At Awakened Solo Travels, we believe all women are wanderers – 100% capable of traveling solo.
We believe that with the proper planning and guidance, you’ll learn that the world is here to support you and help you evolve into a higher and even better version of yourself.
AST Founder Diana Zatynaychenko launched Awakened Solo Travels to equip you with the skills and knowledge to help you travel safely and confidently to your dream destinations.
Meet Our Founder,
Diana Zatnaychenko
Hi, love. Diana here. I’m so glad you’re exploring Awakened Solo Travels. And I’m super excited you’re thinking about taking your first solo trip.
If you’ve been reading about our travel planning services, you already know we’re dedicated to helping women experience the freedom and growth that comes with solo travel.
But why do we care, and why did I create this company in the first place? It goes back to my first solo trip at the age of 15.
- Safety tips for traveling as a solo female
- Full trip itinerary with a detailed daily calendar
- Budget-tracking guidance and money-saving tips
- Plus 24/7 support via Whatsapp before and during your trip
- And so much more!
My family moved to Bulgaria from Russia when I was 13. Picking up my life and relocating at that tender age was challenging, and I learned (and grew) a lot. As I got older, I dreamed of going abroad to study English. I found a language school in England and persuaded my parents to let me go. While I was part of a class, I spent a lot of time alone – and learned a lot about myself in the process. The trip instilled an early love of travel, and one trip followed another.
I had the chance to put my English skills to work on my first solo trip to the United States. I took part in a work-travel program for the summer, then couchsurfed my way across the States for a month. For my first solo trip in Southeast Asia, I packed a bag and bought a one-way ticket to Bangkok. On that trip, I traveled across four countries on a two-month solo journey. It was a life-changing adventure.
So instead of waiting around for someone to come along, I kept planning and taking trips on my own.
Finding My Superpower
I pursued my love of travel into university, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management. As a devoted traveler, I started blogging about my trips to build my audience and visibility as an expert. While blogging seemed like a logical step, to be honest, I didn’t love it as much. While I’m a fan of many travel blogs, I didn’t want my readers to try to replicate my experience. I wanted to help them have their own.
While helping friends and family plan their own adventures, I realized my superpower is in planning and organizing. I like doing the research and digging into the details. I’m a fan of spreadsheets and structure. I realized travel planning was the best way I could help others take that first step in discovering the joy of solo travel.
Travel Changes Us
Reflecting on those earlier times trying to get friends to join me, I realized that a lot of people get caught up in fear and limiting beliefs before they even get to the planning stage. Women, especially, are taught to put worries ahead of possibilities when it comes to travel. And while I’ve had my share of misadventures, the thing is, each one built up my self-reliance. With every challenge or travel mishap, I discovered I could figure things out on my own, despite being away from home, halfway around the globe.
I saw the places I wanted to see and set my own schedule. I met people I wouldn’t have met if I’d been with a companion. I learned how much I could do on my own and how to say yes to myself.
Getting over the initial fear and worry about solo travel begins with addressing your mindset. That’s when it’s helpful to hear from the voice of experience – where coaching and encouragement comes in. The payoff is greater self-confidence and a sense of empowerment that can help you make the most of a trip – and make the most of your life.
It's Your Turn
The world is a beautiful place, and it’s your turn to experience the expansion that comes with a solo journey. Let our team of passionate female travelers guide you in preparing for your first – or next – solo trip, and your next level of personal growth.
