loader from loading.io

Special Edition: London, England Airports Ranked

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

Release Date: 01/10/2025

Servas Travel show art Servas Travel

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

Special Episode Servas Travel Here is your FAQ: Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question.   Special Episode topic: Servas travel   Travel mistakes: Making the age limit in a restaurant   Travel Tips: Daily schedule for exercise    FAQ response:   Have you done any couch surfing? My followers asked me this question.   Answer: No, but I have been using SERVAS for three years as a member. I stayed in 6 homes and did a day host in one country, too. Listen here for more on that.   Special episode on SERVAS   I’m planning...

info_outline
Death Valley California Part 2 of 2 show art Death Valley California Part 2 of 2

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

This Episode is for you and about Death Valley Part 2 Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide, an empowering travel and life adventure with a personal approach to guiding women like you in your prime who might be a bit adventure-timid. My goal is for you to create memories with your travels. I want to expand the relationships you make in our groups into a supportive community with your needs at the center.   In this episode, the FAQ is: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days.   Today’s Destination is Death Valley, Part 2,  Today’s...

info_outline
Death Valley California Part 1 of 2 show art Death Valley California Part 1 of 2

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

This Episode is for you and about Death Valley Part 1 Welcome to Dr. Mary Travelbest’s 5 Steps to Solo Travel Guide.   Today’s story will share how to live on the road in your style. In this episode, the FAQ is: How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days.   Today’s Destination is Death Valley, Part 1, the planning and first stops   Today’s Misstep- Blowing my hat off   Travel Advice: Bring plenty of shade, more than you think.   FAQ:  How to pack a personal item to travel for 90 days.       Today’s Misstep- Blowing my hat off...

info_outline
Solo Travel in Mexico show art Solo Travel in Mexico

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

FAQ: When it comes to solo travel in Mexico, how can I feel safer, more prepared, and excited, not hesitant or fearful? Special episode: Confidence Builders for Solo Travel in Mexico Lesson Learned: Sunglasses lost in the sea! Travel Tip: Focus on your superpower, terms, travel, and power.       I’ve volunteered to help at the Door of Faith Orphanage and encourage you to visit this, too. You can visit online for more information.  Connect with Dr. Travelbest  

info_outline
Las Vegas, Nevada Part 2 show art Las Vegas, Nevada Part 2

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

  FAQ is: I’m going on a long trip, but I’m only allowed to bring one small carry-on. How can I manage? Today’s Destination is Las Vegas. Part 2 outdoors. Today’s Misstep- I forgot the tent. Travel Advice: Protect yourself. FAQ:  I’m going on a long trip but can only bring one small carry-on. The airline rules and my trip leaders limit the baggage. How can I manage?   Las Vegas. Part 2 outdoors                 Connect with Dr. Travelbest  

info_outline
Las Vegas Nevada Part 1 show art Las Vegas Nevada Part 1

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

FAQ: A good friend who doesn’t want to be named asked me how not to try to do it all. The point of the question was to limit the fear of missing out. How do I reduce my FOMO and add more JOMO (the Joy of missing out) when I travel? Today’s Destination is Las Vegas. Part 1 Indoor activities for travelers Today’s Misstep- I Spilled the candle wax at my airbnb and made a mess. Travel Advice: Look for adventure close to home. FAQ:  How do I reduce my FOMO and add more JOMO (the Joy of missing out) when I travel? Las Vegas. Part 1         ?   Today’s...

info_outline
Los Angeles Post Fires Travel, Power Check, and Circular Travel show art Los Angeles Post Fires Travel, Power Check, and Circular Travel

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

FAQ: Should I go out at night when on a solo trip?   Mistake in travel: Check the connection, battery and power bank   Today’s Travel Advice- Travel in one direction, in a circle     I see some bright spots, but it will be a while before LA returns as a major travel destination, so pay attention and use the Watch Duty App.  Mistake in travel: Check the connection, battery life, and power bank   So often, my laptop is not connected to electricity, or my battery runs out of juice. One more thing to remember is power. If you have a portable battery, remember to...

info_outline
Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 1 show art Best of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance - Part 1

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

In this episode:  The FAQ is: What is your purpose for traveling? Today’s Special episode:  San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Part 1 Today’s Mistake- Time zone mayhem Travel Advice:  Prioritize Flexibility In this episode: FAQ What is your purpose for travel? Answer: My purpose for traveling and especially solo travel, is to reach into places that may not be the most populated and to connect with women where they are to help bridge the culture gap. World peace is the ultimate goal for seeing this through. If I can reach 1,000,000 women and help 1000 of them travel solo, that...

info_outline
Best of Naples Florida And Consolidating Luggage Into A Personal Item show art Best of Naples Florida And Consolidating Luggage Into A Personal Item

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

  In this episode: The FAQ is: A reader asks, I recently booked a trip, and the airfare included no carry-on bag. How can I manage to travel without a carry-on?   Today’s Destination: NAPLES, FLA   Today’s Mistake-  I lost my horse.   Travel Advice:  MAKE SOMEONE ELSE’S DAY     Answer:  Destination: Naples, FL     Today’s Mistake: I lost my horse.       Today’s Travel Advice: MAKE SOMEONE ELSE’S DAY   Connect with Dr Travelbest email:

info_outline
Best of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Maine show art Best of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Maine

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

In this episode, the FAQ is: “What is air travel like these days, and what is different? Today’s Destination is Acadia National Park Today’s Mistake- My own car crash in parking garage   Travel Advice:  Travel pillows FOR SLEEPING on planes   FAQ: “What is air travel like these days, and what is different?   AARP is offering some airline travel tips that may answer this question. First, some facts. In 2019, the FAA reported 146 cases of bad behavior on planes, but in 2021, that number grew to more than 1,000. That was out of nearly 6,000 cases of unruly...

info_outline
 
More Episodes

Special Edition: London, England Airports

 

In this episode, the FAQ is: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025?

 

Today’s Destination is: London Airports

 

Today’s Misstep- Wearing the wrong shoes

 

Travel Advice: When buying an airline ticket, pause.

 

FAQ: What are some of the biggest changes for travel in 2025?

Expect more opportunities for local immersion, where you can experience the daily life of local communities through homestays, service projects, and interactive cultural programs for seniors.

Solo female travel is on the rise, with women comprising 71% of solo travelers. Many travel companies now offer solo-friendly options, such as cruises without single supplements and women-only trips to destinations like Saudi Arabia, where my parents almost moved in 1980, when it was very different for women.

Decision Fatigue

The solo traveler is solely responsible for all decisions, from choosing accommodations and dining spots to navigating routes. This can lead to decision fatigue and frustration and isolation in challenging situations.

Lack of Immediate Support

Solo travelers may not have immediate support in moments of illness or emergencies. Reliance on strangers for help can be daunting, and having communication devices like a satellite communicator is crucial1.

Cultural and Language Barriers

Solo female travelers may encounter cultural and language barriers, leading to uncomfortable situations. Respecting local traditions, dress codes, and learning basic phrases in the local language can help mitigate these challenges.

Loneliness

Solo travel can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness. To combat this, travelers can seek social gatherings, connect with fellow travelers, or engage in group tours and activities.

Today’s Special Episode: London, England Airports

London’s major airports each have distinct features catering to different traveler needs. Here’s a rundown on each and some important aspects for solo female travelers over 50:

First, the Best Overall Recommendations for Solo Female Travelers Over 50

  • Best for On-Time Flights: London City Airport (LCY)

  • Best for Service: Heathrow Airport (LHR)

  • Best for Pricing: Stansted (STN) or Luton (LTN)

  • Best Overall Experience: Heathrow (LHR) (for amenities and comfort) or Gatwick (LGW) (for balance between cost and comfort)

1. Heathrow Airport (LHR)

  • Location: West London, about 15 miles from Central London.

  • Identity: The largest and busiest airport in the UK, known for long-haul international flights and a wide array of shopping and dining options.

  • Pros: Excellent amenities, extensive shopping and dining, good transportation links (Heathrow Express, London Underground).

  • Considerations: Can be crowded; peak times may involve long lines. Solo travelers might find comfort in its high-security standards and numerous on-site assistance points.

  • Ratings:

    • On-Time: Generally good but can experience delays due to high traffic.

    • Service: Known for high service standards and amenities, including comfortable lounges.

    • Pricing: Usually more expensive than other London airports.

    • Overall Experience: Best for travelers looking for comfort and amenities, even if it means a higher price.

2. Gatwick Airport (LGW)

  • Location: South of London, about 30 miles from Central London.

  • Identity: Known for offering both international and low-cost European flights.

  • Pros: Competitive pricing on flights, good amenities, easy rail access to Central London. I was bussed from Heathrow here and back for my Africa travels. That was a chance to see London, from the window, thanks to British Air.

  • Considerations: Less busy than Heathrow, and offers options like the Gatwick Express, a fast train to Central London. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for convenience.

  • Ratings:

    • On-Time: Tends to have good punctuality compared to Heathrow.

    • Service: Offers a range of services, though fewer luxury options than Heathrow.

    • Pricing: Competitive, especially for European flights.

    • Overall Experience: Suitable for those who value a balance of comfort and cost.

3. London City Airport (LCY)

  • Location: East London, close to Canary Wharf and the city center.

  • Identity: Compact and designed for business travelers, with quick access to London.

  • Pros: Fast check-ins, less crowded, closest to Central London, and primarily caters to short-haul destinations.

  • Considerations: Ideal for quick, efficient entry to London, though limited to short-haul flights. Its size can be comforting for solo travelers who want to avoid larger crowds.

  • Ratings:

    • On-Time: Known for high punctuality rates.

    • Service: Tailored services for business and solo travelers, though limited amenities.

    • Pricing: Higher, given its proximity and convenience.

    • Overall Experience: Best for solo travelers who prioritize quick, stress-free entry and exit. I have not flown here yet.

4. Stansted Airport (STN)

  • Location: North East of London, about 40 miles from Central London.

  • Identity: A hub for budget airlines that is popular for European flights.

  • Pros: Affordability, a variety of low-cost airlines, and straightforward access to London via train. I flew here from Milan for $20 as long as I had a personal item, not a carry-on. It was Ryan Air. I flew out a week later to Edinburgh, but that was a bit of a crazy crowded airport with people all over trying to wait until their flights. Yes, it was very crowded.

  • Ratings:

    • On-Time: Generally decent but can experience delays due to high traffic on budget flights.

    • Service: Basic but sufficient; less luxurious than Heathrow or Gatwick.

    • Pricing: Most competitive, particularly for European destinations.

    • Overall Experience: Ideal for those seeking low-cost travel and are comfortable with basic amenities.

5. Luton Airport (LTN)

  • Location: North of London, about 30 miles from Central London.

  • Identity: Budget-friendly with numerous low-cost airlines.

  • Pros: Good for low-cost European flights, straightforward access to London via trains.

  • Considerations: It is generally busy, with fewer service amenities; it is best for budget-minded travelers who don’t mind fewer frills.

  • Ratings:

    • On-Time: Average, with some delays during peak times.

    • Service: Basic but functional.

    • Pricing: Low-cost options make it appealing for budget travelers.

    • Overall Experience: Suitable for budget-conscious solo travelers willing to trade amenities for savings.

 

 Today’s Misstep: Wearing the wrong shoes 

Talk about the wrong step. I had the wrong shoes.

First, I had sandals with heels, and it was really cold, so I should have worn something warmer with socks. 

Then I got blisters because the sandals rubbed my foot.

Don’t wear stylish shoes just for looks when you should wear something more sensible and comfortable. Your feet are here for life, and anyone who judges your choice of footwear can pound sand. Let them.

Today’s Travel Advice- When buying an airline ticket, pause.

Today’s airline tickets are almost all self-serve. You may buy them infrequently, so you may not notice all of the changes that are happening when you buy a ticket.

Before you click the button, be sure you check everything.

Do you have the correct dates?

Are you ok with the luggage choices?

Did you spell your name correctly?

Is there a better price directly with the airline?

Is it refundable?

Do you need insurance or not?

Can you use your miles or credits instead of cash?

It’s becoming more challenging to purchase your ticket, so practice before you buy. You may save hundreds of dollars if you do.

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news