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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Burano and Murano, Italy
If you’re visiting Venice and have a little extra time, don’t miss a trip out to Burano and Murano, Italy—two of the most colorful and charming islands in the Venetian Lagoon. You can hop on a vaporetto (public water bus) to explore them on your own, or, if you want to save time and skip the stress of navigating, you can join a guided day trip like I did: Burano and Murano guided tour. Murano, Italy What Murano is Known For Murano, Italy, is all about handblown glass. Murano has been home to master glassblowers for centuries. In fact, the glassmaking industry was moved here from Venice in 1291 to…
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Where to Stay in Lucca: Best Hotels Inside Lucca’s City Walls
If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany and wondering where to stay in Lucca, one of the first decisions to make is whether to book a hotel inside or outside the city walls. Staying within the walls puts you right in the heart of Lucca’s medieval charm—surrounded by cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and lively piazzas. The good news is there are plenty of hotels inside Lucca’s city walls that fit every type of traveler, from boutique guesthouses with just a handful of rooms to larger, full-service hotels. Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Lucca so you can find the right fit for your style…
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Things to Do in Winter Park, FL: Food, History, Parks & More
Planning a trip or day out and wondering what to do in Winter Park, Florida? Whether you’re a local looking for new spots or a visitor exploring this charming city just outside Orlando, Winter Park is full of hidden gems and must-see favorites. I’ve lived here for almost 20 years, so consider this your insider’s guide to some of the best things to do in town. From relaxing gardens and historic sites to mouthwatering restaurants and unique shopping, there’s something here for everyone. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Winter Park, FL—perfect for a casual stroll, a date day, or a weekend adventure. Kraft Azalea Gardens…
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Is Bologna Worth Visiting? The Perfect 1-Day Bologna Foodie Itinerary for Solo Travelers
Why Visit Bologna? Bologna might not be the first Italian city that comes to mind—but that’s exactly what makes it such a hidden gem. With its terracotta rooftops, endless porticoes, and food that rivals anywhere in Italy, Bologna is an absolute must-visit. For solo female travelers, Bologna offers that sweet spot of safe, walkable streets, plenty of things to do in one day, and of course—mouthwatering food. If you’ve only got 24 hours in Bologna, this itinerary blends food, culture, and leisurely wandering so you leave feeling like you’ve truly experienced the city. Morning in Bologna: Start at Piazza Maggiore The best way to kick off your Bologna itinerary is…
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Why You Should Hire a Photographer on Your Solo Trip
Traveling solo is amazing—you get to do exactly what you want, when you want, without compromise. But let’s be honest: getting great photos of yourself can be a struggle. You either end up with a bunch of selfies, awkward shots taken by strangers, or you’re fiddling with a tripod while people stare. Not exactly the glamorous travel memory you had in mind. That’s why I started hiring photographers on my trips—and it has completely changed the way I document my travels. It might feel a little indulgent at first, but trust me, hiring a vacation photographer is one of the best investments you can make in your solo adventures. Here’s…
