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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New European Entry/Exit System Coming October 2025
Traveling to Europe this fall? Big changes are coming! Starting October 12, 2025, the new Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace passport stamping and track all non-EU travelers electronically as they enter and leave 29 EU countries. The system will be gradually rolled out, and by April 2026, it will be fully live across Schengen borders. NOTE: This is not to be confused with the long-promised ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) that is currently slated to start operation in late 2026. What the EES means for you Assuming you are non-EU-national and have a short-stay visa (or do not need a visa to stay in Schengen borders for a…
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15 Italophile gifts for people who love Italy
Whether you love Italy or love someone who loves Italy, these Italophile gifts are sure to please! Foodie Things Ravioli Spoon Rest You might be tempted to eat this giant ravioli (I certainly was!) but this saucy spoon rest is strictly practical—and pretty! Pistachio Butter Slather this pistachio butter on, well, everything! Croissants are my personal pistachio butter delivery vehicle of choice, but it’s also perfect as a macaron filling or ice cream topping. Cannoli Sampler What’s better than cannoli? Cannoli imported from Sicily! These tasty treats will take you back to Italy from the comfort of your couch. Novelty Pasta Candle I love candles, quirky things, and pasta, so this…
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Is Venice, Italy Worth Visiting? A 3-Day Itinerary That Proves It
Is Venice worth visiting? Let me answer that with a big, enthusiastic YES. Venice is one of those rare places that feels like a dream. Picture pastel buildings reflecting off quiet canals, boats gliding under stone bridges, and the scent of fresh espresso floating through the air. Whether you’re into art, architecture, food, or just aimless wandering, Venice has something for everyone—especially solo travelers. Three days might not be enough to see everything, but it’s perfect for getting a true taste of the magic. And spoiler alert: part of the charm of Venice is just getting lost in its alleys and stumbling onto hidden gems. That’s exactly how I built…
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Things I Like About Moxy Hotels as a Solo Female Traveler
As a solo female traveler, I’ve stayed in more hotels than I can count—some I’ve loved, some I’ve forgotten, and a few I’d happily never see again. But after staying at Moxy Hotels in Dublin, Memphis, and Germany, I can confidently say they’re my favorite hotel chain for solo travel. Whether I’m traveling for work, exploring a new city, or just need a comfortable base, Moxy delivers exactly what I’m looking for: convenience, comfort, and a fun, social atmosphere. 1. Central Locations (Often With Airport Shuttle Options) Moxy Hotels are usually in prime, walkable locations, perfect for sightseeing without relying too much on taxis or public transport. Some even offer…
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A Spooky Stroll Through Orlando: The Ghost Tour That’ll Give You Chills (and History Lessons)
Think Orlando is just theme parks and mouse ears? Think again. This one-hour Orlando ghost tour takes you through downtown’s historic core, where the buildings are old, the stories are older, and some of the residents… well, they’ve been here for over a century. You’ll meet in front of the Orange County Regional History Center, then wind your way past landmarks that have seen everything from notorious murders to UFO sightings. And yes, we’re talking 100-year-old theaters, storied hotels, saloons, cathedrals, and more. My guide, Ben (above), was phenomenal and full of fascinating stories about Orlando’s spooky past. Note that the tour runs rain or shine and our tour was…
