I don’t often get mail in Taiwan, so I was especially pleased to receive a white package in the mail a few weeks ago. Inside was a book called Wanderlust and Lipstick: The Essential Guide for Women Traveling Solo. It was sealed with an autograph and a lipstick kiss.
I admit it, I knew nothing about the book when it arrived. I was expecting a collection of travel tales about far-off places and personal cultural experiences, but once I delved into Whitman’s book, I realized what a gem this collection of useful travel information truly is. It is jam-packed with fun tips, ideas for creating your own dream journey, useful travel links, personal anecdotes and advice from more than 45 women travelers, and up-to-date guidance on the latest technology
Whitman’s breezy approach to travel writing is highly readable. She mixes sage advice with a fun, carefree attitude that is upbeat, entertaining, and encouraging. I also love the way the book is presented. It’s easy to read, well-organized, and nicely laid out.
Beth shares her travel advice by drawing on over twenty years of experience. The first three chapters deal with reasons why you should travel solo and how to go about achieving your dream journey. Idea generator and travel worksheets have been included to have you creating your own travel ideas and on your way to the trip of a lifetime. Whitman inspires her readers with personal reflections and encourages them to live their dreams. Moreover, she demonstrates that travel can be both safe and fun provided you are properly prepared for your trip.
The second part deals with the means and how of traveling. There is loads of great advice to be found among these pages, with everything from how to decide on a destination to booking trips. Whitman also includes innovative tips and lots of great websites. However, what really kept my interest where the travel tales that were used to illustrate each chapter. I also would have enjoyed seeing some of Beth’s photography as well, as this is a medium that usually fires me up for traveling.
In the end, I found Wanderlust and Lipstick to be thoughtful, well-written, comprehensive, and inspiring enough to get even the world’s greatest armchair traveler to get out there and start living life.
While you’re waiting to get your hands on a copy, why not spend some time on Beth’s popular travel web site? Wanderlust and Lipstick is a wildly popular web site for women traveling solo. The site has everything from tours and tales to galleries, blogs, and travel gear.
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I will have to fix the very little mail in Taiwan situation. I have a small package I am putting together for you.
This book looks interesting and I will have to pick up a copy of it.
Hi Mia,
I have a package for you as well, but I haven\\'t been able to get to the post office. Still moving slow! I owe you an email since a lot has happened since the last one. How is your foot, by the way?
It sounds like a great book, Carrie, and very useful. Maybe I should pick up a copy for my wife.
Ah, but with a professional traveler such as yourself, Stevo, there wouldn\\'t be any point. I\\'d give it to a friend or relative who is thinking about traveling, but hasn\\'t worked up the nerve to do so yet.
I have a friend who had some bad experiences traveling solo in Arab countries. Is there much information on that subject? Obviously I don't know from personal experience how bad it can be (being a guy and such) but I have heard stories how it can be difficult for women traveling alone in places like that. If there is I think it would be perfect for her.
Either way, great review. I'm interested enough to pick it up myself. That is if I wasn't so lazy … which I am.
Hi Graham,
Actually, this book doesn\\'t give information on destinations. It\\'s geared towards people who are thinking about traveling and want to put that plan into motion. This is a guidebook to read before you go on the journey.
That book looks right up my alley. Thanks for the tip!
Erin, thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Hmm, am currently collecting my courage to go to Paris by myself. I should check out this site, thanks!
Well, this is the book for you!
The web site is terrific, actually. If anyone can convince you to make the trip on your own, Beth can. Traveling solo is an empowering experience, Kim. I promise, you won’t regret it! Let me know what you decide to do.