Malta with Marie Sellberg Njie!

Marie overlooking the beautiful coastline of Malta.

Marie is 29 years old. She lives in the capital of Sweden - Stockholm.

Marie works in the fashion industry for a brand called &Otherstories.

"I’m a very positive and loving person, I think my family and friends would agree! Whenever I have free time, I enjoy spending time in nature, running outside, reading books, traveling and eating good food with family and friends. Another hobby of mine is creating content, I just love taking pictures."

Marie got her idea to visit Malta because she wanted to go somewhere for a short weekend, where it was easy to get to without complicated transits. So she utilized Google and searched for different airlines, and Malta came up. She then started watching Youtube videos from Malta and was in love with the nature, the culture and was ecstatic when she found out the flight would only be 4 hours from where she was. The short trip and sunny weather attracted her to Malta and she was on her way.

What motivated you to go on this trip solo?

Near the end of last year, I broke up with my boyfriend. We spent a lot of time traveling together. I always felt like I was trying to please him. While we were traveling I did things I didn't care for, to try to make him happy. While traveling with him, I never got to do what I wanted to do. I decided to leave that relationship so that I could be on my own and do things according to my own plan, especially while exploring new places. I see a lot of solo travelers on social media these days, which inspired me to go on my own solo trip.

What was your experience as a solo female traveler like in Malta?

My main reason for this trip was to enjoy quality time with myself and to explore a new country. I had a lot of fun! I took myself out on dates, had nice food, and went on a boat trip to Comino (blue lagoon).

I must say I felt very safe traveling solo in Malta. I even felt safe when I went out at night, because there were always so many people around me. I would recommend staying in areas where things are happening day and night. And also stay in a hotel, where you have access to reception. Being around other travelers helps too. People there were open, helpful and very friendly. And the best thing was that everyone could speak English so it was easy to communicate. I also met another solo traveler so we spent some time together exploring Valetta.

Do you have any advice for other women who want to solo travel internationally but are hesitant due to fear?

If you have never traveled alone before, I would start with shorter weekend trips, maybe 1-2 hours away from where you live. Then, when you get accustomed to the feeling of solo travel, branch out internationally.

Plan a trip somewhere you always wanted to go, do your research beforehand and prepare really well so that you feel safe. Always have a portable charger with you. It will be helpful to have access to maps on your phone, so that you can find your way home, to the supermarket and other places that interest you. I spent a lot of time doing research which also made me so excited to go.

It's important to always have your eyes and ears open and be aware of your surroundings. I never told people I was traveling solo which I think you should also avoid sharing so that people don't take it as an invitation to take advantage of you.

Stay in a populated city to ensure that there are always people around you. I stayed in Sliema and I thoroughly researched the area before booking my accommodation.

If you like chatting with people, start talking with your bartender, your receptionist, and other tourists. This will make you feel less lonely.

"When you are traveling by yourself you learn so much more about yourself and other people around you. You're going out of your comfort zone and it’s so good for your self growth. And you have fun with yourself which I think is very important! Be open minded and free. "

Marie took a chance on solo travel and ended up loving it. She fell in love with Malta and learned that doing things independently blessed her with new energy and made her feel happy.

If you are interested in exploring more of Maries adventures, you can find her instagram here.

Stay curious and follow adventure!