Where in the world am I? In San Diego today, talking about Cape Breton, Canada
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Hi there. I'm Dr. Mary Travelbest, world traveler, professor, marketing expert, and all-around fun person. And I'm excited to connect with fellow travelers and share our experiences.
Quick-fire FAQ:
Your mom, grandmother, or even your daughter told you to be careful when traveling solo. But did they ever do it? You are on your way. The question I get asked is: What should I tell someone who discourages me from traveling?
Answer: You can turn it around and ask for specific information on what they know about solo travel, how they learned about it, and what facts support their knowledge. Do not be confrontive, but do ask for some examples so that you can diffuse the situation.
In the long run, they want what's best for you. Remember, they don't have any ulterior motive; they just want to be helpful.
When you tell them where you are going, how prepared you are, and that you have a sound system of backups, they will wish you well.
60-second confidence challenge
Your challenge is to use your MAP App at night. It's not the same as daytime so that you will face some additional challenges, but once you do it, you will gain confidence.
In future episodes, we will discuss walking at night in more detail.
If you like today's Confidence Challenge, my book series dives deeper into using maps and how to build confidence using them—link in description."
See Book A for addressing this challenge.
You can find it on our website at https://www.5stepstosolotravel.com/ or on Amazon. It's a several-part series.
Destination Deep‑Dive
Today's special destination is: Cape Breton, Canada, and the Cabot Trail.
Today, I'm taking you along one of the most breathtaking drives in the world — the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The sheer beauty of this place will leave you in awe.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park anchors this famous loop, which you can drive either from Chéticamp on the west or Ingonish Beach on the east — about 104 kilometers apart. I suggest starting counterclockwise, from east to west, for the best morning vistas on the right side of the road, and later, sunset views along the coast.
Before you go — fill your gas tank! There are only a few gas stations along the way.
This area is all about the outdoors. For hikers, the Skyline Trail is a 6.5-kilometer loop, approximately two hours long, offering sweeping ocean views — one of the most popular hikes in Canada, with possible moose sightings and breathtaking cliffs.
If you prefer a shorter option, try Broad Cove Mountain. Alternatively, head east to the Coastal Trail or west to the Fishing Cove Trail or Corney Brook Trail, which passes by the waterfalls.
If you don't have camping gear, you can rent ready-pitched cabin tents called oTENTiks — a great option to experience the park overnight.
Seafood lovers, you're in luck! There are numerous small, local restaurants serving lobster, scallops, and fresh fish. And if you want a local experience, stop by a whale museum or take a whale and seal cruise — both are worth the time.
Where to stay: For budget stays, CabotTrailHostel.com offers beds with good value. I stayed at the Bear on the Lake, located in Whycocomagh on the Bras d'Or Lake, which is centrally situated for exploring the Cabot Trail. Vibe: Welcoming, social, clean, and safe for solo women travelers; shared kitchen and lake-view deck for relaxing evenings.
Now back to the travel sights: Outside the park, stop in Baddeck, home of the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, and don't miss their famous lobster suppers. In Sydney and North Sydney, you can explore a miners' museum, local parks, and even take a ghost tour.
One morning, I left my hostel before seven, snacks packed and spirits high. The drive was pure joy — no traffic lights, sunshine, and that incredible Celtic charm everywhere. Next time, I will visit the Gaelic College in St. Ann's (Ceilidh trail music and crafts). My Irish roots would be smiling. I even met a 70-year-old postmaster who invited me for a private swim in a local lake with a private entrance. Hidden from view, I took a spontaneous dip with permission from the owner-and yes, it was a nude swim in nature! I did lose my glasses, which I will mention later on, but it was worth it for that moment of freedom.
I even met a 70-year-old postmaster who invited me for a private swim in a local lake with a private entrance. Hidden from view, I took a spontaneous dip with permission from the owner— and yes, it was a nude swim in nature! I did lose my glasses, which I will mention later on, but it was worth it for that moment of freedom.
Cape Breton surprised me with its strong Celtic culture — there's even a school for the Gaelic language. By the end of the day, I had driven nearly 600 kilometers, my heart full and my camera full of beauty.
Other stops you can make if you stay longer:
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Stop by Glenora Distillery in Glenville for a quick visit or coffee (optional whisky tasting is available if you wish!).
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Continue to Margaree Harbour — stop at the beach for photos of where the river meets the sea.
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Visit the AcadianChéticampVillage of Chéticamp, known for rug hooking and vibrant cChéticamp
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Lunch in Chéticamp: The Doryman Pub & Grill or Harbour Restaurant (seafood and great view).
💡 Travel Tips for a 60-something Solo Woman
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Driving: Roads are well-maintained; allow extra time for scenic stops. Avoid driving after dark on the Trail. If you're not comfortable driving, consider joining a guided tour for a stress-free experience.
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Packing essentials: Layers (for quick weather changes), a light rain jacket, walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.
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Safety: Cape Breton is a haven for solo women travelers. The locals are not only friendly but also incredibly helpful, making it one of the safest places to visit.
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Timing: The ideal time to visit Cape Breton is from early June to October. Planning your trip during these months will ensure you don't miss out on the stunning fall colors in September!
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Connectivity: Cell service can be spotty — download maps in advance.
Smart Move and Slip-up pairings
Lost my reading glasses while in Cape Breton, on the Cabot Trail. I needed them for many reading activities, so that was a first on the trip after 10 weeks of solo travel. They must have fallen out of my pocket when I was going swimming in the Lake. I had a spare pair and was able to buy another one in a shop a few days later in Peggy's Cove. This experience taught me the importance of securing personal items, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
Resources Roundup
What are the ten best drives? Pacific Highway, California, Route 93 Canada and USA, Highway 362 Quebec, Dalton Highway, Alaska, Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire, Route 100 Vermont, Northern Spain, Rhine River, Southern Hills of Italy, and The Ring of Kerry, Ireland.
According to the book "10 Best of Everything," those are the top 10. I would add this as #11, Cabot Trail.
See show notes.
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