SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 2025 LONG LIVE THE KING! THE 44TH OLUBADAN OF
LAGOS MAKES HISTORY AS AFRICA’S FIRST HOST OF THE E1 ELECTRIC POWERBOAT RACE
was filled with pride and nostalgia. It was more than a royal transition; it was the coronation of a man whose life story mirrors the spirit of Ibadan itself resilient, patient, and deeply rooted in tradition. For the people of Ibadan, this was not just the rise of a new monarch but the celebration of a journey defined by wisdom, endurance, and service. Born on September 25, 1944, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja ascended the throne at the age of 81, carrying with him decades of political experience, business success, and community engagement.
7 Reasons Sheer Fabrics Are Here to Stay
7 Reasons Sheer Fabrics Are Here to Stay
There’s a quiet magic in doing things alone that no one quite prepares you for. At first, it feels odd—sitting at a table for one, wandering a city without the comfort of familiar voices, listening only to your own thoughts. Then, somewhere between the silence and the freedom, it clicks: solitude is not loneliness, it’s selfpossession.
That’s why our feature on How to Travel Solo as a Woman: 10 Fun (and Smart) Rules to Live By feels so refreshing. only just returned from a solo trip, and it reminded me how liberating it is to design your own days without compromise. There were cautious moments, of course—late-night rides, silent dinners—but there was also the exhilaration of being completely in charge of my own narrative. The article captures that balance beautifully: independence tempered with instinct, freedom made wiser by foresight. If you are a Lone Ranger, it’s definitely worth the read.
And then, there’s love. Nigerians may not always speak in roses and candlelight, but we do have our own fluent dialect of affection. It’s in the suya that appears unannounced after a long day, the quiet topping-up of your fuel tank, the errands taken on so you don’t have to. Another feature you should check out is Love Languages: How Nigerians Really Show Affection. It explores these tender, practical gestures that, if you pay attention, often mean more than grand declarations. So tell me, when was the last time you truly enjoyed your own company, and when was the last time you really noticed how someone was showing you love?
While you think about it, remember— whether it’s choosing to journey alone or recognising the small ways others care for you, both are reminders that life is richer when you pay attention.
Now tell me—are you in your solo era, or happily fluent in someone else’s love language?
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
LAGOS MAKES HISTORY AS AFRICA’S FIRST HOST OF THE E1 ELECTRIC POWERBOAT RACE
LAGOS MAKES HISTORY AS AFRICA’S FIRST HOST OF THE E1 ELECTRIC POWERBOAT RACE
Lagos has officially made history as the first African city to host the E1 Electric Powerboat Race, positioning itself alongside global destinations like Monaco, London, and Venice on the championship calendar.
The E1 Lagos Grand Prix, which took place at the Victoria Island Lagoon, was a clear statement of Lagos’ growing influence in innovation, sustainability, and tourism.
Team Brazil claimed the first position. Team Blue Rising, owned by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, finished second, while Team Drogba Global Africa — co-owned by Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba and Gabrielle Lemaire — came third.
E1 founder and CEO Rodi Basso called the Lagos round a defining moment for both Africa and the championship’s expansion. “The warm welcome in Lagos has been incredible. The passion of Nigerians made this historic E1 Lagos GP presented by FirstBank possible.
Our ambition is to build a motorsport legacy in Africa. This weekend’s race is just the beginning,” he said.
The E1 Series, sanctioned by the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM), is the world’s first all-electric powerboat championship. The 2025 season includes stops in Jeddah, Doha, Monaco, and Miami — with Lagos marking Africa’s first-ever appearance on the circuit.
DORIS
7 REASONS SHEER FABRICS ARE HERE TO STAY
Sheer fabrics are having a moment—again. What once started as delicate accents and subtle layering pieces has now blossomed into full-blown statements on both the runway and the red carpet. From whisper-thin gowns that float like clouds to bold mesh tops paired with denim, fashion’s fascination with transparency refuses to fade. But what exactly keeps sheer at the centre of style conversations decade after decade? The truth is, sheer has never really left. Here are seven reasons why the world can’t quit its ongoing love affair with fabrics that reveal as much as they conceal
1. A History Steeped in Seduction
Sheer has always been more than fabric—it’s been a language of allure. In ancient Asia, silk garments hinted at luxury and status. In 18thcentury Europe, muslin dresses whispered of femininity, while Victorian lace veils layered mystery with restraint. Each era reimagined transparency
in its own way, but the message was consistent: sheer is about suggesting, not shouting. Today’s designers, from Paris ateliers to Lagos studios, are simply reinventing a centuries-old romance between fabric and fantasy.
2. Runway Royalty
Every fashion season tells a new story, but sheer remains a recurring
chapter. Valentino sends out ethereal gowns with layers of tulle so fine they seem to float. Nigerian designers like Lisa Folawiyo and Banke Kuku have brought sheer into African luxury conversations, blending translucent panels with bold prints and rich colours.
3. Sheer for the Streets
A look isn’t truly iconic until it steps off the runway and onto the sidewalk. Sheer has transitioned effortlessly into everyday wardrobes, and not in the over-the-top way you might expect. Think organza blouses tucked
into high-waisted jeans, mesh turtlenecks peeking out under slip dresses, or sheer socks cheekily paired with loafers. These are wearable, playful interpretations that feel personal rather than performative. They show that transparency doesn’t have to scream for attention—it can be as subtle as a whisper layered into your daily style.
4. The Red Carpet’s Darling
If the streets whisper, the red carpet roars. Sheer is the ultimate headlinegrabber when cameras are flashing. Countless A-listers have embraced sheer as their go-to for
drama, allure, and virality. Sheer isn’t just fabric here—it’s strategy. It guarantees eyes, clicks, and conversation.
5. Transparency as Power
Yet sheer isn’t only about seduction—it’s also about strength. Fashion has always mirrored culture, and in a time where authenticity and honesty are prized, sheer feels like a physical expression of transparency. A sheer blouse beneath a sharply tailored blazer, or a diaphanous gown styled with heels, challenges outdated ideas of what “power dressing” looks like. There’s something
unapologetic about choosing vulnerability over armour, about saying, “I don’t need to hide.”
6. Endless Styling Possibilities
One reason sheer endures is its versatility. It can be as soft and romantic as a slip dress layered underneath, as daring as visible lingerie paired with heels, or as playful as mixing textures with denim or leather. Accessories transform sheer too—oversized blazers, statement belts, and bold jewellery instantly shift the vibe from delicate to commanding.
7. A Trend That Refuses to Fade
Some trends flicker briefly before burning out. Sheer, however, refuses to vanish. Every decade gives it a new interpretation— sometimes coquettish, sometimes rebellious, sometimes ethereal— but always relevant. In 2025, sheer feels less about provocation and more about playful experimentation. It’s about showing not just skin, but personality. It’s about bending the rules of modesty, rewriting the codes of power, and embracing the confidence that comes from being fully seen.
LOVE LANGUAGES: HOW NIGERIANS REALLY SHOW AFFECTION
Love in Nigeria has its own rhythm. It is not always candlelit dinners or dramatic gestures. Sometimes, it sounds like “Have you eaten?” or “Call me when you get home.” Affection here is practical, expressive, and rooted in daily life. Many people know the five love languages, words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch but Nigerians often give each one a local twist.
Words of Affirmation
Nigerians are not always quick to say “I love you.” Instead, they say it through humour and care. Compliments often come with jokes or teasing. You might hear, “You too fine, joor” or “You no go kill person with your wahala.” These phrases might sound playful, but they carry warmth and sincerity. It is love mixed with laughter, which makes it feel real.
Acts of Service
This is one of the most common ways Nigerians show affection. If someone sits in traffic for hours to see you, it means they care. Love is often shown through actions. Cooking your favourite meal, fixing something in your home, sending you food, or helping with a small task. These gestures say more than words. In a busy, often demanding environment, effort is love.
Receiving Gifts
Gift-giving is a big part of how Nigerians express affection. It can be thoughtful or extravagant, depending on the person. A man might surprise his partner with an expensive designer bag or a phone. A woman might buy her partner shoes or a watch. Sometimes it is a show of generosity, other times it is simply a way to say “I was thinking of you.” Even small things like a pack of chin chin or plantain chips can mean a lot.
Quality Time
Time is a precious thing in cities like Lagos, so when someone chooses to spend it with you, it says a lot. Between work, traffic, and side hustles, finding moments to connect can be hard. Nigerians make the most of what they can get. Sunday brunches, quiet evenings at home, long phone calls, or watching a movie together. It is not about expensive outings but about being present.
Physical Touch
Public affection is still a delicate topic in many places, but Nigerians find their own ways to show closeness. A hug, holding hands, or a gentle touch can say everything. It may not always be obvious, but physical touch carries comfort and reassurance.
The Nigerian Mix
Most people here express love in more than one way. A person might tease you, bring you food, and buy you something small all in one day. Nigerian love is layered, expressive, and grounded in action. It can be loud or quiet, simple or grand, but it always comes with heart. To love the Nigerian way is to care deeply and show it in ways that feel genuine. Whether it is through food, words, gifts, or presence, Nigerians have created their own language of affection one that speaks through everyday life.
RETRO FRAMES, TODAYS MODERN COOL
Sunglasses have always been more than just protection from the sun. They are statements, disguises, and sometimes instant confidence boosters. Lately, one style has been everywhere: retro sunglasses. From round frames to cat-eyes and tinted lenses, the throwback look has returned to everyday outfits, red carpets, and even Lagos street style.
A Pop of Colour
One reason retro sunglasses stand out today is their use of colour. Tinted lenses in yellow, pink, green, and blue are common. They bring life to plain outfits while still being easy to wear. A simple white outfit, for example, looks sharper with greentinted frames. Even those who prefer muted tones can join in, since many retro frames are available in understated colours.
Celebrity Influence
Pop culture has played a strong role in the revival. Beyoncé has been spotted in tinted vintage-style shades, while Rihanna often wears cat-eye frames and bold coloured lenses. Nigerian celebrities are also embracing the look. Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, and Tems have styled retro eyewear with everything from casual denim to elaborate stage outfits. When stars choose these frames, it often encourages fans to follow. TIWA SAVAGE, BURNA BOY & TEMS
A Nostalgic Comeback
Fashion often looks to the past for ideas, and sunglasses are no different. The current wave borrows from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s. Think John Lennon’s tiny circular lenses, Jackie O’s oversized shades, or the slim rectangular frames that defined late 90s style.
These shapes, once tucked away in old photos, now feel new again because they contrast with the oversized frames that dominated the last decade. kika osunde
Streetwear and Everyday Style
Retro sunglasses also fit neatly into streetwear culture. Slim frames with coloured lenses add edge to simple jeans and T-shirt looks. Oversized vintagestyle shades add drama to dresses or suits. They are flexible enough to move between casual and polished, which makes them appealing to many tastes.
Affordable and Accessible
Retro sunglasses are also popular
because they are within reach. Unlike luxury handbags or watches, they come in a wide range of prices. Local fashion markets in Lagos sell them alongside trendy outfits, while designer brands such as Gucci and Prada release polished versions. This makes it possible for almost anyone to take part in the trend. GUCCI RETRO FRAMES
More Than a Passing Look?
The question is whether retro sunglasses are only a passing fad or if they will last. Since they have resurfaced every few decades, it is clear they never completely disappear. They return in new shapes and colours as each generation makes them its own. For now, they remain an easy way to add style and personality to any look.
OBA RASHIDI ADEWOLU LADOJA:
A MONARCH FOR THE PEOPLE AND THE LEGACY OF IBADAN’S THRONE
When High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja was crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, the atmosphere in the ancient city was filled with pride and nostalgia. It was more than a royal transition; it was the coronation of a man whose life story mirrors the spirit of Ibadan itself resilient, patient, and deeply rooted in tradition. For the people of Ibadan, this was not just the rise of a new monarch but the celebration of a journey defined by wisdom, endurance, and service.
Born on September 25, 1944, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja ascended the throne at the age of 81, carrying with him decades of political experience, business success, and community engagement.
HIS LIFE
His life reflects a balance between modern achievement and traditional honour, making him a fitting custodian of one of Nigeria’s oldest and most respected thrones. From the corridors of political power to the quiet rituals of Ibadan’s royal heritage, Oba Ladoja has always stood for leadership that values both people and principle.
A highly educated man, Ladoja studied Chemical Engineering at the University of Liège in Belgium from 1966 to 1972. His years abroad exposed him to modern governance, discipline, and civic responsibility qualities that shaped his later approach to politics and leadership. He returned to Nigeria fluent in several languages, including French, and with a broadened worldview that made him a forward-thinking public servant. Before entering politics, Oba Ladoja made a name for himself in the private sector. He worked with Total Nigeria, where his professionalism and intellect earned him respect, before venturing into business. His enterprises spanned oil, gas, and shipping industries where he demonstrated strategy, foresight, and an ability to manage people and resources effectively. Those who worked with him during this period describe him as a man of modest lifestyle but exceptional focus, driven not by personal gain but by a genuine desire to create value and lead responsibly.
In 2003, Rashidi Ladoja was elected Governor of Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party. His administration brought visible development, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Yet his time in office was not without turbulence. Political rivalries culminated in his impeachment in 2006, a move later reversed by the courts, reinstating him as governor. Throughout that ordeal, Ladoja maintained his composure and dignity, earning admiration for his resilience and commitment to justice. Even after leaving public office, he remained an influential figure in Nigerian politics. His opinions on governance and civic responsibility are widely respected, often described as the voice of reason during heated political moments. For many, his calm, measured leadership style sets him apart from the theatrics that often define Nigerian politics. He represents an older,
steadier breed of politician one rooted in service rather than selfinterest.
PATH TO THE THRONE
Ladoja’s path to the Olubadan throne was one of patience and perseverance. The Ibadan chieftaincy system is unique in Yorubaland for its meritocratic and transparent progression. Every titleholder climbs the ladder one rank at a time, with no shortcuts or favouritism. The system ensures that by the time one becomes Olubadan, they have spent decades serving the community and understanding the customs that govern it. Oba Ladoja began his journey as Jagun Olubadan, then rose through the ranks as Osi Olubadan and Otun Olubadan before attaining the highest position in 2025. His rise was steady and disciplined, reflecting both his humility and dedication to Ibadan’s traditional institution. This gradual process not only prepared him for the throne but also strengthened his bond with the people he would one day lead.
THE IBADAN MONARCHY
To understand the weight of Oba Ladoja’s new role is to understand the historical depth of the Ibadan monarchy. The Olubadan stool dates back to the 19th century when Ibadan evolved from a war camp into one of the most powerful Yoruba city-states. Its leadership structure was designed to reflect equality and service rather than hereditary privilege. Unlike other Yoruba kingdoms, Ibadan’s throne is not inherited; it is earned through years of commitment to the city’s governance and traditions.
The Olubadan sits atop two chieftaincy lines the civil line (Otun) and the military line (Balogun). Both lines progress alternately to the throne, ensuring a balance of leadership experience and community representation. This system, admired for its orderliness, has produced respected monarchs such as Oba Isaac Akinyele, Oba Gbadamosi Adebimpe, Oba Emmanuel Adeyemo Operinde, and Oba Saliu Adetunji, among others. Each ruler has left a unique imprint on the city’s evolution.
Over the centuries, the institution has adapted without losing its soul. Despite modern pressures and political interference, the Olubadan remains a symbol of unity and moral authority. It is not only a traditional position but also a custodian of Ibadan’s identity, customs, and resilience. Perhaps one of Oba Ladoja’s most defining moments before his coronation came in 2017 during a controversial chieftaincy reform led by then-Governor Abiola Ajimobi. The reform sought to elevate several Ibadan high chiefs to the rank of “kings,” a move that many believed undermined the city’s long-standing hierarchical order. Ladoja opposed the reform, arguing that it would distort the delicate balance of the Ibadan traditional system. He challenged the decision in court and won, reaffirming his reputation as a principled leader and protector of heritage. That victory cemented his place not only as a political leader but as a guardian of Ibadan’s legacy. His insistence on preserving the integrity of the traditional structure showed his deep respect for culture and continuity. It also demonstrated the unique blend of modern intellect and cultural wisdom that he embodies a man who understands both law and lineage. Today, as the 44th Olubadan, Oba Ladoja reigns with humility and inclusivity. He is often described as a monarch who listens more than he speaks, who
values dialogue, and who prefers quiet influence to public display. His leadership style reflects the ethos of Ibadan — pragmatic, strong, and people-centred.
His coronation, following the passing of Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin in this year was attended by traditional rulers, political figures, and citizens from all walks of life. It was both a celebration of history and a promise of stability for the future. The people see in him a bridge between the old and the new, a man capable of guiding Ibadan through the complexities of modern governance while upholding the dignity of its past. Under his reign, expectations are high for renewed unity and development in Ibadanland. There is hope that his experience in governance and business will bring practical benefits to the community from youth empowerment to cultural preservation. His ability to merge tradition with progress makes him a monarch uniquely suited for this era.
THE VALUES
The story of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is, in many ways, the story of Ibadan itself. Both have faced trials, adapted to change, and remained rooted in their values. Ibadan’s history is filled with tales of warriors, scholars, and statesmen people who built greatness through courage and cooperation. Ladoja’s life continues that legacy, reminding his people that true power lies in patience, integrity, and service. His reign marks not just a continuation of Ibadan’s royal lineage but also a reawakening of its civic and cultural pride. As a monarch shaped by education, experience, and empathy, Oba Ladoja stands as a symbol of what leadership should be — principled, people-oriented, and deeply grounded in the wisdom of history. Through him, the throne of Ibadan continues to represent not only tradition but timeless relevance, a heritage that grows stronger with every generation that honours it.
THE ART OF DRESSING NIGERIAN: FROM YORUBA SWAG TO NORTHERN ELEGANCE
To dress Nigerian is to tell a story without saying a word. It is confidence wrapped in fabric, culture stitched into every seam, and attitude defined by how you wear what you wear. Across regions, dressing isn’t just about covering the body; it is about expressing identity, heritage, and pride.
Igbo Glam: Pride in Detail
The Igbo dress sense is rooted in celebration. Whether it’s the isiagu shirt paired with red coral beads or the rich George wrappers worn by women, there is always a touch of regality. For the Igbo woman, fashion is about commanding attention with grace. Her head tie sits tall, her jewellery bold, her wrapper folded neatly to perfection. The Igbo man, too, carries a quiet pride his walking stick, cap, and embroidery often tell of status and taste. It’s style that speaks loudly without being loud.
Yoruba Swag: Effortless Style with Depth
The Yoruba approach to fashion is bold yet graceful. Think agbadas that flow like poetry, gele tied high like crowns, and adire dyed in shades that tell history. The Yoruba man often steps out as if every day is a special occasion starched buba and sokoto, agbada draped just right, and a fila tilted at the perfect angle. For Yoruba women, fashion is about presence. From intricate aso-oke fabrics to lace that glitters in the sun, the goal is to arrive and be remembered. Elegance, for the Yoruba, is never an accident; it is intentional, expressive, and deeply cultural.
South-South and Middle Belt Flair: Tradition Meets Edge
From the Niger Delta to the Middle Belt, fashion carries its own rhythm. Men in the South-South often wear long shirts over trousers, complete with bowler hats and canes a colonial influence redefined through a local lens. Women mix coral beads with modern fabrics, blending heritage with trend. In the Middle Belt, traditional attire often features bold prints, handwoven textiles, and beaded accessories that speak of community and pride. These styles remind us that fashion in Nigeria is not one language but many dialects of beauty.
Northern Elegance: Grace in Simplicity
In the North, dressing is refined, modest, and regal. Flowing babanriga robes, crisp kaftans, and turbans create a look of ease and power. There’s a quiet sophistication in Northern fashion, the kind that comes from generations of craftsmanship and cultural pride. The women, wrapped in vibrant veils or shimmering lace, embody grace. The use of perfume oils, gold accessories, and intricate henna designs completes the look. It’s beauty that feels effortless and dignified.
Modern Mix: Tradition in Motion
Today’s Nigerian fashion scene thrives on this mix of old and new. Designers blend aso-oke with silk, reimagine adire on streetwear, and turn traditional silhouettes into red-carpet pieces. At weddings and festivals, you’ll see it all—agbadas next to tuxedos, gele beside berets, Ankara prints paired with sneakers. The art of dressing Nigerian is not about choosing between tradition and modernity; it’s about finding your rhythm between both.
ROBERT BAKARE
TIMOTHY OULTON, THE ART OF LIVING, REIMAGINED
store feels more like visiting a gallery than a showroom. Each corner invites you to imagine how the furniture fits into real living spaces.
The textures, tones, and finishes speak of craftsmanship rather than commerce. It is not about luxury in the usual sense; it is about authenticity and presence.
In Lagos, where design often meets bold expression, Timothy Oulton offers something unique and more deliberate. The pieces are made to last, built from materials that age
beautifully and gain character over time. They remind us that good design should not just decorate life but be part of it.
The Timothy Oulton store in Victoria Island stands as a reflection of this philosophy. Its presence is not about making noise but about setting a standard that values craftsmanship, honesty, substance and best on planet customer experience. Timothy Oulton furniture does not chase trends; it honours time, material, and the art of truly living well.
There is a quiet poetry to furniture that feels alive, pieces that tell stories through their textures, shapes, and scars.
That is what sets Timothy Oulton apart. The British furniture brand has found a home in the heart of Lagos in Victoria Island, on Iman
Abibu Adetoro Street, and though it is not new to Nigeria’s design scene, stepping into the store still feels like entering a space where craftsmanship is sacred and every detail is deliberate.
Oulton’s philosophy is built on respect for tradition and an appreciation of time. The brand’s work celebrates the handmade, the imperfect, and the enduring. Every Timothy Oulton piece begins with a craftsman, not a machine. You see it in the creases of the leather, the careful hammering of rivets, the uneven edge of reclaimed wood.
The beauty lies in the human touch.
The Pudgie Sofa Seater, for
instance, is not only made to look comfortable but is an invitation to sink in and stay awhile. Wrapped in hand-aged leather that softens and deepens with time, it captures that lived-in warmth that makes a space feel instantly familiar.
The Saddle Armchair, with its equestrian-inspired design, sits at the intersection of elegance and grit. Its curves echo the shape of a saddle, but its presence fills a room with quiet confidence rather than opulence.
The Aviator Tomcat Chair reflects mid-century engineering and aviation design. Its curved, riveted aluminium frame and distressed leather seat bring to mind old fighter planes, yet it feels completely modern. It is a piece that blends nostalgia with strength, proof that Timothy Oulton furniture is as much about story as it is about comfort.
At the centre of the showroom, the Junk Art Propeller Coffee Table commands attention. Made from
reclaimed fishing boat materials, each table has its own quirks, no two are ever the same. Its weathered metal base and polished glass top represent the brand’s love for contrast: strength and elegance, history and renewal.
Beyond these statement pieces, the store reveals the depth of Oulton’s craft. The brand designs bars, lights, mirrors, dining tables and chairs, ottomans, and accessories, all made with the same level of care and character. The crystal lights and chandeliers glimmer softly, creating warmth rather than excess. They transform spaces with light that feels lived-in and natural.
The bookcases are equally distinctive. Instead of straight lines and perfect symmetry, they embrace irregularity with shelves that tilt or weave in unexpected ways. They turn practicality into art, showing that design can have personality and still serve purpose.
Walking through the Victoria Island
HOW TO TRAVEL SOLO AS A WOMAN: 10 FUN (AND SMART) RULES TO LIVE BY
There’s something deliciously daring about hopping on a plane alone. No negotiating with friends about where to eat, no waiting for that one cousin who’s always late, no compromise on your itinerary. Just you, your passport, and the world. Traveling solo as a woman isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about discovering a version of yourself that’s braver, sharper, and freer than you ever imagined. It’s a love letter to independence, with a dash of adventure and a whole lot of self-confidence. Here are ten fun, confidence-boosting ways to make it safe, stylish, and unforgettable.
1. Pick Your Playground Wisely
Not all destinations are created equal for solo explorers. Start with places known for their friendliness and accessibility— Lisbon for its charm, Bali for its balance of culture and wellness, Tokyo for its order and safety, Cape Town for its mix of city and coast, or Zanzibar for its laid-back island magic. These are destinations that welcome you with open arms, and that’s the kind of energy you want when you’re travelling solo for the first time.
2. Daylight is Your Best Friend
Arriving in daylight instantly takes the edge off. Streets look inviting, neighbourhoods are easier to navigate, and you’ll have more options for getting to your accommodation safely. Avoid that suitcase-dragging, map-scrolling panic that hits when you land in a new place at midnight. Sunshine is a solo traveller’s invisible bodyguard—it just makes everything feel safer and smoother.
3. Book Smart, Not Just Cute
The cosy cabin in the woods or that moody, artsy Airbnb on the outskirts might look irresistible on Instagram, but when you’re on your own, practicality wins. Stay central, close to restaurants, public transport, and people. Wellreviewed hostels, boutique hotels, or stylish city apartments mean you’re never too far from the action—or from help if you need it. The right location can be the difference between feeling isolated and feeling plugged into the city.
4. Walk Like You Own the Street
Even if you’re hopelessly lost, channel your inner movie heroine and strut like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. Confidence is your armour. Once you’re out of sight, duck into a café, order a coffee, and figure things out. People who prey on tourists look for uncertainty—hesitation, nervous glances, fumbling. When you project calm and purpose, you look untouchable.
5. Learn the Local Magic Words
A smile and a “thank you” in the local language can work wonders. Learn a few basics—hello, please, how much, where is—and you’ll notice the shift. People appreciate the effort, and suddenly you’re not just another visitor; you’re someone who cares enough to connect. Apps can help, but even scribbling a few phrases in your notes can save you in a pinch and make interactions feel warmer.
