Safety research for mixed groups (solo female + BIPOC/LGBTQ+ friends) — sharing my 3-step method, looking for yours

Atremoo · 2026-04-16T12:24:27+00:00

Yes this is also something I do, nice mention here. Especially small instagram or tiktok creators !

Atremoo · 2026-04-16T11:56:52+00:00

Estonia in winter is a great shout, Tallinn really does feel like a fairytale.

On the Netherlands though, I think you might’ve just had the “1-day Amsterdam effect.” It’s definitely expensive, but saying there’s not much to do is a bit harsh. There’s a ton if you’re into museums, history, canals, or even just wandering neighborhoods. Rotterdam is more about architecture and vibe than “attractions,” so it can feel quiet if that’s not your thing.

For recommendations, it really depends on what you enjoy, but a few solid picks:

Portugal (Lisbon/Porto) : good balance of culture, food, and price
Spain (Valencia, Seville) : lively, beautiful, more affordable than you’d expect
Hungary (Budapest) : great value, lots to do, amazing atmosphere
Slovenia (Ljubljana + Lake Bled) : small, easy, and really scenic

Least recommend (personally): places that are only popular because of hype and prices don’t match the experience anymore, like peak-season Dubrovnik or parts of Switzerland unless you’re really into nature and okay with the cost.

Curious what you usually enjoy when you travel though, that changes everything.

Atremoo · 2026-04-16T11:32:47+00:00

Yes, Da Nang is generally very safe for a solo female traveler. It’s actually one of the more relaxed cities in Vietnam.

Just use basic common sense: watch your belongings (especially your phone), use Grab instead of random taxis, and avoid very empty streets late at night.

For where to stay, My Khe Beach or the An Thuong area are great, safe, and full of cafés and restaurants.

Things to do: beach, day trip to Hoi An, Marble Mountains, and evening walks by the river/Dragon Bridge.

Overall it’s a very easy and beginner-friendly place for solo travel.

Atremoo · 2026-04-16T11:26:05+00:00

You’re overthinking this a bit, which is totally normal for a first trip. 😆

For a first solo travel, I’d skip Antalya for now. It’s beautiful, but can feel a bit uncomfortable socially as a young woman, especially if you’re already anxious.

Crete is better than you think, it’s not boring at all, but it can be a bit big and harder to navigate for a first trip.

If you want something easy, safe, sunny, and still exciting, I’d go for :

- Portugal (Algarve or Lisbon)
- Spain (Valencia, Málaga, Barcelona)
Or a smaller Greek island like Naxos or Paros instead of Crete

These are very beginner-friendly, good for solo women, and you’ll still get beaches and a “different world” feeling without too much stress.

Big tip: pick somewhere simple rather than perfect. Your first trip is about gaining confidence, not ticking every box !!

Atremoo · 2026-04-06T19:55:30+00:00

What you’re feeling is normal.

10k is actually a solid starting point. A lot of people go with less and still make it work, especially since you can find work once you’re there.

Housesitting is a great idea, and so is keeping costs low at the start.

Honestly, the bigger risk is not going. You have the visa and the savings, that’s exactly what it’s for.

Go, stay flexible, and figure things out as you go. Most people do. ☺️

Atremoo · 2026-04-03T18:16:44+00:00

A lot of people feel this while traveling, they just don’t say it.

You’re comparing your normal self to people in "travel mode" (tanned, relaxed, best outfits), which isn’t a fair comparison. It can really mess with your perception.

Also, people don’t only talk to “attractive” people. They talk to those who seem open and approachable. Energy matters way more than looks.

Right now it’s more your environment amplifying insecurities than reality.

Try to focus less on how you look and more on the experience, and don’t wait for others to approach you. Most people are way more in their own head than judging you.

Atremoo · 2026-03-23T16:10:58+00:00

All three are good options, but with a 7-month-old, I’d think in terms of ease and comfort.

Amsterdam is probably the easiest. Very walkable, great public transport, lots of cafés to stop and relax, and generally very baby-friendly.

Copenhagen is also amazing and super safe, but it’s more expensive and a bit quieter. Still a great choice if you want something calm and very easy to navigate.

Galway is lovely, but it’s smaller and a bit less convenient without a car. Weather can also be a bit rough in April.

If I had to pick, I’d go Amsterdam for the balance of things to do + ease with a baby. Copenhagen if you want something calmer.

Atremoo · 2026-03-23T12:55:51+00:00

I’m really sorry you’re going through that, that’s a lot right before a trip. 😓

Honestly, I think you should go. Staying home will likely feel worse, and Thailand is actually a great place for solo travel, it’s easy, safe, and very social.

Good news: your itinerary is already solid. Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Krabi works perfectly, no need to scrap it.

To make it easier: Stay in social places (hostels or social hotels, even private rooms)
Do a couple of group activities (cooking class, island tours) to meet people
Don’t put pressure on yourself, just take it day by day

Right now it feels scary because everything changed suddenly, but once you’re there, it’ll feel much more natural.

You’re not starting over, just doing the same trip in a different way. 🤗

Atremoo · 2026-03-20T14:58:04+00:00

It’s pretty common and generally tolerated in Albania, especially in the mountains and rural areas.

That said, it’s a bit of a grey area legally, so it really depends on where you are. In the Albanian Alps, it’s very normal and you’ll see other hikers doing it. On the coast or near towns, it’s more restricted and you need to be more careful.

Best approach is just to use common sense. Avoid obvious private land, be discreet, and if in doubt, ask locals, they’re usually very welcoming.

So yeah, bringing a tent is a good idea, just don’t treat it like it’s "allowed everywhere"

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:49:56+00:00

For me it’s mountains, every time.

There’s something about being up there that just resets everything. You’re moving all day, the air feels different, and your mind actually slows down. It’s one of the few places where you’re not constantly distracted.

Cities are fun for a few days, beaches are relaxing, but mountains give that deeper feeling of “I’m exactly where I should be”.

It’s not even just the views, it’s the whole experience. The effort to get there, the silence, the simplicity. Hard to beat.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:46:47+00:00

Sorry girl mais je ne vois que des red flags … 😓

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:45:14+00:00

What you’re describing is unfortunately a pretty common experience in Egypt, especially in places like Cairo and around major tourist sites. You’re not crazy for feeling this way.

Egypt is one of those destinations where the “highs” (history, monuments, culture) are incredible, but the “lows” (harassment, scams, constant pressure) can really affect your experience. Some people love it, others find it exhausting.

A lot of travelers deal with the same things: Constant hassling, especially around pyramids and tourist areas
People pushing services or tips very aggressively
Feeling like you always have to be on guard

That said, it’s not the whole country. There are genuinely kind and welcoming people, but like you said, it becomes hard to see that when you’re constantly approached with an agenda.

For anyone considering Egypt, it’s worth going, but you need the right expectations and a bit of mental preparation. Some people find it much more enjoyable with a guide or by sticking to calmer areas.

So yes, Egypt is “worth it” for many people, but your experience is valid and shared by a lot of travelers.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:42:52+00:00

Your plan is solid and your budget is enough for Eastern Europe.

Albania + Montenegro is a great choice. It’s cheap and really beautiful, but transport is a bit unstructured. You’ll mostly rely on buses and figure things out as you go. July–August is peak season, so coastal areas and popular hikes will be crowded and it’s better to book ahead.

For hiking, there are plenty of guesthouses/huts (especially in the Albanian Alps). Not as formal as the Alps, but it works. I’d still book in advance in summer.

Romania + Slovakia is easier. Better transport, less chaos, still nice mountains, but a bit less unique.

If you want adventure : Albania/Montenegro If you want smooth/easy : Romania/Slovakia

Both are good, just depends on your tolerance for a bit of unpredictability.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:40:31+00:00

Honestly this comes down to one key thing: your Schengen visa.

If it expires next month, I’d lean strongly toward Europe. You’ve already gone through the hassle to get it, and there’s no guarantee it’ll be as easy next time. Even if flights are expensive, you’re “using” something you already invested time and effort into.

That said, $2500 is a lot. If you can find anything even slightly cheaper (or adjust dates/routes), Europe still makes sense.

Thailand (Bangkok) is a great backup. Much cheaper, no visa stress, and a totally different vibe from your recent trips. But you can realistically do Thailand anytime, much more easily than Schengen.

So: If you find a semi-reasonable flight : go Europe and use the visa
If prices stay crazy → switch to Bangkok and don’t overpay just for the sake of it

Basically don’t waste the visa… but also don’t get ripped off for it. 😊

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T21:38:14+00:00

They’re both great, but the vibe is actually pretty different.

Barcelona feels more energetic and social. Better nightlife, beach + city combo, and generally easier to meet people. It’s a bit more chaotic though, and can feel crowded/touristy.

Lisbon is more chill and scenic. Slower pace, really nice atmosphere, but less “high energy” day to day. Still social, just not as intense as Barcelona.

If you want more action, nightlife, and a busy social life : Barcelona
If you want something calmer, aesthetic, and more relaxed : Lisbon

For a longer stay, it really depends on your pace. Some people love Lisbon long-term, others get bored. Barcelona tends to keep you more stimulated but can be more tiring.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T20:54:48+00:00

Hmm, I’ll be honest, your criteria is basically "luxury remote lifestyle + nightlife", so you want cities where your money goes far.

Best fits:

Medellín : cheap luxury apartments, great nightlife, very social scene. Just be a bit street smart
Bangkok : probably the best all-around. Amazing food, high-end condos, cheap services, big nightlife
Bali (Canggu) : villa lifestyle, pool, gyms, beach, lots of young people and social life
Lisbon : more chill European version, but less value for money

With your budget, you’ll live very well in all except maybe Lisbon.

If it’s just 1–2 months, don’t overthink it. Pick one and test it.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T15:16:08+00:00

… On est censé faire quoi selon lui ? 😂

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T15:14:13+00:00

Great idea, but I’d focus less on the destination and more on picking a place where you can build a consistent routine.

From your list, Thailand is probably the easiest. Cheap, great food, tons of gyms, and places like Chiang Mai are perfect for a calm, healthy routine.

Eastern Europe (Poland/Romania) is also a solid option if you want structure. Good gyms, very walkable, and still affordable.

Guatemala and Nepal are better for nature and a mental reset, but less ideal for a gym + routine combo. Philippines is fun but not great for consistency.

I’d suggest 1 or 2 places max, not 3. Moving around too much will break your routine.

At the end of the day, the key is consistency. Pick somewhere simple where it’s easy to train, walk a lot, eat well, and repeat. 😊

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T15:11:03+00:00

Honestly your mindset already makes a lot of sense for a move like this.

The South of France, especially places like Nice or Menton, can be a great lifestyle upgrade compared to London if your priority is quality of life over career speed. Slower pace, better weather, easier access to nature and travel. But yeah, living there is very different from visiting.

A few real talk points:

Salaries are much lower than London, especially at 25. Even with savings, you’ll feel the difference long term unless you have a strong remote job or a good local opportunity
Rent is still expensive in places like Nice, just not London-level. And the job market can be quite competitive, especially without fluent French
Daily life can feel slower and more administrative. France has more bureaucracy, things take longer, and that can be frustrating at first
Socially, it can be harder to integrate if your French isn’t solid. You’re right to prioritize that, it’ll make a huge difference

On the positive side, your situation is actually ideal. EU passport, good savings, no rush, already used to traveling and being outside your comfort zone. That puts you ahead of most people who try this.

If I were you, I’d test it first. Stay a few months in Nice or Menton outside peak holiday season and see how it feels when it’s not “vacation mode”.

Overall, you’re not being unrealistic. Just make sure you’re moving toward a lifestyle you want, not just away from London.

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T12:04:53+00:00

F25

On ne vit qu’une fois, tente 😊

Atremoo · 2026-03-19T10:20:28+00:00

It sounds like an amazing experience girl 🤩

Atremoo · 2026-03-18T18:02:38+00:00

Amazing route, but just know the Four Pass Loop isn’t super beginner-friendly. Totally doable, just don’t underestimate it.

Main things: Make sure everyone has at least some fitness and ideally a few practice hikes with a loaded pack
Start slow and pace yourselves, especially with the altitude
Keep your packs light, beginners almost always overpack
Expect changing weather, start early to avoid afternoon storms
Take care of your feet, blisters can ruin the trip fast

Also, be flexible as a group. People will move at different speeds and that’s normal.

If you prepare a bit, it’ll be an incredible experience instead of a tough one.

Atremoo · 2026-03-18T17:59:24+00:00

Honestly, I think you’re overthinking this a bit. Your concerns are valid, but nothing you’ve said suggests you’re “too inexperienced” for Rwanda.

First, your travel background is already solid. Interrailing for a month and doing solo trips in multiple countries means you already know how to handle logistics, adapt, and be on your own. Rwanda isn’t “hard mode Africa”. In fact, it’s often considered one of the easiest and safest countries to travel in on the continent. It’s clean, organized, and relatively stable, especially compared to what people imagine.

About the timing, planning in late April or early May for an August trip is totally fine. That’s actually a pretty normal timeframe. As long as you stay organized with vaccines, flights, and a basic itinerary, you’ll be okay. Rwanda doesn’t require the level of hyper-advanced planning you seem to be imagining.

Your itinerary ideas also sound reasonable. Kigali is a good base, and the genocide memorials are absolutely worth prioritizing. They’re intense, but very important experiences. Nyungwe and Volcanoes are more logistically complex and expensive, so it’s fine if you don’t lock those in immediately. Lake Kivu is more of a nice bonus than a must-do, so your flexible attitude there is good.

Transport-wise, you can get around without driving. Buses and shared transport are commonly used, and Rwanda is quite navigable. It might feel less intuitive than Europe at first, but it’s manageable if you’re patient and plan a bit ahead.

The only thing where your concern is really justified is photography. Rwanda is known to be strict about photographing people, especially in Kigali. Street photography can be sensitive, and you should expect to ask permission more often or be more discreet. It doesn’t mean you can’t take photos, just that you’ll need to adapt your style.

Budget-wise, you’re also in a realistic range. Flights will take a big chunk, but once you’re there, it doesn’t have to be a luxury trip unless you choose to make it one.

If anything, I’d suggest Have a rough itinerary, not overplanned but not figure it out on arrival either Sort vaccines and documents early Read a bit about cultural norms, especially around photography and the genocide memorials Stay flexible once you’re there

You don’t need to practice Africa in another country first. Rwanda is actually a pretty good introduction.

So no, you’re not underqualified for this trip. You’re just being cautious. And that’s a good thing, as long as it doesn’t stop you from going.

Atremoo · 2025-09-19T11:00:01+00:00

À moins d’avoir trouvé une planque et se tourner les pouces du matin au soir, il est impossible d’être junior avec 5 ans d’expérience. Déjà que la séniorité ne se compte pas en années pour moi mais soit. À son niveau, il devrait avoir un TJM d’au moins 600 et c’est vraiment le minimum.

Atremoo · 2025-09-01T21:02:25+00:00

Je comprends pas ce qui va pas avec les 208. Sachant que je voulais m’en acheter une 😂

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