Beth Whitman: Welcome world travelers! This is Beth Whitman here. I'm eager to share my solo travel tips and information with you in order to get you started in your travels. There's a whole big world waiting out there for you so let's get going!

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Fairfax, Va.: I am a young women who loves to take backpacking trips and I am always looking for the perfect multi-use items. Is there one thing you always bring when you are traveling? And which Asian country do you think is safest and most friendly to single female travellers?

Beth Whitman: I always say that all you REALLY need to travel is your passport and (access to) cash. Of course, we all have creature comforts and must-haves beyond those two items.

I carry an eye shade with me so that I can sleep on a long flight while my seatmate has the overhead light on or in my hotel room when the shades won't close all the way.

Also, I insist on traveling light. I pack my small amount of clothes and accessories into a combination roll aboard/backpack. This allows me to throw my bag over my shoulder to climb stairs or make my way over uneven streets. And it allows me to pull it behind me in the airport. I don't check baggage unless it's when I'm coming home and I have too many souvenirs to fit in my carry-on!

I'm partial to Asia and believe that all countries there are safe and friendly for women travelers. I've been to Vietnam seven times if that's any indication where my heart is.

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West Harwich, Mass.: I am meeting some friends in Paris the first week in November. We signed up for a week at a bargain price. However, after a week, my friends leave. I want to stay on for another ten days and do some exploring since I have never been to France. Am I better off renting a car and just going off or taking a train and exploring a destination as yet unknown, but for the sake of this question, say Provence? Thanks.

Beth Whitman: If it were me, I'd rent a car and explore rather than taking a train. But, there are pros and cons to both methods of travel.

If it fits your budget and you're comfortable driving in a foreign country, by all means rent a car and just begin exploring. You might find this type of travel a bit insulating unless you make an effort to stay in pensions or hostels where you can easily meet other travelers, many of whom might enjoy tagging along with you (and sharing expenses).

Taking the train will remove some of the stress out of your travels but you'll be beholden to the schedule of the train system and you won't have the flexibility of stopping in small towns along the way.