YEP, ANOTHER TRAVEL BLOG!
But with More Laughs and Fewer Selfies!
Hi, I’m Zander Kane, a 52-year-old solo traveller. You’re probably thinking, “Why should this blog be any different from the gazillion other travel blogs out there?” Well, strap in, because here are a few reasons that might just pique your interest:
With 90+ countries explored so far, (60+ solo) my travel tales are not just stories; they are real, lived experiences. Initially, it took me over two years to pluck up the courage for my first solo jaunt, and I’ve tried to encompass that initial fear and eventual triumph in many of my posts. (How Solo Travel Improved My Mental Wellness)
My aim is to show you that if I could overcome my fear of travelling alone, so can you.
85% of my posts are crafted with solo travellers over 50 in mind – the adventurous souls who prefer exploring local culture over lounging by the pool (though the occasional poolside cocktail is never off the table). If you’re keen on experiencing the world’s hidden gems with a side of serenity, you’re in the right place. My mission? To inspire and empower you to step out of your comfort zone and discover the world on your own terms – because life’s too short for boring holidays and staying in your slippers.
Each destination I cover is dissected with a fine-tooth comb to bring you insider knowledge that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. From hidden gems to practical tips on safety, budget, and local culture, my blog equips you with everything you need to make your journey unforgettable.
Yes, I know—I tend to over-deliver. Some of my posts are so detailed, it’s actually quicker to watch the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy (extended editions, of course). But hey, I’ve read far too many blogs that left out the one crucial bit I needed, so I make sure you don’t have to learn the hard way like I did. Think of it as travel advice with bonus features.
Travel should be fun—and frankly, so should reading about it. My writing is laced with a healthy dose of dry British humour and storytelling that aims to plonk you right beside me, whether I’m getting lost in a souk, mispronouncing something vital, or discovering that yes, that was a chilli, and no, I’m not okay. Expect quirks, mishaps, and the kind of observations only a slightly over-caffeinated, over-analytical solo traveller in his fifties could provide.
When I first started travelling, I was just overwhelmed by the fact I was doing something solo; it never dawned on me that I’d eventually be writing about the places I’d been. So, many of my posts are crafted from memories of trips as far back as twelve years ago—think of them as well-aged travel tales. But don’t worry, I try to make sure any recommendations are fresher than a newly stamped passport.
As an introvert, asking people to take pictures of me feels about as comfortable as wearing a woolly jumper in the Sahara. That’s why you won’t see many photos of me grinning in front of landmarks like many extroverted bloggers do. However, I’ve recently joined the selfie revolution and promise to sprinkle in some of those awkward, arm-stretched photos in future posts.
On top of that, I’ve upgraded my skills portfolio (fancy, eh?) and started using a bit of AI magic to tweak some of those earlier snaps—you know, the ones where you finally pluck up the courage to ask someone for a photo, only to realise it looks like it was taken mid-sneeze, and you’re far too polite to ask them to try again. Thanks to AI, I now appear slightly more human and marginally less confused in my selfies… and occasionally, I even look like I’m smiling on purpose.
Since launching my blog in September 2023, it’s been a steep learning curve—more like a vertical cliff, if I’m honest. With absolutely no prior web-building experience, I’ve been juggling the joys of writing posts based on past adventures while simultaneously trying to figure out what on earth a “widget” is and why it’s suddenly broken everything. I even managed to lock myself out of my own website recently after forgetting my shiny new password. A proud moment.
But despite the hiccups, mishaps, and mild tech-induced panic attacks, I’m fully committed to sharing my journey with you—warts, wifi issues and all.
Yes, you’ll spot affiliate links scattered generously across my site—like confetti at a wedding—but let’s be clear, this is no cash cow. In fact, I’ve yet to earn a single penny. Not even enough for a dodgy airport sandwich. Travel is my passion, not some grand get-rich-quick scheme (clearly). If I ever do manage to make a bit of commission, it’ll go straight into keeping this site alive—and perhaps funding the occasional cup of coffee to fuel the next adventure tale… or password recovery session.
LATEST POSTS
A Quick Note from the (Very Tired) Blogger
You might notice some of my posts are looking a bit… vintage. That’s because I’m currently updating everything across the blog — and let’s be honest, a fair few of them were written back when I had absolutely no clue what I was doing. (Note to self: you still don’t.)
Since I write everything myself — between caffeine highs and bouts of procrastination — I’ll be refreshing each post as time allows. Thanks for your patience while I turn this slightly chaotic travel blog into the helpful, witty, over-50 solo travel resource I meant to create from the start.
Discover the British Isles
Ready to uncover the charm of the British Isles? Click the link to dive into my handpicked selection of 7-day itineraries for various delightful locations.
Each itinerary is designed with the solo traveller over 50 in mind – because let’s face it, we appreciate a good cuppa and a scenic view without the rush.
Explore at your own pace, soak up the local culture, and perhaps even enjoy the occasional spot of rain.
Embark on a Thai Adventure
Here, you’ll uncover a selection of 7-day itineraries covering various Thai cities and provinces.
Each plan is meticulously crafted with the solo traveller over 50 in mind, ensuring you can soak up the local culture without breaking a hip.
Click the link, and let’s get you sorted for a splendid Thai adventure – because who said wanderlust was only for the young?
Discover Italy with Tailored Itineraries
Here, you’ll find a handpicked selection of my 7-day example itineraries for some of Italy’s most enchanting cities.
These plans ensure you can explore at your own pace and soak up the local culture without needing a nap every hour.
Click the link to start planning your perfect Italian adventure – buon viaggio and don’t forget your comfy shoes!
QUICK READS
Travel Advice Without the Waffle
Don’t fancy reading an 8,000-word epic? I don’t blame you. Quick Reads is where you’ll find short, snappy answers to the most common solo travel questions—especially for those of us over 50.
Bite-sized advice. Real experiences. No fluff, no jargon—just the good stuff (with the odd laugh thrown in).
I’ll be adding new posts regularly, so check back often—or better yet, share it with your friends and family on social media. I won’t say no… in fact, I’ll be silently high-fiving you from wherever I’m sipping coffee and dodging mosquitoes.
TESTIMONIALS
I’ve been fortunate to connect with so many fellow adventurers through “The Road to Timbuktu.” Here, you’ll find some kind words from those who have found inspiration, practical tips, and a bit of humour in my travel stories.
Solo travel can be incredibly enriching, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Here are my golden rules to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable solo adventure:
Before setting off, I make sure to learn as much as I can about my destination. After all, knowledge is power – and it can prevent unnecessary faux pas like attempting to high-five a monk.
Keeping someone back home informed of my travel plans, including my itinerary and contact details, is essential. Regularly checking in with them not only eases their worries but also gives me someone to brag to about my adventures.
Check out my Travel Resources Page for various tools to help you stay in touch, and you may find my post Best Location-Sharing Apps: Pros and Cons useful.
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Trusting my gut instincts and removing myself from uncomfortable situations has saved me more than once. My gut also helps me find the best local food – it’s a versatile tool.
I always carry a copy of my passport, some cash, a credit card, and important contact info in a secure but separate spot—because losing everything in one go just feels a bit too efficient, even for me.
Oh, and speaking of smart travel hacks—I’ve partnered with Temu (think: the Chinese version of Amazon, but often 50% cheaper). I swear, about 80% of my travel gadgets come from there. 1000s real reviews, absurd prices, and first-time users get £100 worth of coupons with my link.
👉 Check out my shop page for curated gear that won’t bankrupt your travel budget (or explode in your luggage).
Avoiding the “tourist” look is key. Dressing appropriately and not flashing expensive items helps me blend in and avoid becoming a target for scams or theft. The goal is to look as uninteresting as possible – something I’ve been perfecting for years.
Let Me Share a Secret…
Choosing the right place to stay isn’t just important—it’s mission critical. I read reviews with the laser-focus of a detective chasing a high-profile lead, comb over maps like an old-world cartographer, and double-check the area to ensure it doesn’t give off Hitchcockian vibes.
Yes, I’ve had my fair share of 2 a.m. regrets in dodgy hostels—complete with cold showers, questionable stains, and the soundtrack of someone snoring like a broken lawnmower. So, trust me when I say: sometimes it’s worth spending a little more for peace of mind, a working lock, and a hot shower.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with more travel booking sites than I care to admit. Some helped. Others… well, let’s just say they tested the limits of my British patience. But through all the wins and misadventures, a few platforms have proven themselves time and again—for saving time, money, and most importantly, my sanity.
Here are the ones I now swear by:
✈️ Flights
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Booking.com – Yes, they do flights too, and often at surprisingly good rates.
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Trip.com – Great for international flights, especially across Asia.
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Kiwi.com – For clever route combinations and budget flights you never knew existed.
🛏️ Accommodation
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Booking.com – Reliable, with loads of filters to find exactly what I want.
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Hostelworld – When I want to socialise a bit more… but not too much.
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VRBO – Like Airbnb’s calmer cousin, usually with better prices and less drama.
These are my go-to tools, not just because they work—but because they’ve helped me avoid sleepless nights, airport chaos, and more than a few “what was I thinking?” moments. If you’re looking to streamline your own trip planning, they’re a solid place to start.
Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way. It shows respect and can help navigate situations more easily. Plus, it’s always amusing to see the locals’ reactions to my terrible pronunciation.
While it’s tempting to indulge, especially in new places, keeping my wits about me is crucial. Being overly intoxicated can make me vulnerable and less aware of my surroundings – and nobody wants to wake up with a mysterious new tattoo.
I always have digital backups of important documents like my passport, travel insurance, and visas. Storing these in a secure cloud service means I can access them if needed – assuming I remember my passwords.
Planning for the unexpected is crucial. Knowing what to do in case of emergencies, whether it’s losing my passport, missing a flight, or needing medical attention, can reduce stress in critical situations. Plus, it gives me something to worry about in advance.
Though an introverted chap, I do make a valiant effort to strike up conversations with locals and fellow travellers. They often offer great insights, and some of the best experiences and advice come from these interactions. Besides, talking to myself gets old after a while.
While it’s good to have a plan, I always allow room for spontaneity. Some of the best travel experiences happen when least expected. Being open to changing plans if something exciting comes up is part of the adventure – even if it means missing a meticulously planned museum visit.
Let’s be honest, the Mona Lisa will still be smirking tomorrow, but that impromptu street festival might just be a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. Embrace the unexpected; your itinerary won’t mind.
Travel insurance is an absolute must. Think of it as a safety net for all the thrilling misadventures you might encounter.
I also carry any necessary medications and have a basic understanding of the local healthcare options – because nothing says “memorable trip” like trying to explain food poisoning symptoms in a language you barely speak.
Staying healthy is crucial for enjoying the journey and avoiding those dodgy street food stands that look like they might offer more than just a culinary experience.
Remember, there’s a fine line between adventurous eating and becoming an impromptu case study for the local clinic.
Check out my Travel Resources Page for Insurance options.
Respecting local customs and traditions is always a priority. This includes dressing appropriately, behaving respectfully in sacred places, and understanding local etiquette. It’s amazing how far a bit of respect can go – especially when it helps you avoid becoming the unwitting star of a local’s “tourist horror stories” blog.
Besides, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of realising your outfit was more scandalous than you thought, or that your friendly gesture was actually an ancient insult. A little respect not only earns you goodwill but also keeps you from being the talk of the town – for all the wrong reasons.
Solo travel is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about myself. I embrace the solitude, enjoy my own company, and take time to reflect on my experiences. After all, who better to keep me entertained than myself?
There’s a certain charm in laughing at my own jokes, having deep conversations with my inner monologue, and realising that, yes, I am indeed my own favourite travel companion. Plus, there’s no one around to judge when I decide to have gelato for breakfast.
📺 Because Reading is Just So Exhausting, Right?
Prefer watching over reading? You’re in luck. I’ve taken my travel tips, tricks, and tales and turned them into bite-sized videos across platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Click the link below to explore my Videos Page, where you’ll find a growing collection of past and present video shorts covering everything from solo travel hacks to ridiculous rules around the world.
Now, fair warning: most of my videos are voiced using a transatlantic narrator—because let’s be honest, sarcasm just lands better in that mysterious middle ground between British dryness and American drama. Plus, my own voice sounds like a sat-nav having an existential crisis—confused, mildly panicked, and often repeating itself.
To stay up to date (and avoid missing gems like why flip-flops are illegal on the island of Capri, or how chewing gum in Singapore could get you banged up), don’t forget to subscribe. It costs absolutely nothing and might just save you from an awkward airport encounter one day.
Affiliate Disclaimer
Some of the links on my site are affiliate links. This means if you click on them and make a purchase, I might earn a commission. No, it’s not enough to buy me a private jet, but it does help keep the lights on at “The Road to Timbuktu.”
Your support helps me continue to bring you valuable travel deals and content. Thank you for your understanding and support!