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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What Is Lucca, Italy Known For? 10 Reasons to Visit Tuscany’s Hidden Gem
Wondering what Lucca, Italy is known for? This charming Tuscan city might not get the same buzz as Florence or Pisa, but that’s exactly why travelers fall in love with it. Located in Tuscany along the Serchio River, Lucca is a small, walkable city that you can visit as a day trip—but I think it deserves more than just a few hours. From its beautifully preserved Renaissance city walls to its famous oval-shaped piazza and tree-topped medieval towers, Lucca has a little bit of everything that makes Tuscany so special, without quite as many crowds. So, what is Lucca known for? Here are 10 things that make this one of…
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Christmas Events in Orlando (that aren’t theme parks!)
When most people think of Christmas in Orlando, they immediately picture the incredible holiday celebrations at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. And don’t get me wrong—I’m a huge fan of Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. But those festive events also come with pretty hefty ticket prices! The good news? There are plenty of amazing Orlando Christmas events that don’t require a theme park ticket. From dazzling Christmas light displays and festive gardens to boat parades, holiday markets, and even surfing Santas, you’ll find lots of ways to celebrate the season throughout Central Florida. Whether you’re looking for free Christmas activities in…
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Christmas in St. Augustine, Florida
Christmas in Florida is tough for me because the warm weather makes it hard for me to get into the holiday spirit! I Come with me to find holiday cheer at Christmas in St. Augustine, Florida. St. Augustine Night of Lights Foregoing the trolley tour, I chose to walk and experience the St. Augustine Night of Lights and it was so magical! However, while I was walking to the Lightner Museum, I was passed by the Grinch driving a golf cart full of guests for a Night of Lights tour and I can’t tell you how sad I was to discover that the Very Un-Merry GrinchMas Ride was sold out…
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The Travel Essentials I Can’t Live Without (After 20 Years of Solo Adventures)
After 20 years of solo travel, I’ve learned a few things: you don’t need nearly as much stuff as you think, safety and comfort are priceless, and the right gear makes all the difference. Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my packing list down to the items I absolutely can’t live without—things that keep me light, safe, and ready for whatever adventure comes my way. If you’re a solo female traveler (or aspiring to be one), consider this your shortcut to a streamlined, stress-free, and safer packing experience. Modest Dress Merino Wool Quick Dry Underwear Clothing Must-Haves Merino Wool BasicsIf I could only pack one fabric, it would be merino wool.…
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Why a Walking Food Tour Should Be Your First Stop in Any New City
Why Start Your Trip with a Walking Food Tour? One of my favorite things to do when I land in a new city? Book a walking food tour. Sure, walking tours make sense—fresh air, moving your body, seeing the city at street level. But why a walking food tour? For me, food is the quickest way to understand a place. What people eat, how they eat, and where they eat tells you so much about the culture. And when you combine that with a guide who knows the city inside and out, you get an experience that’s both delicious and insightful. Here’s why I think walking food tours should be…
