With its verdant hills, acres of vineyards, and temperate climate, Napa Valley in California is one of the world’s premier wine-producing regions. Every year 3.3 million people flock to this region to bike, hike, swim in a veritable pool of wine, and eat rich, delicious food.

After months on the road, you find yourself back home and excited to resume old friendships. You plan dinners, get-togethers, and nights out. And, as some people fail to respond or show up, you begin realize an awful truth — while you were out exploring the world.

After months on the road, you find yourself back home and excited to resume old friendships. You plan dinners, get-togethers, and nights out. And, as some people fail to respond or show up, you begin realize an awful truth — while you were out exploring the world.

Somewhere in Wyoming, I realized my life had gone off track. I was at a scenic overlook, gazing upon these majestic mountains rising up from the ground in the distance, and all I could think was “OK, it’s time to go!” As I got back in the car, I yearned to stay longer.

On the second Wednesday of the month, Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse writes a guest column featuring tips and advice on solo female travel. It’s an important topic I can’t adequately cover, so I brought in an expert to share her advice.

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.