Welcome to...
The Road To Timbuktu
Unlocking the Joys of
Solo Travel Beyond 40
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 50+ countries explored so far, 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.
95% of my posts are crafted with solo travellers over 40 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.
Travel should be fun, and so should reading about it. My writing is infused with dry British humour and engaging narratives that make you feel like you’re right there with me, sharing in the quirks and joys of each adventure.
When I first started travelling, I was just overwhelmed by the fact I was doing something solo; it never dawned on me that I would 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 pictures of me grinning in front of landmarks like many extroverted bloggers do. However, I’ve recently joined the selfie revolution, and I promise to sprinkle some of those awkward, arm-stretched photos in future posts.
Since starting my blog in September 2023, it’s been a steep learning curve. With no former web-building experience, I’m juggling writing posts from past experiences and figuring out page layouts. I even got locked out of my own website recently because I forgot my new password! Despite these challenges, I’m committed to sharing my journey with you.
Although I have affiliate links scattered about my site, don’t let that fool you into thinking this is a cash cow. Far from it! Travel is my passion, not my get-rich-quick scheme. If I ever manage to make any commission, it will go straight into keeping this site running – and maybe the occasional cup of coffee to fuel my next adventure tale.
LATEST POSTS
Discover The Pilgrim's Prints
Welcome to The Pilgrim’s Prints—my little corner of creativity where travel meets art! As a passionate solo traveller and adventurer, I’ve channelled my love for exploring the world into a collection of unique, travel-inspired designs.
From quirky quotes to stunning visuals, each piece reflects the freedom, excitement, and beauty of the journey. Whether you’re a fellow wanderer or just love the idea of far-off places, there’s something here to inspire your next adventure. Check out my Redbubble store and take a piece of the world with you!
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.
Overcoming Fear of Travel
"I had always dreamt of travelling solo but was held back by fear. Reading several posts, 'The Road to Timbuktu' gave me the courage to take my first trip alone. Zander's personal stories of overcoming his own fears resonated deeply with me. Now, I've explored three new countries solo, and I couldn't be happier!"
— Emily R.
56
Travel Tips and Advice
"As a solo traveller over 50, the travel tips and advice throughout the site have been invaluable. From packing tips to navigating new cities, Zander covered everything I needed to know. His advice helped me feel prepared and confident on my latest adventure to Thailand."
— Sarah L.
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Immersive Blog Posts
"What sets 'The Road to Timbuktu' apart is the immersive nature of the blog posts. Zander's dry humour and engaging writing style make you feel like you're right there with him. Each post is not just informative but also a delightful read."
— Richard H.
58
Personal Touch and Authenticity
"There's something genuinely authentic about 'The Road to Timbuktu'. Zander's personal touch is evident in every post. It's clear that he writes from the heart and shares his true experiences, making his advice trustworthy and his stories captivating."
— Linda J.
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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!
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 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.
TRAVEL RESOURCES
Plan Your Perfect Escape
Welcome to the treasure trove of travel resources and trip planning tools. Here, you’ll find everything you need to orchestrate the perfect escape – from flights and hotels to hostels, resorts, insurance options, airport transfers, car rentals, and even a smorgasbord of travel apps.
Think of this page as your one-stop shop for all things travel – minus the dodgy souvenir shop. Whether you’re booking a flight to your dream destination or figuring out how to reassure your friends and family that you’re not lost in the Amazon, I’ve got you covered.
Click the link and let the planning begin.
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.
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 information in a secure but accessible place, separate from my main belongings. Losing everything in one go is just too efficient for my liking.
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.
Selecting the right place to stay is paramount. I peruse reviews with the intensity of a detective on a high-profile case, scrutinise the map like an old-world explorer, and ensure the neighbourhood isn’t reminiscent of a Hitchcock film. Occasionally, spending a bit more for a good night’s sleep and a hot shower is worth it – especially when the alternative involves questioning life choices at 2 a.m. in a dodgy hostel.
No matter where I end up, I’ve always managed to book my accommodation and flights through either Expedia or Trip.com, and Hostelworld for my hostels. Though, I do occasionally use Travel Up if Trip & Expedia can’t help, and Vrbo, which is just like Airbnb but kinder to my wallet.
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.
How to find free accommodation worldwide
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!