Cheerio! Tracy Bailey, a mom and wife from Chattanooga, Tennessee  mixes up her travel style and takes a solo trip to London in this week’s Women Who Travel Solo.

How did you get started traveling?

I have always loved to travel. My parents took us on really neat trips when I was a kid and I think it inspired me to see as much of the world as I can. As I have gotten older, it has become a personal priority to see places that connect me to my heritage.

What inspired you to take a trip and solo travel in London?

I have wanted to go to London since I was a small child. Now that my own child is a little older, I felt like it was the right time to live out this dream. I am very interested in British history and culture as many of my ancestors came from England. Going alone was a personal way for me to connect with my heritage.

Tell us about your experience with solo travel in London.

My experience in London as a solo traveler was magical. I felt free to see the sites at my leisure. Although I enjoy traveling with my husband and daughter, this trip was special because it was all my own.

What recommendations do you have for solo travelers in London?

I stayed at The Hotel Russell in Russell Square. It was very convenient to the tube, safe and a GREAT location. I really enjoyed eating and drinking in the local pubs, especially the Friend at Hand. Westminster Abbey and The British Museum are musts… seriously so amazing! I loved my side trips to Hampton Court Palace and Stonehenge and Avebury.

What was the best part of your trip?

There were so many best parts! I think Avebury Stone Circle and Stonehenge were pretty spectacular. The first known ancestors in my father’s family came from that area. It was a real highlight! Hampton Court Palace was very special as well.

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What was the worst part of the trip?

The worst part was choosing some attractions over others due to time constraints. I wanted to see Windsor Castle but wanted to see Hampton Court Palace a little bit more, so I went there instead. I wish I could have seen both.

What advice do you have for women who are traveling alone?

Just follow all of the common sense advice. Know where you are going and how to get there. Have a backup plan in case circumstances change. Don’t let your guard down.

Do you have anything else to add to inspire women solo travelers?

It is cliché but life can be short and unpredictable. I don’t want to miss out. Going solo is terrific. It helps you get back to you!

About Tracy Bailey

Tracy loves travel, food and all types of adventures. She has a degree in Psychology and works as a Business Development Analyst in Chattanooga, Tennessee. In her past she has worked as a professional singer and performer, and currently blogs at Women’s Travel Journal. Tracy is married with one daughter.

About Women Who Travel Solo

Women Who Travel Solo is a weekly column that shares the stories of women’s solo travel adventures in hopes of spreading the message that traveling alone is not only safe, but wildly rewarding. Inspire other women to travel solo by sharing your story with Something In Her Ramblings. Email Lauren at [email protected].