Airplane Mode Podcast | Emma Topp on Crying in Italy and Finding Empowerment Traveling Solo

Italy has a way of enchanting travelers like no other country. From the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast to the winding canals of Venice, it’s a place where every corner tells a story, every meal feels like a celebration, and every moment invites you to slow down and savor life. Emma Topp, a seasoned traveler and Social Producer at EF Ultimate Break, has explored Italy five times and counting. On the first episode of the Airplane Mode podcast, she shares what makes Italy so special, why solo travel can be empowering, and how moments of vulnerability—like shedding tears in a Venetian square—can become some of the most freeing experiences of a lifetime.

Italy: A place to feel free and fully yourself

Emma’s love affair with Italy began unexpectedly with a text inviting her to sip spritzes in Venice. That first trip, a solo adventure before joining a group, was not only a test of independence but a moment of discovery. Venice’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets, quiet squares, and shimmering canals set the stage for her to embrace a new version of herself.

“I was in the middle of somewhere, maybe a dimly lit street with just a couple of cobblestones, and I thought, ‘This is crazy. I’m here, I don’t know anyone, and I can be anyone I want,’” Emma reminisces. That magical moment captures the essence of why Italy, and Venice especially, resonates so deeply with travelers seeking both adventure and solace.

The magic of Venice: More than just a city of canals

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. Built on over 100 small islands connected by more than 400 bridges, its charm lies not only in its iconic gondolas, but in its centuries-old traditions and vibrant local culture. Emma’s visits to Venice have been peppered with personal connections—friends’ cousins working in local restaurants, recommendations for hidden culinary gems, and the chance to savor a Venetian spritz.

A perfect day in Italy: Food, vintage finds, and the beach

Emma describes herself as an “itinerary girl,” someone who loves having a plan but also cherishes the freedom to explore. In Italy, her perfect day is a delightful loop of food, vintage shopping, beach time, and, of course, spritzes. Whether she’s in a bustling piazza or a quiet coastal town, the combination of sun, sea, and savory dishes never fails to lift her spirits.

Solo travel in Italy: Tips and emotional realities

Traveling solo, especially as a woman, can be both thrilling and intimidating. Emma shares candid advice from her own journeys, emphasizing the importance of packing light and being prepared for the physical demands of moving around cities like Venice, where trains and cobblestone streets are the norm. “If you can’t carry your suitcase down a hill or onto a train, you’re going to have a hard time,” she warns. The key is to pack only what you can comfortably manage, avoiding the stress of lugging heavy bags through narrow alleys and over bridges.

Emma also encourages solo travelers to give themselves grace, take breaks, and ask for help without guilt. “It’s okay to pause, regroup, and change your plans,” she advises. This flexibility not only prevents burnout but allows travelers to enjoy the experience on their own terms.

Overcoming fear and finding confidence One of the most powerful aspects of solo travel is the emotional growth it fosters. Emma admits she still battles doubts and fears, even with years of experience. But each trip reinforces her resilience and self-belief. She credits group-travel experiences as a helpful stepping stone, offering the camaraderie and support needed to build confidence before venturing out completely alone. Emma’s message is clear: “The only person who can make things happen for you is you.”

Traveling with community: The unexpected bonds formed on the road

Even when traveling solo, Emma finds that connections with others enrich the journey. She has met lifelong friends on group trips and cherishes the spontaneous friendships formed with fellow travelers and locals alike. These relationships add layers of meaning to each destination and often outlast the trips themselves. “Travel friendships are like camp friendships—they form quickly and deeply because you’re sharing new experiences all at once,” Emma explains.

Essential tips for women traveling solo

Safety and awareness are top priorities for solo female travelers. Emma emphasizes common-sense precautions—staying alert, keeping belongings secure, and avoiding risky situations. She also recommends researching neighborhoods ahead of time and arriving during daylight hours to navigate unfamiliar places more comfortably. “Walk with confidence, even if you don’t feel it,” she says. This simple act can deter unwanted attention and help travelers feel more in control. When approached by strangers, a firm but polite refusal is perfectly acceptable. Emma encourages women to trust their instincts and set clear boundaries.

Solo travel: A journey of empowerment

Ultimately, Emma’s experiences reflect the transformative power of solo travel. It’s not just about seeing new places but about discovering new parts of yourself. The mix of challenge, freedom, and connection creates a unique space for growth. “I feel the most like myself when I’m thousands of miles away from anyone that I know. It’s the most freeing feeling ever,” Emma told us.

Whether it’s savoring a spritz in a Venetian square, exploring vintage shops, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the water, solo travel invites you to live fully and authentically. Emma’s story reminds us that the journey is as much inward as it is outward, and that every tear shed along the way is part of the beautiful, messy, and empowering adventure of travel.

Watch the full podcast HERE!