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Safe for two women to travel?

tyty333

tyty333

Super_Ideal_Rock
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Joined
Dec 17, 2008
Messages
28,300
Hi All,

I would appreciate any feedback/opinions on this subject that you might have...

I want to take my 18 year-old DD to Bryce Canyon, Zion, and the Grand Canyon. It would just be the two of us. We would be based out of Las Vegas (not on the strip).
I was basically thinking about taking a bus tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon so I wouldn't have to do that drive. I think Bryce Canyon and Zion are close
enough to Las Vegas and driving wouldn't be a problem (so we'd be on our own...well, us and the crowds).

Would you consider this a safe trip for two women (one being a very young 18 yo)? We'd be flying in and out of Las Vegas if that wasn't clear. I'm just curious about
what other people think.

Appreciate any feedback/opinions!
 
Difficult to advise as everyone's perception of risk is different.

I have planned a solo trip to Arizona next year, to split between 2 cities, with plans to go out and about on group excursions, including a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon etc...

In 2016, I was in LA, and stayed on my own for a few nights in downtown LA and went out and about, including a private tour with a guide around LA at night.

My advice would be to research and select reputable tour operators for your excursions.

Plan, plan and plan, as planning identifies potential risks in advance, to allow for risk minimisation measures to be put in place.

Personally, if there are 2 of you, and you are joining groups organised by reputable tour operators, then you should be fine.

Please bear in mind that I was sent to UK to study when I was 14 and stayed, and grew up being very independent in mind and spirit. I am used to going out and about on my own, including travelling to foreign countries (a solo trip to Japan in 2025 has already been itinerary-planned and budgeted).

Have fun and enjoy your trip!

DK :))
 
As a woman who solo travels often, I'd say absolutely! I've been to vegas many times, and while I havent been to bryce/zion/GC solo I'd still say they are exceedingly safe. Take normal precautions and whatnot, but I wouldn't think anything of it. Are you planning on hiking or anything?

I had a rental car when I went to the GC as I'm not partial to bus/group tours, but I know not everyone loves driving. The closest part of GC is only 2-2.5h from Vegas, but if you want to see the other parts it is closer to 5 hours I think. You do also have to buy your own pass, so could be another benefit of the tour.
 
The question is broken.
There's no such thing as safe and not safe.

Besides, women vary, as do individuals in all groups.
Some will keep themselves safer than others will.

Is it safe for two men to travel?
Sometimes not.

Next there is media itself.
It only reports on bad things because that's how to get eyeballs, which advertisers pay media for.
This money making the business model, truth makes much less money.
A zillion women may do X with no problem, but one has a problem when doing X and that's all that gets reported.

Turn off your social media.
Think critically for yourself.

@monarch64 was that titillating enough?
 
If you’re hiking, just make sure you’ve got a satellite device for emergencies, you don’t want to be relying on cell service. We like Zoleo:

ZOLEO® Seamless Connectivity Beyond Cell Coverage

Stay connected with ZOLEO® satellite communicator. Global messaging, SOS alerts, and weather forecasts for outdoor enthusiasts and remote workers.
www.zoleo.com

(Might be something the new Apple watch can do too. I think I remember something about satellite comms in the opener.)
 
If you are going on a tour, no problem!
 
Personally, I wouldn't hesitate. But you just have to stay alert of your surroundings and be cautious in your decision-making (all while enjoying yourselves, of course). How safe this trip can be depends on how you plan on spending it (i.e. one person staying in a well-reviewed resort in a good part of town vs. another electing to save a few nickels by staying in an economy motel in the dodgy outskirts). My last bit of advice is about guided tours. Participate only in those provided by recommended and experienced guides, and in a group. In other words, no "private" backpacking tours into the canyons with "Joe," who you met outside the local diner and promised you an "authentic" Grand Canyon experience. I know you don't need to be told this... but it's surprising how many do (out of naivety, not stupidity). So, in my opinion, if you're going to do this trip, do it right... and have fun!!
 
Yes. We did it several times -- all those destinations -- with little kids and elderly parents. You do not say what you will be doing but I assume that you will be touring the parks and staying pretty much "on the grid." My kids do four-season backcountry stuff in all the Mountain West parks. I would not want them to do remote (BLM) camping without a pistol but they do. One daughter does this alone and it makes me nervous. But two adult women on the regular tourist routes should encounter zero problem. Plus, there are just so many people at all the places you mention. Vegas is like Orlando, apart from all the trampled topless fliers underfoot.
 
I have been to these places, and they all breathtaking. I don't think you have anything to worry about. There will be lots of other tourists, and you will see people from all over the world.
Just take normal precautions when traveling, like be aware of your surroundings, park in brightly lit areas, and don't wear your "good" jewelry.
The Grand Canyon will knock your socks off!
 
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Yes!!! Totally! I’ve done it several times!! The Bryce and Zion trip are easy drives and super gorgeous scenery—very tranquil. If you are at all concerned about safety, maybe travel at at sunrise and before sundown.
 
you know just look in your home town newspapaer
no where is safe
staying home isnt safe
crossing the road isnt safe
but you gotta live out those dreams

i just watched a walk in the woods
and if i was 20 years younger ......

you are two together
a mum and daughter arnt going to ditch each other while one is out drinking at a bar
im sure it will be a wonderful trip
have a great time together
 
A few years back my husband and I stayed in Vegas and went to the Grand Canyon. I think I had researched and booked a bus trip to the GC before we left home. I felt better about picking and choosing through what was available rather than waiting to see what they had when we arrived. We were picked up and dropped off at the hotel so it was simple and easy.
We stayed at the MGM Grand so were in a good part of town. There are some places in Vegas that I wouldn't want to stay even as a male/female couple.
My biggest complaint was the taxi system; we had to taxi everywhere and it was very clear that many of them would take you the long way around to earn extra $$. Sometimes we got lucky to cab share with folks outside of the hotel going in the same direction.
 
Lots of really sound advice on here. Like @dk168 I am fiercely independent, so I have travelled the world over the years either alone or with my bestie, so two females alone for weeks on end in places such as the Aussie Outback etc. I also upped & moved to New Zeland from the UK alone when I was 27. My mother was horrified, but it was the best thing I ever did.

Our perceptions of what is 'safe' are always going to be different due to how experienced we are at travel, how confident we are, how good with think we maybe at self defence - there's a whole raft of things to consider.

But I would definitely make this trip - it sounds amazing! My husband & I went to Vegas 16 years ago & had a ball. Just thoroughly plan & keep yourself in organised groups, trips etc. And enjoy!
 
Thanks everyone...I posted this and then my son needed help with a project so got pulled away.

@dk168 Unfortunately, I have a short timeline for this trip so its difficult to plan, plan, plan. Makes me wonder if I should postpone
until I have more time. A helicopter flight over the GC sounds wonderful! My daughter would love that! Plus, you have left yourself
plenty of time for planning. My DD is a senior in HS so we are limited on the times we can go. I could (and just might) schedule for
spring break. Prices are really good to go right now though and I'm a sucker for a good airfare! Have a great time on your trip next
year!

Thanks for you comments @telephone89 ...I'm not one for bus tours either but I'm also not one to want to drive for 4+ hours one
way. Highway driving makes me nervous and wears me out :-(. I don't trust my DD's driving to be able to help either. Unfortunately,
just not enough HW driving for her yet. That's why I'm thinking, in this case, a bus tour works best for us. Not my first choice
though!

@kenny Thanks for the reminder that only the bad gets reported...its true. I'll take the 1 in a million odds.

@yssie Unfortunately, I'm android. I also dont plan on getting off the beaten path. I'm hoping it's busy enough that
I'm always in view of groups of people (usually the opposite of what I'm wanting). Things dont always go as planned
though and people do get lost not far off a path/trail and well, end up not surviving. We don't do long hikes in general
so I hope this wont be an issue.


@AprilBaby was thinking tour for Grand Canyon but on our own for Bryce and Zion. They do have tours to Bryce and Zion
also so that's something to consider!

@Daisys and Diamonds I kind of feel the way you do. I could get hit by a dump truck leaving my neighborhood. Even
if you are always on guard, accidents happen. Do I stay home and not enjoy life because its just not safe out there?
Doesnt sound like a very fun way to live!

@MissGotRocks I was hoping to stay in a suburban-type hotel off the strip. It would have to be in a safe area
though and I haven't looked yet to see what's available. I've been to Vegas before and dont really want the
Vegas experience. I just want to use it as a hub to do site seeing. The taxi thing would drive me nuts! I hate feeling
like I'm getting ripped off! I was planning on having a car to get around for at least part of the trip if not all of it.

I'm impressed with how independent and adventurous some of you guys are (@Ally T and @dk168 ). I think traveling
(without parents) while you're young really helps give you confidence for major adventures. I never really had
that. We did a lot of camping and hiking as a family but never on my own as a young adult. I wonder if that is more
a European thing (or just not so much a U.S. thing). I'm actually getting kickback from my Dad. He worries about two
women in a place they are not familiar with (I have a healthy concern myself). Wouldnt be concerned if my DH were
going though! (old school, but I get it) My Dad would actually want to go if he didn't have health issues (multiple
myeloma) Wish he could go! He's not getting any younger :( .

Thanks again everyone!
 
I have to do things on my own, otherwise I shan't be doing anything at all!

Good to be single as I don't have to plan with other people in mind, and pet care is far easier to arrange!

I am sure you'll be fine!

DK :))
 
Ally T said:
Lots of really sound advice on here. Like @dk168 I am fiercely independent, so I have travelled the world over the years either alone or with my bestie, so two females alone for weeks on end in places such as the Aussie Outback etc. I also upped & moved to New Zeland from the UK alone when I was 27. My mother was horrified, but it was the best thing I ever did.

Our perceptions of what is 'safe' are always going to be different due to how experienced we are at travel, how confident we are, how good with think we maybe at self defence - there's a whole raft of things to consider.

But I would definitely make this trip - it sounds amazing! My husband & I went to Vegas 16 years ago & had a ball. Just thoroughly plan & keep yourself in organised groups, trips etc. And enjoy!
Click to expand...

I don't tell my parents about my trips, to avoid worrying them, and more importantly being nagged into not going!

My mum had herself to blame about that as she tricked me to go back to HK during my gap year by telling me my dad was unwell. I was happily volunteering at the time in London for a youth organisation that I got to know via my school.

Needless to say, I did not listen or pay much attention to what she had to say after that.

DK :lol-2:
 
@tyty333 I've never hesitated to travel alone, or with a female friend, but I understand your comfort level may vary. I would urge you not to just take a bus tour of the GC, because you won't truly be able to enjoy the best of it. My husband and I were there early May of this year, and spent 2 full days, and that was only juuust enough time to start to get a feel for the park. We stayed overnight in the park at the Yavapai Lodge, and the accommodations were excellent. There are tons of places to stop along the way from Bryce & Zion to the GC, so you could break up the driving into more manageable chunks. Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend are all incredible options along the way.

ETA, we hiked Bright Angel Trail down to 1.5 Mile Resthouse, and South Kaibab trail down to Ooh Aah Point. Both were great, but exhausting. Make sure to wear good shoes, a really good sun hat, plenty of sunscreen, and take plenty of water.
 
dk168 said:
I don't tell my parents about my trips, to avoid worrying them, and more importantly being nagged into not going!

My mum had herself to blame about that as she tricked me to go back to HK during my gap year by telling me my dad was unwell. I was happily volunteering at the time in London for a youth organisation that I got to know via my school.

Needless to say, I did not listen or pay much attention to what she had to say after that.

DK :lol-2:
Click to expand...

Well, I kind of wish I didnt have to tell them either...but they were thinking about coming to my house during the time I would
be gone so I had to come clean.

You definitely have a good excuse not to tell your Mum!:lol-2:
 
@tyty333, This sounds like it will be a wonderful trip for both you and your daughter. From what you have written it sounds like you are very safety conscience. You are going to have a wonderful trip. If a portion of trip is making you nervous, ask lots of questions. You could also contact the local police in the area you are concerned about. They can also tell you which areas and roads are safest.

@LilAlex, What you wrote about your daughter scared the daylights out of me.
 
Watch your drinks and if left unattended toss it.
Even closed but not sealed water and pop bottles.
Stay around groups.
Pay attention and dont be shy about saying ..nope outa here.
You will be fine.
 
Karl_K said:
Watch your drinks and if left unattended toss it.
Even closed but not sealed water and pop bottles.
Stay around groups.
Pay attention and dont be shy about saying ..nope outa here.
You will be fine.
Click to expand...

This reminded me of being at a nightclub with friends in Aruba (Carlos & Charlies - the same one where Natalee Holloway was last seen). Some guys were watching us dance for a while. Eventually, one walked up to me with, presumably, a rum and coke. He then walked back to where he was standing and continued to watch. He never smiled or said a word. Not only was his behavior glaring, but the drink had obvious white powder still lingering on top. I was pretty certain it was GHB, because it is (or was) prevalent on the island. I put the glass on the bar and said let's get out of here. We stopped going to Aruba because not once did we ever see a law enforcement presence. It is (or was) the wild west down there with a tempestuous convergence of South Americans, Dutch expats, and American tourists. Anyway... sorry, slightly O/T.
 
Yes!!!
I did the trip by myself in 2019. You have to plan it well, but I never once felt unsafe (well, brief 10 minute thing but that was a truly stupid thing I knew not to do... I got in a car with a couple I had only met the night before at a concert. Turned out fine and I have a new friend, but bad idea to risk.).

Anyway...
I stayed in a stand alone hotel. No casino. Hotel guests only with a 24x7 valet and lobby. Only guests allowed up in elevators.

Grand Canyon, oh my :kiss2: :kiss2: :kiss2:
I did a deluxe air tour. A shuttle picked me up at my hotel (24x7 valet with lit pick up area awesome here) early in the morning. Got on a small airplane just outside of Las Vegas (Henderson?) and flew to an airport near the rim. Beautiful sunrise on the way there and spectacular seeing Hoover Dam and other cool stuff on the way. My tour package the had me get on a helicopter - I upgraded to front seat - and get a flight down through the canyon. (Some tours land if you want on the floor.) After that, onto a bus to see the other rims and ground stuff before being returned to the small plane and delivered back to my hotel. Absolutely worth it!

Wish I had time to see Emerald Cove while I was there! Kayaking trip looked awesome!

The whole purpose of the trip was George Strait in concert. Everything else was just extra amazing.
 
Karl_K said:
Watch your drinks and if left unattended toss it.
Even closed but not sealed water and pop bottles.
Stay around groups.
Pay attention and dont be shy about saying ..nope outa here.
You will be fine.
Click to expand...

Good advice anywhere! Even in your home town.
 
I should add that when I say plan it well, I don't mean go super detailed. Just good sense. Some of the hotel/casino places had people everywhere with no real hint of an area for guests only. Lots of party type people just having fun. I'm sure most were fine, but I preferred a place where not just anyone could walk through. Some of the people picked up for the tour of GC were standing out alone in poorly lit parking garages with no one around. The hotel I selected had that 24x7 valet with well lit area and a comfort lobby I could wait in.

Same for being out. If you were two women drinking all night, I would be more worried. Two women aware of their surroundings make a less tempting target.
 
lala646 said:
@tyty333 I've never hesitated to travel alone, or with a female friend, but I understand your comfort level may vary. I would urge you not to just take a bus tour of the GC, because you won't truly be able to enjoy the best of it. My husband and I were there early May of this year, and spent 2 full days, and that was only juuust enough time to start to get a feel for the park. We stayed overnight in the park at the Yavapai Lodge, and the accommodations were excellent. There are tons of places to stop along the way from Bryce & Zion to the GC, so you could break up the driving into more manageable chunks. Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend are all incredible options along the way.

ETA, we hiked Bright Angel Trail down to 1.5 Mile Resthouse, and South Kaibab trail down to Ooh Aah Point. Both were great, but exhausting. Make sure to wear good shoes, a really good sun hat, plenty of sunscreen, and take plenty of water.
Click to expand...
This is how I would like to do the trip (hit more places, do more hikes), and if I wait until spring break I may be able to talk my spouse
into going which would take some of the pressure off. On the other hand, lots could change between now and spring break. Prices
will definitely go up. DH may still not want to go...etc.:roll2:

@Karl_K There wouldn't be any drinking except maybe a glass of wine or a beer at dinner...but I get your drift. Drugs could be
put in any kind of drink.

@TooPatient that sounds like a dream trip! I would love to do a plane and helicopter into the GC but also be able to do some
short easy hikes on well-traveled paths (with lots of other hikers). I haven't really found time to look at hotel details but would
like to stay in something similar to what you did. Safe and preferably not on the strip.
 
I went last month, not alone, with my husband. We went to grand canyon and Sedona. We didnt plan well but we both loved it. We did 2 days with 3 canyon hikes and then 4 more days in sedona at different hiking spots.

At the canyon there were soooo many more children (like 8-12) than i would have expected, and grand parents too. I am very fit, i bike and jog daily, and weight train, and i was struggling to get back up LOL Probably had to do with it being 110 degrees but still, it was tougher than i thought coming back up! I kept thinking "I thought i was in shape??!!" It was very well attended at the canyon, I would not have been afraid even if alone, I would almost say crowded. Sedona was more remote hikes, i dont know id want to be completely alone with no protection of some sort, but I do a lot of solo hiking and biking so i generally have some sort of protection whatever legally allowed for the area. Again, if i was totally alone in Sedona maybe I'd want something because i would do that at home when alone, but not needed for the canyon.

It was absolutely breathtaking, no picture can ever compare. I am SO GLAD we went, and i cant wait to go back. Its something you have to see in person, truly awe inspiring. I have so many amazing pictures and yet, they cannot even come close to capturing the depth and breadth of it. I was looking at my pics to post here and i am like "dont bother..." LOL, you have to see it. Have so much fun!
 
tyty333 said:
This is how I would like to do the trip (hit more places, do more hikes), and if I wait until spring break I may be able to talk my spouse
into going which would take some of the pressure off. On the other hand, lots could change between now and spring break. Prices
will definitely go up. DH may still not want to go...etc.:roll2:

@Karl_K There wouldn't be any drinking except maybe a glass of wine or a beer at dinner...but I get your drift. Drugs could be
put in any kind of drink.

@TooPatient that sounds like a dream trip! I would love to do a plane and helicopter into the GC but also be able to do some
short easy hikes on well-traveled paths (with lots of other hikers). I haven't really found time to look at hotel details but would
like to stay in something similar to what you did. Safe and preferably not on the strip.
Click to expand...

There were a few hotels like that. I settled on the one I did because it was substantially less expensive ($200-230/night rather than $600+) so fit within the budget I was working with. Not a popular option with many, but it was safe and within budget (plus just spectacular down to tiny details). I would definitely recommend it to others. (Bears the name of a certain someone who isn't discussed here.) I figured better safe than not despite the name.
 
Sounds like you had an amazing trip @Inked . I'm so glad to hear that. I'm definitely not in good shape despite walking 2 miles a day.
Hikers would laugh if I told them I prepared for hikes by walking 2 miles a day! :lol-2:

@TooPatient Thanks for the input. Yes, I know what(who) you are talking about. The $600 is in NO WAY in my price range!:shock: Safety is
definitely an issue but I'd rather spend that money on bling any day:bigsmile:. Especially if you can find safety at half the price.
 
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