6 MORE Incredible Solo Travel Destinations
I’m a huge fan of traveling solo, but it’s easy when planning a solo trip (or any trip, for that matter) to fall into the trap of picking a destination that I've already heard a lot about or places my friends have been. The world is vast with so many incredible destinations out there, so I invited a handful of travel bloggers to share their favorite destinations for women’s solo travel.
I shared the first round of Incredible Solo Travel Destinations For Women last month and am excited to share another six with you this week.
If you’re just getting started with solo travel or are not sure where to begin, I recommend checking out these 5 easy steps to ease into solo travel and as always, before booking any travel, check your destination country’s travel advisories to review safety concerns for destinations you are considering visiting. The information found below, about each destination, is only the opinion and experience of the individual sharing it.
Jane Barnes from Wicked Walkabout
Central America
I traveled solo through Mexico and Central America. Mexico City was incredible and I never had any feelings of insecurity, which is amazing for a city of that size. People were always super friendly and the general feeling was not really any different than other big cities.
Transport is easy and the taxi service is fun - thousands of VW Beetles that are made in Mexico plough the streets. I used them a number of times rather than working out the bus system.
Of all the history and culture in Mexico City, what I enjoyed most was simply people watching. Small parks were so much fun, something was always happening. It costs nothing, yet the rewards of simply watching different local life can be fun.
As a solo traveler and particularly being female, it is necessary to be cautious when traveling. I was advised by the hotel staff to only use the taxis they ordered (at a higher price!), as they felt it was not safe to hail one myself. I ignored this advice and would catch them from on the streets and never had any trouble. The drivers were always friendly and reliable. A precaution I did take though was to avoid going out alone at night in quiet areas or to anywhere isolated.
I love seeing women traveling solo, if they want to and are not afraid. Use common sense, take care, and enjoy your travels.
Seema of PandaReviewz.com
Thailand
Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The beauty, beaches, and landscapes of the country make it a perfect destination for vacations. The culture is quite diverse and you will find people to be courteous and friendly.
Exciting and exotic spots like Koh Phi Phi, Kho Samui, and the Similan islands are must-sees.
The main city of Bangkok is an ideal holiday destination for anyone. It bustles with life and along with that, there are important heritage sites like the Grand Palace and the Suan Pakkad Palace that one may explore.
A woman can roam around the city any time during the day or night and there is rarely any street where one cannot spot a woman. Thailand is indeed a safe country to travel, but petty thefts are common so it’s best to always use street smarts.
Helena of Through an Aussie’s Eyes
Orkney Islands, Scotland
The Orkney Islands is a small archipelago situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland and is an awesome destination for any solo female traveler. These beautiful islands are home to some of the world’s oldest archaeological sites including Skara Brae, Maeshowe, the Tomb of the Eagles and the Ring of Brodgar. You are able to walk through these historical sites and think about how life may have been in the Neolithic period.
The Orkney Islands are super easy and safe to travel around. Renting a car is the best way to see everything, but they also have an excellent bus service between the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. I highly recommend scuba diving the blocker ships at the Churchill Barriers, and in the town of Kirkwall you will be able to go boutique shopping, climb to the top of St. Magnus Cathedral and explore the Earl’s Palace.
Thais Saito from World Trip Diaries
Yokohama, Japan
Yokohama is a city right next to Tokyo that would be great for any kind of trip, including solo-travel for female travelers!
It's as safe as safe can be - it's Japan, after all, one of the safest countries in the world. People are friendly and helpful, the streets are well lit 24/7, and crime rates are one of the lowest you can find! And there's very little (nearly nonexistent) catcalling!
I recommend it over other more well known cities (like Tokyo and Osaka) because it's less crowded, less touristic, and smaller, making it easier to navigate. At the same time, it is no less than any of the other cities, with lovely cafés, restaurants, shops, temples, and some of the most beautiful night views. Additionally, if you feel the need to go to Tokyo, it's just a short train ride away.
In Japan, you will see girls wearing very short shorts and skirts, but they almost always have their upper body covered. You don't have to dress like them, but you may get a few stares if you show too much skin.
Tattoos are also not very common, although they are becoming more popular. If you plan on visiting an onsen (hot spring), the beach, or pools, you may get a few stares or even not be allowed in if you don't have them covered.
When you're there, I highly recommend a visit to the beautiful Minato Mirai - but do so during sunset. If you like Ferris wheels, ride the one there and take in the stunning views of the whole city!
Matilda of The Travel Sisters
Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is one of my favorite cities and a great destination for solo female travelers. Located in northern Laos, it is one of the most charming and delightful little cities in Southeast Asia, with friendly locals and a relaxed, laid-back vibe. Dotted with beautiful architecture and Buddhist temples, the town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
While Luang Prabang is a great destination for travelers that want to relax at one of its many cafes, there is no shortage of activities for visitors. One of the top things to do in Luang Prabang is to visit the nearby Kuang Si Falls, spectacular waterfalls where you can take a dip in turquoise pools. Wake up early to eat local food at the morning market and watch orange-robed monks emerge from their temples to collect alms at dawn. Other fun activities include joining a sunset cruise on the Mekong River, taking a cooking class or shopping at the night market.
Luang Prabang is a popular destination in Southeast Asia so it is easy to meet other fellow travelers if you decide you want some company. The city is small and crime is very rare - I always felt safe walking around alone, even at night.
Aneesha Rai of Om Nom Nirvana
Budapest
Budapest is the perfect place for a solo female traveler. Not only is the city quite safe, it’s home to plenty of expats that speak English and has more people willing to socialize and interact with.
This city has some amazing sights to see; especially through their free walking tours starting from Vorosmarty square. There are 2 types of tours: a general one of the city and a communism tour which covers the communist history of the area. Later on at night, the tours have a nominal fee of 15 euros to tour the ruin pubs and savor the local tipple (drink). Ruin pubs are pubs that are built out of the ruins of old buildings and lots, the most popular being Szimpla Kert. Local drinks include the palinka, unicum and tattratea.
Plus, the tour guides are really cool and friendly, so most people will get along with them. If you’re a female solo traveler on a budget, I suggest you try one of these tours as they’re always in groups, so it’s a cool space to meet new friends while feeling safe! Budapest has awesome baths, such as Schenzyi, which are easily accessible by the underground metro. I would also suggest exploring the Pest side of the city where you can see the Fisherman’s Bastion. From there, your guide will show you to a reasonable restaurant where you can savor chicken paprikash – a classic Hungarian dish.
Looking for even more inspiration? Check out the original list of Incredible Solo Travel Destinations here.
