The first time you decide to travel abroad alone is a big deal. Not only is there a lot to logistically coordinate, but on an emotional front, leaving the comfort of home for a completely unknown experience can be quite overwhelming. This past autumn, I decided to spend a month and a half in Italy and France. Here are 8 things that I learned from my solo trip abroad.

With travel becoming a normal part of life again, we’re seeing more and more women decide to adventure on their own. So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking for community and connection or are a novice hoping for insider tips to keep you safe, here are 10 of the most helpful communities (mostly in the form of Facebook Groups) for solo female travelers.