6 tricks to convince desi parents to let you travel alone

Anam Hakeem comes to the rescue as she shares secrets to help you get permission to travel

It's no secret that desi parents are oh-so-over protective when it comes to their children. Especially if said children want to travel abroad. And especially if they are girls. "Shaadi ke baad jo karna hai karo!" is the one-liner every mother comes up with.

However, travel blogger Anam Hakeem is sharing the secret to persuading Pakistani parents to let their kids travel. In an ellaborate video, girlwithgreenpassport lists six practical tips to help you get permission.

1. Timing is key

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ GIRLWITHGREENPASSPORT

This is a very obvious one. It's pointless choosing a time when your parents aren't in the best of moods. How they're feeling will most likely affect their response so just be patient and wait for the perfect moment.

2. Travel to places you have family

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ GIRLWITHGREENPASSPORT

Although this can limit the countries you can jet off to, this tip actually makes a lot of sense. Parents just need some kind of comfort before they can let their 'little one' travel alone and going to a place you have relatives will give them just that. Take it as a stepping stone so that next time you want to travel elsewhere, they may have warmed up to the idea by then.

3. Incorporate work into travel

Using work as a reason is probably the easiest way to get your parents to let you go. They basically don't have a choice because it's a work requirement. If you have a conference coming up, try and explain its benefits to your parents. And once you are there, spend a day or two doing your own thing.

4. Opt for a shorter, closer stay

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ GIRLWITHGREENPASSPORT

This is a no-brainer. Your parents are much more likely to let you go off globe-trotting if you are fairly close - the UAE is a good place to start. And convincing them will be much easier if it a few days, rather than a few weeks.

5. Start with an Islamic country


PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ GIRLWITHGREENPASSPORT

Once again, the UAE fits the bill here. One of the reasons parents don't allow their children to travel is because of the people there. But if it's a Muslim country, they will probably find some relief.

6. Don't give up

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ GIRLWITHGREENPASSPORT

It's quite common for parents to say no in the first instance but don't lose hope. Try and explain your point of view and ease them into the idea. Having a more toned-down approach will also work better, as opposed to a more aggressive one.

Best of luck and happy travelling!

Watch the video here:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwhX3GxFegJ/

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.