Solo travel and cruises are two travel trends that have been increasing in popularity lately, and yet at first glance, they may not seem like they mix well.
More travelers than ever are venturing out solo for their vacations rather than traveling with friends, family, or significant others.
Cruising is also exploding in popularity right now after the industry was dealt a heavy blow due to travel restrictions for several years.
However, most cruise ship fares are based on double occupancy, with the option to add a third or even fourth passenger to the cabin for a lower price.
On most cruise lines, there’s no discount for solo travelers, so even if you’ll be the only one in your cabin, you’ll still have to pay the two-person rate. Some cruise lines offer a reduced single supplement (for example, 75% instead of 100%) but you’ll still end up paying quite a bit.
The following four cruise lines don’t charge single supplements.
Instead, solo travelers have the option to book single cabins on these cruise lines at a rate that is much more reasonable and less than a standard double-occupancy cabin.
1. Norwegian Cruise Lines
Norwegian is one of the best cruise lines for solo travelers. Six of Norwegian’s ships offer “studio cabins” priced for just one person:
These studio cabins are only around 100 square feet but come with all the same amenities as a double occupancy cabin.
As a bonus, solo travelers staying in studio cabins will have access to a shared common area called the Studio Complex and Lounge which functions as a social gathering place with events to meet other solo travelers.
2. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean was just named America’s favorite cruise line, and offering cabins for solo travelers is just one more reason to love this popular cruise line.
The seven Royal Caribbean ships that offer studio cabins are:
Quantum of the Seas
Spectrum of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
These cabins are priced specifically for single travelers. Unlike Norwegian, which only offers interior studio cabins, Royal Caribbean has a mix of interior, exterior, and balcony cabins for solo travelers.
Cabins range in size from 96 to 119 square feet.
3. Holland America Line
Finally, Holland America Line is another popular cruise line that doesn’t charge extra for passengers who are traveling solo.
Right now, only three Holland America ships offer solo cabins, and there are fewer of these onboard (only 12 per ship) compared to Norwegian and Royal Caribbean.
The Holland America ships with studio cabins are:
Koningsdam
Nieuw Statendam
Rotterdam
Studio cabins are priced for just one person and are on the more spacious end, with cabins ranging in size from 127 to 172 square feet.
What About Other Cruise Lines?
Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America are the only major cruise lines to offer solo cabins priced for one person. Smaller cruise lines like Oceania Cruises also offer single cabins.
And other popular cruise lines occasionally offer deals for solo travelers.
Although rare, sometimes the single supplement may be waived or greatly reduced for specific voyages.
If you want to keep up with these offers and score a great deal, Cruise Specialists has a regularly updated list of cruises with waived or heavily reduced single supplements.
Other cruise lines may not offer solo traveler-friendly pricing, but many do host meet-ups and events for solo travelers onboard to meet other cruisers.
The United Kingdom is the most popular international destination for American travelers in 2023, with a 145% increase in flight bookings from the United States to the United Kingdom compared to last year.
Though London takes the lead, other travelers will venture elsewhere in England or head north to spend some time in Scotland.
But far fewer travelers will venture to Wales, another country that is part of the United Kingdom. There’s so much more to the UK than just London, and Wales is one of those under-the-radar destinations.
Despite its proximity to London, Wales remains an underrated gem in the UK.
Here’s why this part of the United Kingdom should be on your travel wishlist this year:
1. It’s Less Crowded Than England
England is the most-visited destination in the United Kingdom, but Wales receives comparatively fewer tourists. The majority of tourists to Wales are day-trippers from England, so if you spend a few days to a week exploring the country, you aren’t likely to contend with extreme tourist crowds.
This makes for a much more pleasant experience. Rather than waiting in long queues and elbowing your way through crowds at popular tourist landmarks, you can enjoy solitude and tranquility in Wales.
Wales is full of underrated beaches, national parks, and cities that see far fewer crowds than neighboring England.
2. It’s More Affordable Than London
Wales is also more affordable than London (and the rest of England.) Although London is the most popular international destination for American travelers, it’s notoriously pricy.
According to the travel planning resource BudgetYourTrip, the average cost of a hotel room in London, England is £247 (approximately $317 USD) per night.
However, in Cardiff, Wales, the average cost of a hotel room is only £186 ($238 USD) per night, which is around 25% cheaper.
Overall, you can have a much more affordable vacation in Wales than you can in England. The cost of living is lower, and everything from food to activities to transportation is cheaper in Wales.
3. Wales Is Full Of Natural Beauty
One of the biggest reasons to visit Wales this year is because of its unspoiled natural beauty.
For hikers and outdoor adventurers, Wales has several national parks to explore. Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons National Parks are known for their mountains, while Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has wild and rugged beaches.
Wales is full of surprisingly beautiful beaches, dotted with colorful fishing villages and ancient castles.
Cities like Cardiff and Swansea are also worth a visit, but the real highlights of Wales lie in the country’s great wealth of natural beauty and scenic landscapes, as well as its quaint and picturesque small towns.
4. It’s Easily Accessible From London
Getting to Wales is not difficult. In fact, it’s a very quick journey from London, which is the main travel hub of the United Kingdom.
Although Wales has an international airport in Cardiff, there are very few direct flights from abroad and none from the United States.
Instead, you can get from London to Cardiff by train in just 1 hour and 50 minutes. While it’s possible to visit Cardiff on a day trip and possibly squeeze in a couple of other sights, it’s really better to treat Wales as a destination in its own right.
With limited time, two or three days would allow you to see some of the main highlights of this fairly small country. If you have a full week, you can thoroughly explore Wales’ mountains, coastline, and cities and towns.
As travelers continue to flock to Mexico’s finest coastlines, two of them are seeing increasingly common scams.
Cancun and Cabo tourists are being warned not to become victims when booking their dreamy beach getaway.
These scams range from hotel fraud to beggars. Travelers need to be vigilant and not allow themselves to fall for fraudulent activity.
With so many people vacationing in Mexico this year, without proper knowledge, it can be easy to become a victim.
While the following scams have become commonplace in Cancun and Cabo, they can happen anywhere.
Here is what travelers should know:
Cabo’s Fake Listings
According to Good Morning America, Cabo has been targeted as a destination with an influx of fake hotel listings.
Fraudulent sites are accepting payments for hotels that are not open yet or may not even exist at all.
Scammers are using the names of hotels currently being built and listing them as if they are open for business.
Travelers are falling for this scam since there are articles about the new resorts, but not doing quite enough research before booking.
A little extra digging online will go a long way! It’s not just fancy hotels and resorts either. It’s also vacation rentals.
Airbnb and other big-name platforms tend to be safe for bookings. If a website doesn’t sound familiar, it is best to do more research before going any further in the booking process.
Especially if a “host” reaches out for advance payment such as credit card, Venmo, PayPal, or any type of wire transfer. That’s the ultimate red flag.
Be Wary Of ATM Use In Cancun
Travelers should always be wary of ATM scams no matter where they are in their travels. Unfortunately for Cancun tourists, ATM scams have become more popular as of late.
It’s always best to use an ATM at a bank when possible, as these are far less likely to be tampered with.
There have been increased reports of skimming devices, which steal confidential information from debit cards. But these are most often when the ATM is not inside a bank.
Travelers should know not all ATMs are not operated by banks. Ones that are run by small businesses tend to have an exchange rate not as friendly for your wallet.
It’s also wise to never use an ATM after dark unless absolutely necessary. You never know who is watching.
Unwanted Friends In Cancun
Many come to Cancun to relax at one of its many luxurious resorts, but everyone needs a night out too!
Travelers might stumble upon one of the most common scams when enjoying a night out on the town and running into some friendly people at a bar or nightclub.
Perhaps a little too friendly. After a few drinks, your new friends will encourage you to go somewhere else with them.
Everyone is having a good time, so why not barhop across town, right? The problem is your new friends at the new bar will keep the drinks flowing until a bill arrives with some extra zeros in the total.
Congrats, you have just been scammed by your new friends with extremely inflated prices! All without a chance to look at the menu.
Help! I Lost My Passport!
Common in Cancun right now, the “robbed tourist” scheme targets tourists to pull at their heartstrings.
Someone will approach an obvious traveler begging for help because they lost their wallet, passport, or both.
Instead of going to the nearest embassy like any traveler should, they will beg for financial help, hoping to gain the trust of a fellow traveler.
Rather than assist them financially, it’s best to point them in the right direction of the embassy, as this is the proper protocol for this situation if it is indeed a real scenario.
Can Taxis Be Trusted?
There has been ongoing Taxi vs. Uber battles in Mexico for years. Taxis also do not have the best reputation for honesty and trust, just about anywhere from the classic “my meter is broken” trick to what is not being reported in Cancun of inflated prices at the last minute.
What will generally happen is you think you are agreeing to a ride for 100 pesos (roughly $5), but when it comes time to pay at the end of the ride, the driver demands $100 USD.
Big difference! Travelers should know that no ride should be anywhere in this ballpark for pricing.
Haggling for pricing and confirming a clear understanding is the best option before taking off to your destination.
Croatia is on the bucket list of many Americans country-hopping around Europe.
With its Mediterranean climate that provides the coastal provinces with great weather year-round, perfectly preserved historic cities, and a laid-back way of living, it competes with neighboring sunny spots Montenegro and Greece for the title of Southeast Europe’s top solo travel destinations.
Despite Greece’s ancient charm, and Montenegro’s trendiness, Croatia is still a favorite among the majority, and in this article, we will give you 7 reasons why:
It Is Perfectly Safe For Tourists
Eastern Europe has historically had a reputation for being ‘less safe’ than the more ‘developed’ West, but as the figures compiled by the U.S. State Department will tell you, we’ve now entered a new era where decades-old misconceptions no longer apply.
As part of the bloc, Croatia is one of the safest countries for solo travelers to explore, ranking as the least risky overall in a research conducted by experts at Bounce, who asked visitors whether they felt safe traveling Croatia, in a broader sense, and got a resounding yes for a response, ‘even at night and alone’.
Bounce‘s data corroborates that of the U.S. State Department’s Travel Advisory listings, where Croatia is added as a ‘Level 1 destination’. This means safety concerns are minimal, and it is about as safe as Norway, Finland, or even Iceland, considered the safest to visit in the world.
Beautiful Nature And Beaches
The Croatian coast, part of a wider historical region called Dalmatia, is one of the most beautiful bathing zones not only in Eastern Europe but the entire continent.
Situated on the Northern arm of the Mediterranean, mystically named ‘The Adriatic’, Dalmatia is a rugged, typically subtropical terrain boasting scenic coastal drives, interspersed with small, pebbly beaches and sandy crescents and a boundless natural wealth other Eastern powers find hard to rival.
If you’re a nature seeker, you should definitely pay the Plitvice Lakes Natural Park a visit. Famous for its cascading waterfalls, flowing effortlessly in the dry, hot summers and freezing over almost completely during harsh winters, it is a natural escape from the busy, overtouristed coast.
The Sljeme mountain, a short one-hour drive from downtown Zagreb, is also not to be missed, what with its numerous hiking trails, meandering creeks, and abundance of wildlife. It is particularly stunning in the colder months when snow blankets the foggy pine forest.
Diverse Tourist Offer
Croatia is – perhaps unsurprisingly – often portrayed in the media as a summer getaway.
Home to a collective of Adriatic islands lapped by the turquoise ocean and sharing a pan-Mediterranean culture with its Italian, Greek, and Spanish counterparts, Croatia – at least Dalmatian Croatia – feels indeed closer to Southern than Central or even Eastern Europe.
With that being said, reducing it to simply a beach zone is a gross mistake.
As you might have guessed already, this is a country where nature will always find ways to surprise you, whether it’s the lesser-explored alpine peaks that surround the inland capital of Zagreb, the picturesque Danube basin, or the vast, lush-green forests covering nearly a third of the national territory.
Croatia is diverse, and as a lover of nature, you will never run out of parks to explore, mountains to climb, or rivers to kayak in.
Croatia Is More Liberal Than Other Eastern European Countries
Eastern Europe has been synonymous with conservatism and backward policies when it comes to Human Rights.
From the outright prohibition of gay marriage in some countries to the endemic post-Soviet corruption observed in others, one might think Croatia and the likes of Hungary, Romania, or Moldova are all peas in the same pod.
This couldn’t be further from the truth: yes, Croatian society still has a way to go, especially regarding its acceptance of same-sex relationships, the culture is very much liberal and Western-inclined, but the role of religion in the state, albeit influential, is a lot more limited than in, say, Serbia.
The proof is in the countless LGBTQ bars and nightclubs that keep popping up in urban centers like Zagreb and Zadar, the naturist-friendly beaches, where you won’t be looked down upon when deciding to bare it all, and the locals’ carefree attitude towards life in general.
You may get the odd disapproving look from an elderly Croatian nonna holding hands with your same-sex partner in Split, but it is highly unlikely you will have abuse hurled at you.
Locals Are Friendlier To Tourists
The unfriendliness of Europeans towards Americans has become a running joke on social media channels.
Videos of tourists re-enacting the rudeness of the French or the impatience of Italian waiters as they take your orders have gone viral repeatedly in recent years, and judging by Western Europe’s staggering overtourism rates, it’s no wonder they’d want locals ‘out’.
Croatia, on the other hand, has so far been an exception, much like its close partner Bosnia and Herzegovina. For years, most notably during the nineties, tourists famously avoided vacationing in Croatia due to the bloody war resulting from the break-up of Yugoslavia.
After surviving a period when its beautiful beaches became empty, and the underground tunnels of the medieval fortress were used as bunkers by the populace to protect themselves against heavy shelling and artillery, Croatians have learned to appreciate the contribution of foreigners and the freedom they now enjoy following the traumatic Yugoslav years.
In fact, it is so friendly to foreign investment that it became Europe’s first country to launch a Digital Nomad Visa as early as 2021 when the continent’s borders were still sealed shut due to COVID, and it is now the ‘most liked’ digital nomad hub for 2023.
Tourists – and tourist dollars – are more than welcome, and as long as you show kindness and respect, and familiarize yourself with the culture, rest assured they will extend their Balkan friendliness to you.
Great Infrastructure
Croatia’s excellent infrastructure is one of the main reasons why it has become a massively popular destination for solo travelers.
You can be anywhere in the country – the Istrian Peninsula, close to Italy, or the remote Southern tip of Neretva, approaching the border with Montenegro – but you will have at least one bus in availability to get you where you need to be, as well as multiple ferry and rail connections.
Companies like Flixbus operate across the entire national territory, transporting customers from the Zagrebi metropolis to the ancient ports of Split and Dubrovnik all year round.
Trains are a bit trickier to navigate, as they run less frequently and are mostly restricted to Central and South-Central Croatia, but they are a great option for traveling at a slower pace, taking in the scenery in anticipation of the next stop.
Of course, if you’re short on time, you can always fly. Nearly all Croatian resort towns on the coast have a small domestic or international airport that serves them, linking them to other tiny aerodromes and major international hubs like Zagreb, Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.
A Set-Jetting Destination For TV Fans
Lastly, Croatia has risen to prominence in the past decade due to its association with the greatest television event of the 21st century, Game of Thrones.
The city of Dubrovnik, where a good portion of the external King’s Landing scenes were shot, is a natural film set featuring winding cobbled streets flanked by centuries-old stone houses, huge ramparts and fortifications, drawbridges, and hilltop forts.
If you’re a History buff or simply a Game of Thrones fan, you will find yourself stopping for pictures and re-enactments of some of the show’s most iconic moments at every turn.
Cities like Split and Sibenik are also popular among visitors keen on experiencing that Old World charm and slow Mediterranean living, though true, hardcore film fans might want to extend their time in Zadar instead, Hitchcock’s own favorite coastal spot.
According to the legendary filmmaker, ‘Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world,’ and having sat by the Sea Organ as the Adriatic caressed my feet, on a balmy late summer evening, with the seas reflecting the blood-orange sunset, I feel compelled to agree.
Are you looking for a great destination in Europe for a solo trip?
Here’s why Croatia is so well-loved by solo travelers and why it’s the perfect place to travel solo!
According to a recent study from Bounce, a luggage storage company, Croatia is the top country in the world for solo travelers in 2023.
The methodology they used in ranking countries focused on five factors:
Things to do
Affordability
Accommodation
Safety
Weather
Croatia came out on top in all of these categories, giving it a total score higher than any others for how friendly of a destination it is for solo travelers.
There’s no shortage of things to do in this Balkan nation. Located on the Adriatic Sea, Croatia has some of the best beaches in Europe and a truly stunning coastline.
Dubrovnik is one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, known for its ancient history and, more recently, for being a major Game of Thrones filming site.
Split is another historic city in Croatia that makes a great base for exploring the islands of Hvar, Vis, and more. As a solo traveler, joining a tour to explore the islands by boat is a great way to meet people. Split and the islands are also hotspots for nightlife in Croatia.
Croatia is also home to several national parks, including Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park. Both have stunning lakes and waterfalls and are easily accessible as day trips for solo travelers.
Whether you’re interested in history and culture or nightlife and music festivals, beaches or national parks, city life, or exploring nature, Croatia has something for everyone.
2. Affordability
Croatia is a highly affordable destination for solo travelers. Although this country is no longer as cheap as it once was, it’s still a great deal more affordable than Western Europe.
At the beginning of 2023, Croatia officially entered the Schengen Zone and formally adopted the Euro as its currency. This caused prices to go up even further in the country, but there are still great deals to be found when traveling in Croatia.
Outside of the peak summer months of June through August, you can find much better deals on everything from accommodation to activities to transportation.
3. Accommodation
Another factor that makes Croatia great for solo travelers is the variety of accommodation options available that are solo traveler-friendly.
You’ll find plenty of affordable hotels if you’re looking for the comfort and amenities that a hotel has to offer, as well as great hostels if you’re on a tighter budget. (According to Bounce, the average cost of a hostel in Croatia is just $14.31 per night.)
Hostels in Croatia are also a good way to socialize and meet other travelers if you’re on your own.
4. Safety
Solo travelers, especially solo female travelers, don’t have to worry about safety while in Croatia.
The beautiful country of Sri Lanka has been through troubled times over the last few decades ranging from deadly natural disasters to civil war lasting nearly 30 years.
But it’s the dawn of a new day, and Sri Lanka has turned the page into becoming a wonderful place to immerse yourself this year.
While any traveler who appreciates experiencing different cultures would enjoy their time in this island nation, solo trippers may love it even more.
Those with a sense of adventure and appreciation of solitude will truly fall in love with all Sri Lanka has to offer.
Here are 6 reasons why solo travelers will love this off-path country:
Sri Lanka Wants You
Sri Lanka wants visitors (or would-be visitors) to know they are open for business! This country is ready to embrace travelers and re-identify themselves by separating their complicated past from present times.
Locals are friendly, whether it’s hailing a tuk-tuk ride through the bustling streets of Colombo or the warm hospitality received from restaurants and hotels.
Even more importantly, it’s safe. Solo travelers are on their own and may feel hesitant to wander into the unknown.
The U.S. State Department lists Sri Lanka as Level 2 with the simple message to be aware of your surroundings and exercise increased caution.
Laid Back Atmosphere
At first glance, the capital city of Colombo may seem off the rails with mopeds zigzagging every which way through the streets.
But what is different about Colombo is you won’t hear many car horns blaring like in other major cities when it comes to the chaos of navigating city streets.
Sri Lankans are laid back, and it’s a symbol of their strength through very tough times throughout their history.
If somebody cuts you off in traffic, big whoop! Sri Lankans have bigger worries and an appreciation for the little things in life, such as protecting nature and wildlife.
In fact, where else would you see “Danger: Peacocks Ahead” signs along the country’s highways?
Rather than angrily honk horns and get into road rages, Sri Lankans realize they are all on the same team.
A perfect way to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s chill atmosphere is to take in one of the country’s remarkable sunsets overlooking the vast sea.
Local Cuisine
Given its close proximity to India, it can be easy to be confused with Sri Lankan cuisine. While there are definite similarities when it comes to some of the flavors and spices, Sri Lanka food is truly one-of-a-kind.
One of the best parts about traveling solo is getting to do what you want on your own time. No more bickering with your loved ones on when and where to eat; you can just go!
From high-end restaurants to street carts, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of flavors to please your palate, whether it’s lobster curry to kottu, a Sri Lankan specialty.
And save room for dessert. Watalappam, anyone?
Low Cost Of Living
Exploring Sri Lanka is easy to do, especially since it’s so affordable. The rupee is the currency in Sri Lanka, but it has lost significant value making day-to-day life very inexpensive.
Although, it’s not uncommon to pay in U.S. dollars when staying at a hotel.
According to Numbeo, one-way tickets on city transportation can cost as low as 17 cents, with taxis reasonably affordable too, at less than 40 cents per mile.
Travelers can enjoy a cold beer for under $2 with a full meal at a similar price in some establishments.
Unspoiled Nature
Those who love the outdoors will have the time of their life in Sri Lanka. Beyond the busy streets of Colombo are scenic beaches on the Indian Ocean, rolling hills through tea plantations, and lush jungles full of wildlife.
Since Sri Lanka is still under the radar for many travelers, now is the time to go before it becomes more mainstream, as many sites are still relatively unspoiled.
Even ancient ruins can be visited all by yourself with no crowds.
Underrated Nightlife Scene
Colombo takes on a new image as the beautiful sunsets and the night goes on. A mix of expats and locals flock to the former warehouse district with a surprising European flair.
Walking down the cobblestoned street will make you feel like you’re in another place as the energy shifts to a vibrant nightlife scene.
This area is very popular in Sri Lanka and the place to be to experience a night out.
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.
May was a record-setting month for the Dominican Republic. With over 600,000 visitors flocking to this Caribbean paradise last month alone, those who haven’t been might wonder, “what is so attractive about this place?“.
Despite back-and-forth travel warnings from both the United States and Canada, westerners continue to flock here for their dream vacation.
The Dominican Republic has become one of the most popular getaways for a variety of reasons that leaves travelers coming back for more.
Tourism records continue to be broken, and there is no sign of slowing down any time soon.
Here are 7 reasons why travelers are visiting the Dominican Republic in record numbers:
Easy Access To Paradise
The Dominican Republic is one of the easiest Caribbean nations to reach in a reasonable time by flight.
Whether travelers are departing from the East Coast, midwest, southern states, or even certain Canadian cities, a dreamy beach vacation can be within only 3 to 4 hours away.
Many major airlines will fly to one of 3 major airports:
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
Las Américas International Airport (SDQ)
Cibao International Airport (STI)
Increasingly Popular Cruise Hotspot
May was another astonishing month for cruise passengers with over 130,000 visitors arriving by way of sea.
That figure nearly tripled prior expectations! This is not a complete surprise, however, as the country has poured big money into investing in the cruise industry with extensive upgrades to terminals.
There is also the upcoming project in the southern region of Pedernales near Haiti, which is a relatively undiscovered gem for this country.
While Puerta Plata does have a small airport to fly into, this scenic beach town on the north side of the country is the biggest cruise hub of the Dominican.
Punta Cana: The Number One Destination In The Dominican
Roughly 80% of Americans who travel to the Dominican go to Punta Cana. This town offers so much to travelers; it’s easy to see why this is the number one destination.
From its pristine white-sand beaches to immaculate all-inclusive resorts along its stunning shoreline, there is a place for everyone to enjoy their Caribbean escape.
In fact, nearly 60% of international visitors stayed in Punta Cana last month. Word is out how amazing and luxurious this resort hotspot can be, but it’s still a delightful place to spend your vacation.
All-Inclusives Everywhere
While Punta Cana is the best place to find all-inclusive resorts, there are more spread out across the country.
You won’t find super ritzy places in the major cities, although they are worth spending some time in to see the historic culture of this country.
There are many other popular beach towns besides Punta Cana. They’re not as difficult to reach as one might think simply by looking at a map.
Puerta Plata is easily accessible by cruise or a shuttle from STI airport, where guests will marvel at the tranquility of some of the nation’s prettiest coastlines.
Others, such as Samana and La Romana, offer luxurious resorts surrounded by beautiful nature.
A Family-Friendly Getaway
While there are certainly adult-only resorts available, the Dominican Republic is an excellent choice to bring the whole family.
Many resorts offer fun entertainment to keep the kids occupied and world-class pools to spend the day.
Earlier this year, Punta Cana opened a new theme park too, with a neighboring all-inclusive resort making it even easier for the whole crew.
Safety
Even though there is a current Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department, that doesn’t necessarily mean travelers should alter their plans.
While the major cities due experience unpredictable acts of crime from time to time, these unfortunate situations can happen anywhere.
In fact, Canada issued a travel advisory for the United States. Crime can happen at the most random times, but the Dominican Republic’s economy thrives on tourism.
In highly popular resort areas, extra steps have been taken to ensure the safety and security of guests where rare criminal acts occur.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations
While most travelers flock to the more well-known areas, there are many places still waiting to be discovered.
Many come to the Dominican Republic to relax at the gorgeous beaches, but there are many less-populated areas worth the trek to spend time in lush nature and waterfalls, such as Samaná.
The cruise port expecting to open in December will help travelers explore Pedernales, but there are others, such as Miches.
Iceland has impressive landscapes, volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal pools, beaches, fjords, and one of the most magnificent natural shows on earth — the northern lights.
This Nordic island country wasn’t so popular a few years ago, but now it has been on every globetrotter’s mind.
Many have realized that besides its natural beauty, this place’s history, people, and fascinating culture are worth discovering.
Iceland’s tourism boom was recently discussed in a New York Times interview with former U.N. tourism ambassador and now Iceland’s first lady, Eliza Reid.
Reid shared wise advice for travelers interested in visiting Iceland and revealed the “secret” of the best way to get to know locals: in a hot tub or at a geothermal pool.
Here are 6 reasons why Iceland has become a top summer destination in 2023:
1) Amazing Outdoor Experiences
Nature lovers fall crazy in love with this country for its jaw-dropping landscapes and relaxing attractions — and we all want to feel at ease and enjoy beautiful spaces in 2023.
Iceland has one of the world’s best tourist attractions, The Blue Lagoon. This impressive geothermal spa has hot mineral-rich waters, and many say it even has healing properties.
Travelers can relax, heal, and get the most amazing photos.
Quick warning: Even though it can be tempting to get the most incredible pictures in the world next to active volcanoes or a cool video of the sneaker waves at the beach, Reid also warned travelers that nature in Iceland can be very powerful and visitors should always be careful and use common sense.
2) More Direct Flights And Great Airport Facilities
One of the reasons why travelers didn’t visit this Nordic island before was because of the lack of direct flights.
Now low-cost airlines like Icelandic airline fly from over 10 cities in the United States and offer travelers affordable prices.
Another advantage in Iceland is related to services and infrastructure.
Keflavík International Airport in Reykjavík was recently recognized as one of the best airports in Europe in its category—airports welcoming 5 to 15 million passengers per year— for its service quality.
3) Year-Round Travel Opportunities
Even though summer is one the best seasons to visit this country as it has pleasant weather and lots of daylight—especially during the midnight Sun season— to explore the most amazing destinations, Iceland offers visitors top experiences throughout the year.
During winter, travelers have more opportunities to see the breathtaking northern lights.
Since nature is its main attraction, and nature is constantly changing, visitors can get different experiences every time they visit.
4) Geothermal Pools And Hot Tubs As Social Activities
As Reid explained, soaking up in geothermal pools or relaxing in hot tubs is not just a personal experience but also a social activity.
Having a wellness moment in clean and pure waters and also connecting to local culture? Sounds like a plan! And yes, Iceland ranks as one of the best spa and wellness getaways.
Visiting and getting to know the different pools is also a way to meet Icelanders and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
It’s also an affordable experience and each place has its own atmosphere and style.
5) More Restaurants, Cafes, And Tourist Activities
Since tourism has boomed, there are now more accommodation options, restaurants, cafes, and activities for visitors.
Iceland also offers environmentally friendly tourism experiences, so travelers can explore guilt-free in one of the safest destinations in the world and also learn about responsible tourism.
In the capital, Reykjavík, travelers will find great museums, vibrant nightlife, and many restaurants and bars to choose from.
6) Delicious Local Cuisine
Have you heard about the Hákarl or the Plokkfiskur? Maybe you should check it out, or, even better, maybe you should travel to Iceland to taste it.
Icelandic cuisine is not as popular as Italian or French cuisine but is rich in flavor and creativity.
Travelers enjoy tasting local dishes like pylsur—Reykjavik’s Hot Dog—, the traditional kæstur Hákarl—fermented shark—, and the traditional fish stew, the Plokkfiskur.
