Tuesdays are a highlight each week for travel fans on Twitter. #TravelTuesday (yes, with the hashtag!), as it is widely known, was introduced by Where I’ve Been (@whereivebeen on Twitter) and has evolved into a fun, hyperactive day during which travel Twitterers feature their best tips, ideas and deals. For travel enthusiasts who are new to Twitter, #TravelTuesday is the perfect opportunity to discover and connect with a wide variety of travel bloggers, hoteliers, travel columnists, travel organisations and businesses.

It is thus fitting that two causes that I am passionate about, solo travel and local arts and crafts, are featured this #TravelTuesday by my dear friends: Janice, Dave and Deb.

Solo Travel

Janice, also known as @solotraveler, launches her first e-book today on a subject that is close to my heart: solo travel. To me, solo travel is the ultimate way to discover oneself and build self-confidence. Titled: “Glad You’re Not Here: A Solo Traveler’s Manifesto“, this e-book is an inspiring ode to solo travel. In this e-book, Janice shares with us her experiences through the years and what solo travel has meant to her. For anyone who has doubts about solo travel (Is it safe? Would I be perceived as weird? What would I do on my own? Aren’t I too young/old for travelling alone? etc..), I highly recommend downloading this e-book. I’m certain that most of these doubts will be eased after you’ve finished reading it. The best part is: this e-book is completely FREE!

Please visit the Solo Traveler blog to download this marvellous e-book.

Local Arts and Crafts

I have a weak spot for local arts and crafts. My home is littered with locally-made handicraft collected during my travels around the world. In developing countries, the local handicraft industry can make a big difference in communities struggling to eke out a daily living. Not only does the industry help these communities by providing a much-needed source of income, it also helps keep old customs and traditions alive. As visitors to these communities, I believe we can play a tangible role in helping to nurture the local handicraft industry, even if it means purchasing a simple hand-made fridge magnet.

When my friends, Dave and Deb from @theplanetd invited me to write a guest post about projects that help local communities, I seized this wonderful opportunity with both hands. I chose to write about a glass-blowing factory in Swaziland, Ngwenya Glass. The story behind this factory really inspired me. Ngwenya Glass produces stunning glass figurines and tableware, whilst keeping the well-being of the environment and the community at the forefront. Please visit The Planet D to read this article.

Have a fabulous #TravelTuesday!