Son going off travelling, help!

[allnewname]

He wants to go to some amazing places, Uzbekistan, China etc. but he’s a solo traveller, and I’m so nervous for him. He’s done shorter, less distant trips before and loves it. Is there a non Mumsnet version of a travel forum that they all use to swap advice on e.g. visas, money etc? I’m super proud of him but it’s a bit scary ! Thanks for any tips. X

There are lots of places to look for advice. Lonely Planet, online guides, fora. However, China and Uzbekistan, great, safe choices. He’ll be fabulous. The visa for CHina is an interesting process.

I travel to all the wacky places and I just google things. Where else? I’ve been to a LOT of places.

I used to live in Uzbekistan and have travelled to many countries all over the world. It’s one of the safest places I’ve ever been to (and a fabulous place to visit). I backpacked alone in China as a solo female (albeit a while ago) and it was a great adventure and I never felt unsafe. Might be useful for him to try and learn a few basic Russian and Mandarin phrases to make things easier, especially if travelling in rural areas. I’m sure he’ll find Facebook groups specific to travelling and/or backpacking in each country, which offer lots of tips.

DD started solo travelling as soon as she turned 18 and while I’m always in a quiet panic back home, so far she’s always had a great time and no major issues.

She plans everything in advance mostly using TT and uses TripBff if she’s thinking of meeting with other travellers. I’m not crazy about it but as long as it’s groups I guess that’s fine.

We always share locations though and our “rule” is no more than 12h without saying something, even a quick call or a message.

I found Pleco (language app) really useful in China. Don’t know if it still is.

I’m DMing you @IndigoNZ1if that’s OK!

Thanks, I like your username. I’m in the quietly panicking camp too! What is TT though? X

@allnewname tiktok!

Duh, yes of course. Thanks!

Hi. My son is 26 and needed a change. He has gone solo backpacking to California New York etc. I feel extremely upset. I feel sick with worry . I'm happy for him. He feels he needed to do it but it's just the safety aspect of it that I find worrying. It will be an adventure and an achievement for him but still worry till he's back.