Study Ireland – Stories & Guides from International Students

Hey there! I’m Ha Nguyen, an exchange student at UL for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Growing up between Vietnam and the USA, most of my vacations were spent exploring my
homeland or traveling across the United States. As much as I loved these experiences, I didn’t get
many chances to travel to other countries. But studying in Limerick has given me the perfect
opportunity to explore Europe! In this post, I’ll be sharing my experiences and tips from my solo
travels across Europe as a female traveler.

Do your research

Safety First: Consider Group Travel in Some Countries

While many European countries are safe for solo travelers, some destinations are better
explored with others—especially at night or in less touristy areas. For example, I wouldn’t
recommend traveling alone as a female traveler in places like France, Italy, or Spain due to issues
like overcrowding, pickpocketing, and scams.
On the other hand, I found the Netherlands to be fairly safe, but there were times I felt a
bit lonely in busy spots where everyone seemed to be with their own group. If you’re traveling
solo, consider joining group tours or staying in social accommodations like hostels. It’s a great
way to meet people and make your trip even more memorable.

Pack & Carry Light

Traveling light makes moving around so much easier. For my trips, I usually travel for
3-5 days, often hopping between two neighboring countries. I pack 2-3 versatile outfits that I can
mix and match, along with 2 sets of sleepwear. This keeps my luggage minimal while offering
enough options for different activities and weather conditions.
Before leaving, I always double-check the essentials:

• Phone & charger
• Wallet (cards & some cash)
• Passport & travel documents
• Universal adapter & power bank
  If you have a late afternoon or evening flight and still want to explore the city, take advantage of
  luggage storage at your accommodation. Many places offer this service for free after check-out,
  so you can wander around without worrying about your bags. It’s the perfect way to maximize
  your last few hours in a city before heading to the airport!

Book your Accommodations Wisely

When booking your accommodations, aim for a place near the city center. Being close to
major attractions, public transport, and amenities will make your trip much more convenient and
safe. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the safest, so check reviews and
research the area before booking. Prioritize comfort and security to ensure a pleasant stay.

Take Initiative

Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions or recommendations—they’re usually friendly
and happy to help, especially if you approach them politely. Learning a few basic phrases in the
local language can also make interactions smoother and shows respect for the culture.
I also make an effort to initiate friendships while traveling. One easy way I do this is by
offering to take a photo for someone struggling with a selfie. It’s a great icebreaker! I often
follow up by asking if they’re traveling alone. This small gesture has led to some great
conversations and even new friendships.
In fact, I made my first friend during my first solo trip to Belgium. It turned out she lived
in Ireland and invited me to stay at her place near Dublin Airport whenever I couldn’t get back to
Limerick due to bus schedules. Now, her place feels like my second home in Ireland.

ChatGPT: My Travel Companion

During my solo travels, I’ve had an incredibly helpful “travel buddy”—ChatGPT! It’s
like having a friend who’s always there to answer my questions. Whether I’m looking for
recommendations for places to visit, food to try, or even curious about local customs, ChatGPT
has been a great resource.
Now, I know it’s not always 100% accurate or reliable, and I still double-check important
details, but it’s a fantastic tool for quick advice on the go. I’d definitely recommend using it for
guidance, but always trust your instincts and cross-reference when needed. ChatGPT is a great
resource, but it’s not a replacement for doing your own research!

Protect Your Identity When Needed

If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s okay not to share personal details with
strangers. For example, you can say you’re traveling with a friend or staying with family instead
of mentioning that you’re traveling alone. A small fib like this can help protect you from
unwanted attention. Always trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to be
cautious and prioritize your safety

Final Thoughts

Solo travel has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. While it comes
with challenges, it also opens the door to new adventures. Whether it’s exploring a new city,
navigating cultural differences, or simply having the freedom to go wherever you want, the
journey is worth every moment.
If you’re considering a solo trip, I hope these tips help guide your journey. Most
importantly, enjoy every single moment. Safe travels, and may your adventures be filled with
amazing stories and new friendships