Lori Barbely
Hi, I’m Lori, the Chief Travel Officer for Mostly Solo Travel! I created this site for solo (and would-be solo) female travelers. My goal is to inspire your trips, give you practical advice on how to plan, and to ease your fears so you can explore the world on your own.
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Travel Book Club (June 2025): Nevada: A Novel
It’s time to get started on the book in our 2025 Travel Book Club! You voted and in June we’ll be reading Nevada: A Novel by Imogen Binnie. Stick around to the end of the post to vote for July’s book! Nevada: A Novel Author: Imogen BinniePages: 290Published: 2022 Nevada by Imogen Binnie is a raw, introspective novel following Maria, a trans woman navigating personal crisis and self-understanding. Set against a backdrop of punk culture and road-trip wanderings, the story explores identity, disconnection, and the complexities of gender with sharp wit, emotional honesty, and a deeply human perspective. Join the discussion on Facebook starting June 23! Vote for July’s Book…
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The Best Solo Female Travel Destinations for 2025 Adventure Seekers
Traveling solo as a woman comes with its own set of challenges, so it’s important to choose a destination where you’ll feel comfortable and safe. As a solo female traveler with 20+ years of experience, I prioritize walkable cities with great public transportation and friendly locals. If you’re planning your next adventure, here are the best solo female travel destinations to consider for 2025! Tokyo, Japan Why Tokyo is Great for Solo Female Travelers and Solo Travel Tokyo is one of the best solo female travel destinations thanks to its safety, efficient public transit, and the abundance of solo-friendly experiences. Many signs, menus, and transportation announcements are in English, and…
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Travel Book Club: My Year Abroad Discussion (May 2025)
It’s time for the next discussion in our 2025 Travel Book Club! In May we read My Year Abroad and I’ve compiled some questions below to get the discussion started! Share your thoughts, then check out what we’re reading next month! My Year Abroad Author: Chang-rae LeePages: 491Published: 2021 Join the discussion on Facebook! Caution: Spoilers Ahead! So My Year Abroad is a wild, sometimes bizarre ride that follows this young, aimless college kid named Tiller. He’s a bit of a blank slate — not super ambitious, just kind of floating through life in this sleepy American suburb. That is, until he meets Pong, this super charismatic and mysterious Chinese-American…
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Things to Do in Tarpon Springs, FL | Sponge Capital of the World
If you’re craving a charming coastal town packed with culture, history, and sunshine, let me put Tarpon Springs, Florida on your radar. Known as the Sponge Capital of the World, this Greek-influenced gem on Florida’s Gulf Coast has way more to offer than just sponges (though those are pretty cool). Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, here’s how to make the most of your visit. Introduction to Tarpon Springs Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs is a charming city that boasts a rich Greek heritage and a storied past centered around the sponge industry. This coastal gem in Florida invites visitors to immerse themselves…
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Travel to Ireland – Things to Know Before You Go
So, you’ve decided to travel to Ireland — lucky you! Whether you’re dreaming of the Cliffs of Moher, cozy pubs with live music, or just soaking up the lush green countryside, Ireland is an amazing destination that truly lives up to the hype. And if you’re considering traveling solo — especially as a woman — Ireland is one of the best places you can choose. It’s safe, welcoming, English-speaking, and filled with charming towns and natural beauty that feel made for wandering. Locals are warm and helpful, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation without ever feeling like you’re standing out. But before you book that flight and start…
