Traveling tips for a first lone traveler?

[md4958]

just use common sense. no dark alleys, dont take candy from strangers, etc.

The biggest difference youll notice is that the pace is much different from the islands. Also, people are not as friendly as in hawaii.

[Sailkat]

I have travelled alot by myself over the years and I'm sure you will do just fine.
A couple of things I usually do that make me more comfortable -
I always take a change of clothes in my carryon bag just in case my checked luggage does not arrive and I take an cheap nightlight to plug-in in the hotel room.....helps me get oriented if I wake up in the middle of the night.

A good book for the plane is always a plus.

Have a great trip!!

[markem]

Seattle is about the friendliest city on the planet. Don't do anything stupid after dark, be sure to ask at the hotel about areas to avoid. Do see the aquarium, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, take the underground tour. Don't pay to get to the top of the Space Needle - it isn't worth a fraction of what they charge. The city is very pedestrian friendly and has a decent bus service. Asking strangers questions is a Seattle trademark and you'll get plenty of conversation out of it.

What you will find is many, many restaurants. Be adventurous, try something new.

Also, PM fishbeadtwo about getting together for a herf or two with the Smokey Joe's crowd. Hard to find a better group anywhere.

I lived there for 5 years and still visit frequently (I'm 3 hours away in Portland). Depending on the timing, I may be able to come up for a herf.

[lightning9191]

I've done some travel alone in the US and in foreign lands. Don't look like a tourist. Walk like you know where you are going and don't be afraid to get a little lost. These little adventures can get you places that most people don't see. Don't be afraid to talk to people. I've talked to many interesting folks just by chatting them up. Ask them what they would recommend you see while there. Learn what you can before you get there. Have fun and safe travels!

[Magma]

Originally Posted by md4958

just use common sense. no dark alleys, dont take candy from strangers, etc.

The biggest difference youll notice is that the pace is much different from the islands. Also, people are not as friendly as in hawaii.

noted, and yea, looks like I'll have to bring the "aloha spirit" to them.

Originally Posted by Cigary

always have a cell phone with you when travelling and don't use those pesky travel bags that fit around your waist. Nothing says tourist quite like having one of those and that is the first thing that attracts pick pockets. Enjoy your trip!

Yup, I'm bringing my mobile, I just hope I'll always have reception for the 'just in case' situations. Haha, nah I never uses those bags, at my age and the way I look; all that bags says is "drug dealer".

Originally Posted by Sailkat

I have travelled alot by myself over the years and I'm sure you will do just fine.
A couple of things I usually do that make me more comfortable -
I always take a change of clothes in my carryon bag just in case my checked luggage does not arrive and I take an cheap nightlight to plug-in in the hotel room.....helps me get oriented if I wake up in the middle of the night.

A good book for the plane is always a plus.

Have a great trip!!

I see, I'll be sure to do that. I really hope and pray to God nothing gets lost or mixed up

Originally Posted by vstrommark

Seattle is about the friendliest city on the planet. Don't do anything stupid after dark, be sure to ask at the hotel about areas to avoid. Do see the aquarium, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, take the underground tour. Don't pay to get to the top of the Space Needle - it isn't worth a fraction of what they charge. The city is very pedestrian friendly and has a decent bus service. Asking strangers questions is a Seattle trademark and you'll get plenty of conversation out of it.

What you will find is many, many restaurants. Be adventurous, try something new.

Also, PM fishbeadtwo about getting together for a herf or two with the Smokey Joe's crowd. Hard to find a better group anywhere.

I lived there for 5 years and still visit frequently (I'm 3 hours away in Portland). Depending on the timing, I may be able to come up for a herf.

Oh man I hope so, if there's one pet peeve that sticks out, it's inconsiderate people, but that's probably due to the fact that there are so much people that are considerate here that when you find one or a few that aren't, then it ruins a piece of your day.
Aquaruim - check
Pike Place Market - check
Pioneer Square - check
Underground tour - and check

Ah the question still stands, I've been debating on whether to bring a few sticks or not. I higly doubt there's a designated smoking area in the hotel(balcony or something).