In my 20s and 30s, travel was all about packing as much as I could into a single day—reflecting my mindset at the time. With limited money and time, plus uncertainty about returning, I focused on checking off sights. Now, in my 40s, I find myself seeking richer experiences over simply ticking boxes.
I found my thought process resonating with 45-year-old Priti Shirname, who has explored over 45 countries across the globe. Speaking to Not So Silver, she says, “I don’t travel out of necessity or to check off boxes, but out of a genuine fascination with new places and experiences. Earlier on, travel was about getting as much done as possible, but I have moved past the phase of feeling FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).”
“Travel exhilarates me”
Priti has some interesting stories to share from her travels. She has visited Finland six times and travelled to Singapore and Dubai eight or nine times, leading her to stop keeping count of how many countries she has travelled to. Whether it has been an adventure with the family driving on the Ring Road across Iceland with her husband and two children or the solo hikes she undertook in Canada and Japan – each trip she says has been special for different reasons.
Top 3 Cherished Travel Experiences:
- Skydiving from 14,000 feet over The Palm in Dubai.
- Snorkeling in Silfra fissure, between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Iceland.
- Floating in the Dead Sea, reading a magazine, in Jordan.
“I like my own company”
Solo travel offers not only the freedom to plan and execute trips with complete flexibility but also the space to fully immerse yourself in experiences at your own pace. From managing your budget to choosing the kind of adventures you want to pursue, everything is entirely in your control. “There’s no burden of managing the expectations of fellow travelers, catering to their needs, or adjusting my plans to accommodate others. Traveling solo is incredibly liberating. I can align my adventures with my own energy and interests,” she adds.
Priti’s tips for solo travelers:
- Spend enough and more time on research. Look for good deals on hotels, airfares, lean seasons to travel to the country, exchange rates, etc.
- Do not rely on posts and reels on social media – very often what you see is very different from the reality of a place.
- Be mindful of your budget. Always cater for some additional unplanned expenses that may crop up during your trip.
- Invest in getting good insurance, especially for international travel. Additionally, always read through the terms and conditions thoroughly so you know what you are signing.
- Understand the culture and practices of the place you are visiting – some places may need you to adhere to a dress code or general code of conduct when in public.
- Always prioritise your safety first. If you are a solo woman traveler, make sure you return to your place of stay at an hour that is safe.
With Australia, Kenya and China on her list, Priti cannot wait to pack her bags and set out on the next adventure!
All images courtesy Priti Shirname.
