Life is full of unknowns. But when you embrace a challenge and embark on a new adventure, you’ll quickly discover that you’re not alone. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself surrounded by people who support and encourage you every step of the way. That’s the beauty of solo traveling. You will end up finding a safe place you can rely on emotionally. That’s exactly why empowering communities like NomadHer exist. 😎

Recently, the NomadHer Team had the pleasure of interviewing Zienna, a member of the NomadHer community. She made the journey all the way from London to Seoul to join our NomadHer International Women’s Festival 2024, marking the start of her first solo travel experience and embracing the unknown.

Zienna, a talented visual artist and entrepreneur, opened up about her time in Seoul and her stay at Episode, a serviced apartment highly recommended by her to fellow NomadHers who are looking for a safe long-term stay in Seoul.

Dive into her inspiring story in the article below!

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Transformative Journey to Seoul and NomadHer Women’s Day Festival

Hyo: Aloha Zienna! It’s so great to catch up with you again after our NomadHer She Can Travel Seoul Festival. How was your experience back in Seoul?

Zienna: Aloha, Hyo! It’s wonderful to reconnect. My experience in Seoul was truly transformative. I had never traveled solo before, and the idea of doing it for the first time in South Korea was both thrilling and a bit intimidating. However, discovering the Women’s Day Festival you hosted completely changed my plans. I initially intended to stay for just a week, but thanks to the incredible support I found through the NomadHer community, I felt empowered to extend my stay to an entire month. It was a spontaneous decision driven by a desire to explore new horizons after the challenges of the pandemic.

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Hyo: That sounds amazing! Could you tell us more about how you found your footing in Seoul, especially as a first-time solo traveler?

Zienna: Absolutely! I’ve always wanted to travel, but with my anxiety, I wasn’t sure how to do it safely and comfortably. That’s when my mum came across NomadHer online and suggested I give it a look. At first, I was skeptical, but as I explored your Instagram page and saw all the exciting events you were hosting, I began to feel more excited. When I saw the Women’s DayFestival, I just knew I had to be part of it. Before the trip, I was quite nervous about the whole experience, but the NomadHer community was so supportive and diverse. It really helped me to feel more secure and confident in my decision to take this leap of faith.

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Serendipitous Stay at Episode: A Perfect Blend of Aesthetics, Safety, and Community

Hyo: I'm glad to hear that! Where did you stay during your journey in Seoul, and how did you find the place?

Zienna: I stayed at  Episode, and it was a serendipitous find! I came across it through a recommendation on Reddit an online community channel, and it turned out to be the perfect choice. The space was not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly secure—something that’s really important when you’re traveling solo. The amenities were exactly what I needed, and the communal spaces provided a great sense of belonging. I even hosted a farewell dinner there, where I made pasta from scratch and others brought snacks. It was such a memorable experience and a fantastic way to connect with the amazing people I met during my stay.

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Hyo: It seems like you really immersed yourself in the local culture and community. How did this experience influence your professional journey as an artist and entrepreneur?

Zienna: My time in Seoul was not just about exploration—it was about empowerment. Being in such a vibrant city, surrounded by art and culture, really fueled my passion. I’m a visual artist from Hastings, East Sussex, specializing in abstract art, and recently, I transitioned from creating art full-time to founding a startup creative consultancy aimed at supporting female artists in the contemporary art scene. Hyo's story truly inspired me, boosting my confidence in my ability to achieve my startup goals as a solo female founder. The mission of NomadHer—creating a safe and supportive space for female travelers—really resonated with my own goals, encouraging me to think more deeply about how I can create similar supportive spaces for women in the art world.

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Hyo: It’s inspiring to see those parallels. How did your time at Episode specifically support you in this journey?

Zienna:  Episode was more than just a place to stay—it was a community. The leasing agent was incredibly accommodating with me. The secure environment, clear communication, and well-maintained communal areas were all vital in making me feel at ease. As someone who deals with severe anxiety, these factors were crucial for me to focus on my work and enjoy my time in Seoul. The communal spaces also allowed me to network and build relationships with other professionals, which was beneficial for laying the groundwork for my startup. I even made some great friends during my stay at  Episode and actually participated in a ‘dog party' on site. These friendships were so meaningful that I decided to extend my stay for an additional two weeks.  Episode easily accommodated my request, making the extension process smooth and hassle-free.

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Embracing the Unknown

Hyo: It’s wonderful to hear that different communities, such as NomadHer and Episode, have helped shape your experience. What would you say to other women who are considering taking the leap into solo travel?

Zienna: I would encourage them to go for it! The payoff is so worth it because you get to experience something you could never have if you stayed where you are. Traveling, especially solo, expands your horizons and helps you grow in ways you can’t even imagine. Having a supportive community like NomadHer and finding a great accommodation, like Episode, can make all the difference. My journey in Seoul was truly life-changing, and I’m already thinking about returning for an extended stay. It’s all about embracing the unknown, connecting with others, and knowing that you have a community behind you every step of the way.

Hyo: Thank you so much for sharing your story, Zienna. Your journey is a testament to the power of solo travel and the importance of community. We’re excited to see where your adventures take you next!

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This article is sponsored by Episode Nomad Stay, a premier serviced apartment brand located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea.

Episode Nomad Stay is dedicated to offering an unparalleled experience tailored specifically for digital nomads, solo travelers, and solopreneurs. With round-the-clock security and exceptional comfort, it ensures a safe and welcoming environment for every guest. Each fully furnished apartment features modern amenities, including laundry facilities and communal spaces, creating the perfect balance between productivity and relaxation for the modern female digital nomad. What's more, Episode Nomad Stay simplifies your booking process—no deposit required. Visit the website to learn more information by following this link.

As a special offer, Episode Nomad Stay is delighted to extend an exclusive 5% discount to the NomadHer community, valid until December 31st, 2024. Simply use the promo code NOMADHER5 at checkout by following this link.