You were lucky that you were able to travel alone at the age of 15 but you didn't state how long ago in time that was. The world today, although relatively safe in most places is not the same. It also depends on the age and maturity of the child involved. With all that is going on in the world - especially the disappearance of college students - would you send YOUR 9 year old out alone? Most parents would likely not. I would certainly not feel safe sending any child overseas by themselve until the age of 18 when an adult.

whilst she is "travelling" unaccompanied the child isnt truly travelling or holidaying without adult supervision or contact

in any event - its a question of the capability and savviness of the child

if the child or for that matter a adult is naive or otherwise unprepared there will be problems

folk that make it all about "the bad people" simply arent paying attention to how bad things actually happen

especially as regard children 95% of abuse and more is at the hands of family members or other people of trust

anyway

sure

but, the story is misrepresenting what is actually happening

the world is more connected and united compared to 5, or 10, or 20 years ago, but is not more a ''secure place''.

It always seems to be Americans asking if Europe is "safe". It is a hell of a lot safer than the USA!!

So many people on this site seem scared to go out alone or travel by themselves. I have been travelling alone internationally since I was 15 without incident.

I wonder what they terrifed have to say about this article?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2743587/Meet-Rosalie-Atkins-11-year-old-mother-happy-send-solo-trip-abroad.html