Insider tips for solo female travellers

Hotels.com provides adventurers with the 3Ps for an unforgettable trip

TORONTO, June 25, 2013 /CNW/ - What do Julia Roberts, Audrey Hepburn and Diane Lane have in common? They've all played women travelling alone to foreign countries! Eat, Pray, Love, Sabrina and Under the Tuscan Sun show independent, fearless women finding themselves while exploring new and breathtaking destinations. In typical Hollywood fashion, certain aspects of their travels were hidden from moviegoers, including all the planning, packing and precautions that need to be considered when travelling alone.

"Travelling solo can be both exciting and empowering, yet it's important to take extra measures to protect yourself," says Taylor Cole, travel expert for Hotels.com. "You want to return safely from your trip with great memories and stories to share, so I recommend ladies take a few extra steps before and during your adventure.."

Ready to pull a Julia, Audrey or Diane? Follow the 3Ps from Hotels.com to make your own storyline.

Planning: Choose female-friendly destinations with fun solo options.

Dublin, Ireland - Known for its beautiful countryside and friendly people, Ireland provides travellers with a non-threatening environment to take in the stunning landscape. You can also check out some local music and make some new friends at one of the neighbourhood pubs.

El Ocotal, Costa Rica - This slice of paradise in Central America is full of adventure or relaxation, depending on what you prefer.  Its warm-hearted locals and 'pura vida' aka 'living the good life' philosophy will rub off on you and provides a welcoming environment.

Queenstown, New Zealand - For anyone seeking adventure, Queenstown is an ideal destination with its laidback, fun-loving and safe atmosphere. Try a guided hiking, biking or kayaking tour to take advantage of your surroundings and meet other like-minded travellers.

Packing: Travelling lighter is better, so choose multi-functional clothing and make room for these helpful tools.

Tripit app: This is the lightest tool you can pack because it's right in your smart phone. Tripit goes through your inbox for travel confirmations and gives you a snapshot of your itinerary.

Instant USB Charger: Connect your gadgets to this packable, reusable power source by USB for a rapid recharge.

Double-duty toiletries: Toiletries always seem to be the culprit for weighing down luggage. Cut them where you can by using your shampoo as body wash and your conditioner as shaving cream. Dry shampoo is also a great travel companion when on the go.

Precautions: Take your safety seriously before and during your trip for the most seamless experience. Many of these tips were provided by the wanderluster behind My Jet Set Style.

Before:

Leave-behind - Share your itinerary with someone you trust at home such as a close friend or family member. Include an outline of your daily plans, hotel names and flight information so they can reach you if there is an emergency.

Make copies - Be sure to make copies of your passport, birth certificate, license and insurance documents just in case the real pieces get lost in travel.

During:

Less is more - Never announce that you are travelling alone, where you are staying or share too many personal details about yourself. You can never be too cautious. This also holds true for using social media during your travels.

Hotel hints - Always display the 'Do Not Disturb' sign on your room door to discourage anyone from entering your room - even if you aren't in it. When away from your room, leaving the radio or TV on can also discourage people from entering.

Possession protection - Leave the brand names at home, as they will make you a target for thieves and pickpockets. When carrying your bag, put it across your body when walking to leave both hands free and it is also a good idea to keep a small amount of cash hidden inside your bra or sock just in case.

So make some popcorn, throw in a travel film and dream up your next big trip. With the 3Ps, you'll be ready to embark on any adventure.

About Hotels.com^®

Hotels.com (also known in Canada as Hotels.ca) is a leading online accommodation booking brand. Through the Expedia, Inc. global network of websites, Hotels.com, LP connects travellers with 205,000 properties around the world, ranging from international chains and all-inclusive resorts to local favourites and bed & breakfasts, together with all the information needed to book the perfect stay. Hotels.com, LP benefits from one of the largest hotel contracting teams in the industry, obtaining the best rates for its customers, and offers frequent sales, special deals and promotions. There are more than 7 million Guest Reviews on the websites from users who have actually stayed in the hotels to ensure customers can make an informed choice when booking. Through Hotels.com, LP's industry-leading loyalty program Welcome Rewards^TM, customers can earn a free night for every 10 nights stayed at more than 85,000 hotels. Under its Price Match Guarantee, if a customer can find the same deal for less on a prepaid hotel, Hotels.com, LP will refund the difference. Travellers can book online or by contacting one of the multilingual call centers. Special apps for mobile phones and tablets can also be downloaded at www.hotels.com/deals/mobile_app/ enabling customers to book on the go with access to 20,000 last minute deals. Hotels.com publishes an award-winning twice-yearly review of international hotel room price trends called the Hotels.com Hotel Price Index™, which is now produced in 31 individual country editions, with North American data available at www.hotel-price-index.com. Follow Hotels.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Hotels.comCA, on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/hotelsdotcomca and on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/hotelsdotcom. More Hotels.com news is available at: http://press.hotels.com/en-ca/.Hotels.com, LP is part of Expedia, Inc., the largest online travel company in the world with an extensive portfolio that includes some of the world's best-known brands.

Hotels.com, Finding You the Perfect Place and the Hotels.com logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Hotels.com, LP. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. © 2013 Hotels.com, LP. All rights reserved. CST # 2083949-50

Image with caption: "Women are continuing to plan trips alone, but should take a few extra precautions (CNW Group/Hotels.com)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130625_C9779_PHOTO_EN_28292.jpg

SOURCE: Hotels.com

Press contacts: 

Lauren Wasley
energi PR for Hotels.com
Phone: [phone] ext. 19
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @energiPR 

Taylor L. Cole, APR
Hotels.com North America
Phone: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @TravelwithTLC