solo experiences

At Agra Fort - Agra. India, the most populated country on earth

India – The Most Populated Country on Earth

INDIA - THE MOST POPULATED COUNTRY ON EARTH

INDIA - THE MOST POPULATED COUNTRY ON EARTH

The Federal Republic of India is a country in South Asia and its capital is New Delhi. It is the world’s seventh-largest country, by area, and the world’s most populous, with over 1,461 billion people (recorded in 2025). India borders, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. It is a unique country with vibrant colours, exotic spices, rich history and culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Moreover, India has a secular, multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious society. Its religious composition is as follows; 80% Hindus, 14 % Muslims, over 4% Christians, over 1% Shikhs, and Buddhists, Judaism, Zoroastrian, and Jain in the minority. Therefore, it is a multi-religious society that celebrates festivals and holidays of various religions. To date, India’s biggest exports are petroleum products, followed by gems, jewellery, textiles, garments, pharmaceuticals, dairy products, chemicals, cars, and tea. However, their export list is endless with other products including leather, cotton products, rice, wheat, jute, etc. Please continue reading to learn more about my visit to India, the most populated country on earth.

The Taj Mahal. India, the most populated country on earth
The Taj Mahal

❤❤ Condolences❤❤

 ❤❤ I wish to pay respects to my dearest Mother and my “bestest” and no. 1 friend and confidant, critic, commenter, first to read my blogs and books, and 100% gentleman Joel Dessaints (Canada). Jay, I wish that wherever you are, you are reading one last time. Rest in Peace to you both!! (They both passed away just before their birthdays). I am still trying to recover, so please give me space and time…hence why I didn’t mention this before. My writing is my only coping mechanism at this time. THANKS!! ❤❤

Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Early 2025” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Saving varies depending on the destination country, a full breakdown of discounts is detailed below: minimum 20% saving on properties in Asia and Oceania; minimum 15% saving elsewhere. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 01/04/25 for stays with check-in from 01/01/25 and check-out on or before 01/04/25. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.

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Uzbekistan, the Country in the Heart of Central Asia.

UZBEKISTAN THE COUNTRY IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL ASIA

UZBEKISTAN THE COUNTRY IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL ASIA

The Republic of Uzbekistan is a Central Asian nation and a former Soviet Republic.  Its capital and biggest city is Tashkent, and has a population of over 35 million people.
Geographically, it is in the heart of Central Asia and surrounded by Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. It is one of the only two doubly-landlocked countries on earth,  with Liechtenstein, the least-visited country in Europe, being the second. (Landlocked means no access to the sea or the Atlantic, so doubly-landlocked means surrounded by other landlocked countries).  Uzbekistan is a predominantly Islamic country with more than 80% Muslims (the majority regarded as Sunni Muslims). It is best known for its mosques, mausoleums, and other sites linked to the “Silk Road” (the name of the lucrative trade in silk trade route between China, the Mediterranean, and other major cities). Its economy is dependent on agriculture and it is one of the largest cotton growers worldwide. Besides this, it also cultivates, grapes, vegetables, and wheat, and raises animals, including goats, sheep, and cattle. Additionally, Uzbekistan’s land produces natural gas, oil, gold, copper, and other minerals. Read on to learn more about my visit to Uzbekistan, the country in the heart of Central Asia.

Loving the signs in Tashkent. Uzbekistan, the country in the heart of Central Asia
Loving the signs in Tashkent
The Minor Mosque. Uzbekistan, the country in the heart of Central Asia
The Minor Mosque - the largest Mosque in Tashkent, Uzbekistan (made entirely of marble)

Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Early 2025” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Saving varies depending on the destination country, a full breakdown of discounts is detailed below: minimum 20% saving on properties in Asia and Oceania; minimum 15% saving elsewhere. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 01/04/25 for stays with check-in from 01/01/25 and check-out on or before 01/04/25. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.

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50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

50 SAFEST COUNTRIES AROUND THE WORLD

No country is 100% safe. With the continuous movement of people, many once-safe countries are now experiencing crimes or an increase in it. However, many have drastic laws and rigid enforcement to deter any would-be-criminal from breaking them, thus lowering the crime rate. As a solo traveller, I have never had any security issues in any country because most were fairly safe. I chose these 50 safest countries around the world from the 80-plus I visited, based on how secure I felt, and what I experienced during my stay.

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A view of the city from High Castle Hill and Gardens. Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe

Ukraine the Breadbasket of Europe

UKRAINE, THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE

UKRAINE, THE BREADBASKET OF EUROPE 

The Unitary, Semi-Presidential Republic of Ukraine is a democratic, Eastern European country. Ukraine/Ukraina pronounced Oo-krah-YEE-nah by the locals, unlike You-Crane in English) is the second largest European country after Russia, and borders Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, and the coastline of the Black Sea. The nation’s capital and largest city is Kyiv (Kiev). Ukraine is predominantly a Christian nation (approximately 88%) with a population of about 42 million. Its main export is agricultural products, including wheat, and as of 2022/2023 ranked fifth among the largest wheat exporters worldwide. Currently, Ukraine is most famous for its fight and resistance against the Russian invasion. Read on for more insights into my visit to Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe, or precisely Lviv.

The Potocki Palace. Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe
The Potocki Palace
The University of Life Safety in Lviv . Ukraine, the breadbasket of Europe
The University of Life Safety in Lviv

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

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Slovakia a Beauty in the Heart of Europe

SLOVAKIA, A BEAUTY IN THE HEART OF EUROPE

SLOVAKIA, A BEAUTY IN THE HEART OF EUROPE 

The Republic of Slovakia/Slovak/Slovensko is a small, landlocked country in Central Europe. Consequently, five countries share borders with it, including Ukraine, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Austria (the closest one, at only 57 kilometers). Its capital is Bratislava. Slovakia is famous for its unique castles, caves, Celtic town (Havranok), architecture, the Podhajska geothermal pool (aka the Slovak Dead Sea), folk dancing, and much more. Slovakia is a developed country with a high-income economy. Moreover, it is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has a population of almost 5.5 million. Additionally, services are the largest and primary sector of the economy, but mining, agriculture, and industry remain equally important. Please continue reading to see what it is like to travel to Slovakia, a beauty in the heart of Europe.

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

The Grasssalkovich Palace - Presidential Palace

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The Arch of Charents - most gorgeous view of Mount Ararat. Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity

Armenia the First Country to Accept Christianity

ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY

ARMENIA THE FIRST COUNTRY TO ACCEPT CHRISTIANITY 

The Republic of Armenia (formerly Hayk) is a former Soviet Union country bordering Turkey, Georgia, Iran, and Azerbaijan, and its capital is Yerevan. Armenia is a transcontinental country (partly in Europe and most of its land in west Asia), and is one of the six countries in the Caucasus region. What is special about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity worldwide in 301 A.D., is its unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites, unspoiled nature, tasty cuisine, and renowned brandy, and wines. Additionally, almost every item in Armenia bears the symbol of Mount Ararat (the land of the final resting place of the Ark of Noah. Historically, Mount Ararat was in the territory of the Armenian Highland (currently, it borders Armenia). However, in 1921/1923, a peace treaty (Treaty of Kars) drafted between Turkey and the Soviet Union gifted the land to Turkey.

Armenia is a Christian nation and has a population of about 2,777,976.00. It is rich in copper, zinc, iron, silver, lead, gold, and other valuable reserves of rare metals. Apart from that, whenever someone mentions Armenia, many people immediately think of the Armenian genocide, similar to the mention of Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina. However. there is so much more to discover in this unique and beautiful country. Please continue reading to learn more about Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity as a state religion.

The Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Cathedral aka the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral .The oldest Cathedral on Earth (front and side view). Armenia, the first country to accept Christianity
The Armenian Apostolic (Orthodox) Cathedral aka the Holy Etchmiadzin Cathedral .The oldest Cathedral on Earth (front and side view)

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

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Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA 

The Kingdom of Morocco (once known as the Kingdom of Marrakech) is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa, and its capital is Rabat. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Morocco borders Algeria to the east, Western Sahara to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the only African country with exposure to both the Atlantic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco (in Arabic means The Western Kingdom) is a highly elevated country (about 2,600 above sea level). Morocco experiences typical Mediterranean weather (hot, dry summers) with mild, wet winters. It is famous for its towering mountains, beaches and coasts, desert oasis, food, ancient cities, souks, medinas, and culture. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Its primary resources are agriculture, fishing, forestry, mining, and tourism. It is an affordable destination with a population of over 37 million. Please continue reading to learn more about what it is like to visit Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Moroccan flag everywhere

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

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Solo traveller in Sarajevo Bosnia and Herzegovina

SOLO TRAVELLER IN SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

SOLO TRAVELLER IN SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 

The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosna i Hercegovina), informally known as Bosnia, is located in the western Balkan Peninsula of Europe. It is a mountainous country, once part of the former Yugoslav Federation, and its capital is Sarajevo. Bosnia shares its borders with Croatia, Montenegro, Serbia, and the Adriatic Sea. Most significantly, it is one country with three ethnic groups; the Bosniaks (Muslims), Serbs (Serbian Orthodox), and the Croats (Roman Catholics). Its population is under 3.5 million people, and, similar to Montenegro, it is an ethnically diverse and multi-religious country. Bosnia is famous for its gorgeous mountains, rivers and waterfalls, medieval ruins, unique towns, and the former host of the 1984 Winter Olympics. It is an inexpensive, safe, and developed country. Please continue reading for a vicarious trip with the solo traveller in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Minimum 15% savings available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Late Escape Deals” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 7 January 2025 for stays with check-in from 1 October 2024 and check-out on or before 7 January 2025. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discounts cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and is subject to availability.

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Scenic Tivat - Montenegro. Montenegro the land of the black mountains

Montenegro the land of the black mountains

MONTENEGRO THE LAND OF THE BLACK MOUNTAINS

The Republic of Montenegro is a small country along the central Mediterranean and within Southeastern Europe. It was once part of the former Yugoslav Federation. Montenegro borders Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, and the Adriatic Sea. Its capital is Podgorica, and has a  population of less than 700,000 people. Montenegro is a diverse and tolerant country because of its multi-ethnic, multilingual, and multi-religious composition. It is a country known for its spectacular mountains, gorgeous beaches and resorts, glacial lakes, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, Kotor. Montenegro is an inexpensive, safe, and clean country. Please continue reading to see what it is like to visit Montenegro, the land of the black mountains.

A Travel Guide to Tips, Tricks, and Hacks for Better Travels
Learn how to Save, Plan, and Travel Alone on a Budget

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Rantakasarmi Harbour Quarters - Suomenlinna . Finland is the happiest country on earth

Finland is the Happiest country on Earth

FINLAND IS THE HAPPIEST COUNTRY ON EARTH

FINLAND IS THE HAPPIEST COUNTRY ON EARTH

The Republic of Finland is the happiest country on earth (for six consecutive years). It is a Nordic country in Northern Europe and one of the northernmost countries in the world. Finland borders Sweden, Russia, and Norway and shares a maritime border with Estonia. Its capital is Helsinki, and its population is approximately 5.6 million. Finland’s land mass continues to grow by about 7 km yearly because of the post-glacial rebound effects of the ice age. Additionally, thick woodlands cover two-thirds of its land mass, thus making it the most densely forested country in Europe. Finland is a developed, safe, peaceful, picturesque, but expensive country. Read on to find out what it is like to travel to Finland, the happiest country on earth.

beautiful Sveaborg or Suomenlinna Island . Finland is the happiest country on earth
beautiful Sveaborg or Suomenlinna Island

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