Meet the Inspiring Solo Traveler: Merrilee Davis, the Traveling Granny

Merrilee Davis, affectionately dubbed the "Traveling Granny," embarked on her solo travel journey in 2011 at the age of 64. I encountered her on a ferry from Panama to Cartagena, Colombia, last year. Every time I ran into her in Cartagena, she was busy practicing her Spanish with the locals, savoring street food, and radiating joy. If she can explore the world solo, why not you?

Merrilee Davis, now 68, recently returned from an incredible five-month adventure in India and Sri Lanka, which included a memorable overnight camel safari in Rajasthan. She's been traveling independently for four years. (All photographs are courtesy of Merrilee Davis.)

Name: Merrilee Davis
Age: 68
Hometown: North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Countries visited: 18+, including Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Trinidad, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and India.

1. What sparked your travel journey?

I used to take short trips with my husband from our holiday home in Mexico. My first solo trip was to Guatemala for six weeks of Spanish study. Initially, I was apprehensive about visiting what I perceived to be an undeveloped country. However, I fell in love with it! Staying with a local family and attending a one-on-one class five days a week opened my eyes. On weekends, I hopped on local chicken buses to explore Guatemala solo. That experience showed me that traveling alone wasn't as daunting as I thought. Learning Spanish over the years has enriched my travels across Central and South America, although it can be a challenge at my age. But the locals appreciate my attempts at speaking Spanish, and I've learned to embrace the humor in my language mishaps. It's all part of the adventure.

Left: Ciudad Perdida ruins, Colombia; Right: Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

2. How did you begin traveling solo in your 60s?

After my marriage ended and spending winters in Mexico, I felt the urge to explore the world more extensively. Being budget-conscious, I opted for affordable yet enjoyable destinations. I find that lavish hotels and tour groups restrict my interactions with local cultures, so I backpack with younger travelers while charting my own course. They either express admiration for this traveling granny or overlook me. I prefer staying in private rooms rather than hostels. As I travel, I keep friends and family updated via email, signing off as the Traveling Granny, since I'm now a grandmother of seven. Traveling solo gives me the freedom to change my plans spontaneously, and there's no one to blame for any missteps. I do minimal research before arriving in a new country. I usually book my first few nights' accommodation, but after that, I find places as I go.

3. What was your latest adventure?

I just returned from India, and I can't wait to return. It's such a vast country with endless opportunities for exploration.

4. How do you fund your travels?

My travel style is budget-friendly, so I can afford my adventures. I used to rent my house while traveling, but after a few issues, I now leave my nephew there and travel without worry. Typically, it's cheaper for me to travel than to stay in North Vancouver during winter. I rely on my pensions to cover my travel expenses, with airfare being the biggest cost.

Merrilee traveled by train across India, enjoying five months in the region from November 2015 to March 2016.

5. Can you share a travel highlight?

[An excerpt from Merrilee's Traveling Granny emails from India]

When the train arrives, everyone rushes to locate their car number and seat. On one ride, I found three men seated in my assigned spot, so I moved to another compartment and joined a family. I quickly warmed up to their little girl, who was about four. Our conversation was filled with smiles and laughter, even though I was making up responses!

Vendors continuously move through the aisles selling water, chai, coffee, food, and more, often repeating their offerings in a sing-song voice. Train food is inexpensive, but caution is advised regarding where it's prepared.

6. What challenges have you faced, and how did you manage them?

I can't pinpoint a major struggle. However, witnessing the mistreatment of dogs in many regions tugs at my heart. The sight of neglected street dogs is painful. Another challenge is preparing to leave my home for several months. I always worry I've forgotten something. Although I feel anxious before heading to a new country, that nervousness dissipates once I arrive and start my travels. Stepping out of my comfort zone into the unfamiliar is filled with mixed emotions.

Left: Jain temple in Ranakpur, Rajasthan, India; Right: Murud, a coastal town south of Mumbai, India

7. What advice do you have for travelers over 60? How can they overcome fear?

I often ask others about their fears. Many of my friends say they live vicariously through my adventures. It puzzles me why they don't venture out themselves. Some cite health concerns or finances, but most admit to fear, seeing me as brave. For me, each trip is a challenge that leads to life-changing experiences. I occasionally meet other solo women around my age while traveling, but they are rare.

8. What's a common misconception about solo travel?

People sometimes warn me about potential dangers like mugging or robbery. Yet, I've found that locals are respectful and helpful towards me. My years of solo travel have given me valuable insights. I'm fit and active for my age, which allows me to embrace experiences fully. During my last trip to India, many men were curious about my solo travels and impressed by my independence. I never felt threatened there.

9. What are three essentials you always pack for your trips?

• I never leave without my double-bed silk liner. It may not get much use, but it's invaluable when sheets seem questionable or nonexistent, and it packs down small.
• Silicone earplugs that mold perfectly to my ears. I carry at least three pairs; they're a lifesaver in noisy environments like trains and hotels.
• Woven water-bottle holder from Guatemala. It fits my metal thermos perfectly and makes it easy to carry while keeping drinks cooler.

10. What's next on your travel itinerary?

I'm considering a return to India this fall.

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UP NEXT:

In the next Travel Tuesday interview, we'll chat with Jesse Beck, a former Peace Corps volunteer in Madagascar, to hear about her experiences.

JOIN ME ON MY JOURNEYS:

Keep up with my summer travels on Instagram! Next week, I'll be embarking on a road trip through the Southwestern U.S., including stops at Antelope Canyon, Phoenix, and White Sands National Park in New Mexico!