‘Raced Across The World’ Adventurer Shares Key Advice For First-Time Solo Travelers

Traveling alone for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. There’s the thrill of freedom and discovery, but also the challenge of navigating unfamiliar places without a familiar face by your side. For anyone considering that leap into solo travel, hearing from someone who’s been there can make all the difference.

Alfie Watts knows what it’s like to travel the world on his own. At just 22 years old, he made a name for himself on the BBC show Race Across The World, where he and his best friend Owen Wood traveled from Japan to Indonesia without flying and on a tight budget.

The two ended up winning the competition, outpacing four other pairs to take home a $27,000 prize. Since then, Alfie has turned his passion into a career, sharing travel tips and stories as a content creator with fans all over the globe.

Having experienced a wide range of cultures and landscapes solo, Alfie is well-placed to advise anyone thinking about their first solo trip. He understands the appeal of the classic backpacking routes in Southeast Asia, famous for cheap accommodations and stunning scenery. However, he also knows that sometimes, people want to stray from the beaten path.

Alfie has a warning for anyone planning their first solo trip to Colombia.

One popular alternative is South America, which has plenty of backpacking routes full of diverse experiences. Alfie calls the continent “brilliant,” but he doesn’t recommend it for first-timers traveling alone. In particular, there are two countries he says should be avoided on that initial solo trip.

Alfie explains: “I’m pretty experienced as a solo traveler, so I know what to do and what not to do. But if you’re going away for the first time, it’s probably best not to start in Venezuela or Colombia because you need to be very streetwise about what you’re doing.”Getty Stock Photo

Alfie took the top spot on BBC's Race Across The World.

He points out that danger often arises from situations like wandering down a back alley or hitchhiking—things that might seem adventurous but can quickly turn unsafe without the right experience.

“It’s just about not being unnecessarily unsafe,” Alfie adds.Alfie Watts

Caracas, the capital of Venezuela

Venezuela, in particular, has a reputation for political unrest and crime, making it a tricky place for a solo beginner. However, Alfie is clear that with the right approach, it can still be a fantastic place to visit.

“I’m just trying to encourage people to book an organized tour of Venezuela; don’t do it on your own because that’s unwise,” he says. “But if you book an organized tour of Venezuela and go with a reputable guide, it’s one of the most incredible countries on the planet.”Getty Stock Photo

For first-time solo travelers, understanding personal safety can be crucial. Travel expert and author Julia Hammond emphasizes the importance of researching local customs and safety norms before embarking on an adventure. She suggests travelers familiarize themselves with emergency contacts and local laws to enhance their security.

Moreover, maintaining a flexible itinerary allows for spontaneous decision-making, which can lead to enriching experiences. Julia's advice to carry a local SIM card for easy communication with friends and family adds an extra layer of safety, ensuring you're never completely out of touch during your travels.

Psychologist Dr. Kelly McGonigal highlights that solo travel can be a profound opportunity for personal growth. In her work, she explains that stepping out of one’s comfort zone can boost resilience and self-confidence. Embracing the unknown allows individuals to develop problem-solving skills and adaptability, traits that are invaluable in everyday life.

To ease the transition into solo travel, Dr. McGonigal recommends setting small, achievable goals during your journey. For instance, aim to engage with locals or try new foods, which can lead to fulfilling experiences and lasting memories.

So while solo travel newbies should steer clear of certain spots in South America for their first trip, the continent remains Alfie’s favorite backpacking destination overall.

“I just think that you’ll get a much wider variety,” he said. “You can go to the Amazon, there are beaches you can dip into, and all the languages are the same. Everything is Spanish, so it makes it a lot easier to either pick it up or find someone who can speak it.”

The only downside, Alfie says, is the cost. “It’s a little bit more expensive. That’s the only drawback,” he admits.

“But I just find it so much more fulfilling than Southeast Asia.”

Traveling alone can lead to some of the most rewarding and memorable experiences, but it’s important to stay aware of potential risks and know where to seek help if needed.

For anyone new to solo travel, selecting the right destination and planning carefully can be the key to turning a journey into a collection of amazing memories rather than unnecessary challenges.

Psychological Insights & Implications

Traveling solo for the first time can be both exhilarating and daunting. By embracing expert recommendations from professionals like Julia Hammond and Dr. Kelly McGonigal, travelers can navigate this adventure more confidently. Understanding local customs and prioritizing personal safety can significantly enhance the experience. Additionally, approaching the journey with an open mind and a willingness to face challenges can lead to personal growth.

Ultimately, solo travel is not just about the destination, but about the transformative journey one undergoes along the way, leading to new perspectives and self-discovery.