanderers who are yearning for their next chapter of exploration without the financial strain.
Peek behind the curtain of popular house sitting platforms, where Kate and I exchange notes on the unique features and safety nets tailored for solo adventurers. We unravel the thread of confidence woven through the careful vetting processes and community reviews that these platforms offer. For couples enticed by the allure of individual space, we shine a light on the concept of separate sits, broadening the horizon of possibilities within the nomadic lifestyle. This episode serves as a stepping stone for those itching to dip their toes into the waters of house sitting, arming them with the know-how to embark on their journey.
As we draw the curtains on our session, the essence of 'Wanderland: Living the Traveling Life' beckons, inviting our listeners to explore the richness of travel experiences that house sitting cultivates. We celebrate the deep connections and local interactions that flourish when one fully immerses in the tapestry of a new community. Kate's chronicles serve as both a guide and an ode to the nomadic spirit, offering a compass that points toward the realization that the true essence of travel lies not just in the destinations, but in the warmth of the people and the stories shared along the way.
Visit Kate's website to purchase her books for more resources and tips.
www.kateevanswriter.com
Instagram @katenomadicwriter
https://www.facebook.com/KateEvansWriter
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410

How to Research Your Travel Destination and Where to Find Reputable Information
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips
06/06/23 • 11 min
Researching your travel destination is an essential part of trip planning. It helps you gather information about the place you're visiting, including its culture, attractions, safety considerations, and practical details. Here are some steps to effectively research your travel destination:
- Set your goals: Determine what you want to get out of your trip. Are you interested in historical sites, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or local cuisine? Clarifying your goals will help you focus your research.
- Use online resources: The internet offers a wealth of information for travelers. Google of course. Try FB for groups specific to travel or that destination. YouTube has vblogs of people who have traveled there. Rick Steves, Samantha Brown, Nomadic Matt. Books can spark interest such as Frances Mayes books or Stephanie Rosenbloom books and articles.
- Explore local attractions and activities: Make a list of the must-see attractions and activities in your destination. Look for historical landmarks, museums, natural wonders, parks, local markets, and events. Check the opening hours, admission fees, and any special requirements for visiting these places.
- Transportation and accommodation: Research transportation options within the destination, such as public transportation, car rentals, or local tour operators. Look for accommodations that suit your preferences and budget, whether it's hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, or camping sites. Read reviews, compare prices, and check their proximity to major attractions.
- Safety and health considerations: Check travel advisories: Visit the website of your country's government or relevant travel authorities to check for any travel advisories or warnings issued for your destination. These advisories provide information on safety, health concerns, political stability, and other important considerations. Visit Safe Expat for country safety recommendations.
Remember, travel research is an ongoing process, so keep exploring and gathering information until your departure. The more you know about your travel destination, the better prepared you'll be to have a memorable and enjoyable trip.
Instagram @solotraveladventures50
Facebook community: Solo Travel for Women Over 50
https://www.facebook.com/groups/860865768609200
Send me a message or share your solo travel story with me.
https://www.speakpipe.com/SoloTravelAdventures
Leave a review:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/solo-travel-adventures-safe-travel-for-women-preparing-for-a-trip-overcoming-fear-travel-tips/id1650161410
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FAQ
How many episodes does Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips have?
Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips currently has 134 episodes available.
What topics does Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips cover?
The podcast is about Culture, Leisure, Safety, Places & Travel, Society & Culture, Adventure, Podcasts, Freedom, Fear and Planning.
What is the most popular episode on Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips?
The episode title 'Explore the World Through Cuisine & Culture with guest Annie Sim' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips?
The average episode length on Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips is 19 minutes.
How often are episodes of Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips released?
Episodes of Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips?
The first episode of Solo Travel Adventures: Safe Travel for Women, Preparing for a Trip, Overcoming Fear, Travel Tips was released on Oct 17, 2022.
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