Final answer:
To reach an unknown destination without following a car, use GPS technology, mapping apps, or consult maps and ask for directions. For safety, travel during the day, inform others of your itinerary, and be aware of your environment. Discrete planning is key in scenarios requiring inconspicuous travel.
Step-by-step explanation:
To arrive at an unknown destination without following someone in their vehicle, you should utilize alternative methods. One effective approach is to research the location beforehand and obtain clear directions. Today, many people use GPS devices or mapping apps on smartphones, which provide detailed turn-by-turn navigation to almost any destination. Besides technological tools, you can also seek recommendations from friends, consult a traditional map, or even contact your destination to ask for the best route.
If you are concerned about safety, as traveling to an unknown place may pose risks such as encountering bandits or traveling through unsafe territory, it's prudent to plan your trip during daylight hours and inform someone about your travel plans. In historical contexts, travelers would wait to join safe convoys for protection, similar to those described in the excerpts about traveling with an ambassador or proconsul for safety. In modern times, this could translate to traveling in a group or informing local authorities of your intended route, especially if you're hiking or exploring remote areas.
Moreover, it is critical to be aware of your surroundings and maintain a low profile if necessary, just as the advice given to astronomers mapping the universe suggests. If you're in a situation where you need to travel inconspicuously, like the conductors of the Underground Railroad, discreet planning and the understanding of subtle cues become central to navigating successfully.