I wouldn’t recommend using the backpack strategy unless she has a way to do a safe grip (it could be stolen by said person). My best advice is to never give them attention. Do NOT make eye contact, do NOT acknowledge their existence, do not talk back. I’ve traveled 28+ countries and many cities alone as a woman. The best advice I can give is to just give them a cold shoulder. They will move on if you do. It is a possibility that they get more “triggered” and bother you more but in my many experiences that is very rare.

And also crazy doesn’t mess with crazier. If you speak another language use it to say random things or legit speak back in gibberish. In worst case scenario that they legit don’t leave you alone and it is getting unsafe, cause a major scene. This will bring attention to the situation to other bystanders and they will usually help and/or the creep will leave.

Like other said headphones could be a good idea, just very low volume or no audio at all to be able to stay alert. Aisle seat if possible or sitting next to other women. One more advice is that you can order pepper spray to an Amazon locker in Arlington and pick it up there. It is very hard to find it and buy it in DC.

I personally would be scared to take this approach. Some people don’t take rejection of any kind well and go even more “crazy” if that happens. I wish the world were different but the reality is that as a woman we have to have our guard up. In my experience when traveling (28+ countries) it is best to absolutely not even look at them (do NOT make eye contact, just be aware of where they are physically) and they will move on. Also crazy doesn’t mess with crazier. If you speak another language you can respond in it or legit gibberish and they will leave.

Are you vegetarian, pescatarian, or just don’t eat red meat? If pescatarian or no red meat I recommend Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse. If you’ve never been to Brazilian Churrasqueria, it’s pretty much a buffet style place for different cuts of meat (red meat and pork as well). They have an amazing salad bar, many side plates options, chicken options, seafood options, and dessert. For brunch it’s about $45 per person, lunch is around the same, and for dinner it depends but usually around $66 per person. Note that this doesn’t include drinks outside of water.

they just now got it I believe OP created this or started to before yesterday’s win