The Thoughtful Solo Traveler: 15 Ways to Travel Better

It's important to be thoughtful as we travel, to be considerate in how we treat our world, the environment, other people’s countries and cultures, and the people we meet along the way.

We need to be kind and respectful. Contribute consciously. Be humble and open to all that can be learned. Be sensitive to the people who open their world to ours.

Have I always got it right? No. But I try.

And when I fail, I’m sometimes able to correct my error, as was the case when I felt it important that I pay a bicycle rickshaw driver three times the negotiated fare. (What I didn't know at negotiation, which was assisted by locals, was that the short distance was all uphill.) There are ways, small and large, to be a thoughtful traveler.

How Thoughtful Travel Can Enhance Your Trips

Travel is very much a two-way street. As you go and explore a new culture, those you meet are also exploring yours. Being a “good” traveler, an ethical or thoughtful traveler, will help you get the most out of this reciprocal relationship and your travels. You'll be better received by locals, have more authentic experiences, and return home having left a better impression of your own country on them.

1. Think local. Where was that souvenir made? Who are the guides used by your tour company? Is your hotel owned locally or will the profits exit the country? Try to support the local economy in everything you do. Whether it's a vendor at a European Christmas market or a tour through Morocco, try to find ways to support the thousands of small companies you'll encounter along the way.
2. Consider the environment. When choosing a tour company, resort, or hotel, check for their policies regarding environmental issues and supporting the local culture. Choose travel companies that act responsibly.
3. Learn before you go. Before you travel, learn about the local issues. Are there specific needs you can help with? Could you take along school or medical supplies that would be of value?
4. Be respectful. Don't judge. Listen. There isn't a country on earth that has it all figured out, not your own or any other, so leave judgmental attitudes at home. Listen and learn. Thoughtful travel involves not just seeing a place, but engagint with it, listening, and learning.
5. Be mindful as you take photographs. There are ethical issues around taking photos as you travel. This is especially true when it comes to children and for any photos taken in developing countries. Generally, it's not wise to take pictures of children unless permission is specifically given (or requested, as is sometimes the case) by parents or teachers. Even then, be careful how you use them. Do not publish them anywhere, including on social media.
6. Be curious. To really understand a culture, you'll need to ask questions. Be careful and respectful if you're venturing into political or religious territory, but still, ask. People usually love to talk about their country. Rarely is one question and one answer enough. Ask “why” and “how” questions that are open-ended so that people feel free to talk.
7. Smile, laugh, and share your energy. You are in holiday mode. The locals you meet may be in work mode. Bring a little light into their day by being joyful.
8. Tap the knowledge of your driver. Some of your best experiences could come from a recommendation from your taxi driver, barista, or just about anyone you meet along the way. Be friendly and they'll share their local knowledge with you.
9. Show your appreciation. If you're in a hotel, don't forget to tip the housekeeping staff. They are so often forgotten. For all those many people who make your trip wonderful but for whom tipping would be awkward, offer a spontaneous coffee or surprise flowers. At minimum, take the time to learn something about them, smile, and thank them.
10. Keep an open mind. You will be surprised every once in a while–possibly even shocked–by cultural differences. “Really, you do it that way?” Yes, people all over the world do things differently. Keep an open mind and try to figure out why it's so different and why you're having such a response to the difference. Be tolerant of how things are done in other cultures.
11. Be patient. You are the guest. You are the one who does not know the system. If you're trying to get a visa or train ticket and you can't believe how hard it is, be calm and patient. You'll be happier and leave a better impression behind you.
12. Try new things. From strange food to adventurous day trips, try new things, at least once. You may never have the opportunity again, so go for it!
13. Act appropriately. How you dress and act affects how you are seen. If local women cover up in public, so should you. If drinking alcohol is generally frowned upon, you should avoid it.
14. Be flexible. Things will go wrong. It's inevitable, but it is not necessarily a bad thing. Things going wrong can present new opportunities. Treat the unexpected by being flexible.
15. Don't be discouraged by a scam. I've been scammed many times. In fact, I almost consider it the price of admission for travelers. Hopefully, you don’t lose too much money in the transaction. Take such humbling experiences and put them where they belong, on your list of humorous anecdotes.

As always, your travel choices are your most powerful tools when it comes to being a thoughtful traveler.

Here are a couple of non-travel recommendations on living thoughtfully.

• “How to Be Good” is a fun novel by Nick Hornby that explores the depths of being good.
• Be Curious Ted Lasso shows the folly of assumptions and the value of being curious. If you're short on time, start at the 2 minute mark.