Ready to book that solo trip but feeling a little nervous? You’re not alone.
Solo travel might sound like something out of a dreamy Instagram reel — glowing sunsets, charming cafes, and perfectly packed carry-ons — but for travel expert Jessica Ufuoma, it’s a way of life. And it all started with a canceled birthday trip to Paris.
When her friends dropped out last-minute, Jessica made the bold decision to go anyway. That weekend alone turned into a mindset shift that’s taken her to more than 30 countries, all solo. Now the founder of Go Jolley, a travel company designed for solo adventurers who want group experiences, she’s helping other women reclaim the narrative around traveling alone.
You don't have to wait for your friends to travel — your freedom doesn't need permission.
Fear is natural, especially when doing something unfamiliar. The idea of solo travel brings up a lot of "what ifs," particularly for women — and even more so for women of color. Safety, language barriers, and feeling out of place are all valid concerns. But those fears shouldn’t stop anyone from taking the leap.
The key is preparation. Booking your airport transfer ahead of time, choosing a hotel over a private rental for added security, and sharing your itinerary with someone back home are all simple ways to feel more grounded from the moment you land. Little decisions, like knowing how you’re getting to your hotel, can make a big difference in your confidence and safety.
Jessica also recommends being mindful of how much attention you attract. Traveling with just a carry-on, avoiding flashy jewelry, and blending in with your environment can keep you from becoming an easy target. And while you’re exploring, it’s totally fine to fib a little — if someone asks if you’re alone, there’s nothing wrong with saying you’re meeting up with friends.
Choosing the right destination can also shape your entire experience. For first-timers, places like Costa Rica, Portugal, and Thailand offer a perfect balance of beauty, safety, and vibrant culture. These spots are well-traveled, making it easier to meet other people — and easier to get help if you need it.
Don’t just travel alone — plan to connect. Group tours, cooking classes, and cultural excursions make it easy to meet people while staying safe.
One of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel is that you have to be alone the entire time. In reality, many travelers build their itinerary around shared experiences. Booking a walking tour, cooking class, or even a group boat ride creates moments of social interaction without the pressure of being “on” all the time.
It’s also a great way to meet fellow solo travelers, many of whom are navigating the same mix of excitement and uncertainty. These moments of connection can turn into travel friendships or simply make your experience more memorable and fulfilling.
For women of color, solo travel comes with added complexities. From being overlooked in service to dealing with cultural biases, these challenges are real. But instead of avoiding certain places altogether, Jessica believes in showing up — confidently and visibly.
Taking up space, even in places where you may feel unwelcome at first, can be a powerful act. The more diverse faces are seen in global travel, the more we normalize inclusion and shift expectations.
Ultimately, solo travel isn't about fearlessness — it’s about freedom. It's about reclaiming your time, your space, and your experience. You learn to trust your gut, to be resourceful, and to navigate the unexpected — skills that extend far beyond a boarding pass.
If you’re not ready to completely go it alone, Go Jolly offers a great middle ground — solo travel with built-in community. You book alone but travel with others, striking that perfect balance between independence and connection.
Whether it's a five-day city break or a longer cultural escape, there’s no better time than now to book that trip for yourself. You don’t need a partner, a group chat consensus, or someone else’s schedule to see the world.
You just need you — and a destination that excites you.
Wanting to get all the rest of the juicy details about solo traveling as a women make sure to listen to Jessica’s full interview below!