There is no one way to take a trip, but traveling solo can be a very positive, life-changing, and empowering experience. Because of this, many people prefer to travel solo. In particular, many women want the freedom and independence that comes from solo travel. All kinds of women do this, not just college students. Women of any age and level of physical ability or income can travel solo. The benefits of solo travel include the following: self-discovery – you will better understand your reactions to the world around you and better understand your limits and preferences; build confidence in your judgment and an amazing sense of accomplishment; you will become less intimidated by new challenges and new and different people; you will discover just how resourceful you are; change your life forever – a chance to escape your day-to-day routine, have new experiences, and learn to handle them by yourself.

Mollika Biernat has traveled solo throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe; she has travelled with company in Central America, Europe, and India.  Her favourite travel companions are hostels, a backpack, Lonely Planet, a journal, Smartwool socks, and a miner’s lamp.

• June 21, 2011, Tuesday, REI store in Ann Arbor, 7:00-8:30 pm
• June 22, 2011, Wednesday, REI Store in Northville, 7:00-8:30 pm
• June 28, 2011, Tuesday, REI Store in Troy, 7:00-8:30 pm

Check-out our Meetup Group for more details, maps, and a complete list of events:

HI-Michigan Meetup

This year’s Paddle to the Symphony will be Friday, June 24, 2011. Once again The Michigan Council of Hostelling International is partnering with Heavner Canoe to provide a fun evening on the water while enjoying the sounds of the Michigan Philharmonic. Meet at Kensington Metro Park in Milford, Michigan at the North Martindale Picnic Shelter.

2011 Paddle Options:

Canoe with Dinner: Everything you need. Best Option. One seat in a canoe (some kayaks will be available). Includes a box lunch with sandwich, two sides, bag of chips, cookie, pickle spear, drink and the all the extras. Eat before you paddle or take with you in the canoe. Canoeists will paddle across the 1/4 mile span to the amphitheater to the opposing shore. Canoeists will return as the sun goes down and the music keeps you going. Price is $35.00 per person.

Canoe Only (no food): One seat in a canoe (some kayaks will be available). Bring your own food. Price is $25.00 per person.

Food Only (no canoe): Bring your own kayak or canoe. Price is $15.00 per person.

Event Only (no canoe or food provided): Bring your own canoe or kayak and bring your own food OR to enjoy the evening without going on the lake or having dinner, guests may choose to hear the music from shore. Price is $5.00 per person.

Water and soft drinks will be available for everyone with any option you select. All canoes and kayaks MUST have at least one adult per watercraft.

Anyone going on the water should arrive by 6:30 p.m.

Please Note: With any option you choose, you will still be responsible for the park entrance fee of $5.00, so carpool if you can.

4:00 p.m. Meet & Greet
6:00 p.m. Official Reception
7:00 p.m. Canoe Safety Meeting
7:30 p.m. Canoe Launch
8:00 p.m. Concert Starts
9:00 p.m. Canoes Paddle Back
9:30 p.m. Canoes Return
10:00 p.m. Thank you and Goodnight

What to bring:
Sunscreen and/or Hat
Change of clothes if you choose to canoe (just in case)
Jacket
Lawn chairs

Event Hotline Number is 248-302-8026

The Michigan Council of HI and the Southeast Michigan REI Stores have teamed up again to bring you three World Travel 101 events in March 2011.

• Wednesday, March 2, 2011 REI Northville 6:30 p.m.
• Monday, March 28, 2011 REI Troy 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, March 29, 2011 REI Ann Arbor 7:00 p.m.