I’m Rashmi — a solo traveller in my late 40s who has been travelling independently for over a decade, both within India and internationally.
I didn’t begin travelling alone to prove anything or to chase a particular idea of freedom. I started because I wanted to move at my own pace, make my own decisions, and experience places without constantly negotiating my time or preferences. Over the years, solo travel has become the most natural way for me to explore the world.
I usually travel on a budget, stay in Airbnbs, and rely almost entirely on public transport. Not because it is the cheapest option, but because buses, metros, and long walks reveal a place in ways taxis and guided tours rarely do. I enjoy understanding how a city works — how people move through it, where everyday life unfolds, and how familiar routines exist within unfamiliar surroundings.
Travelling solo in my 40s has taught me to trust myself more — my instincts, my decisions, and my ability to adapt. There is something deeply grounding about arriving in a new place alone, figuring things out as you go, getting lost occasionally, and finding your way back. Travel, for me, isn’t about covering more ground or ticking destinations off a list; it’s about slowing down and allowing a place to settle in gradually.
After more than ten years of independent travel, I’ve learned how to plan trips realistically, navigate unfamiliar cities using public transport, and travel comfortably without unnecessary expense. Everything shared on this blog comes from firsthand experience, not second-hand research.
GypsyShoes is where I document these journeys. You’ll find destination stories, practical insights on budget travel and public transport, and personal reflections from travelling alone as a woman in her 40s. This isn’t a guidebook or a highlight reel — it’s a collection of real experiences, including what worked, what didn’t, and what stayed with me long after the trip ended.
If you enjoy thoughtful travel, value independence, or are curious about solo journeys beyond the usual narratives, I hope you’ll find something here that resonates.
Why GypsyShoes
The name GypsyShoes comes from the idea of movement — not constant motion, but intentional walking. Shoes that carry stories. Shoes that remember streets, platforms, waiting rooms, and long days of exploration.
This blog isn’t about travelling endlessly or escaping everyday life. It’s about stepping into new places with awareness and curiosity, and returning home with perspectives that quietly stay with you.
A Small Note
All stories and recommendations shared here are based on my own travels and experiences. I write from what I’ve lived, observed, and learned along the way, sharing details that mattered to me while travelling — and might help someone else travel with a little more confidence