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Hayley on Holiday

17 Helpful Tips For Solo Female Travellers Staying in Hostels

February 8, 2018 in Accommodation, Solo Female Travel, Travel Planning
Check out extra prices when staying in hostels, especially at Generator Amsterdam.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here.

After staying in a lot of hostels in a lot of countries, I’ve decided to share all of my insider tips for fellow solo female travellers staying in hostels. Keep reading to discover what’s it really like to stay in a hostel.

I like to think of myself as a pro these days when it comes to staying in hostels. In 2017 alone, I stayed in 20 different hostels across three continents. Although I’m getting older and do enjoy my own space, I can’t deny how cheap hostels are and the benefits gained from staying in hostels. Whether you are staying in a hostel for the first time, or are a seasoned hostel-goer like myself, here are my top hostelling tips for fellow solo female travellers (or anyone, really!).

17 helpful tips for fellow solo travellers staying in hostels worldwide.

My top tips for staying in hostels around the world

1. Pick up a map at the hostel reception

Every hostel I’ve visited has supplied me with a map of the local area. Although paper maps seem so “old school” these days compared to Google Maps, I honestly like to use both. I find maps so easy to use when visiting the main attractions, while Google Maps is always good for transport information. I also usually like to spend my first few hours in a destination adding important places to the map, from prior research. Then you’re ready to explore!

2. Always ask reception staff for tips

More often than not, the hostel reception staff are usually just like you: friendly and young. If I check-in and the person seems open to a chat, I always ask them for local tips on the best things to do and eat. A fellow Aussie behind the desk at Budget Backpackers (now Kick Ass Greyfriars) in Edinburgh went crazy on my map, drawing circles around all of her favourite bars and restaurants. She was the best! I also had a very helpful receptionist at Vila Veselova in Ljubljana, who recommended great places to eat and things to do.

Staying in hostels in Edinburgh, Scotland - check out Budget Backpackers!

Kick Ass Greyfriars in Edinburgh is around the corner from picturesque Victoria Street

3. When staying in hostels as a solo traveller, book female-only dorm rooms

This is one of my number one hostelling tips, which I think makes for a much better hostel experience. When staying in hostels, I only book beds in female only dorms, because man I have heard some mixed dorm horror stories. I’m sure some mixed dormitories are fine, but I much prefer staying in female-only rooms. The option is there, so take it I say.

4. Don’t forget to check out the private rooms

If you’re a fellow budget-minded solo female traveller, private rooms in hostels are usually “no gos” as they are regularly the same price as hotel rooms. But when searching and booking through Hostelworld, at the top you can select both female dorms and private rooms. I always do this, in case I stumble upon a reasonably priced private room. I did get a little alone time on my Europe trip; staying in private rooms with shared bathrooms at Euro Hostel in Glasgow and Dots Hostel in Zagreb.

Staying in hostels in Zagreb - check out the private rooms at Dots Hostel.

All the good stuff in Zagreb is walking distance from Dots Hostel

Here are my top tips for travelling alone in Europe

5. When staying in hostels, utilise the onsite kitchens

Another great thing about staying in hostels is nearly always having access to an actual kitchen when travelling. If you’re on a budget, this is a great way to save money. On occasion, I bought premade pasta dishes and simply warmed them in the microwave for dinner. I liked having smaller meals at night, as I was usually out eating substantial traditional dishes at lunch.

6. Bring your own towel

Depending on where you’re staying and how long your trip is, this point may not be applicable. But if travelling for an extended time, bringing your own towel is going to be a great money saver. Case in point: Generator Hostel in Amsterdam were charging €5 to rent a standard towel (ridiculous). But some hostels did offer free towels as well.

Check out extra prices when staying in hostels, especially at Generator Amsterdam

Staying in hostels, Amsterdam edition

Here are the travel essentials I bring on every trip (travel towel included)

7. Be prepared when staying in hostels

I always liked to prepare my outfit for the next day before I go to bed. I’d place my clothes on my suitcase or in my locker, which made life a lot easier in the morning. Trying to search for an outfit while everyone’s sleeping is too much effort. I’d also recommend leaving your PJs on your bed if you’ll be getting back to the room when most people will be asleep.

8. Thongs (flip flops) are your friend

Us Aussies always seem to pack thongs (flip flops), but they’re the best for walking around the hostel and dorm room, as well as using in the bathrooms. Although Havaianas might be considered expensive for thongs, they’re the best quality thongs I’ve ever worn. Mine have lasted for multiple years.

9. Create a ‘bed bag’

This is one of my little tricks, which I find very helpful, especially if I wind up in a top bunk. More and more hostels are installing little shelves at each bed, so you can place your glasses/phone etc beside you. But they aren’t always available, and I need a lot to sleep: i.e. my Kindle (I always read before bed), earplugs, eye mask, phone charger and retainer. Having this all in a handy clutch just makes life easier, trust me. Sidenote: the eye mask I linked above is the bee’s knees if you need complete darkness like me.

10. Arrive as close to check-in as possible

Firstly, always check when check-in is, as it differs from hostel to hostel. Secondly, if you can swing it, arriving close to check-in means you get first pick of the beds on offer. If you are a bottom bunk lover like myself, any added chance of securing one helps.

Always read reviews when staying in hostels.

The view from Le Village Hostel in Paris, where I arrived on time to secure a bottom bunk!

If you’re looking for the best European hostels for solo travellers, check out this post

11. Be respectful

When staying in dorm rooms, it’s important to be respectful. You know, treat others how you want to be treated? This means not turning on the light at midnight if people are asleep; turning your phone to silent at night; and keeping your space tidy. It’s the small things that matter and make everyone’s experience that much more pleasant.

12. Don’t always pay for breakfast

I found that most hostels in Europe (and Australia for that matter) have a paid breakfast option. However, it was quite expensive in most places, for the food you were paying for (around $10). In Prague, I bought some spread, a small loaf of bread and fruit for $3, whereas the breakfast offered at my hostel was about $12. I then treated myself to a filling and traditional lunch – a win-win in my books. In Paris, I indulged in a daily pastry (or three), instead of spending €7 on breakfast too. However, I found a lot more hostels provided a free breakfast in the United States. I guess it just depends on where you are in the world.

Don't always pay for breakfast when staying in hostels in Europe. Click for most hostelling tips!

A much better breakfast alternative in Paris

13. Read reviews

I am a loyal user of Hostelworld and always read their reviews before deciding which hostel to book. I highly recommend doing this, as from the most recent reviews you can easily decide whether or not a hostel is worth staying in. Know what you want and make sure you get it.

14. Don’t be afraid to make friends

I found that I did a lot more socialising outside the hostel with my roommates in Europe, compared to my extended North American trip in 2014. Who knows why, because I’m still just as introverted. But whether you’re an introverted or extroverted solo female traveller, don’t be scared to ask your fellow solo roommates to hang out. You might just make a new friend, as you already have one thing in common – you both enjoy travel.

In Amsterdam, my roommates and I walked into the city from our hostel for brunch. I had lunch – and then drinks at the Wombar – with different people from my hostel in Vienna, who went on that morning’s free walking tour. In Brussels, I did a day trip to Bruges with roommates. In Ljubljana, my roommate and I happened to be sitting a row apart on the same flight to Brussels (what are the odds?!).

Don't be shy when staying in hostels - they're the best places to make new friends. Click for more hostelling tips!

Enjoying Bruges with new friends

Check out this post for all the ways to meet people as a solo traveller (tried and tested)

15. Always remember a lock when staying in hostels

Always, always, always have a lock on you at all times. Most hostels provide lockers, either beside or under your bed. For the few that didn’t, I simply locked my valuables in my suitcase. I found that in most hostel dorms, your roommates will be respectful, as they wouldn’t want someone stealing their valuables either.

16. Check prices

Although I did say I love Hostelworld, I recommend also checking the prices on the official website and Booking.com as well. Sometimes, hostels advertise seasonal deals on their website, which is how I got a great deal at Sophie’s Hostel in Prague.

Exploring Prague

Exploring Prague

17. Bring a lanyard when staying in hostels

Another random Hayley tip, but I have a fear of losing hostel keys. Although many hostels use swipe cards nowadays, which I store in my purse, I also bring a lanyard to securely fasten any keys to my bag.

I hope this post makes you realise that staying in hostels isn’t as bad as some people say.

I was sceptical about staying in so many hostels across the world in 2017, as I’m now in my late 20s and I’ve never really been one for the party hostel scene. But I didn’t mind it at all. In fact, I quite enjoyed myself. I enjoyed meeting people, saving money on accommodation and staying in central locations. If you need some solo travel inspiration, check out this guide to 23 amazing solo travel destinations around the world.

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Hi 👋🏻. I’m Hayley, an Australian who’s been solo travelling around the world for 10 years. 40+ countries and two working holidays in Canada later, Hayley on Holiday is my one-stop resource for solo and budget travel. I hope it inspires you to take the leap and explore this wonderful world we live in.

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Places to visit in Australia: Mount Wellington in Hobart, Tasmania

The 10 Best Places to Visit Alone in Australia

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. I’m back with another solo travel-focused post today. This time, we’re talking about my favourite solo travel destinations in Australia for solo weekend getaways. Here are my recommendations for the best places to visit in Australia alone. My solo travels are not limited to overseas destinations. Yes, I’ve travelled solo across Europe and North America. But I’ve also visited many Australian cities alone as well. Don’t be daunted by solo travel in Australia, because I guarantee you can have a great time Down Under with or without a travel companion. Based on my personal experience (and wishlist), here are the best places to visit in Australia alone. Can you tell I’m a Queenslander? 😂   Note: Australia is a big country and most people will recommend hiring a vehicle to see all the best sights: from cute country towns to cosmopolitan cities. However, I chose these Australian solo travel destinations as you can visit them without hiring a car and still have an unforgettable vacation. The best places to visit in Australia for solo travellers 1. Melbourne Let’s start with my current home, Melbourne. Thanks to the immense amount of things to do and its great public transport network, I believe Melbourne is one of the best places to visit in Australia if travelling alone. However, I would recommend spending more than just a solo weekend here. Some of my favourite things to do in Melbourne include visiting St Kilda, having brunch and a browse of the boutiques in Fitzroy, spotting street art in the CBD and going for walks through the city’s many gardens. You also shouldn’t leave Melbourne without doing a trip along the Great Ocean Road. I did an organised tour a few years ago and thought it was excellent. Where to stay in Melbourne: I have a post on where to stay in Melbourne. But my parents have stayed at the Atlantis – great location, good price and comfortable beds. I also recently stayed at Space Hotel, which has dorms and private rooms. The central hostel is fantastic and has a rooftop deck, lounge and gym. I’ll be back on return visits to Melbourne for sure. Read more: Where to eat in Melbourne, free things to do and general things to do, where to take the best photos and other day trips to check out. 2. Magnetic Island This may be a surprise entry, but I had to include Magnetic Island on this list of solo weekend getaways in Australia. Located a 20-minute ferry ride from my hometown, Townsville, this is where my parents live. It’s one of the best solo travel destinations in Australia because it’s made for tourists. With public buses and two great hostels located in different bays, Magnetic Island is one of the best places to visit in Australia if you’re travelling alone. On Magnetic Island, I recommend doing the Forts Walk, seeing the sunset at Horseshoe Bay, feeding the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay and swimming at Alma Bay. You can get to Townsville by flying or taking the Greyhound bus from two other destinations on this list: Cairns and Airlie Beach. The bus even drops you directly at the ferry terminal – now that’s convenience 😉. Where to stay on Magnetic Island: Bungalow Bay or Base are the two hostels I mentioned. Bungalow Bay is probably my favourite though, purely because it’s located in Horseshoe Bay. Read more: Things to do on Magnetic Island, favourite photo locations and where to find koalas. 3. Sydney Ah, Melbourne’s rival and Australia’s biggest city. Sydney is another one of Australia’s best solo travel destinations. Although I think Melbourne has more things to do, Sydney does have the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach. However, I found that it takes longer to get places in Sydney when using public transport, so be prepared. You can get the bus to Bondi and do the Bondi to Bronte Walk. Then you can hop on the train to Instagram’s favourite place: The Grounds of Alexandria. Where to stay in Sydney: Can we talk about the epic views from both Bondi Backpackers and Sydney Harbour YHA?! They’re also top-rated on Hostelworld, which is what matters most to me. Read more: Fun things to do in Sydney As you’ll see with these places to visit in Australia, I only recommend hostels for solo travellers. Read this post for my top hostel tips and check out this post for great ways to meet people when travelling alone. 4. Hobart I know Hobart isn’t the first place you think of visiting on a solo weekend getaway in Australia. But if you have the time, it’s a short flight from Melbourne and a totally different city. It’s home to beautiful architecture, Australia’s most unique museum and some delicious food. I recommend visiting Mount Wellington, getting up close to Aussie animals at Bonorong Sanctuary and wandering around Salamanca. Where to stay in Hobart: I stayed at The Pickled Frog and wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere else. They offer free day trips to MONA and Mount Wellington, and the hostel is conveniently located in the CBD. Read more: A visit to Mount Wellington, top things to do and where to eat in Hobart. 5. Cairns So Cairns is located a five-hour drive north of Townsville (the two cities have been frenemies forever). Thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s the fourth most-visited destination in Australia. Because it’s such a tourist hotspot, Cairns is also one of the best places to visit in Australia when travelling solo. The city centre is compact and easily walkable, and there are plenty of tours available. Top attractions near Cairns include Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Kuranda and Fitzroy Island. You could easily spend a week enjoying Cairns and its surrounds. Where to stay in Cairns: I’ve stayed at Gilligan’s before for a friend’s 21st and it’s […]

Lake Bled, a great day trip from Ljubljana.

My Top Picks For The 21 Best Places To Travel Alone In Europe

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. Looking for the best places to travel alone in Europe? Well, you’re in the right place. Keep scrolling to discover the best cities in Europe for solo travel and my recommendations for the safest places to travel alone in Europe. So far I’ve published posts on the best places to travel alone in Australia and the United States. Hence it’s now time to turn my attention towards Europe. Altogether, I’ve spent approximately six months travelling solo across Europe and in that time I’ve visited (and revisited) many amazing cities. So, from my personal solo travel experience, here are 21 of the best places to travel alone in Europe.  I base whether a city is a good place to visit alone in Europe on a few elements. This includes good public transport and easy navigation, hostel options, a variety of activities you can do alone and friendly locals.  Before we begin, make sure you check out these two informative guides: top tips for travelling alone in Europe and my Europe budget travel tips.  Best places to travel alone in Europe 1. Dublin I flew into Dublin after visiting family in Bristol and my initial thought was, this city is BUSY. But besides the crowds, Dublin is one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel for multiple reasons. This includes the fact you can easily walk between most attractions or catch public transport. I only caught two buses: one from the airport and the other to the train station. Dublin is also overflowing with hostels and fun things to do. I recommend doing a free walking tour (how unusual), visiting the Chester Beatty Library, having a picnic lunch in St Stephen’s Green and going on a Dublin doors excursion.  Where to stay in Dublin: Abbey Court Hostel, which has pros and cons. Pros: central location and large common area. Cons: small eight-bed dorms and tiny ensuite bathroom. Related Dublin posts: 20 things to do in Dublin and my Ireland/Northern Ireland itinerary for solo travellers. 2. Amsterdam I’ve said this before, but when I first visited Amsterdam at the ripe old age of 18, it was overwhelming. I was overwhelmed by the eccentrically-dressed locals, the smell of pot in the air and by our eye-opening adventures into the Red Light District at night. But when I returned 10 years later, it felt like I was visiting a different city entirely. Amsterdam is now firmly one of my favourite European destinations and it also happens to be one of the best places to travel alone in Europe. With friendly locals, good public transport options and many walkable districts, I highly recommend visiting Amsterdam as a solo traveller. Where to stay in Amsterdam: Generator Amsterdam, which again had pros and cons. Pros: modern facilities in a scenic park setting. Cons: expensive and located about a 30-minute walk from the city centre.  Related Amsterdam posts: My three-day guide to Amsterdam and where (and what) to eat in Amsterdam. Omg, that post makes me want a fresh stroopwafel immediately. 3. London Ah, lovely London. I don’t feel the need to live in London like so many fellow Aussies, but it’s one of my favourites cities in Europe to visit. I love that I’ve been there multiple times, yet I still have things to tick off my London bucket list. As one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel, spend your time visiting museums, having lunch at its many marketplaces, strolling through its colourful neighbourhoods and shopping along Oxford Street, of course. I also highly suggest seeing a show on the West End. I went to two matinees on my recent visit to London and my row alone was made up of multiple people seeing the musical alone. Where to stay in London: I’ve stayed at Wombats multiple times and it’s fantastic. Good common areas, kitchen facilities, an onsite bar with nightly activities, and modern rooms. I also stayed one night at Astor Victoria because it was close to the Victoria Coach Station, but it had nothing on Wombats. Related London posts: My solo traveller’s guide to London, an Oxford day trip from London and London at Christmas. 4. Copenhagen Copenhagen is definitely one of the most expensive cities to visit alone in Europe. Nevertheless, it’s a great city for solo female travellers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from, a long list of things to do and the friendliest locals. From the talkative guy behind the counter in 7/11 to the supermarket clerk, everyone politely switched to English without hesitation.  Where to stay in Copenhagen: Urban House Copenhagen by Meininger was expensive, but the dorm rooms were modern and large with plush beds. There’s also a kitchen, multiple common areas and you’re walking distance from many of Copenhagen’s main attractions. Related Copenhagen post: My budget travel guide to Copenhagen and if you’re interested in a Malmö day trip, check out this post. 5. Belfast Belfast may be one of the most surprising cities on this list of the best places to travel alone in Europe. However, I really enjoyed my weekend in the city. I did a day trip to Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and spent the following day seeing the sights and joining an eye-opening political walking tour. This is my top pick for things to do in Belfast if you want to learn more about the city’s history.  Belfast isn’t the city that instantly comes to mind when thinking about the safest places to travel alone in Europe. But I felt comfortable walking around the sleepy city centre during the day and along the main street at night to get back to my hostel. I didn’t know what to expect in Belfast as I’d previously heard mixed reviews, but I highly recommend visiting if you’re travelling alone in Europe and the UK. Where to stay in Belfast: Vagabonds, a very […]

Enjoying the view at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida in Bali, Indonesia

The Ultimate Bali Solo Travel Guide – What You Need To Know Before You Visit Bali Alone

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. As someone who’s visited Bali, Indonesia on multiple occasions (both with my family and as a solo female traveller), here is my top advice for solo travel in Bali. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers and the top things to do in Bali alone. Hi, my name is Hayley and I miss Bali. But seeing as we can’t travel there right now, the next best thing (for me, anyway) is to write about it. I’ve visited Bali on several occasions and last year I stayed for a whole month (and didn’t get sick 🙌🏻). Bali will always be one of my favourite places and it’s already been the focus of quite a few blog posts. But I thought I would talk about Bali from a solo female traveller’s perspective today. With detailed information on the best places to visit, things to do in Bali alone and general travel tips, this is the only travel guide you’ll need to read before you solo travel in Bali. General solo travel in Bali tips Firstly, I want to direct you to this post, as it covers all of my top Bali travel tips. But here are some additional tips, specifically in regards to solo travel in Bali. Getting around Bali as a solo traveller Arriving at the airport You’ll undoubtedly be arriving in Bali via plane. The airport has gotten a lovely renovation in recent years (I still have fond memories of the previous airport). Nonetheless, once you step outside you will be overwhelmingly greeted by hundreds of locals holding signs that display different names. Most accommodation in Bali will offer to organise airport transport for you. I take them up on the offer as it’s the easiest option, especially when you’re arriving in a foreign country late at night. Alternatively, you can visit the taxi desk at the airport. Day to day transport As for day to day transport, if you feel comfortable renting a scooter, it’s one of the most popular options. There are locals renting scooters everywhere in Bali, which shouldn’t set you back more than 60,000 IRP per day. However, if you want to hire a scooter I recommend organising an international driver’s licence before you leave your home country. Personally, I rely on walking and Blue Bird taxis as a solo traveller in Bali. Blue Bird has an app, but I’d just walk and wait for one to appear on the main road. Once you arrive in Bali you’ll understand what I mean. The Balinese streets are overwhelmingly filled with a lovely combination of scooters, cars and taxis. Now, Blue Bird is the best company because all taxis have meters for the most affordable rate. If you hop into a different taxi, the driver may try to barter with you or “forget” to turn the meter on and no one has time for that. Uber and Grab are also present in Bali, but drivers are prohibited from entering many of the main tourist areas. As for public transport, the only option is the Kura-Kura public shuttle bus service. It travels between Bali’s most popular tourist attractions and destinations. I’ve never used this bus network, but I have seen them travelling around Bali. Travelling around Bali alone On my last solo trip to Bali, I also travelled from Kuta to Ubud and back again. In the first instance, I got my family’s driver to drive me as I wanted to stop at a few different places along the way. He’s fantastic, isn’t pushy like some drivers and speaks great English. If you’d like his details, let me know. On the other hand, from Ubud to Kuta I paid 60,000 IRP to travel on a shuttle bus with other people backpacking Bali alone. I just booked it at the travel desk outside my homestay in Ubud. If you’re a fellow budget traveller, this is a good option.  Money tips When I visit Bali, I travel with my Citibank debit card as I don’t get charged any international fees. I also predominantly use official bank ATMs. If you prefer, you can also bring cash in your local currency and change it at a money exchange. Although a few high-end restaurants have card facilities, cash is king in Bali. Tipping is also always appreciated at both restaurants and spas.  What to pack for solo travel in Bali As luck would have it, I’ve already written a post that highlights the 10 things I highly recommend packing for a trip to Bali. Check it out here. How to avoid Bali Belly on your solo trip to Bali We have to get real for a second because Bali Belly is a menace I am, unfortunately, all too well acquainted with. It’s essentially an upset stomach or travellers’ diarrhea that you can get while travelling around Bali. Predominantly caused by contaminated food and water, stay away from Bali’s tap water as it isn’t potable. Although experts say to not drink the ice in Bali, it’s government-regulated now and safe to drink.  I also take Travelan before lunch and dinner in Bali and it seems to be the magic ingredient. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited as I was when I travelled around Bali for one month without getting sick. Life goals, friends 😂. If you do inevitably get struck down by Bali Belly, make sure you stay hydrated, take rehydration drinks (available from convenience stores) and stick to a bland diet. Bali Belly is also why I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your solo trip to Bali.  Is Bali safe for solo female travellers? This is probably one of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to solo travel in Bali. In my option, Bali is safe for solo female travellers. Personally, I’ve never felt afraid while walking around Bali alone. On my last trip, I stayed […]

Tower Bridge in London, England

My Complete Solo Traveller’s Guide to Lovely London

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. My latest solo travel guide focuses on lovely London. Keep reading to find out where I stayed in London, solo London travel tips and the best things to do alone in London. It’s about time I wrote a guide on solo travel in London. I’ve spent nearly a month in London overall, so I’m basically a local 💁‍♀️. It’s one of my favourite cities to visit – there’s just so many cool neighbourhoods to visit and attractions to see. It’s also a great city to visit as a solo traveller. So here’s my guide to visiting London by yourself, including the best things to do alone in London. If you’ve ever wondered what to do alone in London, I have you covered. Solo London travel tips First up, here are a couple of travel tips for fellow solo travellers visiting London alone. Most importantly, be aware of your surroundings in busy places as there are pickpockets in London (like every other major city in the world). I also found I felt safe walking from the tube back to my hostel at night alone, as it was located on a busier street and there were always people around. However, I only did this on a couple of occasions. As always, do what feels right to you. All of the amazing things to do alone in London listed below are daytime activities anyway. How to get to London alone Hello, my name is Hayley and I am now a pro at travelling to London alone. So far I’ve arrived and departed from London by plane, train and bus. I’ve flown in and out of London from both Vancouver and Australia – check Skyscanner for the best flight deals. I’ve also taken the Eurostar from London to Paris and FlixBus to Bruges. Within the UK, I have taken National Express buses and the train from London as well. So yes, there are plenty of ways to get to and from London. How to get around London Public transport is fantastic in London, so take advantage. I used the tube most days and even caught a few buses. I simply relied on Google Maps to figure out which tube line or bus would take me to my destination. The best hostel in London for solo travellers In my opinion, the best hostel in London for solo travellers is Wombats City Hostel. I’ve now stayed there multiple times in a six-bed female dorm room (with an ensuite). It’s conveniently located 10 minutes from both Tower Bridge and Brick Lane in East London. The hostel is also within walking distance of two tube lines and two grocery stores. I like the large common areas at the hostel and the onsite bar. The bar hosts weekly events as well, which is the perfect place to meet other solo travellers in London. I’ve also stayed overnight at the Astor Victoria as it’s walking distance from Victoria Coach Station. Let’s just say, Wombats is 100 times better. I had to walk up seven flights of narrow stairs to my female dorm, which isn’t the easiest with a nearly 20kg suitcase. I also thought the shared bathrooms weren’t the cleanest and the common areas at Wombats are so much better.  Here are my top hostelling tips & travel essentials for fellow solo travellers Fun things to do alone in London  Here are lots and lots of things to do in London on your own. You won’t be bored in London after reading this list! 1. Walk along the Thames to see the best London attractions If you’re wondering where to go alone in London, here are several ideas. On my first day in London in 2017, I ended up walking from my hostel near Tower Bridge to Oxford Street. It was a lot of steps, but I passed so many beautiful London attractions on the way. Firstly, there’s Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. I haven’t been to the Tower of London yet, but I’ve heard it’s worthwhile. Then there’s St Paul’s Cathedral before you make it to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. It was pretty quiet until I got to Big Ben, which is always overflowing with tourists. Don’t forget Westminster Abbey either. On another day, I walked on the other side of the River Thames to visit some Christmas markets. This is where you’ll find the Shard, the London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe. A final, but nonetheless awesome option, is to take a cruise along the River Thames.  2. See the Queen at Buckingham Palace Can you even say you’ve been to London if you don’t visit Buckingham Palace? It’s fortunately located in central London, so there are other things to see and do nearby. If you happen to visit in autumn like me, don’t miss seeing all the falling leaves in St James’ Park and Green Park. It’s magical! While we’re on the topic, check out my autumn packing list 😉 3. Do a free walking tour Can you believe I’ve never done a free walking tour in London? I’ve done one in like every other country in Europe, but not London. Anyway, don’t be like me and join a free walking tour. It’s one of the best things to do alone in London (and any place for that matter). 4. Go shopping along Oxford and Regent Streets Oxford and Regent Streets are hectic, no matter when you visit. But Oxford Street is home to all of my favourite English stores (a.k.a. Primark), so it’s always on my personal list of things to do alone in London. If you end up visiting London at Christmas, you also must see the Christmas decorations along Oxford and Regent Streets. While you’re in the area, head to Carnaby Street, which has more independent stores. I loved the handmade products and unique London souvenirs inside We Built This City. Here are […]

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