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.
-
How To Get Global Entry: A Guide to Applying
What is Global Entry? Global Entry is a trusted traveler program issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows approved American citizens, permanent residents, and citizens from certain other countries to expedite the customs process when entering the United States. The program is designed to provide a faster and more efficient way for low-risk travelers to clear customs, reducing wait times and making international travel more convenient. By enrolling in Global Entry, you can breeze through customs and get on with your journey without the usual hassle. Benefits of Global Entry Wondering how to apply for Global Entry? Let’s be honest, air travel these days can be kind…
-
The Essential Sailing Trip Packing List
Whether you’re sailing the San Blas Islands as I did or sailing anywhere else in the world you’ll want to add these essential items to your sailing trip packing list! Affiliate links are included in this article. Any affiliate is a resource I use and recommend. If you click on a link and use their services or make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. 1. The first item on my sailing trip packing list is a crew! Now maybe you’re licensed to sail a catamaran but your trip will be far more relaxing if you let a crew man the galley (who wants to…
-
What I Spent In 5 Days at the Albuquerque New Mexico International Balloon Fiesta
Affiliate links are included in this article. Any affiliate is a resource I use and recommend. If you click on a link and use their services or make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. The Albuquerque New Mexico International Balloon Fiesta has been on my bucket list for probably 20 years and by a bit of dumb luck I ended up checking this one off the list during the AIBF’s 50th anniversary in 2022. The event takes place over nine days in October, featuring various exciting activities such as mass ascensions and specialty glow events. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t a cheap trip, but I’ve…
-
How to Protect Your Skin from the Sun While Traveling | The Best Travel Sunscreen
Protecting our skin from the sun is something we should all be doing daily, but when you add tropical travel into the mix sun protection becomes even more crucial. I’ve already had one fairly major surgery for skin cancer so you can bet I’m doing everything in my power to avoid another one! Here’s my definitive list of the best travel sunscreen products. Affiliate links are included in this article. Any affiliate is a resource I use and recommend. If you click on a link and use their services or make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Cover Up I used to cringe at…
-
Travel Books: Taste: My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci
I’ve always loved Stanley Tucci’s portrayal of Nigel in The Devil Wears Prada. Recently I was browsing the book aisle and his face jumped out at me. Kudos on the cover design, Gallery books! I knew very little about Tucci, so when I purchased Taste: My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci I had no real expectations. Throughout this memoir, Tucci shares stories about how food played a major influence on his childhood and continues to do so throughout his adult life. Growing up in the era where families gathered around the table for dinner every night and as part of an Italian family, meals played a large part in…
