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Ben Weinstein of New Jersey is a Lakewood-based business leader with experience in real estate and wholesale flooring distribution. Since 2016, he has served as principal at Bluerise Group, helping acquire and manage hundreds of residential apartment units across multiple states with a focus on operational efficiency. In the same year, he founded Lux Flooring, where he is president and CEO, supplying LVT, SPC, and laminate products to more than 1,200 retail clients and overseeing annual revenues exceeding $20 million. He leads Lux’s yearly exhibit at The International Surface Event in Las Vegas and holds a degree in Talmudic Law from Shaarei Torah of Rockland. Outside work, he enjoys traveling and documentary films. In the context of How to Stay Safe When Travelling Solo, his public interest in travel provides a neutral backdrop for discussing practical safety planning, transportation choices, and secure lodging decisions for solo travelers.
How to Stay Safe When Travelling Solo
Choosing to travel solo gives you the opportunity to experience the world at your own pace and make more spontaneous decisions. For many, solo travels have the potential to become empowering journeys of personal growth and independence. While the benefits of travelling solo are numerous, without the support or companionship of a travel buddy, you might have safety concerns. Adopting thoughtful strategies and proactive habits can help reduce safety risk as you concentrate on enjoying your adventure.
Adequately planning and researching is important in every travelling trip, especially solo trips. Before you set out for your destination, you should research the destination very well. Learn about their local culture, laws, and traditions. You should also take note of reliable transportation options, areas to avoid, and safe neighborhoods. Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers and learn to locate the nearest hospitals, embassy or consulate to where you are lodged. You can also read other travellers’ reviews and opinions on platforms like Reddit or TripAdvisor.
Upon doing your research, you should opt for reputable and safe accommodation. Ensure that he hotel, rental, or facility that you are lodging in is well reviewed and has evident safety measures. It is best to request a room on higher floors because they are less susceptible to break-ins.
You should always keep someone posted on your itinerary and stay connected with them. You should always keep a family or friend posted on details like your flight information, accommodation details, and broad details of your itinerary. You can also consider sharing your location on your phone so that trusted acquaintances can track you in the case of an emergency.
When you travel alone, blending in with the local environment helps keep you safe. Avoid standing out as a tourist by dressing in a way that respects local customs and culture. Leave flashy jewellery at home and only carry what you truly need for the day. Move with confidence, even if you are unsure of your surroundings, and resist the urge to constantly check maps or your phone on busy streets. Learning a few simple phrases in the local language not only shows respect but also makes you appear more prepared and less vulnerable.
Protecting your belongings should always be a priority since pickpocketing is one of the most common risks travelers face. Use a money belt or a hidden pouch to store your passport, cash, and cards securely. Carry only small amounts of money with you, relying on credit cards or digital wallets whenever possible. Keep some funds safely stored at your accommodation so you are never left without resources. When you handle money in public, do so discreetly, and stay especially alert in crowded places like markets, train stations, and public transport hubs.
Transportation choices also play a big role in your safety. Always use trusted taxi services or ride-hailing apps instead of accepting rides from unlicensed drivers. If you rely on public transportation, keep your bag close and avoid travelling late at night when the risk is higher. Renting a car or scooter can give you more freedom, but take the time to learn local traffic rules, ensure you have proper insurance, and avoid driving alone in remote areas after dark. By making thoughtful decisions about how you get around, you reduce unnecessary risks and travel with greater peace of mind.
About Ben Weinstein
Ben Weinstein is a Lakewood, New Jersey–based business owner and investor. As principal at Bluerise Group since 2016, he has overseen acquisitions, contract negotiations, and financing for hundreds of residential units across multiple states. He is also the founder, president, and CEO of Lux Flooring, serving more than 1,200 retail clients with resilient flooring products and managing revenues exceeding $20 million annually. He leads Lux’s annual exhibit at The International Surface Event in Las Vegas and enjoys traveling and documentary films.