Are you planning your first trip as a solo female traveler?
Traveling on your own for the first time can be a challenging experience. As a solo female traveler, you’re probably concerned about safety and want to choose a destination where you can feel safe and confident traveling while still having a good time.
I’ve traveled to over 50 countries as a solo female traveler, including many countries that people perceive as “dangerous” — and while I wouldn’t necessarily recommend jumping into the deep end with a challenging destination on your first solo trip, here are five places I DO recommend for first-time solo travelers.
Choosing Your First Solo Trip Destination
Some important factors to consider when choosing the destination for your first solo trip are:
Safety: Obviously, safety is top of mind for solo female travelers. While it’s possible to travel safely in many countries around the world, choosing a country that ranks very high for safety is a good idea for a first solo trip.
Ease of travel: For a first solo trip, it’s smart to choose a destination that isn’t challenging to visit. For Americans, this could mean a country where English is the main language (or widely spoken in tourist areas) and where highly developed tourism infrastructure already exists.
Things to do: Finally, the best destinations for first-time solo female travelers are ones where there are plenty of things to do for every type of traveler.
Here are five of the best destinations to consider for a first-time solo female traveler:
1. United Kingdom
One of the best destinations for first-time solo female travelers is the United Kingdom. Taking a trip “across the pond” is a great way for American travelers to ease themselves into international travel, especially solo.
The UK is very safe, there won’t be much of a culture shock, and there are tons of things to do for every type of traveler. London is one of the top international travel destinations in the world, but don’t overlook these underrated cities in the UK either.
Iceland was recently ranked as the safest country in the world, according to the 2022 Global Peace Index. This makes it a great worry-free destination for solo female travelers.
It’s also chock-full of things to do, like hiking to waterfalls, seeing geysers and glaciers, and soaking in thermal hot springs. English is widely spoken in Iceland, and the small country has a great tourism infrastructure that’s easy to navigate.
3. Croatia
Croatia is one of the best destinations for a budget-friendly solo female trip. Thanks to its well-developed tourism infrastructure, you can feel confident navigating Croatia on your own. It’s also one of the safest countries in Europe.
At one time, Mexico would not have been on the list for solo female travel destinations, but in recent years, Mexico has become safer than ever.
Although the U.S. still has travel warnings in place for Mexico, Americans continue flocking to Mexico, and it’s actually much safer than you might think.
Mexico is a great introduction to Latin America for solo female travelers thanks to its highly-developed tourism infrastructure, popularity with American travelers, and proximity to the U.S.
5. New Zealand
Finally, New Zealand is a great destination for first-time solo female travelers. It’s located halfway across the world for American travelers, but it’s an easy adjustment since the primary language spoken is English.
New Zealand is incredibly safe (it’s ranked number two after Iceland in the Global Peace Index) and one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Did you know that 3 in 4 women in the U.S. have traveled or are planning to travel solo?
Solo female travelers are the fastest-growing group of travelers in the world. With searches for solo female travel having tripled over the last 4 years, it’s safe to say that trend isn’t going anywhere.
There’s been outstanding progress in the opportunities and acceptance of women who want to see the world alone, but safety is still a big part of the conversation.
According to recent surveys, while most men say their biggest travel worry is the price of a trip, half of women cite safety as their top travel concern.
While it’s important to remember that safety as a solo female traveler is entirely individual and subjective, many women consider statistics like low crime rates and safety rankings when choosing a solo destination.
You may be familiar with the usual front-runners for women’s travel safety, like Norway, Japan, or Canada. But the world still has a few good surprises in store.
Here are six lesser-known safe destinations for solo female travelers that are bound to surprise you.
Punta del Este, Uruguay
Uruguay is the safest country in all of Latin America and one of the top fifty safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. The slow pace of life, welcoming social scene, and relative political stability make Uruguay a top safety pick.
Punta del Este is sometimes referred to as the St. Tropez of Uruguay. This elite beach community is known for its gorgeous beaches and clean flower-lined streets, as well as its tranquil safety.
While there’s nothing particularly unsafe about the capital city of Montevideo, Punta del Este is widely regarded as the safest and calmest destination in Uruguay.
This seaside city attracts plenty of luxury tourists and celebrities from all over the Americas. Its swanky resorts, sleek nightclubs, and award-winning restaurants won’t be the cheapest option in Uruguay.
Solo travelers can join boat trips to swim with sea lions at Isla de Lobos, enjoy the daily sunset ceremony at Casapueblo, catch some waves at Playa Brava, or soak in the sun at trendy Bikini Beach.
Qatar is the safest country in the Middle East and one of the 25 safest countries in the world. While the dress code is conservative, sexual harassment and street crime are incredibly low.
Neighboring Dubai usually comes to mind first for a safe and luxurious Gulf getaway. But don’t underestimate Doha. The Qatari capital is so safe that you’d be hard-pressed to find so much as a taxi scam or pickpocket anywhere.
Unlike most big cities, Doha is just as safe to explore by night as by day. It’s a good thing, too, because the city lights up into an architectural work of art when the sun goes down. Evening is a great time for a walk around the Corniche, a fountain show at Place Vendôme, or hanging out in Barahat Msheireb.
Getting around the city is safe and easy any time of day, both on public transport and with Uber.
There’s so much to do in Doha for every kind of solo female traveler:
Hop on a boat to Banana Island
Climb the Inland Sea dunes
Marvel at Education City Mosque
Stroll the colorful Qanat Quartier
Shop in Souq Waqif, or the calmer alternative Souq Al Wakrah
Kayak around Purple Island
Get your culture on at the Islamic Museum of Art
Visit the Golden Masjid at Katara Cultural Village
Shop in some of the glitziest malls in the world, like Al Hazm
Doha is also one of the most Instagrammable cities in the world. Snap your travel shots at the Iconic 2022 building, Ceremonial Court, Mina District, or even Al Sadd Metro Station. For those willing to get off-path, ‘Shadows Travelling On The Sea of the Day’ mirror art installation in the desert of nearby Al Zubarah is a true hidden gem.
Some safety items to note: Homosexuality and some forms of reproductive health care are illegal here and can carry a prison sentence of up to 5 years. The laws in Qatar are as strictly enforced for tourists as they are for locals.
Did you know that 8 of the top 10 safest cities in the U.S. are in Texas? And Frisco is #1.
Rates of violence, street crime, and harassment are all extremely low, so women adventuring alone can feel comfortable day or night.
In Frisco, safe doesn’t mean boring. This destination is full of surprises, from the trendiest restaurants and shops in Legacy West to hidden swimming holes at Limestone Quarry Park.
No description of Frisco would be complete without mentioning “The Star.” This mega-complex is home to the Dallas Cowboys, but has become so much more than that.
Enjoy the buzzing social scene of nearly 30 top-rated restaurants, bars, and patios in the complex before cooling off in the Omni Hotel’s rooftop pool – all without leaving The Star. Oh, and don’t forget to get fitted for a pair of iconic Lucchese cowboy boots in the 6,200-square-foot shopping center before you go!
Pretty much all cities in Texas are car-dependent, so travelers should reserve a rental car in advance for this trip. With that rental car, though, your Frisco trip can take you to so many other destinations in 30-45 minutes.
Solo female travelers can see the rodeo in Fort Worth, explore the hipster-meets-historical old town square in Denton, or take in the Dallas skyscrapers and trendy food truck fare in Klyde Warren Park – all with peace of mind about their safety.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Malaysia is the third safest country in Asia, the safest budget-friendly Asian destination, and one of the top twenty safest countries in the world.
Violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of. While locals might look twice at foreigners of all genders, solo female travelers are unlikely to receive unwanted attention or street harassment here.
Many travelers might want to head straight to the jungle-lined beaches of Langkawi, but it would be a serious mistake to skip the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.
With recently announced digital nomad visas, hundreds of new hotels, and top safety ratings, it’s no wonder that Kuala Lumpur is trending in 2023.
Here are some great solo-traveler-friendly activities in Kuala Lumpur:
Climb the colorful steps of Batu Caves
Get high above the clouds at Petronas Twin Towers, the tallest in the world
Indulge your inner foodie at Lot 10 Hutong, Jalan Alor, or Michelin-starred Dewakan
Make new friends in the hopping nightlife at Changkat Bukit Bintang
Take in a PUSAKA traditional dance show
Kigali, Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the biggest comeback stories in the world when it comes to social peace and women’s safety.
The capital city of Kigali is the safest in Africa, with all-time low crime rates for the continent.
In 2022, Rwanda was also ranked the sixth safest country in the world for solo travelers. This year, the BBC featured Rwanda as the second safest destination for solo female travelers specifically. It is also the sixth most gender-equitable country in the world.
For solo female travelers, walking alone at night isn’t advised, as is the case in most cities around the world.
The minor risks in Kigali are petty theft (usually crimes of opportunity) and reckless moto drivers.
Recommended activities:
Shop at the open-air Kimironko market
Get around the city with Rwanda’s first female tour guide driver
Cycle around Kigali on a bike tour with all-female company Judith Safaris
Savor Rwandan coffee at Question Coffee, Inzora rooftop, or J. Lynn’s, which doubles as both a café and a women’s entrepreneurship hub
Take a day trip to see the gorillas at Parc National des Volcans or soak up the sun at Lake Kivu Beach
Ojochal, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the safest country in Central America and one of the top 40 safest countries in the world (for reference, the U.S. ranks below 120).
That said, safety in Costa Rica can vary a lot between regions. A few flashpoints to avoid are Quepos, Limon City, Santa Rosa de Pocosol, and most of San Jose.
One of the safest places to be in Costa Rica is the town of Ojochal and its neighboring beaches, Playas Tortugas and Ventanas.
A true hidden gem in Puntarenas, Ojochal isn’t a major tourist destination, but hosts outstanding natural beauty and a welcoming long-term international community.
The pristine stretch of beach at Playa Tortuga is a unique find in Costa Rica: an untouched sandy beach better for swimming than surfing. Solo female travelers can have peace of mind soaking up the sun here.
The town of Ojochal retains its traditional culture but welcomes newcomers. It’s not bad on the budget, either. Large multi-room villas with jungle view pools can go for as little as $175 a night.
Take a short drive to Nauyaca Waterfalls, boat down the Río Terraba mangroves, or go scuba diving with sea turtles. Whichever pura vida activities you choose, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re in the safest off-path paradise in the region.
I had a crush on Turkey from the moment I arrived bleary-eyed on the overnight train from Bulgaria. A few hours later, I’d finished my first Turkish breakfast, and quickly realized I was in love.
After 5 years and 40 countries of full-time international travel, Turkey ranks in my top 10 destinations for solo female travelers.
Here’s why:
1. It’s Safer Than You Think.
A traveler is 8 times safer from violent crime in Turkey than in the U.S., even in big cities like Istanbul and Izmir.
Based on my personal experience traveling across Turkey, I’d say you’re more in danger from kofte kebab food coma or kitten cuteness exposure than any street crime here.
Before coming to Turkey, I’d been cautioned time and time again with vague fear-mongering: “You know what they say about Turkish men.” Let me tell you: nothing could have been further from the truth.
These common ‘warnings’ are discriminatory, inaccurate, and might prevent you from experiencing some of the best hospitality in the world.
I’ve felt safer walking down the street alone in Turkey day or night than in Italy, Spain, or Greece. There have been exactly two mild street harassment incidents in my five months traveling in Turkey over the past year – both by foreigners, with Turkish men who didn’t even know me stepping in to help.
Of course, travelers should take reasonable safety precautions everywhere they go. The few things I wouldn’t advise while traveling in Turkey right now are:
Visiting Istanbul’s Taksim area alone after 10 pm on weekends
Leaving your valuables vulnerable to easy pickpocketing
Taking drinks from strangers in bars or clubs
Public displays of affection in LGBTQIA+ relationships outside of major chain hotels
Visiting certain parts of southeastern Turkey near the Syrian border region (due to the presence of terrorist groups and earthquake devastation)
2. Women Are Welcome And Protected In Turkish Mosques.
If you do find yourself walking alone at night and feeling unsure or unsafe for whatever reason, the abundance of mosques in Turkey offer you an amazing safe haven.
Many large mosques remain open through the night. As long as you’re dressed modestly, remove your shoes, and have a scarf handy, you can respectfully duck into one of these well-lit houses of worship to be sure of your safety at almost any hour.
To be clear: I don’t advocate treating a holy masjid as an alternative to a police station. Travelers in obvious danger should call emergency services. But for those all-too-familiar gray zone situations that simply give solo female travelers a bad gut feeling, it’s nice to know that you have safe places to turn to without ringing any alarm bells.
3. You Don’t Need To Choose Between Tea And Coffee.
It’s no surprise that Turkey is a country of tea lovers. The average Turk drinks 1,300 cups of tea each year. Turkey is even home to a tea museum in the shape of a 7-story tea glass in the ‘tea capital’ of Rize. It should then come as no surprise that travelers will find themselves offered a warm welcome tea everywhere they go.
The beautiful thing about Turkey is that this country embraces both tea and coffee. No need to take sides. Simply enjoy both!
From iconic Turkish coffee in an Izmir antique shop to artisan roast flat whites in Moda’s plentiful third wave coffee shops, there’s some java here for every type of traveler.
4. Multicultural Turkish Cities Offer A Safe Way To Explore Syrian Culture.
While Syria isn’t a recommended destination for solo female travelers at the moment, multicultural cities in Turkey certainly are. They offer a safe and fascinating opportunity to try Syrian food, have conversations with Syrian refugees and immigrants, and learn more about the Syrian diaspora.
Recommended activities include:
There are about 4 million Syrians living in Turkey, creating an amazing multicultural opportunity for travelers. However, it’s important to note that many Turks will still make negative comments to visitors about Syrians in their country.
“Turkish society’s acceptance of Syrians has largely been transformed into ‘toleration’ rather than an understanding of establishing a practice of living together,” explained a study from UNHCR.
When traveling in Istanbul, you may hear locals tell you that Fatih, a predominantly Arab and Syrian neighborhood, is ‘not really Turkey’ or isn’t ‘what it used to be.’ Some Turks will voice concerns about Syrians putting pressure on social services or job markets or bringing what they perceive as an incompatibly conservative culture to their city.
Try not to let this tension prevent you from enjoying two amazing cultures in one trip.
5. Turkey Is So Much More Than Istanbul.
Many travelers don’t realize just how big Turkey is. With nearly 800 square kilometers of ancient cities, surreal moonscapes, and more beaches than you could count, this country has so much more to offer than its popular capital Istanbul.
Great destinations for solo female travelers include:
Bursa
Fethiye
Izmir
Bodrum
Kars
Antalya
Cappadocia
Pamukkale
Amasra
Gaziantep
Ankara
Mardin
Let the safety and hospitality of Turkey encourage your next great solo adventure!
The often overlooked country of Slovenia lies in the shadow of three neighboring European fan favorites: Croatia, Austria, and Italy.
While its popular neighbors rake in the tourists, Slovenia remains off the beaten path, offering the most scenic and affordable stay in central Europe.
From the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana to the sapphire waters at Lake Bled, Slovenia feels like a fantastical dream.
Featuring crystal-clear alpine lakes, breathtaking mountains, and charming medieval cities, it’s no wonder that Slovenia was chosen as the filming location for the mythical kingdom of Narnia.
What does remain a wonder is why Slovenia isn’t yet the most popular destination for solo female travelers.
For better or for worse, when we talk about solo female travel, the first question is always about safety. Luckily, Slovenia is one of the safest destinations in the world for solo female travelers.
7th Safest Country In The World
Slovenia is one of the top seven safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Slovenia even ranks above super-secure Singapore and Scandinavian favorites like Norway and Finland.
Other recent rankings list Slovenia as one of the top three safest travel destinations in the world.
According to a recent BBC report, Slovenia is the best destination for women looking for a safe solo trip.
BBC based their rankings on:
Georgetown University’s Women’s Peace And Security Index (WPS)
World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap report and the Institute for Economics and Peace Global Peace Index (PGP),
Interviews with women who traveled solo to the top-ranked countries
Solo female travelers who recently visited Slovenia explained to the BBC that they never felt unsafe or truly alone, whether getting lost in Ljubljana’s picturesque streets at midnight or hiking sunny alpine trails.
85% of Slovenian women feel safe walking alone at night. Slovenia also has one of the lowest rates of intimate partner violence in Europe.
Progressive Social Attitudes
Women traveling in Slovenia can expect a progressive environment, free from any judgment of their choice to travel alone or to pursue adventurous activities while on their trip.
In general, Slovenian society is quite gender equal. There is next to no discrimination against women working paid jobs, with 52% of Slovenian women employed in the workforce (equal to U.S. rates in 2021).
Slovenia’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs even recently announced a “feminist foreign policy strategy” focusing on gender equality initiatives and empowerment across Europe.
While no country is without room for improvement when it comes to structural sexism, it’s safe to say that Slovenia is a country where solo female travelers are welcome and respected.
Positive Experiences
Women who have taken solo trips to Slovenia are quick to share their positive experiences with safety on social media and travel blogs.
Travel Ladies, an app that connects solo female travelers and locals to share destination information such as safety, gives Slovenia a 5-star safety rating based on real women’s solo adventures.
Over 80% of the experience reviews for Slovenia on Travel Ladies specifically mention feeling extremely safe.
Solo traveler Melissa shared that she felt very safe on her recent trip to Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana. “Throughout my trip, I had no worries or questioned my safety,” she writes. “Safety is my top concern, and I felt protected and in my comfort zone.”
Full-time traveler Katie’s experience alone in the country was similarly carefree. “I arrived in Ljubljana well past midnight in the middle of a massive rain storm,” she explains. “Since the weather was so horrible, there was no one out on the streets, and I felt completely safe walking to the hostel… I never felt in danger.”
As the 7th safest country in the world and a top-rated pick for women, Slovenia has so much to offer on your next carefree solo trip to Europe.
Traveling with your friends and family is nice, but there is nothing quite like a solo trip where all your time is your own and you can come and go as you please.
Solo travel is trending this year, and the majority of those who are looking to travel on their own seem to be women.
According to booking.com, 84% of these solo travelers around the world are women, and Google data indicates that 55% of searches for ‘solo travel’ are coming from women, specifically millennial-age women.
We have covered some of the safest countries for solo female travel, as well as some of the safest cities around the world.
Here comes a new report from bag and luggage brand Kipling to indicate the safest European cities for solo female travelers.
Using data such as activity offerings, attractions, group activities, transport, safety, and gender equality, the figures were calculated to give each destination a ‘Solo Female Traveler City Index’.
Here are the top 5 safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers:
Hamburg, Germany
The top scorer on the Solo Female Traveler City Index is Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg.
Known for its great nightlight and busy port seaside vibe, Hamburg ranks high for gender equality and things to do.
Visitors like to see many things here and all are easily accessible by foot or bicycle, although tours are plentiful as are the hostels and hotels for solo travelers.
And being Germany, public transportation is organized and efficient, meaning you are far less likely to get stranded anywhere.
In case you have heard of a little thing called Oktoberfest, then you probably know about this Bavarian city.
Well connected via trams and buses, there’s a reason this city has been ranked one of the safest in the world for solo female travelers.
Ranking high for gender equality, the city makes women travelers feel safe and welcome. With no end of places to visit and German beers to sample, there’s always something to do and friends to be made.
Edinburgh, Scotland
The third city on Kipling’s Solo Female Traveller City Index takes us up to Scotland, to the charming medieval city of Edinburgh.
With a high score for group activities, attraction and accommodation, it’s likely that no solo traveler here will have trouble making friends.
Those who visit in the summer can experience Edinburgh’s famous Fringe Festival, where musical, comedy, and other acts take over stages across the city.
Prices are higher and accommodation can be difficult to find at this time though, so plan early if this is your kind of scene.
Faro, Portugal
Yes, Portugal is famous for its postcard-worthy cities of Lisbon and Porto, the latter of which also makes the list but lower down at number 12.
For the number four city on our list though, we head down south to the Algarve coast and find the city of Faro.
It might seem ironic that a city with a chapel made of skeletons of old monks is one of the safest for solo female travelers, but Faro ranks highly for many safety factors.
In addition to having beaches, a cozy old town, and great nightlife, the city is well connected as it has the only airport in the region, linking it to other major European cities, but also boat and ferry options to connect it to other coastal cities as well.
Dublin, Ireland
Coming in at number five on Kipling’s Solo Female Traveller City Index is Ireland’s capital city of Dublin.
With many tour options and accommodation catering to backpackers and solo travelers, those who come here alone are unlikely to stay that way long.
Day trips outside of the city to famed sites such as the Giant’s Causeway make solo travel easy to plan, not to mention the pub and music scene to take in after the day exploring.
Ireland itself has ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, and it’s no exception for solo female travelers.
To finish off the list, here are the rest of the top 20 safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers:
Spring is about reawakening, which should apply to everyone, not just college freshmen and sophomores. This year, spring break is turning out to be a refuge for everyone wanting to relax. If your version of relaxing means partying the night away and meeting new people, then that’s okay too. If you prefer to travel solo or want to make new friends, spring break is the perfect time to do it, but you have to consider where you go.
Destinations vary in terms of the holiday, and one might be different from your type of vibe. Another one might have the perfect ambiance, but you need to be made aware it exists.
Being adventurous can be part of a spring awakening, and trying something new this season can set your summer off to a good start. We’ve sourced the top seven spring break destinations for solo travelers, and they range from excellent poolside hotels to trendy urban areas where cocktails and meeting new people go hand in hand. This season, feel free to get out there.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Located in Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is a favorite of many solo travelers. It’s an incredible LGBTQ+ hotspot known for its high-energy parties and pacific-facing beaches that offer a sense of calm to many travelers. Properties like Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa blend those two experiences together.
The hotel has 433 Jalisco-town-inspired suites, all facing the recently renovated infinity pool, which is perfect if you prefer to meet other solo travelers by swimming at the floating bar. If floating isn’t your style, check out Nosh, an open-air bar facing the pacific. You’ll mingle with others while enjoying Jalisco-inspired cocktails and music.
Check out the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center if you want a more all-inclusive vibe. It’s a massive all-inclusive property perfect to amp up the party. Prepare to relax; the renovated Maiave Spa has some of the best hands in the industry.
Their AAA restaurant Gaviotas has a fantastic assortment of prehispanic (before Spanish colonization) meals in a high-end ambiance that challenges the idea of an all-inclusive beach hotel. It’s worth it if you want to party but add a little culture to your trip.
Las Vegas has been known as America’s party town for what seems like forever, and we’re not trying to reinvent the wheel here. There are places that are a little different, like Superfrico (one of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas) newest restaurants.
It’s a funky hotspot where you can have out-of-this-world dishes and mingle with burning man-like people. It labels itself as an Italian psychedelic restaurant, and we’re good with that. It’s the type of place you go if you want to have a cocktail while your neighbor performs magic tricks or something. It’s bizarre, and for all the good reasons. If you’re ever in Nevada, you have to check it out.
Another party place that doesn’t need a formal introduction is Ibiza. Back then, hippies looking to escape western wars made their way to the Balearic Islands and introduced the struggling habitants to the wonders of the party scene.
This created a party monster, and the island was never the same again. If you’re there, check out spots like BLESS Hotel Ibiza and TRS Ibiza Hotel. These hotels are the opposite, but it’s an excellent way to determine your wants. At BLESS Hotel Ibiza, you’ll find a killer rooftop called Epic Infinity Lounge that promotes hedonism and a 2023 Michelin-star award-winning restaurant called Etxeko Ibiza. It’s a posh way of partying in Ibiza.
The TRS Ibiza Hotel is more original to an all-inclusive but has some of the best meeting spots for solo travelers on the island. A favorite is the Aurum Lobby Bar. Around check-in/check-out time, you’ll be immersed in this Balearic hotel’s foot traffic. Pro tip: if you’re at the TRS Ibiza Hotel, check out Cala Gracioneta and Cala Gració. These two adjoining beaches give spring vacation in Europe vibes.
Most spring breakers have been to Miami Beach, but have you been to the South of Fifth neighborhood of Miami Beach? This is the perfect place to meet other solo travelers looking for a good time. Stay at The Balfour Hotel Miami Beach, a historic art-deco wonder with only 82 guest rooms. Designed by Anton Skislewicz (a pioneer in the art-deco movement on the beach) in 1940, it has a unique style that screams “let’s hang out.”
Another spot in the neighborhood is Minibar. Located on Meridian and 5th street, it’s the type of place you go to and ends up making friends with everyone from the bartender to folks next to you.
Guadalajara, Mexico
Another great city in Jalisco is Guadalajara. If you’ve been to Mexico City and liked it, you’ll love this equally impressive counterpart. Walk through the historic city center, where you can visit spots like the UNESCO World Heritage Site Museo Cabañas and the golden-hued Palacio de Gobierno.
You can crash at the super modern brutalist-inspired Bellwort Hotel, located pretty much in the middle of everything. You can grab drinks at La Tequila Cocina, roam around the city, or eat at the earthy VENENO. It’s an amazingly excellent restaurant inspired by the once-populated Casas Grandas in Chihuahua.
One last stop could be the magical town of San Pedro Tlaquepaque. Its quaintness can often be overwhelming. This city has plenty of different attractions for making friends or wanting to be alone.
Madrid, Spain
The capital of Spain has some different attractions for solo travelers and is often known as a safe alternative for them. It’s a must-visit if you’re planning to cascade through western Europe. Don’t think it’s boring; places like BLESS Hotel Madrid offer interesting dining choices and a sophisticated-relaxed vibe you can’t find anywhere else in the city.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
All-inclusive hotels are great if you’re looking for new friends, and we’re sure this last one will be full of potential new friends this spring break. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is the type of place you go if you want to party but also feel like you’re visiting a destination. It’s a massive resort with amenities like catamaran tours of some of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful beaches and lagoons.
They also have a few nightclubs and bars on the property that are pretty fun. The Eden Pools are lively outdoor pools facing the ocean that can promote friend-making.
Worst case scenario, head over to Santo Domingo. This beautiful colonial capital is home to the Zona Colonial, where you can find some of America’s oldest churches and other historical sites. It’s also a fun place to have a cocktail and grab a bite with a blossoming LGBQT+ scene developing.
A significant portion of the Dominican Republic’s cultural identity can be found here, and it’s a welcoming spot every solo traveler should try at least once.
Travel is back and bigger than ever. Many destinations have reported record-breaking visitor arrivals, and the momentum doesn’t look like it will stop. As more and more travelers get back out into the world, many are considering going it alone. In fact, about 25% of American travelers planned on taking a solo trip this year, and the trend is set to grow in 2023.
Many travelers who are used to checking out new destinations with a group or a travel partner don’t understand why solo travelers decide to take a trip alone. Below are five reasons you should take a solo trip next year, but first, here are a few misconceptions about solo travel.
Solo Travel Misconceptions
As a married man with a wife who also loves to travel, some people I meet while on a solo trip are surprised to learn that I am traveling alone. Things I’ve heard that are common misconceptions include:
“You must be so brave!”
“Why isn’t your wife with you?”
“Don’t you get bored?”
“Don’t you get lonely?”
I’ll admit, before taking my first trip alone and without my wife, many of these questions were bouncing around in my head as well. Would I be lonely? Would I get bored? Did I need to be brave? What if something went wrong? Who would be there to help me? I quickly learned that there was no need to worry. Did I miss my wife? Of course I did. Was I lonely? Not at all.
Many people are quick to assume there must be something wrong if you are traveling without your spouse, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Traveling solo has added a depth to our relationship that I’m not sure we could have reached any other way. If you have open communication with your partner and there aren’t any trust issues, solo traveling away from each other can actually be a great way to enhance your relationship. The old adage is true. Absence really does make the heart grow fonder.
With some of the misconceptions about solo travel out of the way, here are 5 reasons you should take a solo trip next year:
When you are living your day-to-day life with family, friends, and coworkers, it’s easy to forget about some of the things you were once interested in. Interests naturally intertwine when you spend enough time around others. Music, TV shows, conversation… we all tend to find common ground within the relationships we form.
When you travel alone, things you may have forgotten about yourself will come to light. The music you haven’t listened to in years suddenly finds its way back onto your playlist. Movies you used to love are now the go-to choice during flights. Restaurants you usually wouldn’t visit are now on the menu. It isn’t bad that we lose bits of ourselves in the relationships we form. In fact, it’s a beautiful part of life. I have mannerisms and tastes that I’ve picked up from my wife that I love, and she’s certainly picked up some of mine (sorry babe!). It’s an amazing thing that only she and I share, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Traveling alone allows you to remember who you are by yourself and practice gratitude for who you’ve become. Taking a step away from the relationships that mean the world to you allows you to look at them from a distance and realize how incredibly important they are and how much they’ve changed you for the better.
2) Gain Self Confidence
Bravery isn’t required for solo travel, but you will undoubtedly gain more self-confidence by the end of your trip. Going into my first solo trip, I was worried about getting bored, lonely, or having something go wrong. However, I learned none of those things are true. Navigating airports, trains, Ubers, cabs, and language barriers may seem daunting while alone. Still, it’s really no different than if you were traveling with a partner or group.
You’ll quickly find that you can do everything you need to do on your own without the help of anyone else, and although they are relatively minor things, you will still feel more confident. You’ll see that you can be effective in whatever situation arises, and there’s no need to have a group or another person to rely on. You are enough.
3) Meet Interesting People
If I had to place myself somewhere on a scale of 1-10, with 1 being very introverted and 10 being very extroverted, I’d confidently put myself at 5. I am happy to meet new people and talk the night away if the conversation is interesting. I am also just as happy to read a book or listen to music on a nice walk alone. Before heading off on my first solo trip, I was worried about meeting new people. I was sure my more introverted tendencies would kick in when traveling alone.
I was wrong.
If you love traveling enough to go alone, you are in luck. That’s because everyone you meet that is traveling alone also loves travel! Conversations are immediately interesting and stimulating because they naturally gravitate towards travel, a topic all parties love. I’ve learned more about the world and the interesting people in it simply by talking to like-minded travelers. While many people assume that means you have to go to the bars or randomly approach strangers, I’m here to tell you it’s way easier than that.
The trick is simply to DO something. Go on a guided food tour, try a snorkeling trip, attend a conference you are interested in or volunteer. Meeting people is natural if you go try things you are interested in. You’ll meet people you know are interested in the same thing, making conversation easier than ever. I have friends in London, New York, Boston, the Caribbean, and more, simply from being open to a conversation while solo traveling. Some of the most interesting people I’ve ever talked to have been people I met while traveling alone.
4) Get Lost In The Moment
There’s something about walking down a London Street in the rain that will never get old for me. My wife and I both adore London and visit at least every other year. However, this past year I traveled there alone, and my senses were running on overdrive. The rainy reflections off the glass-covered buildings in Canary Wharf, the sounds of the busy footsteps of morning commuters crossing the south quay footbridge, the smell of fresh coffee each morning on my way to the tube… I was so much more immersed in the experience of being in London.
When traveling with others, it’s easy to fall into the trap of talking about things that aren’t happening. It’s easy to get pulled out of the NOW. Where do you want to get lunch? What should we do tomorrow? Remember the last time we were here? It’s natural to converse while going about your day, but those conversations often pull you out of the moment. When traveling alone, you have no choice but to be fully immersed in your environment, and it’s a beautiful experience.
When I return to London with my wife again, I will have an even deeper appreciation for both her and the city.
5) Freedom
This is one of the most popular reasons travelers opt to travel by themselves. When you travel alone, you have complete autonomy to spend your days and nights however you see fit. Want to try out a restaurant on the other side of town? Too tired from a packed day and want to order room service? Do it!
If you’ve ever traveled with a group (or even just one other person), you’ve probably disagreed on some aspect of the trip at some point. I’ll refrain from coming up with any specific examples, but there have certainly been times during trips with others when I felt like I was wasting precious time that could be used exploring something more interesting. Traveling alone means you can do what you want when you want. You can see and do everything you set out to do without negotiating the day away with anyone else.
Bonus Tip: This particular benefit of solo travel doesn’t have to be exclusive to traveling alone. If you are traveling with a partner or group, start the trip with the rule that no one has to do anything they don’t want to, and everyone is free to separate and do things they are more interested in. This is actually one of the best ways to get the best of both worlds when it comes to solo travel vs. traveling with others.
What Are You Waiting For?
2023 is right around the corner, and your next solo trip is waiting. As the world continues to open back up to normal tourism, the options are becoming more numerous than they have been in years. Solo travel is a great way to get out and see all the things you want to see in this world without waiting for others to come with you. See what you want to see, do what you want to do, and come back with incredible stories to share.
Digital nomadism may be the number one trend worldwide right now, but it’s clear some destinations are far outpacing others when it comes to adapting to this reality, simply by loosening their once-strict immigration curbs, or even launching new visas for the category. Now, the numbers are in, and this one tiny country has ticked all the boxes, being crowned the best for long solo travel in the post Covid world.
Taking into account the extent of its natural wonders, which include natural reserves and pristine Caribbean and Pacific coastlines, and a strong economy that’s among some of the fastest growing in the Americas, it’s no wonder it came out ahead of other traditional nomad havens, including Indonesia and Thailand.
At last, Costa Rica is getting the recognition it deserves:
A Gem Of Central America Growing In Popularity By The Minute
Out of 14 destinations listed by Elite Daily, Costa Rica came out ahead as the best place to travel ‘for a month alone’. In order to reach a consensus, the team talked to experts at Next Vacay, Expedia and Hotels.com, who shared some of the tendencies in travel they’ve been noticing in recent months, and looked at other relevant data that pointed to Costa Rica as the definitive winner.
According to Elite Daily, these renowned platforms agreed on naming Costa Rica the world leader in long-term solo traveling. In fact, Expedia claims it beats all the others to the number one spot as it is ‘equal parts nature-filled serenity and one-of-a-kind adventures‘. Again, these remarks highlight Costa Rica’s strong appeal among nature seekers.
Other recent reports by the booking platform Hostelworld.com seem to support Expedia’s statements, after it concluded that 74 per cent of solo travelers listed ‘natural world experiences’ as their top priority going abroad following Covid. Unsurprisingly, a growing number of them is feeling a magnetic pull to Costa Rica, and Central America on an extent, due to the wild nature found there.
What Makes Costa Rica So Attractive To Solo Travelers?
More specifically, Costa Rica fills in all of the following criteria:
Good public transportation
Accessibility*
Safety
Variety of things to do once inside the country
*It is an incredibly well-connected hub, boasting flight connections to numerous destinations in the United States, Canada, and across the entire Caribbean
Additionally, living in Costa Rica is much more affordable than living in the States or Europe. Americans can comfortably spend a whole month living on a $2,000 budget, or even a much-lower $1,500, depending on overall spending and accommodation choices. Seeing that rent in Costa Rica tends to be roughly 71% lower as well, we can definitely see why solo travelers are flocking into this Central American gem.
What Are Some Of The Country’s Highlights?
Although it is fairly small compared to the likes of the U.S. and Mexico, Costa Rica has 27 national parks within its national territory, besides being home to roughly five per cent of the world’s entire biodiversity. Yes, it is famous for the extent of its jungles, but cloud forests, dry forests, rainforests, coral reefs and many other wonders also enrich the country’s natural treasures.
The lively capital, San Jose, rivals fellow urban centers in the region, such as Panama’s Panama City and and Nicaragua’s Managua, offering visitors a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern 21st century metropolis. More importantly, it is the gateway to Costa Rica, being served by the San Jose International Airport, and linked by bus to numerous destinations across the country.
Other attractions include:
Arenal, an active volcano famous for its hot springs
Mistico Arenal, a scenic path featuring the landmark suspended bridges
Manuel Antonio National Park, a Pacific reserve
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, an inland park with countless hiking trails and outdoor activities
Fortune Waterfall, an iconic cascade 70 meters tall
Marino Ballena National Park, a popular site for whale watching
One Downside: Somewhat Slower Internet Compared To The U.S.
On the downside, at least for nomads looking to stay a while longer, Costa Rica has a less-than-impressive fixed broadband speed, with Speedtest ranking it at number 63 globally, at 53.67 Mbps. It still fares better than its strongest competitors, like Mexico (number 77) and Belize (number 86), but it’s well behind the U.S. (number 8) and Canada (number 22).
That’s not to say internet is unbearably slow in Costa Rica. It is, after all, in the same league as the wider Caribbean, and even faster than Mexico’s. So don’t worry, you’ll get your job done as decent, reliable Wi-Fi is available in a majority of settings – except when you’re out there braving the jungle. In that case, we recommend you buy a local SIM.
The Top 14 Destinations For Long-Term Travel According To Elite Daily
Other destinations that have featured on Elite Daily’s list include:
Out of the above countries, only Costa Rica, Belize, Bali and Thailand have digital nomad visa agreements in place, allowing long-term travelers, including Americans, to live and work freely in the country as long as their source of income originates from abroad and certain financial requirements are met. Others like Portugal and Hungary have announced plans to launch their own in the near future.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Now that the pandemic has changed the way we perceived the world, and even our travel behaviors, some unexpected trends are gaining traction. Solo travel is undeniably one of them, with individual bookings leading industry sales as more people feel encouraged to explore new destinations by themselves (and create their own memories).
For years, Europe held the title of ‘Tourism Capital’ of the world, due to its well-developed hostel and backpacking scene, as well as excellent transportation links, which makes country-hopping an easy feat. As the Old Continent reopens, many expected it to reclaim that title after being stuck in a two-year loop of travel restrictions.
Surprisingly, its solo travel hegemony may have been challenged… By the most unlikely of tourist destinations:
Bookings For Solo Trips In Central America Are Soaring
According to new information shared by Hostelword, a booking platform specialized in hostels and affordable stays, the massively underrated Central America has surpassed Europe in hostel bookings for the first time since the company started collecting booking data, all the way back in 1999 when it was founded.
As the experts at Hostelworld confirm, Central America (and Mexico) are rising in popularity in the post-pandemic world, even more so than Europe’s leading tourist destinations like France and Spain. More specifically, Central America bookings are up 40% since 2019, and this can largely be attributed to solo female travelers.
For years, the enigmatic world south of Mexico, and north of South America had been ignored by tourists, particularly young women who had safety concerns regarding travel in the region. More often than not, the US Department of State issues stark travel advisories for Latin American countries, usually citing crime and violence.
As official travel guidance, they should be taken seriously, but we cannot discount the fact that travelers now want to see the world for themselves, and they have grown more and more independent in their own risk assessments. The recent data provides undeniable evidence of that, with some of Central America’s rising stars topping rankings for solo travel – regardless of advisories.
Countries like Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala have all made it to Hostelworld’s latest Top 10 Trending Destinations For Solo Female Travelers list. As suspected, Mexico is a leader in new bookings, with guest numbers up 79 per cent, while Costa Rica trails behind at 60 per cent, and Guatemala rounds the Central American/Mexico top 3 with a 55 per cent increase.
What Makes Central America Such An Appealing Destination For Backpackers?
While these destinations were already incredibly popular prior to 2022, they were not necessarily seen as solo travel hubs, especially due to the lack of a strong hostel culture in the European model. Additionally, connectivity between Central American countries has always been a big barrier – one that Europe managed to overcome ages ago with its successful Schengen Area.
Central America countries may not be as integrated as their European rivals, but recent projects have been announced with the sole purpose of easing obstacles for travel between neighboring nations. This includes new tourism routes across the Mayan World and increased flight frequency between capital cities.
On top of that, the continent’s central strip is incredibly affordable compared to traditional tourist epicenters in Europe: the aforementioned Guatemala has ranked as the least expensive country for solo travelers in Central America, with average daily expenses at USD 39,00 – still 29.68% cheaper than the cheapest city in Spain.
Europe may offer a myriad of options for long-term, solo travelers on a budget, but even then, it can be ridiculously expensive compared to Central America. Seeing that prices are going up further due to the ongoing crisis, and the nearby war in Ukraine, it should come as no surprise that backpackers are looking elsewhere for new life-changing experiences.
Moreover, Europe may have the highest concentration of castles, picturesque Old Towns and History spanning millennia, but it simply cannot beat Central America’s nature. Based on Hostelworld’s March 2022 Solo Travel survey, 74 per cent of solo adventurers said their priority when traveling is ‘looking for nature’ and ‘natural world experiences’.
Indisputably, it is home to some of the world’s most bio-diverse lands, where travelers can find tropical forests, unspoiled Pacific and Caribbean beaches, unique wildlife, and countless scenic hiking trails. Lastly, these countries’ more relaxed visa regimes usually allow for short or longer stays without the bureaucracy associated with lengthy visa applications.
When traveling on a US, Canadian, British or EU passport, backpackers generally do not need visas at all for Central America.
Bottom Line
Solo travel is here to stay, and it seems like the Americas might be the new hotspot for backpackers, finally unseating mighty Europe after years, maybe decades of dominance. Be that as it may, we would like to reiterate solo travel does not come without its risks, particularly at a time when travel disruption is rampant.
If you are going on a solo trip, make sure you get insured for delays and cancellations ahead of flying: some of the best insurance providers, including HeyMondo and Safety Wing, offer pretty affordable (and comprehensive) policies. Lastly, make sure you check all Covid entry requirements that may still be in place at your final destination.
For more solo travel stories like this one, make sure you visit this link.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Solo travel is skyrocketing among all ages and large companies are looking to adapt to the growing trend. A few weeks ago the cruise line Oceania Cruises announced new cabins for solo travelers, and now Airbnb has developed a new feature for this type of traveler.
On Monday, the American company Airbnb announced a new safety product for solo travelers in a press release, an in-app feature that will help solo travelers have safe and secure experiences.
According to the information shared on the official website, the company noticed that in 2021 about 26% of nights booked were for solo travelers, and during the first quarter of 2022 that number has increased: over 50% of the nights registered for long-term stays were booked by solo travelers.
Airbnb stated: “As the ‘live anywhere’ phenomenon has taken off among people who are able to work remotely, our platform has become increasingly integral to solo travelers.”
One of the main concerns for solo travelers is safety, and that is why Airbnb’s Trust team has been working since 2021 on a new product to guarantee safe and secure experiences. This new feature is now available for English-speaking guests.
How The New Feature For Solo Travelers Works
The new feature for solo travelers will activate when a guest books a private or shared room. The specialized in-app experience, as Airbnb calls this new feature, will show the solo traveler “expert tips” to help them stay safe.
Solo travelers will now be able to share where they are staying and their reservation itinerary with family and friends. Trusted people will be able to see the address, check-in and check-out dates, and reservation codes.
After a guest has booked a room, the new feature will also provide automated prompts and help solo travelers ask relevant questions based on research and other travelers’ experiences in that location. “Is there anything I should know about the neighborhood?” and “will you be available if I need help during my stay” are two examples of the questions the app will tell travelers to ask their hosts.
With this strategy, they hope to build a safety net and encourage solo travelers to book comfortably: “Our hope is this new product will better equip solo travelers on Airbnb to be more informed travelers by getting their pre-trip questions answered, giving them a better understanding of their surroundings, and informing the important people in their lives about where they will be and for how long.”
The new in-app experience is only available in English, but Airbnb hopes to expand to other countries and languages soon. Another specialized experience for women is part of the company’s main concern, but for now, the new feature will be available for all solo travelers regardless of their gender identity.
Airbnb’s New Updates And Features
Airbnb has been very active recently including new features to their app, sharing relevant travel data, and even making major updates to their platform. The company has recently included new buttons and categories for its over 6 million listings to provide more exciting and interesting options for travelers, such as the OMG homes.
Now that the pandemic is more under control and more travelers want to explore the world and work remotely, the company has been adapting to satisfy current travel needs. Airbnb has already heard and acted to satisfy remote workers’ needs and constantly updates COVID-related measures depending on local restrictions and worldwide health developments.
The current concern seems to be safety, so besides the new solo traveler feature, the company has also recently added a 24/7 safety line for travelers, a Local Emergency Services in-app experience to reach emergency services locally—recently extended to 70 countries— and now users can also add an emergency contact to their profile to help the company reach out to a friend or family member in case of emergency.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
