True Nature Travels Blog

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Latin American culture by experiencing it firsthand. Diverse and vibrant, these immersive experiences take you beyond the realm of the ordinary, plunging you into the heart of local traditions.

Local Festivals

Festivals play a crucial role in Latin America, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural essence. For instance, the ‘Festival de la Luz’, a breathtaking parade of lights held in San José, Costa Rica‘s capital. The festival features illuminated floats, marching bands, and fireworks, bringing the city to life with color and music. In Mexico, the Day of the Dead celebration is a unique blend of indigenous beliefs and Catholicism, characterized by vibrant altars, marigold flowers, and sugar skulls.

Traditional Workshops

Participating in traditional workshops can be a captivating way to learn about the local customs and crafts. In Peru, you can join a weaving workshop in the Sacred Valley, where you learn traditional Quechuan weaving techniques from local artisans. Panama, a land blessed with fertile soils and a perfect climate, is also a thriving hub for cacao production. Chocolate lovers and curious travelers alike can partake in the “Cacao and Chocolate Tour” in Panama‘s Bocas del Toro region. This immersive journey begins at Up in the Hill, a certified organic farm and chocolate factory, where visitors can witness the entire process of chocolate making – from cacao pod to delectable treat. Here, one can learn about the cultivation of cacao trees, the fermentation and drying process of the cacao beans, and finally, the transformation of these beans into rich, aromatic chocolate. The tour concludes with a tasting of the farm’s finest chocolate products, a sweet finale to a fascinating cultural experience.

Culinary Experiences

Guatemala, the heart of the Mayan world, boasts a vibrant and unique gastronomy that is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage. An unforgettable culinary journey through this Central American gem should definitely begin with its national dish, “Pepian”. This traditional stew, a blend of roasted spices, meat, and vegetables, offers a taste of the complex flavors typical of Guatemalan cuisine. In Oaxaca, Mexico, partake in a Mezcal tasting tour to learn about the production of this traditional spirit and taste the different varieties.

Each of these experiences provides an authentic insight into Latin American culture, making your travel truly enriching. So on your next trip, don’t just visit Latin America, experience it!

Discover the culture and history of Hispanic Heritage by attending one of our many Latin America Retreats.

True Nature Travels Blog

Why retreat?

Dr. Margo Bachman, DACM

Do you wonder what all the hype about retreats are about? Have you been contemplating signing up for one and are unsure if it’s right for you?

Let me invite you to learn about the plethora of benefits from going on a retreat. It all starts with taking a break from the demands of day-to-day life and providing an opportunity to unwind your nervous system and de-stress all the cells in your body. 

Retreats allow time and space to tune into yourself, take time to connect within, to be bathed by nature and rejuvenating practices and healthy foods. They also allow you to connect with others with a similar intention, providing support and camaraderie. Every day is full of new, meaningful experiences to purely nourish yourself on all levels- body, mind and spirit.

If your retreat includes a service project you have the option to participate in helping a greater cause. It can bring joy to the heart to step outside our immediate world and lend a hand to aid our planet.

And now imagine afterwards…. emerging anew, with more energy, vitality, and excitement for life- with greater joy, better sleep and digestion, more clarity and focus…and an increased ability to handle difficult situations since you have deeply taken care of yourself. Yes, these are all possible!

There is a concept called ojas in Ayurvedic medicine. It is a subtle aspect of ourselves, which is a deep energy reserve in the body. Ojas governs immunity and vitality, and helps to maintain natural resistance. It gives endurance and strength, and creates a buffer when harsh winds blow.

Ojas is lost by: 

  • stress
  • lack of sleep
  • poor digestion
  • overwork
  • excessive challenging emotions

Ojas can be strengthened and replenished by: 

  • following a nourishing diet and lifestyle 
  • spending time in nature
  • sleeping soundly
  • taking a break from electronics and media stimulation; 
  • practicing meditation and certain breathing exercises  (pranayama); 
  • taking rejuvenating herbs

Going on retreat does wonders for ojas. Spending time away from computers, telephones, televisions, and your daily demands allows your nervous system to relax deeply and rejuvenate. Have you ever noticed a lustrous glow on people when they return from a restful holiday in nature? That is ojas.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DR. MARGO BACHMAN
Dr. Margo Bachman DACM has been passionate about natural medicine and healing for over thirty years. Her own healing experiences and innate curiosity continue to inspire her life and her career. She discovered holistic medicine to heal herself from menstrual problems, pregnancy loss, hormonal craziness and all sorts of other ailments and has been amazed by the power of natural medicine.

Join Dr. Margo as she leads you through a variety of healing practices to support and nurture your well-being. She will teach mindful movement, breath work, and meditation practices, as well as classes on Ayurveda, women’s health, and self-care. Help a greater cause by helping the endangered sea turtles on her upcoming retreat to Costa Rica.

True Nature Travels Blog

La Fortuna, Costa RicoCosta Rica is a Central American nation known for its stunning beaches, lush jungles and diverse wildlife. But one of the most remarkable characteristics of this small country is its rich culture and history. With influences from both indigenous people and European settlers, Costa Rica offers an array of cultural activities to explore from traditional music and dance to art and architecture.

Costa Rica’s population comprises a diverse range of ethnicities, including Indigenous peoples such as the Bribri, Cabécar, and Guaymí; Afro-Costa Ricans (descendants of African slaves brought to the country centuries ago); Chinese and other Asian communities; and Europeans. As such, the country is characterized by a unique blend of cultures that have contributed to its vibrant heritage.Costa Rica retreat

Home to numerous traditional festivals celebrating its culture and history throughout the year. The most famous event is La Feria de la Luz (Festival of Light), which takes place in January. During this festival, participants dress in traditional costumes, dance to live music and install lights that illuminate the streets of the capital city San José.

Other popular festivals include Semana Santa (Holy Week), Carnaval de Limón (Limon Carnival) and La Fiesta de los Diablitos (Festival of Little Devils). These events are celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the country.Costa Rica Yoga Retreats

Costa Rica is also renowned for its traditional music and dance, which includes a variety of genres such as merengue, cumbia and calypso. The country has produced several well-known musicians over the years, including Luis Diego Quirós (better known as Luis Diego), considered by many to be one of Latin America’s greatest composers and lyricists.

The country is also known for its rich art and architecture, from colonial-era churches to modern sculptures. Costa Rica is home to several renowned painters, sculptors and photographers whose work has been widely exhibited in galleries throughout the world.

Costa Rica’s culture and history are deeply intertwined, and its people are proud to share their unique heritage with visitors. Whether you’re exploring the country’s vibrant festivals, listening to traditional music or admiring its art and architecture, Costa Rica offers a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

Coffee is also an important part of Costa Rican culture. The production of coffee was introduced by Spanish settlers during the colonial period and it has since become an integral part of the country’s economy. The best-known coffee producing region is in the Central Valley, where visitors can take tours to learn more about the local industry and sample freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee.

Costa Rica is truly a unique destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Central America as well as its rich culture and history. From vibrant festivals to traditional cuisine, there’s something here for everyone — come explore this beautiful country!

 

True Nature Travels Blog

peru yoga retreat

Why Everyone Needs to Visit Peru: An Exploration of Culture, Nature, and Spirituality

Peru is one of those countries that seems to have it all. From soaring mountains to tropical rainforests, ancient ruins to colorful markets, and a rich spiritual heritage, it’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this diverse and fascinating destination. As a travel and yoga enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to explore Peru several times, each time discovering new insights and experiences. In this blog post, I’ll share some of the top reasons why I believe everyone needs to visit Peru at least once in their lifetime.

Peru - Sacred Valley

The Incan Legacy

One of the most famous attractions in Peru is the mysterious lost city of Machu Picchu, perched high in the Andes Mountains. This ancient Incan site is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. Machu Picchu is not only a marvel of engineering and architecture but also a portal into the civilization that built it. Exploring the ruins, you can appreciate the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Incan people, who created this wonder more than 500 years ago. But Machu Picchu is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Incan legacy in Peru. The Incan Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, spanning from the present-day regions of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile to Argentina. In Peru, you can see Incan ruins scattered throughout the country, such as the sacred valley of the Incas, Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Choquequirao. Visiting these sites allows you to appreciate the scope and complexity of Incan society and their deep reverence for nature and the cosmos.

Peru retreat

Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Peru is a country full of contrasts, from the arid coastline to the towering Andes Mountains and the lush Amazon rainforest. Each region has a unique beauty and character, and exploring them offers a chance to witness some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the planet.In the Andes, for example, you can hike through mountain passes and visit traditional villages, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. The Colca Canyon, the deepest canyon in the world, offers breathtaking views and opportunities to see Andean condors up close. In the Amazon, you can explore the vast rainforests, home to millions of species of plants and animals, and learn from indigenous communities who call the jungle their home.

Vibrant Culture and Cuisine

In Peru, you can experience a rich mix of cultural influences, from the ancient Incan traditions to the colonial legacy of the Spanish. This fusion has created a unique and colorful culture that is a delight to explore. One of the best ways to immerse in this culture is through food. Peru is known for its incredibly diverse and delicious cuisine, which reflects its mix of indigenous, European, and African heritage. From ceviche to lomo saltado to cuy (guinea pig), there’s a wealth of flavors and dishes to explore, each more tantalizing than the last. Beyond food, Peru offers a vibrant arts scene, with music, dance, and visual arts that reflect the country’s diverse roots. From the colorful costumes of Cusco’s Inti Raymi festival to Lima’s world-renowned theaters and galleries, there’s always something to discover and celebrate.

peru yoga retreat

Spiritual Discovery

For centuries, Peru has been a place of pilgrimage and spiritual discovery. From the ancient Incan practices of honoring the divine in nature to the Catholic traditions brought by the Spanish, Peru has a deep and rich spiritual heritage that continues to thrive today. Perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in the Sacred Valley, where the air is thick with the energy of countless generations who have come here to connect with the divine. Here, you can visit sacred sites such as the Temple of the Sun in Cusco or participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals led by local shamans. Combining these experiences with a yoga practice or other mindfulness practices can lead to a profound and transformative journey of self-discovery.

From Machu Picchu’s ancient ruins to the vibrant culture and food, varied nature, and soulful spirituality, Peru offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a yoga student, a nature lover, or simply a curious traveler, Peru is a destination that can enrich your life and expand your horizons. So come and explore this magical country, immerse yourself in its riches, and discover the wonders that await you.

True Nature Travels Blog

Traveling to new countries is an exciting and enriching experience that allows us to broaden our horizons, gain new perspectives, and embrace diverse cultures. However, it is crucial to approach travel with cultural sensitivity and respect. By understanding and appreciating the customs, traditions, and values of the countries we visit, we can forge meaningful connections, avoid misunderstandings, and make a positive impact on the communities we encounter. In this blog post, we will explore some key principles and practical tips to help us be more culturally sensitive and respectful when traveling to new countries.

1. Educate Yourself

Before embarking on your journey, take the time to educate yourself about the destination’s culture, history, and customs. Research online, read books or travel guides and engage with locals or expatriate communities who can provide valuable insights. Understanding the social norms, taboos, and religious practices will help you navigate the new environment with respect and avoid inadvertently offending anyone.

2. Embrace an Open Mindset

Cultural sensitivity begins with an open mind. Recognize that your own cultural lens may differ significantly from that of the country you are visiting. Be prepared to embrace and learn from these differences rather than judging or imposing your own values. Approach encounters with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to adapt your behavior accordingly.

3. Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Respecting local customs is vital to show cultural sensitivity. Observe how locals behave and follow their lead. Dress modestly in conservative countries or religious sites, cover your head if required, remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or sacred places, and adhere to specific codes of conduct. Be mindful of gestures, as some may have different meanings or be considered offensive in certain cultures.

4. Learn Basic Local Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in demonstrating respect and building connections. Simple greetings, thank you, please, and apologies can bridge the communication gap and show locals that you are making an effort to engage with their culture. Locals appreciate when visitors attempt to communicate in their language, even if it’s just a few words.

5. Be Aware of Non-Verbal Communication

Non-verbal communication varies across cultures. Gestures, body language, and personal space can hold different meanings in different countries. Avoid making assumptions and be observant. For instance, a thumbs-up gesture may be positive in some places but offensive in others. Adapt to local customs and observe how locals interact to ensure you’re communicating effectively and respectfully.

6. Engage in Responsible Tourism

Being culturally sensitive also means being responsible and respectful toward the environment, heritage sites, and local communities. Support local businesses, artisans, and vendors to contribute directly to the local economy. Be mindful of your environmental impact, avoid wasteful practices, and follow guidelines for responsible tourism. Respect sacred sites, wildlife, and local customs when visiting natural or cultural landmarks.

7. Practice Patience and Flexibility

Traveling in unfamiliar territories can be challenging, and cultural differences may lead to misunderstandings. Patience and flexibility are key. Keep in mind that things may not always go as planned, and local customs may require adjustments to your expectations. Embrace these moments as opportunities for personal growth and understanding.

8. Ask Permission and Seek Consent

When photographing people or entering someone’s personal space, it is crucial to seek permission and respect personal boundaries. Some cultures may have specific beliefs regarding photography or personal privacy. Always ask before taking someone’s picture, and be receptive to their response. It is essential to prioritize consent and respect the wishes of others.

Traveling with cultural sensitivity allows us to connect authentically with the people and places we visit. By being mindful of local customs, adapting our behavior, and embracing different perspectives, we can cultivate meaningful experiences and foster mutual respect. Remember, every journey is an opportunity to learn, grow, and bridge cultural gaps. Let us embrace the world’s diversity with open hearts and open minds, ensuring that our travels leave a positive impact on the communities we encounter.

True Nature Travels Blog

As we slide into the dog days of summer, True Nature wanted to offer you some packing tips and tricks to make your travel easier this summer.

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a long-awaited vacation, efficient packing is essential to ensure a stress-free and organized journey. To help you make the most of your suitcase space and avoid any last-minute panic, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 packing tips and tricks. From maximizing your wardrobe options to staying organized on the go, these tried-and-true techniques will revolutionize your packing game and have you ready to hit the road with ease. So, grab your suitcase and get ready to master the art of efficient packing!

Here are 10 of our top packing tips and tricks (with 2 bonus tips!):

We always start by making a list of everything you need to bring, including clothing, toiletries, electronics, and any other essentials.

1. Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space in your suitcase.

2. Use packing cubes: Packing cubes can help keep your clothes organized and make it easier to find what you need.

3. Pack versatile clothing: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits.

4. Pack a travel-sized laundry detergent: This can come in handy if you need to wash your clothes while on the go.

5. Pack a reusable water bottle: This can help you stay hydrated and save money on bottled water.

6. Bring a small first aid kit: Include essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic.

7. Pack a small bag for day trips: A small backpack or tote bag can come in handy for day trips or excursions.

8. Leave some room in your suitcase: Leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs or items you may acquire on your trip.

9. Put heavier items at the bottom: This can help prevent your suitcase from tipping over.

10. Pack your shoes separately: Pack your shoes in a separate bag or compartment to avoid getting dirt or scuffs on your clothes.

 

BONUS TIPS

** Wear your bulkiest items on the plane: This can help save space in your luggage and keep you warm on the plane.

** Use a travel-friendly wallet: Use a wallet that can hold all of your travel documents, credit cards, and cash in one place.

Happy Travels!

True Nature Travels Blog

 

Why should I lead a retreat?

Leading a retreat can be a deeply rewarding experience, both personally and professionally.

Have you wondered why you should lead a retreat? Here are 4 reasons why you might consider leading a retreat:

1. Share Your Expertise

If you have a particular skill or area of expertise, leading a retreat can be a great way to share that knowledge with others. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, music, writing, snowboarding, hiking, or something else, a retreat can give you the opportunity to teach and guide others in a focused and immersive environment.

2. Build Your Network

Leading a retreat can also be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and build your professional network. Retreat participants are often seeking connection and community. Leading a retreat can give you the chance to foster those relationships and potentially develop new business or collaboration opportunities.

3. Deepen Your Own Practice

Leading a retreat can also be a powerful way to deepen your own personal practice. The act of guiding others can help you develop a greater sense of clarity and purpose in your own life, and being in a retreat setting can provide the space and time for reflection and growth.

4. Escape the Daily Grind

If you’re feeling burned out or overwhelmed in your day-to-day life, leading a retreat can be a way to escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in a more peaceful and reflective environment. It can be a chance to recharge your batteries and come back to your work and life with renewed energy and clarity.

Ultimately, whether or not you should lead a retreat depends on your own interests, goals, and expertise. If you feel drawn to the idea of leading a retreat, it’s worth exploring further and considering how it might fit into your larger personal and professional plans.

True Nature Travels Blog

Thinking of Costa Rica?

(so are we 🙂 )

Costa Rican beach

There are many amazing things I could say about Costa Rica. We can sit together to talk for hours about the incredible places to explore only 51,100 kms away, but from my experience, as a Costa Rican lady who loves her roots, I recommend you to try its food first. Afterward, dive into the beautiful nature, from the blue ocean to the green hills; from the pasture lands to the exciting experience of staying in a luxury resort or just living with a host family who also represents a beautiful way to experience the luxury! 

The magic starts when you first taste the typical food.

The experience increases if you help to prepare it in a house, with a local family that will invite you to get immersed into the culture.

Costa Rican FoodYour trip will never be complete without having tried the Gallo Pinto, it is a traditional dish  of black beans and rice with onions, pepper, garlic and cilantro. That is the way we start our day, we invite the family members to help us preparing the breakfast, and Gallo Pinto is served with fried eggs or scrambled eggs, tortillas and sour cream. 

Life in Costa Rica is not fast. The rooster is our alarm to know when we need to wake up and the first one who goes to the kitchen is the one who will prepare coffee (in my case, I pretend not to listen the rooster, which is why my husband is the one who makes coffee every morning! Maybe this comment helps just in case you need a tip).

(photo credit: The Striped Spatula)

Once we are all together, we start helping each other in order to be ready on time and of course, to have the time enough to enjoy breakfast in calm.

We also eat some fruit or bread sometimes instead of the Gallo Pinto, but the legend says that when you eat Gallo Pinto you will have a lucky day and yes, we are lucky!

Today we are celebrating my dad’s birthday and I am baking a cake for him!

It is possible to buy a cake at the supermarket, but we normally bake instead of buying a cake. When you prepare it with love, the taste is unique and a birthday celebration is unique! That is the perfect opportunity to give a piece of love, handmade love.

Dad loves chocolate cake and I am sure you can find a recipe on the web or in cook books you have at home. Today I am going to share this moment with you and feel that you guys are going to join us in my Dad’s celebration. So here is the Arroz Guacho Recipe (Sticky Rice Recipe). It will be our main dish tonight, and it is prepared at mom’s home, on her wood stove.

*   *  *

Arroz Guacho

Cooking time: 1 hour.

Ingredients:

1 lb meat, cut into 1- inch cubes

1 lb uncooked long grain rice, rinsed and dried

3 teaspoons vegetable oil

1 roll chopped cilantro

1 crushed clove garlic

1/2 cup red and green chopped pepper

1/2 cup chopped onion

Salt and turmeric to taste

 

Directions:

Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium high heat.

Add the meat and stir for five minutes.

Add water just to cover the meat.

Bring it to a boil until the meat is tender.

Add all the chopped veggies and stir.

Add uncooked rice and more water so that there is one inch above meat level.

Stir occasionally to avoid scorching until rice is cooked.

Serve with a home made tortilla and enjoy!

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The secret to food that tastes so fresh and delicious in Costa Rica is because it is prepared with love and most of the ingredients are from the garden, planted by the family and completely chemical free. Greenhouses and agriculture are part of our culture. We always find a site to start planting vegetables and believe me, the taste is better when you have worked hard to enjoy the harvest.

I encourage you to prepare this delicious recipe and to find ways to plant seeds and watch how they grow. The process is medicine for the soul. Nature is the best doctor and the best medicine!

 

About the Author

Lindsay Padilla

Costa Rican mom of 2 boys. Spanish instructor and Program Coordinator in the village of San Rafael, Peñas Blancas, CR.
Lindsay has been a part of the True Nature team for many years, supporting our Costa Rican retreats.

True Nature Travels Blog

yoga teachers

Hello Lovely Humans,

My name is Lauren LiBrandi and I am so excited to co lead the True Nature Costa Rica/Peru Retreats with Lauren LiBrandiMyla Ivers! Being a Sagittarius, I absolutely love to travel, learn new valuable information, and live life with a positive twist! I believe in the soulful medicine of laughter!

On my day to day I focus on teaching/taking yoga, customizing  personalized stretch routines, Reiki healings, hosting sound baths, movement medicine and finding joy in the process of holding space for others. All these healing tools have helped me formulate Magician’s Method, my offerings to help guide others through their healing journey.

On my off time you can find me catching waves in Malibu or on a near by dance floor shaking my groove thang!

To move with Joy is to live through Spirit!

*  *  *  *  *  *

Hey everyone!

My name is Myla Ivers. A little about me, I currently live in LA with my two kitties, Flake and Ninja Bear. I am obsessed with  travel and documenting my adventures. I believe the key to staying young is to play more, that is definitely something Lauren and I always bring to our retreats.

When I am home I focus on my brand Master Your Magic, women’s transformation, empowerment and akashic records. The combination of clarity and confidence is a powerful thing and I love working with people who want to share their unique gifts with the world.

If you are looking for a retreat with two magical women, look no further!

*  *  *  *  *  *

Every retreat hosted by Myla Ivers and Lauren LiBrandi is a beautiful blend of yoga, reiki, akashic records, adventure, relaxation, community, energy and chakra balancing, great food and unique opportunities to immerse yourself in cultures around the world.

Ready to glow from the inside out in 2023? We got you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check out some of Myla and Lauren’s past retreats here:

https://vimeo.com/350116709

https://vimeo.com/285863058

https://vimeo.com/218406109

 

 

True Nature Travels Blog

Solo Travel

 

According to research, one in six Americans have taken at least one solo vacation. Traveling by yourself can be a rewarding experience, but if you have never done it before, it may seem unappealing. These tips from True Nature Travels will help you prepare to enjoy vacationing by yourself.

5 Tips for Solo Vacationers

 

  1. Focus on the Benefits

If you aren’t excited about the idea of vacationing alone, you may be focusing too much on the perceived downsides. Instead, think about the benefits. Traveling solo forces you out of your comfort zone, encourages you to meet new people and is a great way to learn more about yourself.

 

Additionally, since you only have to cover your costs, you may be able to afford some experiences that would be too expensive if you had to pay for several people. Solo traveling also affords you the freedom to do whatever you want, whenever you want to do it.

 

  1. Choose the Right Destination

For most people, budget is a major consideration. Factor in the cost of airline tickets, hotels, rental cars, food, attractions and whatever else you will need to spend money on. Traveling within the United States is the most budget-friendly option.

travel destinationNext, consider how long you have. If you are going on a short trip, it probably doesn’t make sense to go someplace where travel time will use up most of your vacation time. Consider the time of year. If you are looking for a place to escape the summer heat, a destination like Canada might be a good option.

Consider what you like to do. If you love the beach, a destination known for its breathtaking beaches, such as Costa Rica, might be just the place. Finally, consider the practical aspects. Will you be comfortable in someplace where most people don’t speak your language? What kind of transportation and access to technology does your destination have? Do your research, particularly if you are considering a destination you have never been to before.

 

  1. Book in Advance

Spontaneous travel can be fun, but it can also be risky. You may arrive at your destination only to find out that there’s a big event in town and all the hotels are booked or renting out for a price that is way higher than you budgeted for. Booking important accommodations in advance provides you with peace of mind that you won’t be scrambling to find transportation or a place to sleep.

The same rings true if you want to attend any retreats or group trips during your vacation. For instance, if you’re planning to attend one of the many incredible yoga retreats offered via True Nature Travels, it’s important that you have everything squared away as soon as possible. This is important because many retreats can fill up quickly — which could get in the way of your plans.

 

  1. Practice Doing Things By Yourself

If you aren’t used to doing things alone, the idea of traveling solo may give you anxiety. Start practicing before your trip. Make plans with your friends and then show up early. Go on a day trip by yourself. Take a bus or a train alone. Many people experience the spotlight effect when doing activities, such as eating or going to the movies alone. Plan a few solo dinners at local restaurants to get used to this feeling.

 

solo travel

 

  1. Stay Safe

Traveling alone is not as dangerous as a lot of people fear it is, but you should take safety precautions. Avoid staying in a ground-level hotel room and lock your luggage whenever you leave. Lock the deadbolt on your room door. If you notice any suspicious activity, notify the front desk or the police. Be aware of any cultural expectations if you are traveling in a foreign country. Some countries may have expectations about appropriate clothing and other etiquettes that you aren’t used to.

It is normal to be intimidated by traveling alone for the first time. However, the more you prepare, the easier it will be. When you choose the ideal destination for your budget, book in advance and have a plan for safety, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy a solo excursion that will quite possibly be the first of many to come!

 

Are you looking for the ultimate travel experience? Consider a retreat with True Nature Travels. We offer retreats at destinations around the world. Check out our calendar today!