Perhaps you could have a bucket list of places you’ve got at all times desired to travel on the ready but you simply keep waiting for the best person to go along with you. But when your pals are busy, you simply broke up together with your partner and you are not feeling a family vacation, you do not have to attend to embark on a latest adventure – just go solo.
Traveling by yourself, at the same time as a lady, shouldn’t be as difficult or scary as you would possibly think. There are many advantages: You do not have to stick to anyone else’s schedule, budget or food preferences, so you may truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you would like every time you would like, while seeing the places that you just most wish to visit. Adventuring alone as a lady can empower you to see the world in your terms.
Whether you are concerned about safety or looking for companionship, there are many places across the globe to think about on your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful suggestions) with expertise from women who’ve traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.
Barcelona, Spain
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With a visit to Barcelona, immerse yourself within the local culture at your leisure, whether you desire to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Author Mona Gable says, “Barcelona is a spot of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to say Antoni Gaudí’s celebrated architecture.” She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially due to its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling secure on her own: “As a female traveler, I felt perfectly comfy wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out.”
Travel tip: Gable says it is best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona’s essential thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, town’s legendary grocery store.
Botswana
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Botswana is well-known for African wildlife safaris, where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. “Wildlife travel offers an impressive combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy,” says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel. She recommends Botswana’s green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at the moment of 12 months the one complement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers a superb value and means you are more more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is usually peak season for birding, and you may find loads of opportunities to identify wildlife in the luxurious landscape.
Many camps will send someone to fulfill guests upon arrival to show you how to navigate airports or transfers. In Smith’s experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. “Solo female travelers can enjoy each day shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what’s best for you,” she says.
Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private while you travel so strangers cannot track your location in addition to learning in regards to the customs of your destination. “It will help avoid by accident coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards,” she explains. “For instance, while long eye contact could also be considered an indication of self-confidence or being polite at home, it might come across as flirtatious in your latest destination.”
Italy
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Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that’s at your fingertips in Italy, author Martha McCully’s go-to travel destination. “Italians wish to share their culture and it’s a part of their personality to welcome you,” she says. “Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine.”
The concept that traveling solo means you will likely be alone is a misconception, in line with McCully. “It’s simply not true,” she says. “Book a bunch tour at your destination, or DM a friend out of your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna.” There are many unique ways to fulfill fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. “The concept is you will likely be with like-minded travelers and another person is doing all of the organizing,” McCully explains.
Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to maintain healthy habits. “I wish to take my rituals with me,” she says. “Once I ground myself with what I do know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it’s like I’m living overseas, not only visiting.”
Iceland
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With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The “Land of Fire and Ice” can be known for puffins, its Viking history and ladies’s empowerment, with the country’s fame as a champion of gender equality.
“Iceland is a favourite destination for female solo travelers since it is well one in all the safest countries on the earth,” says Jenny Ly, skilled travel blogger at Go Wanderly. Iceland has one in all the world’s lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for difficult weather and exercise caution if you happen to plan to do any driving. Ly’s itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen forms of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier’s ice caves; and chasing the northern lights within the darker months (October to April).
Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the shortage of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. “It could be each empowering and rewarding for girls to travel solo, no less than once of their life,” she says. “While traveling alone will be riskier than traveling with others, it will possibly even be more fun and gratifying.” Her tip is to at all times pay attention to your surroundings.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
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While some women may draw back from traveling to Mexico on account of safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com, who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende. “I made a decision to go alone and had such a beautiful time,” she says. “The persons are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are such a lot of things to do if you happen to love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture.” San Miguel de Allende is an amazing option for girls travelers because town center is well walkable and Uber is accessible, which Romo says made her feel secure because she could at all times call a ride.
Travel tip: For ladies traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (corresponding to local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. “I wish to understand how walkable town I’m visiting is,” says Romo. “This helps me feel so way more confident when navigating a latest city.”
Latest Zealand
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From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all types of geological wonders in between – the range of Latest Zealand is a significant draw for tourists. Travelers can learn in regards to the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland, amongst an abundance of other incredible things to do on this island nation.
Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting due to the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. “Traveling Latest Zealand as a solo woman is sort of easy, and if it is your first trip solo, this could be a very good country to start out in,” she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never needed to worry about her safety, even in additional distant areas. “I went on hikes solo, a few of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to,” she says. Ragusa adds that Latest Zealand shouldn’t be the most affordable travel destination, but her personal suggestion for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.
Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the larger cities (particularly if you happen to do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations world wide, those parts of Latest Zealand are where you are more more likely to run into trouble.
El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina
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For an out of doors adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice mountaineering, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time within the town of El Calafate. “El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed probably the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with probably the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease,” she says.
Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay on the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
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If you happen to dream of a getaway that features picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the right spot to explore. In Dubrovnik, the ancient city partitions and medieval architecture of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a very gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey, says the unrivaled fantastic thing about the encompassing sea and mountains is simply one reason to plan a visit here.
“The locals are among the nicest people I even have ever met,” Williams says. “They really made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no must worry a few language barrier.” She adds that this Balkan country can be considerably more cost-effective than destinations in Western Europe.
Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying within the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. “Each are filled with cafes, bars and shopping to maintain you busy,” she says.
Svalbard, Norway
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You may’t go improper in Norway, with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the prospect to glimpse the northern lights. Jurga Rubinovaite, founding father of the travel blog Full Suitcase, says you will not wish to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago positioned roughly 800 miles from the North Pole. “It’s probably the most unique nature destinations on the earth,” she says. “Despite being to date north within the Arctic, it’s extremely easy to go to and can be an amazing and secure destination for solo female travelers.”
The essential town, Longyearbyen, is the focus of activities in Svalbard, which range from mountaineering and boat tours in the summertime to winter pursuits corresponding to ice cave visits and snowmobiling. “Due to the presence of polar bears, every little thing you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you might be at all times in secure hands,” Rubinovaite explains. “Longyearbyen town itself could be very vigorous and secure, with a number of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and just a few museums, all inside easy walking distance from one another.”
Travel tip: For ladies traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research prematurely of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, slightly than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or on the lookout for a travel buddy when venturing out to very distant places.
Ireland
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Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the highest of her list for solo travel spots. “Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they provide peaceful spots to stop and luxuriate in the gorgeous views, but in addition provide loads of opportunities to fulfill friendly people at cafes and other points of interest,” she says.
Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much because the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing among the country’s pubs, even if you happen to’re a lady traveling alone, since you will almost at all times find live music and friendly people. “Even if you happen to start out by yourself, you will easily find that you just’re having great conversations very quickly,” she says.
Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it is best to watch out how much you drink and leave the situation if you happen to ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. “You would hear some great stories, and make a latest friend,” she says.
Thailand
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Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are only among the incredible things which you can experience in Thailand. Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com, says she felt secure in Thailand as soon as she arrived. “Thai persons are hospitable and type,” she says. “Furthermore, as a solo traveler, I used to be surprisingly never alone. I needed to book a non-public room for myself at one point simply to get a breather, as I used to be always meeting latest people!”
Travel tip: If you happen to’re apprehensive about exploring a latest place on your personal, especially if you happen to’ve never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends checking out all of the logistics like accommodations and transportation prematurely so it’s easier to acclimate when you get there. She adds, “If you happen to’re afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you are traveling to, to see if you happen to can match up with other solo female travelers who will likely be in the realm concurrently you.”
Netherlands
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Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is an excellent option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the range of things to do and other aspects. “The Netherlands comes out high on all of those areas,” she says. “And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I at all times felt extremely secure.” With the country’s extensive train system, along with local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn’t pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the convenience of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most individuals speak English along with Dutch.
“Whether you might be into the humanities scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has an enormous number of activities to dive into,” Hayward says. “All of those elements make the Netherlands a spot that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers.”
Travel tip: Don’t carry money. Hayward says most transactions will be done electronically, so there is not any need for frequent trips to the ATM.
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
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Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman within the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially due to its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There’s also no shortage of activities on this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. “The stingrays are peaceful and mild,” she says. “They glide along the ocean floor and also you’re free to watch and even play with them of their natural habitat.” She also recommends absorbing some sun on the renowned Seven Mile Beach.
Grand Cayman can be a foodie paradise, in line with Bromberg. “The colourful dishes are as tasty as they’re exciting, representing the fascinating mixture of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique,” she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.
Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers’ experiences prior to booking a visit.
Istanbul
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Chart your course for Istanbul, the one city on the earth that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one in all many features making the Turkish city stand out as a novel destination; you will get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks just like the Grand Bazaar on a visit here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founding father of MuslimSoloTravel.com, says, “It offers the perfect of each worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and a number of surprises.” This vigorous, fast-paced metropolis can be wealthy in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible within the skyline of Istanbul, in line with Fuuad.
For solo travelers, there are limitless opportunities for memorable experiences. “Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you on the corner of each street, its cobblestone alleys, or inside the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar,” Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul an amazing selection for girls traveling solo.
Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to regulate to being on your personal: “Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad.” She adds, “Don’t do belongings you’re not comfortable with. Hearken to your gut feelings – they’re at all times right!”
Bali, Indonesia
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For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, in addition to sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com, who has been traveling solo full time for the past 12 months and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to go to. “The Balinese persons are very respectful towards female travelers, there is not any street harassment based on gender like you would possibly find in other locations, and while no place is ideal, Bali just feels very secure as a lady,” Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that ladies traveling there aren’t expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.
Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers at all times use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab slightly than hailing cabs off the road, because the apps’ tracking features make them much safer to make use of for solo female travelers in foreign countries. A few of these sites also let you share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.
Paris
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Paris is probably the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage, considers the “City of Love” an excellent option for girls traveling solo on account of its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. “I consider Paris town of self-love since it has every little thing solo women travelers must take care of themselves and their interests,” Harris says.
With the pliability of traveling on your personal, you may plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you are thinking about, it’s possible you’ll decide to study French cooking, immerse yourself within the Louvre, attend an opera on the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. “Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I used to be able to essentially take the time to concentrate on who I’m, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit,” she says. “Traveling to Paris taught me truly enjoy spending time solo.”
Travel tip: One among Harris’ top suggestions is to not bring greater than you may carry, as you will not at all times find someone to show you how to together with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you could have to take the steps. “By keeping only the essentials, you are capable of move quickly to and out of your destination without worrying an excessive amount of about being a goal for crime,” Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you may reference even without web connection and sharing your itinerary with members of the family or friends who could assist in a sticky situation.
Latest York City
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It’s hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square, award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty. Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org, loves taking a solo trip to Latest York City, saying she doesn’t even have the prospect to feel lonely since the hustle and bustle of the large city keeps her sufficiently distracted.
Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the percentages of anything scary happening to you in Latest York are low so long as you’re taking appropriate precautions. “Latest York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this worthwhile industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences,” she explains, adding that it’s possible you’ll be surprised how friendly the local residents are. “They’re often joyful to show you how to discover the best subway line to take or bus to catch. They’ll probably even provide you with recommendations on the perfect places to eat or things to see.”
Travel tip: Musson’s pre-trip tip is to examine crime reports within the destination you are heading to and stay inside the secure areas. “Trust your gut and get out of the realm if you happen to do not feel secure,” she cautions.
Singapore
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The town of Singapore is understood for being clean, green and secure for travelers – in addition to expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the long-lasting Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com, says, “Singapore is a improbable destination for solo women travelers due to its vibrant, yet secure culture and exciting sights.” On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you may experience the unique mix of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, along with other advantages. “It is easy to navigate with loads of public transportation options, plus a superb healthcare system, which makes it an amazing selection for many who wish to travel solo,” Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore’s laws – corresponding to a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.
Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which frequently have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You may also wish to familiarize yourself with town’s public transportation system prior to arrival.
Why Trust U.S. News Travel
Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of information in the case of solo travel for girls. Her first trip by herself was to Latest Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo everywhere in the U.S. and to countries corresponding to Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone remains to be her native California, which offers a various landscape from town to the ocean and the mountains and the desert.