I've really been enjoying a travel website that focuses on Solo Travel, called (appropriately enough) Solo Traveler. Created by Janice Waugh, this site focuses on all aspects of solo travel. From a recent article on Ten Reasons to Travel Solo after 50, to Solo Travel with a Disability, there's a wealth of information to explore. I love this site and am so pleased that Janice is now our Solo Travel Editor at Wandering Educators!

We were lucky enough to sit down and talk with Janice, about solo travel, her site, and more. Here's what she had to say...

WE: Please tell us about your site, Solo Traveler...

JW: Solo Traveler is for those who enjoy traveling alone. Unlike some sites, it's not for hooking people up with travel companions, it's about getting
the most out of the solo travel experience. It includes posts on solo travel stories, tips, safety, perspectives... I recently added a free eBook
called "Glad You're Not Here: a solo traveler's manifesto".

WE: What was the genesis of Solo Traveler?

JW: I have always loved travel. I did it solo in my 20s then, with my family grown, I returned to it in my 50s. But that doesn't explain why I started
the blog.

The blog came about as a result of me licking my wounds. I have been a widow for 2 1/2 years now and earlier this year I finally had an epiphany:
if I couldn't have the life I expected I had to set new expectations for the life I had. It all seemed to fit: my love of travel, my solo life, and
me as a writer.

WE: What can readers find, on Solo Traveler?

JW: There's a wide variety of posts on solo travel to appeal to both men and women of all ages. There's top ten lists, and how-to articles as well as
solo travel stories, destinations, deals and what I call "perspectives". This last category is really just an opportunity to explore ideas around
solo travel.

WE: Who contributes to Solo Traveler?

JW: In addition to myself, there are 7 bloggers that contribute to solo traveler plus many guest bloggers. The core team ranges in age from 23 to
68 and are located around the world in places like China, Australia, the Netherlands, the UK as well as Canada and America.

WE: What is unique about traveling solo?

JW: Oh my goodness. This is a huge question. I'm going to have to refer you to the manifesto. It really explores this issue. Here's the link:
http://solotravelerblog.com/solo-travel-free-ebook

WE: How can solo travelers safely get off the beaten path and experience local culture?

JW: This is a topic I cover a lot on Solo Traveler. There are many ways to do this. One favourite of mine is to use the Greeter Programs that some cities
have. These are usually free. They link you up with a local who tours you around their city. Another way is just by chatting with people. Recently I
was in Memphis and couldn't find the real city - beyond the tourist areas. I was on my way to the National Civil Rights Museum when I noticed an
architect's office. I figured they would really know the city. And they did and were very generous with information.

WE: Do you have any tips for people thinking about solo travel?

JW: Safety is always first. From there, the world is the limit.

WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

JW: Solo travel is a great way to learn about yourself as you learn about the world. You may be traveling alone but it is certainly not a lonely
experience.

WE: Thanks so much, Janice! I love your site and head there often. I'm glad to recommend it to our readers!

For more information, please see:

http://solotravelerblog.com/