How to Build Confidence While Traveling Solo as a Woman

How to Build Confidence While Traveling Solo as a Woman

Beth Glosner  | 

Note: This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Confidence Hacks for Solo Female Travelers

Hey you—yes, you with the suitcase full of dreams and maybe a little bit of anxiety. If you’re about to hit the road alone (or just thinking about it), you’re in the right place. Courage doesn’t come from pretending you’re not nervous. It comes from knowing you’re capable—and I’m here to help you get there. Let’s Dig In.

Why Confidence Is Your Best Travel Companion

Solo female travel is exhilarating, empowering, and let’s be real, sometimes intimidating. But here’s the deal: confidence is the passport to a richer, safer, and more joyful travel experience. It helps you read the room, trust your gut, and take up space unapologetically. When you feel solid in yourself, the world opens up wider than your airplane window.

I’ve zig-zagged across the United States of America alone from bustling cities to quiet mountain towns, and I’ve learned that courage isn’t born; you build it. So, let’s break it down and make it doable.

PS: If you’re still on the fence about traveling solo, check out Why I Love Solo Female Travel (And How You Can Too!). It’s the heart-to-heart pep talk you didn’t know you needed

The Fast Track to Travel Confidence

1. Know Your “Why”—And Let It Guide You

Before you pack a single sock, ask yourself: Why do I want to travel solo? Are you seeking adventure, healing, independence, or maybe just better food? Knowing your “why” is your inner compass. It helps you stay anchored when things get overwhelming, and they sometimes will.

Your “why” isn’t just poetic, it’s practical. Write it down and take it with you.

Pro Tip: When you know your reason, you make decisions more confidently. You’ll spend less time second-guessing and more time doing.

2. Do Some Light Recon (a.k.a. Travel Research)

Confidence blooms when you’re informed. Read up on your destination, the weather, the time of year you are traveling, dress codes, and safety norms (if you are traveling internationally), and even how the bus system works. You don’t need to be fluent in five languages to travel (depending on your destination), but knowing a few key phrases or gestures can be a lifesaver (and icebreaker!).

I have used a translator in the USA since there are people who predominantly speak Spanish

Pro Tip: Google Maps lets you download areas to use offline. Do it before you arrive. It’s a confidence game-changer.

Fake It ‘Til You Become It

3. Walk Like You Belong (Because You Do)

Head up. Shoulders back. Eyes forward. Walk into that museum, café, or beach town like you own it—even if you’re secretly Googling train schedules under the table or letting Google Maps whisper directions through your earbuds.

Confidence doesn’t mean knowing everything. It means trusting you’ll figure it out.

Pro Tip: Avoid pulling out maps in public. Step into a shop or café to reorient if needed.

4. Say “No” Like You Mean It

Whether it’s turning down a persistent vendor ( I see you, NYC) or skipping a group outing that doesn’t feel right, practice saying no. Confident travelers respect their own boundaries. And guess what? Others will too.

Saying no to others = saying yes to yourself.

Pro Tip: Have a few firm-but-polite phrases in your pocket. “No, thank you” goes a long way.

Bounce Back Like a Boss

5. Nerves Are Normal—Don’t Let Them Run the Show

Every confident solo traveler you’ve seen (myself included) has had a moment of panic. Mine? Driving the Redwood Highway for the first time, knowing I had to make a right turn somewhere, then the GPS cut out—just endless trees, no signs, no signal. Or quietly crying in a sketchy overnight stay. The difference? We didn’t let it stop us. We kept going.

Deep breaths fix a lot more than people think.

When anxiety shows up:

  • Breathe deeply. (Seriously, science backs this up and my years of yoga classes.)
  • Text a friend or family member.
  • Walk it off. Literally.
  • Treat yourself like a teammate, not a failure. (and a sweet treat helps!)

Pro Tip: Create a “comfort kit” on your phone—screenshots of supportive messages, photos, and inspiring quotes.

Next-Level Solo Confidence Hacks

  • Dress the part. Wear what makes you feel both comfortable and strong.
  • Use props. A book, camera, or journal makes you feel grounded in public spaces.
  • Try one brave thing each day. It could be asking for directions or dining solo.
  • Find a rhythm. A morning routine, even while traveling, gives you structure and comfort.

You’re not alone—you’re in charge.

Confidence Isn’t Magic, It’s a Muscle

Traveling solo as a woman is not about being fearless—it’s about being ready. Confidence comes with action. Every new street you navigate, every solo dinner you enjoy, and every decision you make stacks up. Soon, you’ll realize: you’ve got this.

Call to Action: Got a favorite solo confidence tip? Share it in the comments—or better yet, share this blog with a travel-curious friend.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


-Beth

Explore McCloud Falls Restaurants & Activities: Your Ultimate Guide

Explore McCloud’s Falls, Restaurants & Activities: Your Ultimate Guide

Beth Glosner  | 

Note: This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Hey there, wanderer! You’re in the right place if you’re planning a trip to McCloud, CA and want to know the best dining spots and fun adventures around. I’ve explored the waterfalls, tasted the local fare, and uncovered hidden gems—so you don’t have to! Let’s Dig in. You’re about to discover how to build an unforgettable day around nature, good food, and small-town charm.

Here’s the quickest way to enjoy McCloud like a local:

  • Eat: Grab a hearty breakfast or local burger in town
  • Hike & Explore: Discover the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls
  • Snack & Sip: Capture ice cream or coffee with mountain views
  • Bonus Activities: Bike, fish, and stargaze—all in one trip

By the end of this guide, you’ll leave smiling, well-fed, and ready to plan your next escape.

So, while I’ve just mentioned the top four highlights you can’t miss, let me break them down and dive into what makes each one special, from mouthwatering meals to scenic hikes. Trust me, these are the gems locals rave about—and they’re all easy on your budget.

 Best Restaurants Near McCloud

Want to know where to eat before or after chasing waterfalls? First up on my must-try list:

  • Sage Restaurant at the McCloud Hotel – Elegant farm-to-table dishes indoors and out, but only open for dinner.
Burger bliss after hiking at White Mountain Cafe, and yes, they have a Garden Burger here

What Makes These Restaurants Stand Out

  1. Local flavor & History

McCloud Meat Market is carried over from its original days as a meat market—cowboy hats optional.

Sage Restaurant sources local produce and invites guests to dine on the porch.

2. Laid-back, family-friendly vibe

White Mountain Cafe combines small-town charm with homemade comfort food, offering hearty breakfasts, lunches, espresso, and ice cream in a cozy, nostalgic setting.

3. Treat yourself

Remind yourself that no waterfall hike is complete without ice cream at Floyd’s Frosty.

Pro Tip: Call ahead for dinner reservations at Sage Restaurant—it fills up fast on summer weekends!

 Outdoor Adventures in McCloud: Trails, Waterfalls & Wild Skies

 1. Hike the Stunning McCloud Falls

  • Each stop has a swimming hole if it’s warm enough—just no cliff-jumping (hidden rocks!).
  • The parking lot is small and very busy in the summertime.
Middle Falls—nature’s own swimming pool (don’t dive, though!).

2. Bike & Trek the Great Shasta Rail Trail

  • Rent a bike and ride miles of old railbed stretching toward Burney.
  • Scenic, gentle terrain with numerous photo opportunities.
    Pro Tip: Pack water and a snack—it can get remote out there!
Sometimes you need time with yourself and your thoughts

3. Water Fun at Lake McCloud

  • Kayak, paddleboard, or fish on the calm waters of McCloud Reservoir.
  • Easy shore access with mountain views everywhere.


Lake McCloud —mirror water and mountain air.

4. Explore Historic Downtown

  • Heritage Junction Museum and nearby shops offer a peek into McCloud’s railroad and lumber past.
  • Quaint Main Street is perfect for browsing for souvenirs or a caffeine pick-me-up.
History is our best teacher.

5. Evening: Stargaze & Sunsets

  • Siskiyou County is a top-tier dark-sky location—perfect for packing a blanket and binoculars.
  • Watch wildlife come alive at dusk by the river.
    Pro Tip: Bring a flashlight with a red filter—you’ll thank me when your night vision kicks in!

Your McCloud Adventure: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

That’s your go-to guide for mixing waterfalls, meals, and memories around McCloud Falls. Here’s the final scoop:

  • Enjoy a variety of options, including burgers, farm-fresh fare, and ice cream.
  • Explore easy hikes, lakeside fun, and small-town charm.
  • Relax with sunsets, stargazing, or a cozy coffee stop.

Bonus Idea: Want to extend your adventure? Ashland is only an hour and a half drive away—perfect for adding theater, wine tasting, or more outdoor fun to your trip. Check out my post, 10 Top Things To Do in Ashland, Oregon, for ideas to keep your journey going.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


 –Beth

Mount Shasta Coffee Shops: 5 Cozy Cafes to Power Your Adventure

Beth Glosner  | 

Note: This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here

Sip, Savor, and Soak in the Vibe of Mount Shasta’s Best Cafes

If you’re the kind of traveler who needs their morning coffee before tackling a mountain hike—or you just love finding quirky, local cafés on weekend getaways—then welcome, friend. You’re in the right place. This guide to Mount Shasta’s coziest coffee spots is made for people like you: the curious explorer, the foodie adventurer, the “let’s grab coffee before we hit the trail” type. Let’s Dig In.

Your Quick Brew Fix: Top Mount Shasta Coffee Shops At a Glance

If you’re in a rush (hey, the mountain isn’t going to hike itself), here’s a quick list of our favorite cafés in Mount Shasta:

  • Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe – Local legend, great food
  • Theory Coffee Roasters – Small-batch brilliance in a bright, modern space
  • Northbound Coffee Roasters – Hand-roasted, family-run charm
  • Alua’s Thrive Bar – Superfood smoothies and wellness sips
  • Berryvale Cafe & Market – A grocery café hybrid perfect for picnic prep

So now you know where to go—but stick around as I spill the details (and espresso).

1. Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe: Fuel Up Before the Trail

Why You’ll Love It: Seven Suns is the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name and out-of-towners are welcomed with a smile and a killer burrito. The coffee? Smooth, rich, and satisfying. The vibe? Mountain mystic meets hometown hangout.

Best Seller: Their famous breakfast burrito + iced chai = unstoppable combo. Plus, the chocolate cake is pretty amazing! You’ll feel ready to summit Shasta—or at least conquer your to-do list.

Pro Tip: Grab a seat outside to soak up the mountain air.

Seven Suns fuel = magic before mountain magic.

2. Theory Coffee Roasters: Art in a Cup

Why You’ll Love It: This café is minimalist, bright, and smells like heaven. Theory is serious about its coffee—think award-winning beans roasted with precision. However, it’s also incredibly relaxing, making it perfect for laptop warriors, solo sippers, and deep thinkers.

Vibe Check: This is your go-to if you want slow sips and good lighting. It’s like your favorite art museum, but with lattes.

Must Try: The pour-over. Hands down.

Art in a cup at Theory—sip slowly.

3. Northbound Coffee Roasters: Roasted With Soul

Why You’ll Love It: Family-owned, roasted on a vintage 1950s drum roaster, and full of character, Northbound is as authentic as it gets. It’s located in Dunsmuir, just a short drive from Mount Shasta, and absolutely worth the detour.

For the Coffee Nerds: Northbound keeps it small-batch and intentional, often roasting single-origin beans right on site. The vibe here took me straight back to a hidden gem I found in Eureka, CA—no sign, no frills, just unforgettable coffee. I never caught the name, but that same “coffee refuel on the road” magic lives here, too.

Don’t Miss: Buying a bag of beans to bring the Shasta vibes home.

From roaster to your cup—Northbound magic.

4. Alua’s Thrive Bar: Where Superfoods and Sips Collide

Why You’ll Love It: Alura’s Thrive Bar is your health-focused café dream. Think vibrant smoothies, mushroom mochas, kombucha on tap, and bowls full of color and crunch. The space is small but big on energy.

When to Go: After yoga, before a hike, or anytime you need a nutrient-packed pick-me-up.

Order This: Acai bowl + a mushroom mocha (yes, it’s a thing and yes, it’s delicious).

Thrive at Alua’s: your tastebuds’ health reset.

5. Berryvale Cafe & Market: Hidden Gem with a Whole Lotta Heart

Why You’ll Love It: Tucked inside a natural grocery store, Berryvale’s café is ideal if you’re shopping for snacks and want something fresh, tasty, and fast. There’s a charming little patio, and their smoothies are the unsung heroes of the town.

Foodies rejoice: Fresh-baked goods and creative wraps. Everything feels handmade with love. This place reminds me of Kimberton Whole Foods, which I would find where I lived in Berks County, PA

Perfect For: Grabbing a quick bite before heading to McCloud Falls or Lake Siskiyou.

Grab your picnic essentials and smoothie fuel.

A Few Extra Sips: Coffee Tips for Visiting Mount Shasta

  • Arrive early – Some spots close mid-afternoon.
  • Weekends get busy – Expect lines at peak brunch hours.
  • Get a to-go bag – Most cafés offer beans, chai mixes, or merch so you can bring a little Shasta magic home.
  • Support local – Each café is independently owned, run by people who love their town (and it shows).

More Than Just Coffee: How These Cafes Fuel Your Adventure

Whether you’re heading to the summit, chasing waterfalls, or just wandering the shops in town, the right café can totally set the tone for your day. These five spots offer more than caffeine—they offer comfort, connection, and character. You’ll find locals chatting at the counter, baristas who ask about your hike, and meals that hit the spot just right.

And while each one has its own personality, they all share the magic of Mount Shasta—quiet, quirky, and totally unforgettable.

Final Sip: So Which Will You Try First?

Each of these coffee shops in Mount Shasta has something special brewing. Whether you’re a hardcore espresso lover, a health drink devotee, or just in it for the vibes, there’s a seat at the table for you.

Leave a comment below: What’s your favorite kind of coffee shop vibe? Rustic mountain roastery or sleek modern sips?

Pro Tip: Share this post with your road trip crew or pin it for your next adventure.

Until next cup—Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!
–Beth