solo travel newsletter

Solo Female Travelers Newsletter

Our Co-Founder Mar Pages, has been personally crafting each newsletter to our 100,000 subscribers since 2020 🤩

We send 2 newsletters every week:

• On Tuesday : Travel news (changes in visa, entry requirements, airlines, products, etc.), interesting discussions in the community, destination tips, new tours, offers and discounts, etc.
• On Friday : A very concise and to the point travel tip to make your solo travels better.

You can find all the newsletters sent below.

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Navigate to the different years : 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020

• 24th September: Our tour to MADAGASCAR is now LIVE! + 3 Beach destinations in Africa
• 20th September: Travel tip #80: Minimizing your carbon footprint
• 18th September: Incredible Tanzania + Where to go in December + What you all want to know
• 13th September: Travel tip #79: Traveling with medication
• 11th September: Decision fatigue traveling solo + Best anti theft bags for travel
• 6th September: Travel tip #78: Traveling plus sized
• 3rd September: All my flying tips + Madagascar fun facts
• 31st August: ⏰ LAST CHANCE – 400 OFF offer expires today (Saturday)
• 30th August: Travel tip #77: How to support a worried parent
• 27th August:   We’re 400K strong, you get 400 OFF! + The art of not giving a… 🥒
• 23rd August: Travel tip #76: Countries that don’t celebrate Christmas
• 20th August: 📺 We’re on the BBC! + You may be too old for hostels
• 16th August: Travel tip #75 – Master the shoulder season
• 13th August: 🦪 NEW Croatia & Montenegro + Mar’s Birthday + Wild airport stories
• 9th August: Travel tip #74: Sunscreen that won’t kill the ocean
• 6th August: 💁‍♀️ Travel more + Travel tips + Packings lists + Travel warnings
• 2nd August: ✈️ Travel tip #73: Flight discount services
• 30th July: 🧿 Santorini lockdown + SFT podcast? + Global get together
• 26th July: Travel tip #72: How to entertain yourself on a long flight
• 23rd July: 🐘 Unethical animal interactions + NEW destinations + Summer packing list
• 16th July: 👎 Can’t please everyone + ⛵ New Greece 2025 + 💸 300 OFF!
• 12th July: Travel tip #71: How to travel with a hat
• 9th July: World’s most overrated destination? + My travels in 2025
• 5th July: Travel tip #70 – Safe and fun dating on holidays
• 2nd July: 😍 Save the date for our 2025 calendar!
• 28th June: Travel tip #69 – Travel with a sex toy
• 25th June: ☀️ 3 tips to survive summer peak crowds + All 2025 Europe trips are live
• 21st June: Travel tips #68: The 3 BEST travel items I bought this year
• 17th June: 🍷 Come to Tuscany in 2025 + 3 Less busy Euro destinations + Fake waterfall
• 14th June: Travel tip #67 – Carry on sizes for most airlines
• 11th June: What to wear / NOT to wear in Europe in the summer
• 7th June: Travel tip #66: What to do with a bidet
• 4th June: New over-tourism rules in Japan + Oaxaca & Cuba 2025 dates are live!
• 31st May: Travel tip #65 – Staying safe during turbulence
• 28th May: 🇬🇪 Our trip to GEORGIA is live! + Tips for Seville
• 25th May: Travel tip #64 – Websites to book tours and activities
• 21st May: ✅ Tick off AUSTRALIA, CUBA & OAXACA in 2025 + Best airports
• 17th May: Travel tip #63 – Cool & Unique places to stay
• 15th May: Don’t trust reviews + Last chance to join us in 2024
• 11th May: Travel tip #61 – 3 Travel scams to avoid (2/3)
• 8th May: ❄️🌌 Our 2025 Magical ARCTIC tour is live!
• 3rd May: Travel tip #62 – Travel scams to avoid (3/3)
• 30th April 2024: ️ New US Airline laws + Strange things you can fly with + 2025 trip recap
• 26th April 2024: Travel tip #60 – The power of community
• 23rd April 2024: How to be a better traveler in 2024 + Tips for Mauritania
• 19th April 2024: Travel tip #59 – 3 Travel scams to avoid
• 16th April 2024: Upgraded Barcelona Xmas Sex-ed tour + Air closures + Time to book your summer flights
• 12th April 2024: Travel tip #58 – 3 Places you need to visit before they change
• 9th April 2024: Our trip to BALI is live + About us
• 5th April 2024: Travel tip #57 – What to do at night when traveling solo
• 2nd April 2024: We’re on the LA Times + Cuba 2025 is LIVE!
• 29th March 2024: Travel tip #56 – How to “theft-proof” yourself
• 27th March 2024: 2025 Tanzania safari & Zanzibar + Is Antarctica in your dreams?
• 22nd March 2024: Travel tip #55 – Let Google track your flight
• 19th March 2024: 2025 Greece dates are LIVE! + Tips for Cartagena de Indias
• 16th March 2024: Travel tips #54 – How to plan a budget trip
• 12th march 2024: Epic birthday celebration + Save the date for our 2025 tours
• 8th March 2024: Travel tips #53: Use Google to find female owned businesses
• 5th March 2024: 2024 Solo Female Travel Survey results + Best beaches in the world
• 1st March 2024: Travel tips #52: Tracking countries visited
• 27th February 2024: This Intl. Women’s Day, book THAT trip & save $300!
• 23rd February 2024: Travel tip #51: How to choose the best seat on a plane
• 21st February 2024: Living La dolce vita + Beautiful San Blas archipelago
• 16th February 2024: Travel tip #50: How to LOVE eating alone
• 14th February 2024: Travel with me in 2024 + 2025 Kili climb 90%+ female supported + Cherry blossom map
• 9th February 2024: Travel tips #49: Passport ranking
• 7th February 2024: Come to Egypt! + Counting countries + Issues in Machu Pichu + Japan nomad visa
• 2nd February 2024: Travel tips #48: Should you tip cabin crew?
• 30th January: 🦘AUSTRALIA is live! + 2024 calendar + 90% OFF Languages
• 26th January 2024 2024: Travel tip #47: Flight DEALS alerts
• 23rd January: Our XMAS MARKETS trip is live! + Travel news + “Cheap” igloo
• 17th January 2024: Our trip to OAXACA is Live! + Discount for Morocco & Cuba
• 12th January 2024: Travel tip #45: How to check if you need a visa
• 9th January 2024: My travel plans for 2024 + Most read of 2023
• 5th January 2024: Travel tip #44 / 2024 Resolution: Going to a bar alone
• 3rd January 2024: 2024 Resolutions: More SOLO travel
• 29th December 2023: Travel tip #43: Brag about 2023
• 26th December 2023: Naughty or nice? + Best of 2023
• 22nd December 2023: Travel tip #42: Traveling with gifts + The best 5 travel items I bought in 2023
• 19th December 2023: Last min gifts + Xmas markets tips + Treat yourself
• 16th December 2023: Travel tips #41: Phone lanyard
• 12th December 2023: Not naked enough + We have a winner + How does Madagascar sound?
• 8th December 2023: Travel tip #40: How to track flight delays
• 5th December 2023: ️❄️ Closes airports + Refer a friend + Private tours + Seats for women
• 1st December 2023: Travel tip #39: Beware Booking .com scam
• 28th December 2023: 💸 WIN $1,500 in cash for whatever you want!
• 24th November 2023: Travel tip #38: How to easily reach the overhead bins
• 21st November 2023: 500 women traveled with us! + Celebrate Xmas / NYE in Tanzania with us
• 17th November 2023: Travel tip #37: How to find a female guide
• 14th November 2023: Our trip to Scotland is live!
• 10th November 2023: Travel tip #36: How to track your travels without doing anything
• 7th November 2023: Safari packing myths + We are not for everyone + Photos from Sex-ed tour
• 3rd November 2023: Travel tip #35: Roll-up toiletry bags
• 31st October 2023: I called a BIG company out + Travel with me in 2024
• 27th October 2023: Travel tip #34: Avoid single supplements in hotels in Europe
• 24th October 2023: The Nobel Prize & women travel + Xmas market dates
• 20th October 2023: Travel tip #33: 3 tips to survive winter 🙂
• 17th October 2023: Oslo tips + Barcelona Sex-Ed FAQ + Videos from all our trips
• 13th October 2023: Travel tip #32: Travel inspiration with Flightsfrom.com
• 10th October 2023: Travel tips for Stockholm + We’re in Morocco
• 7th October 2023: Travel tip #31: 3 strategies I use to save on flights
• 3rd October 2023: Travel tips for Helsinki + 2024 BEST year for the Northern Lights
• 29th September 2023: Travel tip #30 – Too good to go, or how to get cheap food when traveling
• 26th September 2023: ALL about travel to Cuba + What others say about us
• 22nd September 2023: Travel tip #29 – Pack electrolytes
• 19th September 2023: 🥳 We’re 300,000!!! + Free course
• 15th September 2023: Travel tip #28: Emergency settings you need to turn on now
• 12th September 2023: Should you travel to Morocco? + How to help with recovery
• 8th September 2023: Travel tip #27: New Google Flight features to find cheap flights
• ️5th September 2023: Where to go in December + Places that don’t celebrate Xmas + Bhutan cuts fee 50%
• 1st September 2023: Travel tips #26 – How to find a wellness retreat
• 25th August 2023: Travel tip #25 – Flight reservations for visa or onward travel
• 22nd August 2023: The challenge of your life + 3 tips for eating alone + Welcome Stella!
• 15th August 2023: Sensual Barcelona + Photos from all tours + West Africa flight disruptions
• 11th August 2023: Travel tip #23: Global flight boards
• 8th August 2023: EU Flight compensation + $300 OFF Iceland
• 1st August 2023: Authorisation to visit EU in 2024 + Surviving peak summer crowds
• 25th July 2023: Visit Africa in 2024 + What I get asked the most
• 18th July 2023: 🥳 We’re 8 so you get 100! + Europe Heatwave + NYE in Morocco!
• 11th July 2023: Iceland is on fire + 90% off languages + 2024 Venice is live!
• 4th July 2023: Best eSIMs for travel + Sail with us in 2024
• 27th June 2023: 2024 Croatia & Montenegro trip is live + Ghana travel tips
• 20th June 2023: 2024 Tuscany dates are live + How to avoid crowds in Santorini
• 13th June 2023: Sail with us! + Your 2024 travel calendar + Best shoes for travel
• 6th June 2023: 🤩 New Barcelona & Beyond + Quirks about us + 2023 availabilit y
• 30th May 2023: Amalfi Coast 2024 dates + How to save on food + Benin travel tips
• 22nd May 2023: Time zones fun + Tips for Togo
• 17th May 2023: You don’t need a prince for this + Schengen zone explained
• 9th May 2023: The BEST carry-on suitcase + My Togo-Ghana-Benin trip
• 2nd May 2023: What to wear in Europe in summer + Carry-on sizes explained
• 25th April 2023: How to sleep in planes + 10% OFF language app + 10% OFF Thai Retreat
• 11th April 2023: What it’s like to climb Kili + Free flights to HK + Trip planning + Social impact
• 4th April 2023: Why visit Iceland by 2025 + Europe strikes + We’re hiring
• 28th March 2023: Our NEW tour to CUBA is now LIVE!
• 22nd March 2023: Avoid France in 2023 + Photographer tours
• 17th March 2023: Eat, Pray, Love & have fun with us! + Tips of Tunis
• 14th March 2023: Shall we meet in person? + Welcome Gaby + Come to Sudan
• 7th March 2023: 5 ways to treat yourself this IWD
• 28th February 2023: 🎉✨ We celebrate ourselves: IWD Flash sale!
• 21st February 2023: Safety in Mexico downgraded + Online dating + 2023 tours
• 14th February 2023: Egypt tour LIVE + HACK to save on flights + Millennial vs. Boomers
• 7th February 2023: Our Tanzania Value trip is live!
• 1st Februar 2023: Come to Africa in 2023
• 26th January 2023: Incredible Egypt
• 17th January 2023: Best time to visit Europe + China opens up + Tanzania
• 10th January 2023: Croatia joins EU + Postcards from abroad + Egypt
• 4th January: Live the island life with us!
• 27th December 2022: Take THAT trip in 2023 
• 20th December 2022: Representation matters
• 13th December 2022: Did you know…+ Visiting every country in the world
• 6th December 2022: My favorite moments of 2022
• 29th November 2022: One word only – Be a REBEL
• 23rd November 2022: EXCLUSIVE: Black Friday deal on Tours & Courses
• 16th November 2022: How safe did you feel in 2022?
• 8th November 2022: 🌍 Reminder: Time to plan your 2023 travels
• 2nd November 2022: NEW – Self defense Trip in Iceland + Warm places in December
• 26th October 2022: Sensual Barcelona: Our erotic development tour
• 18th October 2022: 🧘‍♀️ In 2023, you deserve a wellness retreat
• 11th October 2022: The destination that should be on your bucket list
• 5th October 2022: Welcome Karla + Sex-ed tour to Barcelona
• 28th September 2022: 90% OFF our courses
• 25th September 2022: OMG! 200k + US State Dept thinks we are  
• 20th September 2022: Egypt, Cuba, Self-love and Self-defense
• 13th September 2022: The women changing the travel industry
• 6th September 2022: Reminder – You don’t need anyone to see the world
• 31st August 2022: Warm places in December  ☀️
• 24th August 2022: The country that supports women in tourism
• 16th August 2022: Our 2023 bucket list 🧳 ✈️ 🗺️
• 10th August 2022: What others have to say + Join us in 2023
• 2nd August 2022: 💸 Save 10% on all your 2023 European trips
• 29th July 2022: No female guide, no tour
• 26th July 2022: Island hopping in the Seychelles + Free trains in Spain
• 17th July 2022: We are turning 7 + $100 OFF our trips
• 12th July 2022: Going to Croatia + Surviving airport chaos
• 7th July 2022: Our first 100 guests
• 29th June 2022: 🦁 Back in Tanzania + New team member
• 21st June 2022: ⏳ Last chance for Amalfi + I’m in Tuscany
• 15th June 2022: ⏰ Our 2nd Greece sailing is live!
• 11th June 2022: Travel tip #22 – Travel with a local voice in your head
• 8th June 2022: 👆 Make a difference at the top
• 1st June 2022: 🚨 Our portal is here!
• 24th Mary 2022: Meet the most inspiring Tanzanian woman in tourism
• 17th May 2022: 😍 Tourism is back
• 13th May 2022: Travel tip #21 – Fab & Glam vacation photos
• 11th May 2022: Our biggest accomplishment to date
• 4th May 2022: Solo travel myths that need to be busted
• 26th April 2022: Let’s celebrate summer! ⛱️ 👙☀️🌴
• 20th April 2022: Un-tour + Last spot + New Dates + Good laugh
• 15th April 2022: Travel tip #20 – Remote and flexible jobs
• 12th April 2022: Who wants to save 35% on Antarctica?
• 6th April 2022: Seychelles, Iceland, Oprah, a new portal + more
• 1st April 2022: How the conflict in Ukraine affects travel
• 29th March 2022: Are we going back to pre-COVID travel?
• 22nd March 2022: Under the Tuscan sun
• 18th March 2022: Solo female travel tip #17 – Survey results!
• 15th March 2022: Our trip to Morocco is live!
• 8th March 2022: Every day is IWD for us
• 23rd February 2022: Our travel plans for 2022
• 18th February 2022: Travel Tip #17 – Taking photo of yourself
• 16th February 2022: Morocco is open + IWD
• 8th February 2022: We’re going sailing in Greece!
• 5th February 2022: Solo travel tip #16 – Travel dating
• 3rd February 2022: Don’t mess up your travel documents
• 25th January 2022: New exciting adventures await
• 21st January 2022: Solo Female Travel Tips #15
• 18th January 2022: I’m going live in 2 hours – See you there!
• 11th January 2022: Flash sale on our tours
• 7th January 2022: Travel tip #14 – Traveling in times of COVID (Part 1)
• 4th January 2022: How was 2021 for you?
• 22nd December 2021: Not on our gift list + Trip winner
• 19th December 2021: Don’t put it off anymore 😀
• 17th December 2021: Travel Tip #13 – Hotel room safety
• 14th December 2021: Your 2022 travel bucket list
• 11th December 2021: Baby Alex has a message for you
• 7th December 2021: Is your country grey or pink?
• 3rd December 2021: Travel tip #12 – Solo beach time + Welcome Alex!
• 30th November 2021: Join us on Giving Tuesday
• 23rd November 2021: We’re heading the most amazing country
• 16th November 2021: What it’s like to climb Kilimanjaro
• 10th November 2021: La Dolce Vita 🥘 🍕🍷
• 5th November 2021: Solo female travel tip #11 – Airport safety
• 2nd November 2021: Just back from Iceland 
• 26th October 2021: A venetian romance
• 22nd October 2021: Solo Female Travel Tip #10
• 20th October 2021: We are in Greece, Tanzania next!
• 12th October 2021: 2022 is the year of ADVENTURE!
• 8th October 2021: Travel tips #9 How to find travel buddies
• 5th October 2021: Women helping women reach the top
• 28th September 2021: Warm places in December
• 24th September 2021: Travel tip #8: Tips for your first solo trip
• 21st September 2021: Beaches & Villages
• 14th September 2021: Help another solo female traveler
• 10th September 2021: Travel tip #7 – Packing hacks
• 7th September 2021: Namibia’s tribes, breathtaking landscapes and wildlife
• 31st August 2021: The Afghanistan you never see
• 27th August 2021: Solo Female Travel Tip #6 How to eat alone and enjoy it
• 25th August 2021: Like a travel show
• 20th August 2021: The only female Afghan guide needs you
• 18th August 2021: Vacations from hell, “Me” time & More
• 11th August 2021: Come to Iceland this October
• 5th August 2021: Solo Female Travel Tip #5 How to meet people when traveling
• 3rd August 2021: How to…of solo travel
• 30th July 2021: Travel tip #4 Anti-theft bags
• 21st August 2021: Did you know…? Fun facts about Sudan
• 17th August 2021: Travel tip #3 Safety and tracking apps
• 14th July 2021: The one about the gorillas in the mist
• 9th July 2021: Solo Female Travel tip #2 How to be a more eco traveler
• 6th July 2021: Summer plans + We’re hiring!
• 2nd July 2021: NEW! Solo Female Travel tip #1 Register with your embassy
• 29th June 2021: Eat, Pray, Love in Tuscany with us
• 25th June 2021: 🎁 FLASH SALES – Only 12h left
• 23rd June 2021: 💪 We’re 100k! Enjoy our Flash Sale! 🎉
• 15th June 2021: Antartica Q&A, Kilimanjaro Intl. Women’s Day, New website
• 11th June 2021: Get your photos taken in Iceland or Tanzania
• 8th June 2021: We are counting down to our Iceland and Tanzania trips
• 3rd June 2021: Antarctica, One for the bucket list
• 26th May 2021: 11 Reasons to join us in Tanzania
• 19th May 2021: Who wants to get down and dirty?
• 12th May 2021: Vintage biking across Mongolia
• 6th may 2021: A once in a century opportunity to visit Spain
• 2nd May 2021: You’re invited to Sagrada Familia, Costa Brava and so much more!
• 28th April 2021: Next week: Live from Barcelona & the Secrets Beyond
• 26th April 2021: Did you see our trip to Iceland?
• 22nd April 2021: A luxury trip to the land of Fire & Ice
• 15th April 2021: Explorers wanted for an adventure to the land of Ancient Pharaohs
• 7th April 2021: See you in Tanzania or in Spain!
• 31st March 2021: Do you agree these are the safest countries?
• 25th March 2021: 📣 Solo female travel survey results are in!
• 17th March 2021: Let’s travel together
• 9th March 2021: We’ve come a long way, but we are not done yet
• 6th march 2021: Going, going, gone…!
• 1st March 2021: The Queen thinks she is amazing, we think so too! Announcing the speakers for our safety, wellness and sexual wellbeing course
• 24th February 2021: Your goodie bag inside: Safety app, personal alarm
• 15th February 2021: 🦸‍♀️ Empowerful is here! We’re about to make history 
• 3rd February 2021: Secret inside: The Solo Female Travel Safety Index is here!
• 1st February 2021: We have the solution to all your safety questions
• 22nd January 2021: Do you care about safety? Looking for volunteers to help us test our annual survey.
• 6th January 2021: What a year 2020 was, but 2021 will be AMAZING!
• 30th December 2020: Do you want a postcard?
• 24th December 2020: Have you been naughty or nice?
• 17th December 2020: We did it! So, what’s next? We collected 5,000 responses to our first Solo Female Travel survey
• 9th December 2020: Bored, lonely, scared… you are not alone 🤗
• 3rd December 2020: We’ve been featured on Forbes!
• 23rd November 2020: Have you ever traveled solo before? Launching our Solo Female Travel survey
• 3rd November 2020: 🎅 Ho Ho HOO! Join our gift exchange  
• 28th October 2020: 80+ amazing gift ideas for HER 
• 14th October 2020: 100+ Best books for women
• 6th October 2020: Work and travel, everything you need to know
• 22nd September 2020: Choosing a yoga retreat + 10 best retreats from $99
• 8th September 2020: The secret gem of the Mediterranean 🤫 Live session on Sardinia
• 25th August 2020: ICYMI – Best of the summer  Content to inspire and help your solo travels
• 18th August 2020: The most inspiring video you’ll watch this month – The world’s most well traveled woman
• 11th August 2020: Best language apps to avoid mishaps  📲
• 4th August 2020: 🚗 The perfect road trip 
• 28th July 2020: We are going to Greece! Live session on traveling to Greece
• 17th July 2020: We would love to help you dream We’re giving away $1,000 in cash to help you during these tough times to celebrate our 5th year anniversary!
• 9th July 2020: A luxury trip to Greece, a Bali yoga retreat and more Announcing our 5th year anniversary giveaway 
• 20th June 2020: Women-only travel groups
• 13th June 2020: Travel Deals ❤️ 
• 2nd June 2020: All about Workaway and staying productive
• 1st June 2020: Pioneer women who break records & inspire Live sessions led by inspiring women from around the world
• 26th May 2020: The only thing you need for your next solo trip 🌎🌏🌍 Our website is life
• 18th May 2020: 27 amazing women traveling solo, Watch the trailer now!
• 9th May 2020: Pro tips for: Traveling to Egypt, Starting a blog and Taking great selfies
• 3rd May 2020: The most important female solo travel tip Getting proper insurance

30 of the Best Solo Travel Tips From our Readers (July 2024)

by JourneyWoman Staff | Aug 14, 2024

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Featured image: This month’s solo travel tips include packing tips and clever ways to save money | Photo by shiwork on Envato

Expert Advice from Our Community: Safety, Packing, and Practical Tips

Curated from our Facebook Group and Email Tips 

This month, we’re highlighting reader tips centred on safety, light packing, and practical travel strategies—ideal for avoiding those costly checked bag fees. Gathered from incoming emails and our private Solo Travel Wisdom Facebook group , we’re thrilled to present these firsthand solo travel tips. These recommendations aim to help you travel securely and efficiently. Have your own solo travel tip? We’d love to hear from you! ( You can do that here! )

Tip: You can download these tips as a PDF or print them using the icons above!

Safety and solo travel tips

1. My travel tip is to always let people know where I am. When you make it through safely, you’ll be grateful that at least a few people were aware and waiting to hear that you made it safely. — Amy A.

2. Save the address of where you are staying in Google Maps. That way you’ll always know where you are in relation to your accommodation. Makes it easy to figure out how to get home! — Martha T.

3. When you get to your hotel , pick up some brochures and book the tours that you want to go on. Also, hotel concierge can be your best friend. — Susan K.

4. One can learn pickpocketing and scammer ploys. In Budapest, you have the lady with what looks like a baby hanging around churches begging. Often they only have a bundle of rags. I avoid all beggars and watch for kiddy groups in Bratislava. The women begging and children are common. — Nancy H.

5. If you blend in, you’re unlikely to attract much attention from pickpockets. Someone once advised me to get a bag from a local store and carry your camera in it! — Paula L.

6. For first-time solo travellers, ‘practice travel’ close to home. Eat alone in a restaurant or cafe . Take public transit to an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Use your GPS or a map to find your way around. Spend a weekend in a hotel or hostel close to home. Be a tourist first in your own community. — Jackie H.

7. Better to leave expectations at home and be open to how things are one day at a time. There is so much to learn about a new place and culture. Be excited about what you will learn. — Mary A.

8. It’s important to stay safe while you’re traveling. This means being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and not flashing your valuables. — Karen N.

9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re ever feeling lost or overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many people who are willing to help solo travelers, and there are many resources available to you. — Maura G.

Read More: How to Enjoy Dining Alone: 30 Tips from Solo Women Travellers

10. I try to find local opportunities. So I go to a local church. In London, that might be Evensong at Westminster Abbey or St Paul’s. It could be the historic St. Bride’s Church, or the local little village church. There will almost always be exquisite music and a chance to quietly contemplate these beautiful places without crowds of tourists. Many places have Seniors centres where, as a senior you can meet local people, maybe volunteer for a few hours, and even have a healthy and inexpensive meal. — Noreen L.

11. If I need books I visit a thrift shop. I’ve found something to read in most places I’ve visited, even if English is not the primary language. I once found an exquisite silk scarf in a village thrift shop. — Noreen L.

12. I like to use Google Maps to find cafes, restaurants and attractions close to where I’m staying before I leave home. I love the street view to explore a little around my accommodation ready for that first jet-lagged arrival day. It’s handy to know where the nearest grocery store is to buy breakfast provisions. Or perhaps a lovely cafe for lunch. I know I won’t be thinking clearly with little sleep so I prepare ahead. — Virginia M.

13. I research average weather conditions to help choose the best times to travel to a location and look at the safety rating for locations on the US Federal travel website . — Luann D.

Packing Tips

14. Roll Dri weave clothes into IKEA ziplock bags (allergic to wool)- shocking how little space they take! — Tracy T.

15. I carry a large Turkish towel (well used, washed often, very soft and absorbent) with me on every trip… as a towel, beach coverup, shawl, pillow on planes and buses, even to cover a carpet for my yoga stretches. Dries very quickly and takes up very little room. One of the top five things on my packing list, especially as I much prefer cotton vs synthetic against my skin. — Lois P.

16. I only pack for one week, whether I am travelling for 7 days or 60. — Lois P.

17. I pack everything in neutrals/colourfast so it can all be washed together. — Lauren H.

18. Take a sheet of pre-addressed labels for sending postcards (something I still do!). — Petra C.

19. Interfold linen … I pack and wear it in hot climates. — Carla D.

20. Copies of the front page of my passport in my suitcase and in my daybag … PLUS on my device. — Tanya K.

21. Take half the amount of clothes you think you need and twice the amount of money you think you need. — Trang T.

22. Make a list and check it twice. Also, pack in cubes . And if you don’t want things too wrinkled then lay it flat. I also have an order that I begin the process with…starting with my carry-on, biz stuff, money, essentials…..then the clothes, shoes and toiletries…and of course, the yoga mat (last but never least). — Heather M.

Use these solo travel tips on your next adventure!

23. Pack a small portable power bank and essential charging cables . This simple item can be a lifesaver when your phone or other devices run low on battery while you’re out exploring, especially if you’re using your phone for navigation, taking photos, or accessing important travel information. It ensures you stay connected and don’t miss capturing memorable moments during your trip. — Debbie D

24. Does anyone else have lower back pain? Ever since I discovered the Sunbeam USB Heating Pad from Amazon, I never leave home without it. It has a USB connector ensuring that you can use it absolutely everywhere, even on the plane. You can also use the pocket to use it with a power bank if you need it while walking around. Use it with a cigarette lighter USB converter even with rental cars without media ports. This thing has been such a game-changer for me! — Stephanie D.

25. Get a case for your phone that also charges the battery . It’ll be a lifesaver and less things to worry about carrying. — Jane C.

Read More: Practical Tips for Women to Prepare for Long-Term Travel

26. Always have a plastic shopping bag or small trash bag in whatever bag you are carrying while out for the day. If it rains and your bag starts getting wet, repack stuff into the plastic one so only your bag and not the contents get wet. If you find yourself wanting to sit on the grass, use it as a seat. Use it to wrap opened food that might spill (looking at you, bag of M&Ms that went all over!). Come across wild raspberries while walking to the supermarket in Helsinki? Gather them and put them in the bag. (Yes, this happened to me, and raspberries were on my shopping list.) Find a giant pile of gold coins, but they are wet and muddy? Load up your bag. Sadly I’ve never experienced this. Yet. — Stacy K.

27. At times, it can be difficult to locate a trusted clean water source, so I purchased a Grayl® 16.9 oz. ULTRAPRESS® purifier bottle for my trip to Turkey and never had to worry about it again. It has a built-in filter good for 300 uses and removes viruses, chemicals and metals. It allows you to take water from any source including hotel taps and even a river and turn it into clean drinking water. It is part of my packing list now. — Donna R.

Solo travel planning tips

28. I’m almost 66 and stay in hostels all the time. The lounge/kitchen area in most hostels is a great place to meet people. — Lauri T. ( Find a hostel here! )

29. Do your research: Before you go, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the places you’ll be visiting. This includes things like the culture, the currency, and the local customs. — Fetchin G.

30. I recently stayed at the Hotel Germain in Quebec City . The concierge was so helpful! He organized a trip in a hot air balloon and a sailing adventure on the St. Lawrence for me.

More Travel Tips From JourneyWoman Readers

30 of the Best Women’s Solo Travel Tips From Our Readers (August 2024)

by JourneyWoman Staff

JourneyWoman readers share their best solo travel tips from August 2024, including safety, hotels, and practical travel strategies.

30 of the Best Solo Travel Tips from Our Readers (June 2024)

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JourneyWoman readers share their best travel tips from May 2024, including packing, safety and inspiring places to visit as a 50+ woman.

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Be careful asking for directions on the street or and watch European change given. I asked a walking elderly couple for Marlborough St. train stop directions in Dublin, Ireland from only 2 blocks away and they were not able to direct me. A man exiting his residence on a nearby stoop overheard me and then knew I was lost. I simply kept walking to where I had come from and found my destination on a downloaded map on my phone but would recommend NOT asking for directions in public. It can open you up to opportunists who overhear your American accent.

Similarly, I asked a woman pushing a stroller with a baby in Vienna, Austria for directions to a street I showed her on my phone. She knew no English but DID point me in the right direction. However, this declares you lost to a stranger. Asking a shop employee or waiter would be safer than asking directions on the street.

Finally, watch out for European counterfeit change given. I used a 50 euro bill in a Dublin quickshop to break it and purchase soft drinks and was given coins that were $1 car wash tokens rather than 2Euro coins, even though the cashier knew it as she had looked at them in her hand before giving to me. Break large bills in cafes where there is time to check the change given is not counterfeit.

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Hi! I’m Kate.

I teach women how to travel the world safely — and I’m here to help you have the best trip ever.

I quit my job to travel the world alone in 2010. 12 years later, I’ve traveled to 83 countries and all seven continents! Oh, and I never went back to a “real” job.

Whether you need guidance for your first solo trip or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for destination inspiration, you’ve come to the right place!

You’re the most genuine blogger I’ve ever read…I’ve consumed a lot of blogs and travel related content in the past decade but you’re the only one I really trust and can genuinely say puts your readers first.

No one tackles the uncomfortable and difficult subjects like Kate does. I feel like she makes me a more aware and ethical traveler. It’s a complete bonus that reading her is like manifesting that wickedly intelligent, hilarious well-traveled friend we would all love to have.

SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL GUIDES

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14 Best Solo Female Travel Blogs (Updated 2023)

If you’ve already got your backpack and passport ready, here are best solo female travel blogs to encourage, inspire, and guide you through your new adventures.

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Traveling alone can provide some of the most fulfilling and life-changing experiences anyone can ever have. Nothing beats the thrill of following the open road to wherever it takes you, all the while soaking in every new encounter and enjoying the deep satisfaction you get from ticking things off your travel bucket list.

Best Female Solo Travel Blogs

#1 the blonde abroad: solo female travel blog.

Kiersten is a Californian who left her corporate career to make her globetrotting dreams a reality. Since then, she has managed to tour over 50 countries in 6 continents and cross out a bunch of things from her bucket list. She has interestingly turned The Blonde Abroad —which features tons of resources for the solo female traveler—from a personal travel diary into one of her biggest sources of income.

Kiersten’s blog focuses on luxury travel tips but occasionally dabbles in backpacking and travel photography. Her content is more guide-like and less like a memoir, and is filled with golden tips in various subjects such as staying healthy while traveling, places to see in various destinations, and cuisines worth trying at every location she has been to. Her blog post 20 Trips to Take in Your 20s is like a map of incredible destinations that every first-time traveler should absolutely visit in their lifetime.

#2 Ashley Abroad: Solo Female Travel & Travel Tips

From backpacking through Europe, India, and Asia for a whole year to occasionally burying herself in books, Ashley’s interests are diverse. However, her love for traveling has equipped her with essential experience and expansive knowledge in the nuances of being a solo female traveler.

She has written extensively about what it is like to live in Africa, among other places, and is one of the few bloggers out there with the chops to teach others how to balance a full-time job with a life on the open road. Her mostly practical travel blog consists of articles on things like the best shoes to wear when traveling to tips on becoming an au pair in different countries as a way of making some extra cash. She had however dedicated most of her blog to making the life of the solo traveler much easier by providing insightful tips such as in her article; 12 Travel Accessories That Drastically Improve L ong-Term Travel .

#3 Pearls and Passports: Solo Female Travel Blog

Stephanie put the brakes on her successful career as a podiatrist, overcame her fears about traveling solo, and became an inspiration to many solo female travelers who have since borrowed a page or two from her. She admits that traveling alone has not been the easiest of experiences but she has never regretted her decision to tackle the open road.

Her blog is a recollection of her journey as she travels and occasionally backpacks through destinations in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. She describes her experiences at a number of the places she’s been to with writing that is full of warmth and also detailed richly to give her readers a sense of being there with her. Her posts—far from being of the run-of-the-mill variety—invite the reader to look at these destinations from a new perspective and in a way that excellently portrays things that can only be experienced by someone who has visited those places. Her blog also serves as a useful tool for travelers looking to book accommodations beforehand.

#4 Helen in Wonderlust: Africa Travel Blog & African Adventure

Helen is an event manager who had her heart set on seeking out new experiences from the word go. Her approach to solo traveling for the female explorer is as practical as it gets as she doles out useful tips and various insights on solo female traveling.

Her blog contains a mixture of fun recollections as she describes her adventures through Africa and other parts of the world, and practical guides to things like planning your dream trip, getting travel insurance, places to visit, where to get the best culinary experiences, and a very detailed city guide for her hometown, Liverpool. Her passion for Africa is one that is mirrored in several of her posts which have been dedicated to hiking, backpacking, or traveling through the wild continent. Her post on becoming a full-time blogger— When One Door Closes…On Becoming a Full-Time Travel Blogger —is very useful for solo travelers looking to make a career out of it.

#5 Adventurous Kate: The Solo Female Travel Blog

Adventurous Kate is a solo female travel blog about Kate from Boston, USA. Like a lot of other travel bloggers Kate quit her job in 2010 at the age of 26  and set off on a world of Adventure and hasn’t looked back. She has traveled everywhere from Australia to Vietnam and has covered almost 60 different countries.

Her Blog Adventurous Kate include great articles, accommodation advise and other fantastic reviews,  there is also a great travel resources page offering links to Cheap Flights, Accommodation, Insurance and Travel Gear. Kate is a full time blogger who regularly posts great articles including Where to Stay in Barcelona — Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation .

The website design isn’t as good as some of the other travel blogs and looks like it could do with a refresh however the content is amazing, packed full of great information and fantastic colorful photography. Kate has a great social media following including over 50K followers on Facebook as well as a great following on Twitter, Youtube, Linked In and Google +

The Adventurous Kate blog is one of our favorite solo travel blogs and the articles continue to be interesting and packed full of information.

#6 The Boutique Adventurer

The Boutique Adventurer is the the brainchild of Amanda O’Brien, an Aussie currently living in London who is a frequent traveler while also enjoying a little luxury in her life. This fantastic travel blog includes great articles on destinations from Australia to Tunisia and everywhere in between.

Amanda has visited over 70 countries and she likes to travel with friends, families as well as solo which is unusual for travel blogs who normally only cover 1 niche area.  Some The articles covered on this blog include Iceland Travel Tips: Top 10 Things You Need to Know which makes me want to visit Iceland even more. We also loved the Namibia Self Drive: 10 night itinerary that will give you wanderlust for your next African adventure

The Boutique Adventurer also includes some great travel tips, and reviews of some business class airlines and luxury hotels. There are also some good tips for solo travelers including Holidays for One: Best Organised Tours for Single Travel .

The website design looks good without getting to cluttered which is an issue with some other blog design. Amanda has a great following on most of the social media sites including Facebook and Twitter. If you love to trek during the day while also enjoying the night time creature comforts then this is a great blog to follow.

#7 Girl about the Globe: Making Solo Travel Easier

Lisa has travelled to to 131 countries and 101 of these solo with the aim of inspiring you to solo travel the world. Girl about the Globe is an award winning solo female travel blog that donates to organisations protecting vulnerable girls about the globe.

#8 The Shooting Star: Just a girl who travels

Shivya Nath’s is a story of fulfilling childhood curiosities and ambitions. Ever since quitting her corporate job 6 years ago, she has been on the road searching for new adventures and regaling her readers with all of her wonderful experiences. She leads a fully nomadic lifestyle and works from the road to support her soul’s desire to backpack through every country in the world.

From insightful travel guides to lucid introductions into the life of a full-time solo female traveler, her blog is as resourceful as it is entertaining to read for anyone curious about a life on the road. She captures the essence of every location she visits with beautifully written posts about their lesser-known aspects, making the reader more intrigued about sharing her experiences. Her blog also contains a very helpful Responsible Travel section that the solo female traveler will find very useful in the course of her adventures.

#9 A Dangerous Business: Female Travel Blog

Amanda’s memoirs of the magical time she’s spent on the road belie her small town origins. An avid J.R.R. Tolkien fan (which is where she got the inspiration for her blog’s title), she is a passionate but very unique traveler who has managed to strike a balance between her love for the open road, a full-time job, and her beloved cat.

A Dangerous Experiences is a solo female travel blog centered on her slightly offbeat experiences as she travels to epic destinations. Her homey descriptions of the places she’s been to outline a major (possibly life-changing) experience she’s had at every destination, such as her nail-biting experience on a mountainside in Iceland.

Besides these lucidly written posts, she has also made several posts specifically for the solo female traveler, such as Top 9 Questions about Solo Travel Answered  which debunks several myths surrounding solo female travel in addition to providing a few nuggets of wisdom.

#10 Keep Calm and Travel: Stop Dreaming, Start Moving

At the age of 35, Clelia bought herself a one-way ticket to Bangkok where her nomadic lifestyle kicked off in earnest. She has since had an on-and-off relationship with the open road which has led her to beautiful Cambodia, Thailand (where she worked as a ballet teacher for 5 months), and the magical Philippines. She is a full-time travel blogger with a world of experience on the places to visit, what to do there, and how to have the time of your life as a solo female traveler on the road.

Her blog is a collection of well-researched guides based on her personal experiences, tales of her most exciting experiences at wonderful destinations, places to visit if you want to see natural phenomenon such as the Northern Lights, and useful travel items for the solo traveler.

#11 Bucket List Journey: Tools & Inspiration to Live Your List

Annette and her husband Peter own a trattoria with lots of employees, which gives them plenty of time to fulfill their dream of traveling the world in search of new experiences. Bucket List Journey is a story told in her eyes about her adventures through the waters of Palau, the streets of Thailand, rain forests in Costa Rica, and her zany experience with swimming pigs in the sunny Bahamas.

More than anything, this blog is about getting over the travel jitters any first-time solo female traveler might have about chasing their dreams. True to form, Bucket List Journey is simply a long list of things Annette wishes to do in her lifetime, a fair amount of which have already been checked off. She constantly updates the list and carefully details each and every one of her experiences, such as Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Vineyards of Northern California , in a manner that makes all her readers develop itchy feet.

#12 Rocky Travel Guide: Women Travellers Over 50

Michela paints the Australian outback in colors you’ve never seen before in this useful guide for the solo traveler exploring Australia. Born in Italy, she discovered her natural affinity for learning foreign languages which, by the age of 35, had made her fluent in German, English, Italian, and Spanish.

Her love for foreign dialects eventually burgeoned into a desire to experience foreign cultures, a path that gradually led her to the rocky Australian outback. Since leaving her 9-to-5 job in 2004, she has spent the last 13 years of her life teaching women like herself the benefits of traveling solo in addition to creating interesting memoirs about her backpacking journey through Australia.

Her blog is by far the most useful for the beginner solo traveler (regardless of the destination) since it offers helpful tips on how to pack, must-visit destinations, where to get accommodation, and staying safe on the road. Australia Travel Tips is a comprehensive travel guide for anyone looking to explore Australia for the first time.

#13 Girl vs Globe: Sole Female Travel Blog

Girl vs. Globe is Sabina’s attempt to recreate her experiences on the open road using stunning photography woven with the tales of her enthralling experiences. Her story takes us through her journey from her homeland in the Czech Republic to her current home in Scotland during which she fulfilled her childhood dream to travel the world.

Sabina takes her readers through earth-shattering experiences using nothing but exquisite photography that is good enough to make anyone catch the travel bug. Far from being just eye-candy, her blog contains useful guides through famous cities such as Budapest for the solo female traveler, tips on how travelers can make their Instagram pages as stunning as hers, and how to turn travel memoirs into a successful travel blog. Among the popular posts, 10 Ways to Take Photos of Yourself When Travelling Solo is a great beginner’s guide to creating stunning photo memories while on the road.

#14 Carrot Quinn – Dispatches from the wild

Dispatches from the wild is a travel blog created by Carrot Quinn who is a 34 year old Alaskan that has fallen into long distance hiking. This awesome travel blog has a very detailed account of her various hikes including the Pacific Crest Trail (Twice) , The Continental Divide Trail and Wyoming’s spectacular Wind River High Route.

If you have a look at the about me page you will see the life lived by Carrot before discovering her love of hiking. You can read amazing stories of hitchhiking around North America and time spent riding freight trains and dumpster diving for food. The posts that she currently writes on the blog offer you a insight into this past life and how it has molded her into the person she is now. To get a taste of some of the best articles on the blog you can see Some of her best stuff which offers a collection of blog posts, podcasts and fiction.

As mentioned earlier Carrot Quinn has twice walked the Pacific Crest Trail which is a mammoth 2,660 mile trail stretching from Mexico to Canada. Even more amazingly was the fact that this was her first long distance trail, after completing it she decided to write a book Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart which is available on Amazon .

#15 Hippie in Heels: Travel Blog – Hippie In Heels

Hippie in heels is a travel blog by Rachel Jones, a solo traveller hailing from Ohio. Her blogs feature a fun and hip way of travelling and amusing shopping destinations around the globe.

Readers can get many tips from traveling responsibly to what to buy and where to how to protect themselves from the harsh climates that first time travelers might encounter in stranger countries.

#16 Where in the World is Kate: Solo Travel Tips

Where in The World is Kate  – Solo Travel Blog with Exclusive Travel tips, Buy travel products, & How to be happy, travel anywhere in the world, at any age. Travel Stories, tips, tricks and Amazon travel gear store for women and men 50+ and anyone wants to have fun with us.

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20 expert solo travel tips for women from the Lonely Planet team

Nov 17, 2023 • 10 min read

Solo travel is one of the most exciting and liberating experiences you can have © Deepa Lakshmin / Lonely Planet

If you’re eager to see the world, why hold out for the ideal travel companion? Solo journeys create indelible memories.

Yet while voyaging by yourself can exhilarate, it can also be dauting– especially for female travelers. That’s why we asked a few travel-expert colleagues here at Lonely Planet for ideas that any woman setting out alone should keep in mind.

Here are 20 tips to keep you safe, grounded and ready to set out for the trip of a lifetime. All by yourself.

1. Seek out female hosts (ideally with pets)

If I’m booking accommodation online, I tend to opt for women owners (preferably with pets in their host photos!). This is partly psychological – but I’ve also found that women tend to think about things like where to go to avoid crowds or safer alternatives to more touristy places. It’s nice how protective women are of each other, especially when we’re traveling alone.

– Akanksha Singh , Destination Editor

2. Ease into it

It can be tempting to throw yourself outside of your comfort zone all at once, but doing things alone – solo traveling, or even just going out to dinner or the movies by yourself – can feel intimidating at first. But it’s a muscle you build up over time. Start with a day trip or an afternoon wandering a museum you’ve always wanted to see but didn’t know who to go with. When I backpacked through Australia and New Zealand , I tacked on extra days at the end of group tours so I had solo time to explore (and decompress!) after nonstop socializing and being “on.” I’d already acclimated to the new-to-me destination while traveling with the group, which meant I had more confidence and knowledge to navigate the streets on my own.

– Deepa Lakshmin , Social Media Director

3. Consider hostels for connecting with like-minded people of all ages

Hostels are a great way to meet people, especially fellow solo female travelers. I truly believe you’re never too old for hostels. Many cater to people of various age groups and backgrounds, and offer private rooms for added comfort and privacy. I find it’s easier to meet like-minded people in communal settings – the kind of people who are eager to exchange travel tips and stories with you and who genuinely want you to have a good time. I’ve made lifelong connections with people I’ve met in hostels.

– Sasha Brady , Digital Editor

4. Start with a solo afternoon

I’m not quite 100% to the point where I’m ready to dive into solo travel, so I like to just carve out a day or an afternoon of Rachy Adventures when I’m traveling with friends or my wife. (Said adventure often involves a croissant and an overpriced latte.) Some of my absolute favorite parts of a trip have been a rainy afternoon spent wandering alone in Boston , or sitting alone with a good book on a largely empty beach, taking in the waves.

– Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

5. Book some group activities

If you’re feeling apprehensive about taking a big solo trip, arrange a tour or activity for each day. This way your days will be organized around a preplanned group event. I made connections from all over the world on a solo trip to Australia in my early 20s – and 20 years on, am still in regular touch with a Swedish woman I met on a boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef .

– Fionnuala McCarthy , Editorial Director

6. Hop on a boat or a bus

I get my bearings by taking either a hop-on, hop-off bus tour or a boat tour. On my first solo trip to Paris , I decided to take a cruise down the Seine – during which I wrote out my plans for the trip and got to know people by offering to snap their photograph. I also find spending time in local bookstores to be a great way to immerse myself in the destination as well as meet fellow travelers and locals who seem very happy to help and offer tips and advice.

– Brekke Fletcher , Senior Director of Content

7. Bring a book

I’ve cycled and hiked and taken trains all over the world by myself, and I never did any of it without a book on hand. Waiting on delayed trains, sitting down to meals, relaxing in a bar at the end of the day: all of these situations are improved with a book. Reading can also be a useful way to put off any potential unwanted conversation. A woman on her own can be a magnet for chatterers, and I’m not always in the mood to talk to strangers when traveling.

– Amy Lynch , Destination Editor

8. Indulge your hobbies

Look for activities related to what you already like to do at home. For example, I love to thrift-shop, so I’ll often look up secondhand or charity shops in foreign cities: it’s a great way to get a sense for local fashions and find unique souvenirs. I also love to embroider, and I’ve spent hours at textile galleries, oohing over fine needlework and learning about local fiber-art traditions. I couldn’t do that with a bored travel companion.

– Morgan Wegner, Senior Operations Editor

9. Embrace “yes!” – within reason

One of the best things about solo travel is the freedom to make or break plans whenever you want. Some of my favorite travel memories (including meeting my husband!) are because I took a chance and made a plan with new friends over an impromptu drink or meal. Celebrate saying “yes” to things you wouldn’t normally do – but trust the voice in your head at the same time. If the hair on the back of your neck stands up at a turn Google is telling you to make, take a different route. Learn to expand your boundaries – while trusting your intuition.

– Erin Lenczycki, Photo Editor

10. Be present

Traveling by yourself is a great opportunity to be mindful. With no need to rush or please anyone else, I find myself doing a lot of thinking and reflecting while traveling alone. I try to limit my interaction with my phone as well to really enjoy the quiet. I find some of my most vivid traveling memories have come from these trips.

– AnneMarie McCarthy , Destination Editor

11. Plan rest days

For every seven to 10 days of travel, set aside a day to breathe. Sleep in, treat yourself to a nice meal or just give your legs a break. If you can resist the pressure to program every moment of your trip, you won’t feel like you’re “wasting” your time. This is especially true when you’re traveling solo and not on anyone else’s schedule.

– Ann Douglas Lott , Associate Editor

12. Use apps to your advantage (and with headphones)

When navigating a new city on foot, plug your destination into a maps app, then listen to the walking directions through headphones. This allows you to avoid pulling out a map – which is equivalent to waving a flag printed with “tourist!” Most importantly, when you’re making your plans, try to resist fear (which is used to manufacture headlines and generate clicks). Language and cultural barriers can raise discomfort, which will make you hyper-aware of your surroundings. But that doesn’t mean said surroundings are unsafe.

– Jessica Lockhart, Destination Editor

13. Go on a food tour

One thing that makes a lot of solo travelers apprehensive is the thought of dining alone. But if you join a food tour, you’ll have dining companions for the evening and the opportunity to try out a bunch of new restaurants ⁠— all while learning about the local culture. I joined a food tour of Trastevere while traveling solo in Rome : not only did I get to meet fellow travelers, but the tour included a mix of casual street-food spots (excellent for solo travelers) and restaurants. After you check these places out in a group, you may feel more relaxed coming back on your own for a solo-dining experience.

– Alex Butler , Managing Editor

14. Travel with a power bank

Traveling alone, you will most likely be using your phone more than usual to take photos and videos, and for navigating maps. Even if your phone has a reliable battery, it’s always good to know you have a backup, especially if you’re on your own. There are plenty of small and lightweight power banks that you can purchase to slot into your bag when on the road.

– Zara Sekhavati, Destination Editor

15. Share your location

To ensure peace of mind, I make it a habit to inform at least one person back home of my whereabouts using the Find My Friend app , which allows them to track my location in real time. While it can be reassuring for safety reasons, what I appreciate the most about it is the tangible sense of connection it provides. My family, in particular, loves that they can place me on a map and accompany me virtually on my explorations.

– Sasha Brady

16. Traveling solo doesn’t mean traveling alone

For me, traveling solo can be a great way to meet new, like-minded people. Join a tour group like G Adventures or Intrepid for an entire trip, book a day tour with GetYourGuide , find a class for something you’re passionate about like art or cooking, research some of the digital-nomad meetups, find a bar where they show the games of your favorite team…there are lots of ways to forge new friendships on the road.

– Melissa Yeager , Senior Editor

17. Don’t wait for a partner

I’ve traveled solo to places like Hawaii , the Amalfi Coast and the Dominican Republic . When I tell these stories, someone will occasionally say something to me like, “Oh, I want to go there on my honeymoon, so I’m waiting to take that trip.” My advice? Don’t wait. If you want to somewhere, even a place with a reputation as a “romantic” destination or a honeymoon getaway, go anyway. There are so many ways to enjoy a destination and to make your own memories, with or without another person. If resorts or entire destinations cater specifically to couples, you will see a different – and sometimes more interesting – side of it by going solo.

– Laura Motta , Senior Director of Content

18. Don’t overshare

The temptation to share your entire trip via social media can be overwhelming – especially if you’re having a fantastic time. But for safety concerns, it’s best to avoid sharing every movement with every follower until you return home. Not only do real-time posts alert people to where you are during every part of your trip, but they also let folks know you’re not home. Consider sharing your photos and videos from the road just with a close number of friends, or wait until your trip is over to flood your social media.

– Alicia Johnson , Destination Editor

19. Role-play at restaurants

Dining alone can be the best kind of mini-adventure. You can chat with the bartender – often a wealth of local knowledge – or other patrons. You can play at being an international woman of mystery and hunker down with a book or a notebook and pen. And if you’ve had a long day of sightseeing, sometimes it feels good to just sit at a quiet table and fiddle with your phone. The best part? Solo diners can often glide right to the front of the line at popular and award-winning restaurants, even without a reservation.

– Laura Motta

20. Feel your feelings – and cry when you need to

Especially if you’re traveling alone for the first time. Especially if you’re far away from everything you’ve ever known. Especially if you feel confused or lonely or out of place. I’ve shed tears in more airports than I care to admit. You’re outside your comfort zone, and that’s scary! It’s normal to feel homesick and miss the people, places and routines that feel familiar to you. But you probably embarked on a solo adventure because some part of you craves something new – and any change requires getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, at least for a little bit. It’s OK to go through it.

– Deepa Lakshmin

This article was first published May 25, 2019 and updated Nov 17, 2023.

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Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected] !

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People who have never traveled alone often describe their first solo trip as an almost religious experience. To take in new surroundings unfiltered by the prejudices, tastes, or preferences of a traveling companion can be heady stuff. Solo travel gives you the chance to indulge yourself fully.

Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

Why Travel Alone?

How to travel alone safely, how to travel alone as a woman, avoiding the single supplement, tips for solo dining.

• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once .

The 13 Best Places to Travel Alone

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification —in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt , use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places , especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) , which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

10 Travel Safety Mishaps (and How to Avoid Them)

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

What is the Safest Hotel Floor to Stay On?

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel .

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures , Intrepid Travel , Exodus Travels , REI Adventures , Adventure Women , and Road Scholar , offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Cunard , and P&O Cruises .

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com .

3 Ways for Solo Travelers to Avoid Single Supplements

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One .) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

How to Meet Other People When You’re Traveling Solo

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL , which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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 outstanding 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 this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you 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 daily 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 when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet 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 idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

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" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to 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 decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some 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 New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation 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 bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, 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 in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

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 top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix 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 trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "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 things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as 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 year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

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 New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Packing your bags and jetting off somewhere alone has always been the dream for a lot of people, but ‘solo travel’ as a concept is becoming more and more popular. Nowadays, hotels and holiday companies are doing solo travelling packages, and social media enables us to feel connected even when we’re out there on our own. 

But if this sounds like your kind of dream, it goes without saying that some countries are better than others for solo travel. Above all you should feel safe, but it’s also great to visit places where locals are hospitable, or there’s lots of opportunities to meet new people. Of course, it’s important to research how to stay safe (especially for women), but to start, we’ve rounded up the best destinations for solo travel, right here. Happy travels!

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best  destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The world’s most secret hidden islands   🌆 The best  cities in the world  🖼️ The most  beautiful places in the world

After more inspo? Check out our latest travel guides , written by local writers. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

The best places to travel alone

1.  japan.

Japan is such a comfortable, safe and accessible destination for solo travellers that it’s almost a cliché. Yes, the locals are unfailingly friendly. Indeed, everything works so dependably that getting about is delightfully stress-free. Aye, eating and drinking on your own here is marvellously normal. But it’s all so true. I spent three months travelling solo around the country last year, from Sapporo in the chilly north to Kagoshima in the semi-tropical south, and at no point – no matter how far I strayed from the tourist trail – did I feel like any of the country was beyond my reach. A few words of Japanese go a long way, of course (especially in rural areas), but there’s no better way to do Japan than on your own. 

💡 Editor’s tip:  ‘Hitchhike! Japanese hospitality for hitchhikers is legendary, with punters often offered not just a lift but bed and board, too.’  –Ed Cunningham, News Editor

Discover Japan: ⛰️  The most  underrated destinations in Japan 🚆 The ultimate  two-week itinerary for Japan 🏨 The best  hotels in Japan

2.  Ireland

When it comes to feeling welcome, you’d be hard pressed to come by a nation who are more hospitable than the Irish. I might be a bit biased – my family all hail from the Emerald Isle – but I can guarantee that whether you’re in the hectic centre of Dublin or the easy-going shores of Galway, something about the people here will make you feel right at home. In fact, I’ve found that the plush countryside and dramatic hills paired with the wood-covered, pint-filled walls of pubs where a local is usually spinning a tale strikes the perfect balance between tranquillity and community – it’s primed for solo travel. 

📍 Fancy visiting the Capital? Check out Dublin’s best restaurants  and its best things to do

3.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍  Discover the best places to visit in Australia

4.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik, is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. Plus you have a seriously good chance of seeing the Northern Lights . It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

🍽️   Discover the  best restaurants in Reykjavik 📍  Discover the   best things to do in Iceland

5.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

6.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

7.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

8.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

9.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

10.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

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Staying Safe As a Solo Traveler: A Guide

How to take care of yourself while traveling alone.

Traveling alone can be a deeply fulfilling experience, providing the freedom to discover new places at your own pace and according to your own preferences. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and risks. Staying safe while traveling alone requires careful planning, situational awareness, and a few smart precautions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help ensure your solo travel experience is both safe and enjoyable.

1. Research Your Destination Thoroughly

Before setting off on your solo adventure, take the time to research your destination thoroughly. Understand the local customs , laws, and cultural norms to avoid unintentional offenses or misunderstandings. Check for any travel advisories or warnings issued by your home country’s government, which can provide important information about safety concerns in specific areas.

Researching the neighborhoods in your destination is also crucial. Identify safe areas to stay in, particularly those that are well-lit and populated at night. Understanding the layout of the city or region you’re visiting can help you avoid accidentally wandering into unsafe areas.

2. Stay Connected

Staying connected is key to your safety as a solo traveler. Make sure you have a dependable way to communicate, such as an international SIM card or a portable Wi-Fi device, to keep in contact with family and friends. Consistently inform a trusted person of your location and itinerary.

Consider sharing your itinerary with a close friend or family member before you leave. Use apps like Find My Friends or Google Maps’ location-sharing feature so that someone knows where you are in case of an emergency.

It’s also a good idea to have a list of emergency numbers accessible. This can be invaluable if you encounter any legal or health issues abroad.

3. Blend In with the Locals

One of the best ways to stay safe as a solo traveler is to avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Dress modestly and in a manner that respects local customs. Avoid flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and other items that might mark you as a target for theft.

Learn a few basic phrases, such as greetings and how to ask for help. This not only helps you navigate your destination more easily but also shows respect for the local culture, which can endear you to the people you meet.

4. Trust Your Instincts

When you’re traveling alone, your instincts are your best guide. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation. Whether it’s declining an invitation that feels off, avoiding a certain area, or deciding to take a different route, listening to your intuition can prevent many potential dangers.

Solo travelers need to exercise caution when accepting assistance from strangers. Although many individuals you encounter while traveling will be friendly and sincere, it’s crucial to remain alert to anyone who appears too enthusiastic to help, particularly if they suggest going somewhere alone with them.

5. Keep Your Belongings Secure

Petty theft is one of the most common risks for travelers, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Invest in anti-theft bags or backpacks that have locking zippers and slash-proof straps. Keep your bag in front of you in busy areas and never leave your belongings unattended.

When staying in a hotel, hostel, or guesthouse, use the safe to store your valuables. If a safe isn’t available, consider using a portable travel safe or locking your belongings in your luggage with a TSA-approved lock.

In addition, make copies of important documents such as your passport, driver’s license, and travel insurance. Store these copies separately from the originals, either digitally or in a different part of your luggage. Urgentpassport.com offer a rush passport service if you lose yours.

6. Be Mindful of Your Online Presence

Be cautious about sharing your travel plans or current location on social media. While it can be tempting to post updates in real time, doing so can potentially alert others to the fact that you’re traveling alone. Consider delaying your posts until after you’ve left a location.

If you’re active on social media, it’s wise to modify your privacy settings to restrict access to your posts and personal details. This creates an additional layer of security, making it harder for strangers to track your whereabouts.

7. Stay Sober and Aware

While it’s fine to enjoy the local nightlife or have a drink with new friends, it’s important to stay sober enough to remain in control and aware of your surroundings. Excessive alcohol consumption can diminish your judgment and increase your risk of theft or assault.

If you decide to drink, it’s important to do so responsibly and always watch your drink closely. Avoid accepting beverages from strangers and never leave your drink unattended.

8. Prepare for Emergencies

Finally, always be prepared for emergencies. Bring along a basic first aid kit, familiarize yourself with the local emergency contact numbers, and be aware of the closest hospital or medical facility. If you’re planning adventurous activities such as hiking or diving, make sure you have the appropriate safety gear and understand how to use it.

It’s also wise to invest in comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. Should any issues arise, having this insurance can provide both physical and financial relief.

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The Best Places to Travel Solo, According to Our Editors

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Traveling solo can throw up a whole slew of possibilities, from roaming free on a flexible schedule, to making new friends along your adventures. While not for everyone (and yes, safety is a priority when traveling alone), solo travel can open up a door for reflection and introspection in a destination far removed from home—and the ability to choose your own adventure to enjoy by and with yourself. When challenging your discomfort, you might even discover that you handle situations with more tact, poise, and confidence than expected (or, learn what you might need to work on for the future).

When traveling by yourself, take advantage of all the me-time: stroll along the long way back to your accommodation; have a chat with friendly strangers; laugh at your own mistakes; and change plans at the last minute, if that’s what makes you happy. Below, our ever-itinerant Condé Nast Traveler team share their favorite solo travel destinations , and in doing so, affirm the value of going it alone.

New York City

I’m cheating here, since I live in New York City , but I think it’s one of the best places to be alone, because you never are, really. Plop yourself in a hotel ( Hotel Chelsea is my favorite for a staycation) and you will make friends at the bar ( Beekman ’s lobby and Bemelman’s also have a great vibe). You can walk just about anywhere, but you can also hop on the subway or a Citi Bike which suddenly makes everything feel close—even the jaunt from the West Village to Zabar ’s sandwich counter, or downtown Brooklyn to Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. When I’ve taken a personal day in the city, I’ll usually do a loop through Lower Manhattan where I wander through vintage shops in the Lower East Side, eat in Chinatown or Dimes Square, and read in little pocket parks on the West Side whenever I stumble n them (a solo movie at Film Forum is my rainy day alternative). Take your time and you’ll meet as many people as you’d like—New Yorkers without somewhere to be will chat with anyone—or throw on your sunglasses and demurely deflect any attempts at small talk if you’re focused on you-time. — Megan Spurrell , Associate Director of Articles

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The first time I went to Chiang Mai was the most magical moment of my life. I loved everything about Thai culture and wanted to experience the Yi Peng Lantern Festival in person after seeing so many videos and pictures on my phone. However, I was quite worried about any potential culture shock as I had never stepped foot in Asia . In Thailand, because of its accessibility, I found many people alone backpacking through the country, but one of the best ways I prepared myself before my trip was actually joining Facebook groups. I found a ton of groups that were tailored specifically to what I wanted to do while I was away and read through hundreds of posts and reached out to specific people to see if they would answer any of my questions. I might have overdone it, but at least I had a better understanding of what the experience would be like for me. I spent two weeks traveling the country which was filled with beautiful beaches , people, delicious food , landscape and culture. In the end, my time in Thailand was better than I could have even imagined. — Kayla Brock , Associate Social Media Manager

I know it’s called The City of Love for a reason and that many would, without missing a beat, crown it the most romantic destination in the entire world. While I agree that it’s a magical place to travel with someone special, I think it’s an equally fantastic city to go it alone. Paris has some of the best museums and shopping in the world–two activities that I find to be highly personal and most enjoyable when I don’t need to compromise or negotiate with my husband or some other opinionated travel buddy. Plus, so many of its most charming and intimate cafés and bistros have bar-seating where you’ll find plenty of parties of one, which makes pulling up a stool solo and ordering a sole meunière and a glass or two of Chablis after an afternoon at Musée d'Orsay (like I did last fall) feel downright de rigueur . – Rebecca Misner , Senior Features Editor

Montreal is a city that wears many (seasonally appropriate) hats throughout the year— summers are for basking in balmy high-70s weather at Clock Tower Beach , and autumns are perfumed by malty St-Viateur bagels and third-wave coffee brews—but you really can’t miss experiencing the city in the dead of winter. As thick blankets of powdery snow turn the city white, Montrealers bundle up and make the most of going out. Locals commute across town on skis , and restaurant tables buzz with lively conversations, half in Quebecois , half in English, as heavy puffers thaw in coat check. And the outgoing spirit is infectious—read graphic novels at Drawn & Quarterly ’s brick and mortar shop, hike up snow-dusted Mont Royal , nosh on some poutine and maple syrup candy, cuddle with kittens at North America ’s first cat café, and close out the night headbanging at Igloofest , the coldest music festival in the world. Winter here feels like escaping to the inside of a shaken-up snow globe and exemplifies how solo travel doesn’t need to feel lonely. — Kat Chen , Destinations Editorial Assistant

Although I don't typically travel alone, Singapore has become one of my favorite places to be when I find myself flying solo . This tiny country (at 31 miles wide and 17 miles long) is incredibly safe and packed with world-class restaurants , bars , spas, and multicultural neighborhoods. Mornings begin with a peaceful stroll through the vibrant botanical gardens in the city center (a visit to the orchid gardens is essential) or a jog at the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve . I’m always amazed by how lush and green Singapore is, even the busiest parts of the city have buildings draped with flowering greens and verdant gardens. I'll usually follow this with a typical Singaporean breakfast at one of the many cafes around the city, such as Chin Mee Chin Confectionery . My go-to order is kaya toast with egg and a cup of Milo Dinosaur, a childhood favorite. Strolling around the city, shopping along Orchard Road, or visiting the pastel-colored shophouses at Joo Chiat is a relaxing way to spend the afternoon. Post up at Michelin-starred Mustard Seed 's curved bar for innovative classics like Laksa and Rojak or for a more casual but equally delicious option, head to the Maxwell Hawker Centre for Singapore's national dish, Hainanese chicken and rice, or visit Jumbo Seafood at their East Coast location for chili crab with buns. I love ending the night by walking around the Supertree Grove and with cocktails at Atlas. Making friends here is easy, especially while drinking a Silver Bullet (english gin, japanese vodka, rosé verjus, lime, ylang-ylang) as you take in the soaring ceilings and Art Deco vibes at this Gatsby-esque bar. — Pallavi Kumar , Associate Visuals Director

As a vacation destination, Rome offers three of my favorite things: infinite walkability, a solid public transportation system, and human remains on public display. This sounds like a serial-killer answer, but is probably understandable to anyone who was raised Catholic. Relics are a niche interest that I tend to indulge on my own. I love the aesthetics of churches and all their trappings: the centuries-old altars with the inlaid bones of a martyr, marble statues of saints trapped in spiritual ecstasy, the balmy aroma of melting wax from rows and rows of lit white candles. In a place like the Eternal City, where churches pepper the streets like Starbucks does in NYC , it’s an absolute pleasure to wander on foot and discover an 8th-century Basilica that I otherwise would never have known about.— Alexandra Sanidad , Research Director

I treated myself to a birthday trip to Copenhagen three years ago—and have ended up going four more times since! Always alone and all the happier for it. Part of this is because I have developed a deep and personal relationship with Danish design , whether that’s furniture, decorative objects, or home goods, and my trips are spent burrowing myself in studios, ateliers, and galleries discovering all that’s new—all of which is easier to do alone. But the other reasons are a tribute to the city itself: it’s safer than any I know—my Danish friend once joked that the only thing you have to be afraid of is getting knocked over by a cyclist, and it’s true. The other joy as a solo traveler is that it is an incredibly easy city to get around. Everyone knows about its dedicated cycling infrastructure , but its pedestrian thoroughfares are ripe for leisurely exploration on foot, too. And its subway system is one of the most efficient in the world and runs 24/7. All the better then, for me to stay out all day, eating one too many pastries (because no one is counting), popping by the design shops in Frederiksstaden, before taking a break in the Designmuseum Danmark ’s courtyard garden, with its linden trees and sculptures. Continuing on, I stop for an impromptu swim, a glass of natural wine, and some harbor hygge at La Banchina in Refshaleøen, and circle back to end the night with a nightcap at the fairytale-like setting of the bar at one of my favorite hotels, the Nimb . I tell my husband that I won’t be taking him along in a hurry. He hasn’t objected…yet. — Arati Menon, Global Digital Director

Merida, Mexico

The first place I ever got to go for this job was Mérida , an inland city on the Yucatán peninsula. Admittedly, I was on a press trip full of strangers, some of whom became friends, but a lot of my time was spent alone and wandering downtown. I was obsessed at the time with a man who did not care about me in the least and also in the process of handwriting a letter to a close friend with whom I had just rather explosively fallen out. Armed with a cellphone with which I sent photo dumps of my adventures to the former, a red Moleskin for the latter project, and a copy of Roberto Bolaño’s The Savage Detectives , I just sort of hung out. The kissing chairs in the Plaza Grande are just as comfortable for one, if not more so, than for two (these white plaster relics were designed to keep young lovers at an acceptable distance.) When not walking aimlessly or sitting, sitting, sitting, I was eating good food (you can’t get a bad meal, read my guide for the best, though) or drinking and dancing at Salon Gallos where the people are friendly and the music is just good. — Charlie Hobbs , Associate Editor

My first visit to Vienna was my first solo trip after I got vaccinated for COVID-19, which is to say: I imagine any international trip taken in 2021 would have been a treat after over a year of being a forcibly grounded travel writer. But there was something about this city that truly felt like a breath of fresh air; it must have something to do with the fact that it’s one of, if not the top, greenest city in Europe , making strides in its sustainability efforts and zero-kilometer approach to its divine culinary scene . That sense of, I’d like to say, “healthfulness” is perfect for solo travel: it’s a gorgeous and gorgeously walkable city ; the public transport is easy to navigate alone; the many museums are perfect for hours of solitary contemplation and learning; and the very green public parks are ideal people-watching spots. As a seat of classical art and music , creative types can easily spend days here by themselves, metabolizing the environment and culture as a source of fresh inspiration. Or maybe that’s just the Viennese wine talking. — Matt Ortile , Associate Editor

Key West, Florida

Key West is no stranger to group travel; walk down Duval St. at night and you’ll encounter crowds of bachelorette parties , cruise-goers , and rowdy spring breakers. But the quirky Conch Republic is also home to a thriving artistic community that opens its arms to solo travelers without hesitation. Stop by Andy’s Cabana on open mic nights, the Key West Yoga Sanctuary for community classes or creative writing workshops, and Fort Zach beach to camp out under the palms. By doing just this, I have befriended fishing guides , van-lifers , painters, musicians, and writers who welcomed me into their creative circle. My favorite part about traveling solo is that it forces you to meet new people and try new things, and The Keys have long embodied the essence of this independence and freedom. Just don’t be surprised if you get invited out on a sailboat (or two) on your first day. — Hannah Towey , Associate Editor

Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

As a guest to Virgin Galactic ’s first commercial space jet launch, I headed to the elusive city of Truth or Consequences , New Mexico for a long weekend by myself to explore its long stretches of stark, open, sandy terrains. I fell in love with the hues of a desert sunrise: pale blues and sandy dust with hints of sharp orange and pink. It was almost like I’d stumbled onto Mars—something I had never experienced before. Much of the reserved land is for space research and launches—so outside, the silence was profoundly eerie yet oddly satisfying (the sort of quiet that forces introspection). My hotel was in the small town of Las Cruces—and here, in between my attendance at the spaceports , I walked in and out of the souvenir shop several times, where the store manager, a man (probably, in his mid-60s), worked every day. We became friendly: I confessed my cravings of an Almond Joy, filled with scorpion suckers and alien shot glasses—eventually joking about the difference of our lives (I am a New Yorker), the power of a friendly face, and even the existential essence of traveling to outer space. On my last day, I headed there to say farewell—and upon walking in, he placed the greatest gift of all on the glass table before him: the best Almond Joy bar I’d ever know. It was one of those small acts of kindness from a stranger that makes you a bit hopeful for the state of humanity. — Jessica Chapel , Editorial Assistant

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S3, E23: These Three Women Travel Solo With Confidence (Now You Can Too).

On this week’s episode of unpacked , we guide you through the world of solo travel—from how to conquer your fears to getting the most out of any solo trip..

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On this episode of Unpacked , seasoned solo traveler and Afar audio engineer, Nicolle Galteland shares the ins and outs of solo travel. She chats with Pamela Holt, the host of TV show, Me, Myself and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, about overcoming barriers to solo travel (especially for women) and how to lean into the benefits of a solo trip.

Then Brook Kelly, a Bonderman Travel Fellowship advisor, who has helped hundreds (including Nicolle) have safe and meaningful trips, shares personal anecdotes and practical tips to plan for the unexpected, clarify your values and ease the concerns of loved ones.

Aislyn: I’m Aislynn Greene and this is Unpacked , the podcast that unpacks one tricky topic in travel each week. And this week we are talking solo travel: why people do it, how to be safe and confident as a solo traveler, and how to help your loved ones quit worrying about you. Unpacked engineer Nikki Galteland is a solo traveler herself. When she was 21, she got a fellowship that actually required a minimum of eight months of solo travel and took her all around the world.

In this episode, Nikki talks with two other incredible solo travelers: Pamela Holt, who is the host of the TV series Me, Myself, and the World: The Art of Solo Travel, and Brook Kelly, a solo traveler who for many years was the adviser for the Bonderman Travel Fellowship at the University of Washington. Brook advised Nikki through her fellowship travel back in the day and has now helped hundreds of people have safe and meaningful solo trips. They both share some fun stories and great advice. So let’s get into it.

Nikki: Hi, Pamela, welcome to Unpacked ! Can I ask you to start by please just introducing yourself with who you are and what you do?

Pamela: Hi, I’m Pamela Holt, and I’m the host and executive producer of Me, Myself, and the World: The Art of Solo Travel , and I am a solo traveler.

Nikki: I love it. What was your first-ever solo trip?

Pamela: I started solo traveling when I was 19 years old. I took my first trip to Japan, and I was there for a couple of months. Oh my, for me, it was so exciting to be on my own and to really discover. Now, I had been to Japan with my family. I started traveling internationally when I was 13, and that’s when I caught the travel bug.

I actually remembered the distinct moment I was at Jimmy’s [Kitchen] restaurant, I think on [the] Kowloon side in Hong Kong, and I was taking a sip of French onion soup, and I remember thinking, this is what I want to do in life. And I locked in very quickly. And then I got the opportunity at 19 to travel to Japan and work. And I had the best time.

Nikki: That is so cool. So why is solo travel in particular important to you?

Pamela: I loved solo travel. I love the freedom and independence, but things really changed for me in my mid-thirties. I was in a car accident, [a] pretty traumatic car accident that nearly left me immobilized. And I swore to myself that if I recovered, when I recovered, I was going to really live life to the fullest.

And I started already making plans in recovery of what I was going to do. And I made an 80-by-50 promise to myself that I would go to 80 countries by the time I was 50. And I did. I landed in Bhutan on my 50th birthday. I took myself on a seven-and-a-half-week solo trip. I called it my golden jubilee.

Nikki: Amazing.

Pamela: And it was really, it was on that trip that I had the light-bulb moment.

Hey, I’ve worked in film and television. I know how to create a show and I love solo travel. That’s when I came up with the idea of creating Me, Myself, and the World: The Art of Solo Travel. So many people came to me, especially in and around that trip and said, oh my gosh, you’re solo traveling for seven and a half weeks.

You’re going to be alone. You’re going to be this, you’re going to be that . All the fears that people have about solo travel. And I could not only tell them, not only show them all my pictures, I could show them in living color on a TV show. And so I went back six months later with a camera crew and myself and one cameraman and we filmed, we filmed it all ourselves, sometimes having up to six cameras.

Nikki: Very cool. I love that. I want to bring you back a little bit to some of the fears or worries about solo travel that people express to you. What kinds of things do you feel like you hear most often?

Pamela: Yeah, one of the biggest ones is, I’m going to be alone. Well, that’s pretty hard to do these days with about, what, 8, 9 billion people in the world. You just meet so many great people everywhere you go . A smile opens almost every door in, in this world. It, it breaks down barriers because you’re connecting with people and that’s what they’re looking for too. And sometimes it’s another solo traveler. Sometimes it’s somebody who, a local, who lives there.

And so that simple fear of being alone is one of the biggest things I hear and the, the way to get over that fear, the way to stop that is just simply a smile or a hello. I learned hello in I don’t even know how many languages because that simple hello, again, breaks the ice. I think for a lot of people, guys and girls, believe it or not, I mean girls and guys, is the fear of safety. What I tell a lot of people, I have a lot of little anecdotes, in particular—trust your gut. We have an instinct, pay attention to that. It’s really wonderful to be polite and to be kind, but there’s also a line, and if your gut is telling you something’s wrong, listen to it, be polite, and move on. The other thing is to, something that I actually tell people in terms of that fear, I will say, if you think someone’s following you, this is guy or girl, turn around, look them straight in the eye and go, How you doing?

Do with a little bit of, you know, gusto. That “How you doing?” actually, believe it or not, is 1: “How you doing?” 2: I see you. 3: I can identify you. And 4: I have a feeling you’re following me, and that literally takes a target off your back. You’ve turned on them, you no longer have a target, and they don’t want to mess with you because you’re just too much trouble.

You can freak out later, if you’re nervous. So, one of the fears, like you said, is being alone. The other one is safety.

And I think the last one, believe it or not, somebody brought this up to me, is the fear of your own thoughts. You are left to be with yourself, to entertain yourself, you often run a lot of things through your head, things that are going on back home, things in your past, worries of your future when you’re solo traveling. You do have a lot of time to think and, I think instead of looking at that as a fear, it’s a really good time for self-discovery.

It’s a really good time to journal and say, Hey, what thoughts are running through my head? What thoughts are holding me back? What are those fears? And jot them down. And maybe as you go along on your trip, you’ll see less and less of those fears and a great time to conquer them. There is no failing in life.

There’s only learning. So feel the fear and do it anyway.

Nikki: Awesome. It sounds like your parents are quite supportive of travel. Did you ever run into the experience where someone was like, trying to talk you out of a trip? Like, Oh no, that one’s too dangerous, or . . .

Pamela: Oh my gosh.Yes, yes. I can’t even tell you how many women are like, oh no, don’t do that, oh you, oh you can’t do that, oh you , and then fill in the blank as to why you can’t do that. And one by one, I have turned all those women. And there’s one woman in particular. She just couldn’t believe that I would solo travel or ever even want to. She didn’t understand the joy of solo traveling.

And I had gone on my 40th birthday on another big trip, and I’d gone to Peru and did Peru, Galápagos, the Amazon, the whole thing. And about five years later, she . . . I run into her and she goes, Oh, I’m going to my Peru. And I’m like, my first thought was: Wait, they’re gonna let you into Peru .

Like I don’t, I don’t know if they’re, this L.A. lady, are they going to let you in Peru? And then she goes, “Oh no, no, no, I’m not really going to Peru. I’m going to, to New Mexico. That’s my Peru.” And I’m trying to wrap my head around it as she’s saying, and she goes, “I would never wear jeans, cowboy boots, or wear turquoise. And, and those are the things that are, I’m scared of, and I’m going to go do all of that.”

And she had the time of her life in New Mexico. And that was her Peru. That was her solo trip to get over some sort of fear. And since then, she’s so far past New Mexico. She’s done Italy. Um, she’s done England, solo. And so she needed that first step into solo travel . . .

Nikki: Yeah!

Pamela: . . . really stepping outside of her culture and her comfort level.

Nikki: Yes, I love that idea of taking the step that’s right for you. Like, if that’s the thing that is gonna fulfill you and like, set you on this path, like, that’s great, right?

Pamela: Yeah, and I really have, I talk a lot about the steps of solo travel. I always recommend for a lot of women who are fearful of solo travel, start small, a day trip or a short getaway to a local destination, maybe two hours, three hours away, by boat, plane, car, whatever.

And then, go to another state. I’m here in Dallas right now. I said, go to Ventura, California. It’s like Malibu, but it’s not going to break the bank. And it’s that still quintessential, beach town. And then when you’re ready to move on, go to an, for Americans, go to an English-speaking country, like England or Australia, where you’re exposed to all this new stuff. You’re abroad for the first time.

But you at least have taken away that language barrier. And so getting around might be more comfortable. And then, last sort of step on the ladder of solo travel, head to a destination that is either very solo-travel friendly , like Bali, Indonesia. There’s just so many solo travelers.

Or head to a country that has an excellent transportation system, like Japan. Where anybody can get around that place. It’s . . . they’ve made it so user friendly. For, for English speakers, Japanese speakers obviously, and a few other, for sure anyone who speaks Chinese, and a few other languages. So that’s sort of the stepping, and then from there, you’re, you’re just gonna dive into the deep end, ’cause it’s, uh, solo travel is addicting.

Nikki: Yeah, absolutely. I love that.

Pamela: Something I also recommend is, if you want to solo travel but you’re nervous about it, do a group trip, a partner trip, a family trip, and either top or tail your trip as a solo traveler. I really like tailing the trip. So you’re with everyone, you’ve got your feet wet in that, in that culture, in that language, in that destination, and then stay an extra three or four days and be a solo traveler. You’ll be comfortable. You know where you are. You already have the money exchanged and got that down. And then let everyone fly home with all their luggage and meet them home in five days. And that’s a, yeah, that’s a really, top and tailing trips. Work trips too.

Nikki: Mm-hmm.

Pamela: I’ve really set out to redefine solo travel because people hear solo and they interchange it with the word alone. And I’m literally here telling people, nope, SOLO is actually an acronym that I’ve created: Seeking out life’s opportunities. SOLO—seeking out life’s opportunities. And that really opens the door of solo travel and moves it away from the iconic, uh, 20 year old with a backpack, just graduated college, or the 40-something year old, midlife-crisis person.

Seeking out life’s opportunities is for everyone at any time in their life who’s inquisitive about the world and wants to discover the world on their own terms. Just them, again, letting the wind blow them to their experiences.

Nikki: Nice. So, I totally agree that solo travel is special and can really help travelers connect with the people and places they visit. But sometimes things can get a little dicey. I understand you were once detained in Russia—tell me what happened there?

Pamela: Oh gosh, that was a fun one. OK, I have to be delicate in how I tell this story. So I met these wonderful girls. I had been in a restroom and I was at a bar, it was across the street from The Church Has Spilt Blood and it was called Mustangs at the time. And, I know. So I’m in the bathroom and I had some lip gloss and I was putting it on and there, you know, there’s always a line in the bathroom.

And these 12 girls looked at me as if I was holding, like, the golden ticket and I kind of looked around and it’s one of those you’re like, did you want to try this? So they all tried it and then they handed it back and I was like, I’m OK, I’m gonna let one of you guys keep that.

Pamela: And the girl I let keep it, I kept seeing her around and so we just were having fun and they kind of enveloped me in their little group, which was so nice to hang out with locals. And one night they said, “We’re going to take you to the local bars, but you know, we’re, we’re going to kind of make you incognito.” And maybe going a little bit out of the perimeters where most tourists were allowed.

This is, this is a while ago. This is like in 90 . . . late ’97, early ’98.

Pamela: And so I saw french fries and I’m like, oh, let’s eat some french fries . So I bought french fries for everyone. It was nothing. But some of the comrades came by and they saw these particular girls eating french fries and they knew they could not afford french fries.

Certainly not all of them. And so they ended up throwing us up against the wall, like patting us down. And right before they came over, the girl comes up and she’s like, you, you don’t . . . you don’t, you can’t speak and you can’t hear. So we were faking it that I couldn’t speak or hear at all. And I can hear them all, like, kind of yelling at each other in Russian, but I have no idea what they’re saying.

And she can’t tell me in English. And right before they’re going to throw us in the car, they’re arresting us. I was like, no, this is my only chance . And I’m like, “I’ll buy you fries. I’ll buy you all the fries you want.” And they’re looking at me like, what is she saying? And they realized, suddenly, I’m not Russian.

And so she just quickly tells them like, “She’ll buy you anything. She’s got money.” And, and, and they were totally happy with me buying fries and then giving them like a $10 bill to buy fries for who knows the next two months. And so I bought my way out of prison with french fries.

Nikki: What a wild story. Oh my gosh. Well, good job. Good, quick thinking.

Pamela: Yeah, and I stayed friends with her; for the longest time we were pen pals.

Nikki: Oh, good. That’s lovely. How do you decide on the style of solo travel? From, like, backpacker hostel through five-star hotel? Like pampering to adventure spectrum? How do you decide those things?

Pamela: Yes, well, who doesn’t love luxury travel? But, I’m, I like to get my feet, uh, feet a little dirty actually. I want to talk with locals. I want to come home with stories. I want to be immersed in the culture. So I travel typically on the lower end and that’s not to do with budget. It’s to do with the experience and I actually love staying in hostels.

And the reason being is, hostels aren’t what they used to be. People think of these crazy hostels with 18 people in a room. And you can find that. But in those same hostels are maybe 5 to 10 single rooms. So you essentially have your own room, your own bathroom.

But you have this shared community area where you’re with other solo travelers. And you can unite and you can connect, which is the biggest thing everybody’s looking for. And I love that experience. When I’m staying in a hotel , I know that the whole hotel staff knows I’m alone in my room. And I don’t know, I don’t know anybody else at a hotel.

No one’s going to talk to me at the breakfast table, but at a hostel or even a shared community—and for example I was in Beijing. I don’t think I had stepped my big toe in the place and these two Scottish guys come right up to me and they’re like, are you the person with the, um, the, the single room with two beds? And I was like, I think so. I haven’t even checked in.

And they’re like, there’s a girl. There’s literally no place for her to stay. She’s already been here for a week and she has nowhere to go. Can she stay with you? And it’s kind of that moment you’re like, why not? Sure. Sure. She then in turn invited me to go to a place called Jinkao, which is a part of the Great Wall, that I had never heard of, I didn’t know it existed, and it’s the border of right where the real wall exists, not the wall that they’ve remade.

Like the actual Great Wall from thousands of years ago or whenever it was built. And I wouldn’t have had that experience if I hadn’t have said “yes and” to a fellow solo traveler needing something. And so that is why I love hostels. I could go on and on about the wonderful experiences, and there are also, a lot of them are removing the age restrictions because they realize that more solo travelers are 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 years old.

And in my series, Me, Myself, and the World. I interview a solo traveler in each episode. Some of them are 20, some of them are almost 80, actually. And also, we were talking about solo travel and redefining it. Solo doesn’t mean alone, and solo also doesn’t mean single . There’s a lot of people who have partners and they are still solo traveling because their partner either can’t, doesn’t want to, or doesn’t share the same interest. So hostels are definitely listening to their, their travelers and adjusting.

Nikki: Yeah, totally. Or even if your partner is interested in travel, there are some benefits of solo travel. You might choose to take separate trips anyway. Yeah.

Pamela: I was talking to a couple and they were going to, I think, England. And, you know, he’s sitting there rolling his eyes on all the things she wants to do. I’m like, wait a minute, you two just came to a solo travel lecture. Why don’t you go to England together and split up for three days. You get to go to all the sporting events and you get to go to the museums and go up to Blackpool and York.

And come back three days later and share in the stories, the passions that you loved. Because when you started dating, for them it was 50 years ago. When you started dating, you had separate passions and likes and you, you got to share them with each other and that ignited this relationship.

Go do that again. And they looked at each other like, wow, let’s do this. And so, there are so many reasons people solo travel.

Nikki: Absolutely. And now, tell me about your show. What can people expect when they tune in?

Pamela: Yes, I am so excited Me, Myself and the World really got out to the world. And as the title kind of says, the tagline, it’s all about the art of solo travel.

I go through Hanoi, Vietnam, and I get off the beaten path. I take a vintage Russian motorcycle all through the streets of Hanoi, which is, that was one of the best tours I’ve ever taken. And I have [a] really unique honor of introducing two veterans from opposite sides of the Vietnam War, 50 years later. And that importance of bridging the gap and connecting them so they can talk about their experience, it, for me, was so moving and so wonderful.

And then I do a lot of fun things. Pretty much everything I do in this series is about immersing yourself. And I interview either a solo traveler or a local in every episode. And I get to hear their perspective, their perspective about solo travel, why they solo travel, what they’ve learned from it, and how it’s changing them for the better.

Nikki: How did you pick Hanoi and the other locations that you feature in the show? It sounds like you had been to most of them before, is that right?

Pamela: Yes. So on my golden jubilee birthday, for my 50th birthday, I traveled to eight countries. And while I was there, I had that light-bulb moment of marrying this idea of solo travel, travel and my experience in film and television. And so of the eight countries, I kind of took note of, oh, who’s good on camera and where did I have the best immersive experiences and what would solo travelers, especially first-time solo travelers want to see in a show that features this. So I kind of cherry-picked the best experiences, but you know, something a lot of people say to me is like, how can you have a solo trip, a solo travel show, but you’re traveling with a crew.

It’s because I always walk the walk as a solo traveler and then return for this particular show, six months later with a camera crew. But I think the biggest takeaway about Me, Myself and the World and The Art of Solo Travel is people will see me solo traveling and realize, oh, this really is, it really is easy.

Pamela: You know, I hear so many people say, Oh, that’s such a foreign place to go. I’m like, yeah and for someone else, another woman, it’s her home.

Pamela: And she’s afraid to go to Los Angeles or New York. I said, but we all go to the grocery store, you know, by ourselves. We, we do all sorts of things by ourselves all day long.

And we’re going to be just fine when we travel to that, somebody else’s neighborhood.

I think redefining solo travel is probably my biggest takeaway. I watch people, I literally watch their face change when I first say this. Especially, it’s almost like you’ve handed them this ticket of permission, because they have this stigma around solo travel of being, again, being alone. Or like you don’t have any friends, so you have to solo travel. When really, it’s truly about seeking out life’s opportunities. And more importantly these days, seeking out connection.

Nikki: Yeah.

Pamela: And when you’re solo traveling, you have the opportunity to really connect with people.

And, I love that. I, I love the saying: It says traveling alone will be the scariest, most liberating, life-changing experience of your life. Dot, dot, dot. Try it at least once. But I say traveling solo will be the most liberating, life-changing experience of your life. Try it at least once.

And I think that, if that could be my message to everyone in the world, that and solo travel will change your life for the better.

Nikki: What a beautiful message to end on. Thank you so much.

Pamela: Thank you. Thank you for having me. And happy travels.

Nikki: Thanks, you too.

After the break, Brook Kelly with stories and advice to help any traveler feel safe and confident on their journey.

Nikki: Hi, Brook, welcome to Unpacked. I’m so excited to talk with you—both because you are yourself an experienced solo traveler and because you’ve had the very unique experience of helping hundreds of people embark on long solo trips all over the world.

I should also say that that’s how we know each other. I was fortunate enough to be a Bonderman Fellow in 2012 and you were my advisor. Could you say just a little bit about what that is?

Brook: Yes. Yes. I mean what I would say about the Bonderman is it is an incredible fellowship at the University of Washington for undergraduate and graduate students.

And it is to travel. You are given money to travel around the world. There are some requirements. It is not totally no strings attached, but the idea is that the world has a lot to teach us and that when you are successful in a higher education environment, you might not always know all the different ways outside of the educational system to learn and be challenged and be educated.

And so going out into the world to experience difference, to experience other cultures that you’re not familiar with, um, can be as valuable a part of a life’s education as a degree. And so, I worked on that program for close to 20 years, um, and supported many different people, um, through preparing for and actually traveling all over the world.

Nikki: Yes, and you yourself got this fellowship as an undergraduate and then that’s also how we know each other because you advised me on my own trip way back in 2012. So, I really want to talk with you today about how solo travelers can feel confident and safe as they travel—and maybe even more difficult—how they can help their friends and family be confident that they’ll be safe. So, I imagine that you also talk with fellows quite often about family members and friends that might be nervous.

How common or uncommon would you say that was as an advisor to talk to people about those types of concerns?

Brook: Yeah, the, the bulk of my work was focused on the undergraduate side of the Bonderman Fellowship. So I will say, I think it’s important to recognize like, people are at different positions in their life. Like, not, not all undergrads are 21, 22 at the time of graduation and when they’re going on the fellowship.

But certainly that would probably be the majority of them. And so a little bit younger than maybe a graduate student or professional student, and maybe a little bit more connected to like parental figures or guardian figures. And so, I would say, you know, certainly more than half of the fellows that I worked with, it were explicit about talking with me about the concerns of family members and . . .

Nikki: Mmhmm.

Brook: . . . I would guess that almost everyone had to navigate that to some extent, whether or not they turned to me to help them brainstorm or talk about what that balance was or how to talk to those people in their lives. But I think certainly at least half the fellows I’ve worked with, have at least asked about it.

Nikki: Amazing. So can we just jump right in? What are a couple of the things that you have advised people over the years?

Brook: Yeah, I mean, the place I always start is it’s so individual, right? It’s about who you are as the traveler, and it’s about who the loved one, the person you’re trying to explain, what you want to do and why and why you feel good about it. And it’s also about the itinerary. Where are you going?

What are you, what are you proposing to do? Because how you talk to that loved one is going to be really different based on those factors. And I think, you know, doing some reflection on yourself about those three sort of factors and doing your research. And I’ve worked with all sorts of travelers, right?

And I tend to be a little bit more on the organized side of things. Like I like my spreadsheets. I like to do my research. Not everyone is like that and that’s fine. And with the fellowship, I never, we would never say like, you have to do a certain way of, of travel preparation, but I think the more preparation you can do when you have those types of concerns or people who are having questions, the more that you can show that you’re prepared and actually be prepared, the more that you’ll be able to alleviate those concerns.

And when they have questions, be able to answer them with confidence for yourself, and that will convince them, right? Because these are probably the people who know you best, so they’ll know when you’re faking it. They’ll know when you’re giving an off-the-cuff answer.

And so doing that work and being honest about like, I don’t have an answer to this, but here are the resources I’m looking at, or I have found these great websites or podcasts that give me advice on this, and so I’m doing that research now so I can be better prepared to address this question.That’s sort of my starting place with people of, of how to approach those concerns and questions.

Nikki: Yes, that makes so much sense. I like breaking it down into those three categories. That’s very, very helpful. What kinds of concerns would you say came up most often for people?

Brook: Yeah. There’s like a range of things, right? And it’s changed over time, right? As the world has changed. Um, in the earlier years, I think it was more about like, well, how am I going to stay connected? And . . .

Brook: . . . how am I going to be in touch with people? And that now is like, frankly, less of a concern because it’s so possible to stay so connected and I actually think that that it sort of turned the corner to be that, like that is more problematic of like how do you disconnect from technology that allows you to stay connected to home always, and create boundaries and space and, and, and ride that line of like, I’m being communicative.

I’m helping my people feel good about this and I’m taking care of myself, but I’m also giving myself space to be where I’m at. So, so that’s my, like, tangent off into the technology.

Nikki: Mm-hmm. Yeah, yeah.

Brook: I think also, like, one of the perennial concerns is sort of identity based, like whatever the identity of the traveler is, you know, it’s like, are you a woman traveling solo?

Are you a person of color traveling in a place where, um, you will have a different identity from the majority? Are you an LGBTQ+ person? Like what are those identities that are, you’re carrying with you, or in the country that you’re traveling to that you’ll be perceived to have, whether or not those are things that you feel strongly, as being a part of your identities.And then how do you proceed that way?

You know, I would say in terms of one of the stories that really stands out to me from the past is, um, a solo, female traveler who really was excited to go to India, but everybody she talked to in her family and friend group was like very dramatically: It’s so scary to go there as a woman.

You shouldn’t travel there as a woman alone. And, and, you know, we really don’t think you should go. She was hearing all these messages. And so we had some conversations where I was like, well, I’m not going to force you to go, if you’re really terrified to go there, you know, you said you wanted to go.

So let’s think back about why you were excited and what could you do to make yourself feel good about going there and that would also help the people that are asking these questions and saying these things to you feel good. And she did so much research that by the, she was like, I feel so prepared and so excited.

Like by the time I did my research and then, like, essentially put together a PowerPoint presentation for her family and gave it to them about all of the things she learned, all her preparations, um, she was like, I, it has reignited my excitement to go. So I think that those that that identity piece is like thinking about, like, you know, how real are these concerns because a lot of them, there are things you that you have to be aware of, you have to be aware of the identities you carry and how they’ll be perceived and how you’ll balance that.

And there are some places that might not be as safe to travel in alone or as comfortable. Thinking about how you would want to manage that or balance that. So, those are the ones that, like, stick out the most that have been sort of perennial concerns, um, and then I think the other thing is just like, well, what will happen if something goes wrong?

That’s the other big question that I think a lot of people, like family, loved ones carry is like, well, what’s the plan?

Nikki: Uh-huh.

Brook: What is the emergency plan? And you know, this, the travel that I have supported for so long is rooted in a fellowship program in a university that has sort of some infrastructure to support you. But also you’re still, even with that infrastructure to support you, you’re still the person by yourself on the other side of the world. Right? And so you can call the insurance line and you can call me in the middle of the night here in the United States, but like, I’m not going to be there to like, cast your broken leg, you know, like you, you have to also like, do some thinking, about how you will get support in the place you’re in.

And so like, really understanding emergency services in the location where you’re at. Like understanding where and what types of healthcare are available. Understanding sort of like are you doing something more remote and risky and like should you be carrying a sat phone? Is a sat phone even legal in the country where you’re in? You know, like there’s, there’s questions like that to work out for yourself that’s very dependent on what you’re proposing to do.

Nikki: Yeah, that makes so much sense. I was thinking back on when I was traveling in that, medical insurance , including emergency evacuation was part of what we did to prepare, um, and make sure that we had. I was wondering, has any of the sort of, like, precautionary, like that infrastructure that fellows are traveling with now. Has any of that changed since 2012?

Brook: Um, yes, I’m sure.

Nikki: I’m sure it has, but like, I’m wondering if there’s any other examples?

Brook: Yeah. The insurance, there’s still an insurance requirement and, I mean, this is also part of aging. Like when I was 21, I was like, insurance, what? Like, I don’t, I mean, so I totally like, like my, as I’ve gotten older and I have children now, I’m like, yes, I, if I did a big international solo or like family trip, I would have travel insurance.

Because I, I just think that I am a person who likes a backup. I like the reassurance, um, and I have seen enough people need to use it that it’s like useful, right? And so the insurance policy still exists and the requirement to have, uh, insurance, um, is still there. Um, I would say the things that have changed probably since you is, uh, since you were a fellow is that the, I would say there’s more structured orientation and preparation, um, which is like sort of the story.

I mean, I think like, everything has become more structured and robust, and we’ve learned a lot, and like, we have really made a more robust orientation plan, um, that is more comprehensive of the wide range of services, um, and issues that people encounter, and I would say one of the big things that we probably didn’t spend a huge amount of time being exposed to explicit about when you were a fellow is talking about mental health and and emotional health and how to do work here before you go, in your home, to build your strategies, your capacity, your network of how to deal with difficult situations you’ll encounter and just the feelings that you encounter when traveling solo of otherness, of dislocation, of self-questioning . . .

Brook: . . . of, um, of freedom and fear simultaneously, like how to prepare yourself so that you have a solid foundation to build off of, um, when you’re traveling. Um, so I think that’s probably something that’s probably become much more robust because it’s become more much, much more of a open, prevalent, robust conversation in our culture in that intervening time.

Nikki: Yeah, no, that’s, that’s a wonderful point. You mentioned that you’ve seen people need to use things, like their travel insurance, emergency backup plans. Do you think people are generally pretty accurate in how they estimate the risk related to travel? Do you see people coming in more often, like over- or underestimating at all?

I know it’s probably really hard to make, like, a general statement. You’ve seen so many different travelers in so many different situations, but . . .

Brook: Yeah. Yeah. I mean, that’s a great question. I don’t think I have like a, a neat buttoned up answer for it. People always surprise me, right? Like people that I’m like, oh, they seem like a cool cucumber. They seem like they’ll handle it. And then like what rattles them is very different from what I would expect.

And then someone who’s like a little less, like, had a little less independent life experience where I’m like, Oh, they seem like they could be rattled a little bit more. They’ll be like, oh, this happened and I dealt with it. And you know, like, so like, in some ways that delights me. ’Cause I’m like, I love that people can always surprise me when I’ve been doing it this long.

I do think there is an over-reliance on technology. And I think like an expectation from, like, sort of American-based people, that the level of technology and access to the internet and services will be the same everywhere.

Brook: One of the things that has always been true, but yeah, continues to strike me is it’s like the single point of failure idea, right? Where it’s like, people are like, but I had my phone and I had all the phone numbers and I had my flight information. It’s like, and then my phone broke or the internet was cut off in the country I’m traveling in, because I’ve worked with a fellow that, that has happened to where it’s like, no, there’s literally no internet in the whole country.

So now your phone is like a nice, like, paperweight. Um, and so, so, like, what are your backup plans? Like, do you have a little notebook with, like, the key things you need written down?

Brook: Do you know a person’s phone number that you could call? Or, like, how to make an international call if you don’t have internet and, like, internet calling?

Like, those are the sorts of things that I think now are much more common things that lots of people don’t, just don’t anticipate being an issue that could be a really big problem.

Nikki: Yeah. That makes so much sense. I was thinking, the only place that I traveled on the Bonderman Fellowship that I’ve returned to since was Tajikistan. And just in the intervening years, it’s so different. Like, when I was there originally, there was, like, Google Maps was not really helpful. Like it was just not a thing that you could do.

Um, and then when I went back during grad school, like I had a Tajik sim and was able to like be way up in the mountains looking at maps and getting all sorts of information. But yeah, it just changes so quickly.

I know phones can be sort of a risky single point of failure, but has just, like, being connected on the phone helped with people’s anxieties overall? Like, have you found that family and friends are, like, a little more relaxed now that there’s an expectation that they’ll have a little more contact, maybe?

Brook: I think so. Yeah, I think that’s generally probably true. Um, and I, I think when you set good, um, expectations and boundaries, knowing that you can change them, right?

Nikki: Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Brook: I’m like, if you start traveling and you told your mom that you would call her every day, and then you’re like . . .

Nikki: Oh my gosh.

Brook: . . . that’s not realistic, actually.

And it’s really ruining my experience. Um, um. But, um, I worked with someone not that long ago whose negotiation with their parent was, I will send you one emoji a day. Haha.

Nikki: I love that.

Brook: I just want to like something so that, you know, I’m fine. And I, it could be a monkey ’cause I saw a monkey today, or it could be something totally random just as a check-in, but I don’t have to do the mental thought and like emotional investment of like, what do I say to my mom? What do I say to this, my boyfriend, you know, how do I, like, curate this for the person that I am sending it to and the conversation I want to have right now. But just keeping it a little lower key, which I think is, I was like very amused and impressed by that strategy.

Nikki: It can be very draining to try to like constantly reassure people that you’re OK and things are fine and like maybe you’re having a hard day and don’t really want to talk about it in that moment and yeah.

Brook: Yes. I found in my experience that calling was more emotionally difficult.

Brook: It was also, like, expensive and logistically hard at that time back in 2004. Um, but so I actually found emailing, it allowed me to be more thoughtful and deliberate about what I was saying and how I was responding and, um, to curate my thoughts and to not have to do it constantly.

And this was, you know, before social media. And so it was like, big emails, long, you know, like pretty, pretty long compared to what we do today. Um, but more contextual, right? And more story based about what I was seeing and experiencing with the people I was, I was messaging. And, and I found that that worked well for me.

But I do worry too about people like, I think with travel, it is like the epitome of the social media FOMO, of like, you see other people’s perfect vacation travel experiences, and you feel like, but my, I didn’t do that, or I didn’t have that experience, or I was itchy with 200 bug bites and sick to my stomach the whole time I was in X location, and it’s really easy to compare yourself to what you’re seeing.

And I’m like, again, it’s like, this is a curated story that someone is telling you most likely. They’re not showing you their 200 bug bites. So that’s just something I, particularly with people who haven’t traveled much, I just want to really reassure people. It’s like, please don’t get caught up in the spiral of looking at what other people’s perfect experience is.

Because most of the time, you know, with the, the, people I’ve worked with, it’s like, yeah, on the surface, on the public facing, they’re like, uh, yeah, it’s so great. I’m having a great time. And then I always get an email that was like, I think I’m failing. I think I’m doing it wrong. This can’t be what I’m supposed to be doing.

I have so much self-doubt. And usually I’d be like, OK, that you’re in the right headspace then. Like, you’ve reached the self-doubt point. You are questioning what you’re doing and why, and that means you’re in a deep learning experience right now.

Nikki: Yeah. Oh, that’s so sweet. Yes. I very much remember the self-doubt part of my, my experience too. Any other stories that you’d like to share that might be helpful for people if they’re planning their own trip?

Brook: Yeah. I’ll tell a story about my own experience. So my parents had seeded a love of travel in me, um, but we had traveled when I was nine. They had an opportunity. My grandfather died and left my dad like, a tiny bit of money and like we could have used that money in a lot of different ways. And my parents were like, we have always wanted to do a big adventure.

And my dad’s family is from Ireland. And, um, my dad was a biologist. My parents were like great outdoors people. And so they were like, we want to pull our kids out of school and we want to go to Ireland for a month. And we want to go to Kenya for a month. And this was in 1991. And so they did that with children.

And now I’m like, if I did that with my children, my parents would, like, lose their minds. But when I got the Bonderman, um, and I was going to travel in eastern southern Africa by myself, my parents were very nervous. And they were like, well, how can you do this alone? And I was like, but you’re the one who taught me to want to do this.

Nikki: Uh-huh. Wow.

Brook: And you seeded this in me. And, and you’ve taught me to, like, believe in myself and believe I can do this sort of thing. So I would expect you to support this trip and that expectation. And they did, they were like so wonderful and so supportive. But I do think as a strategy, I mean, mine was not deliberate.

It was more, like, outraged at my parents, like seeming hypocrisy to me, right? But I do think thinking about like, well, what are our, like, what are, what are our values? Like, if you’re talking to a partner, like what draws us together? Like, what do you, what makes you want to be in a partnership with me? Is it because, like, I want to do adventurous things?

Is it because I have this, you know, like turning back to sort of the things that connect you and thinking, um, like, you know, how can you support me? Um, how can I support your experience in your fears and help you not feel that way? And how can you be part of my team that’s going to help me make this a really good experience?

So in some ways bringing them in, right? Bringing them into that experience and having them be part of the support and also be reminded about the person that you are and what is your internal motivation for what you’re, what travel you’re going to do and why you want to have this experience.

Nikki: Amazing. Thank you so much. I feel like that’s a pretty, that’s a great place to end. It’s been great talking to you and I hope we talk again soon.

Brook: Great to talk to you too, Nicolle. Thank you so much.

Aislyn: And that was Nikki Galteland with Pamela Holt and Brook Kelly. In the show notes, I’ve linked to information about the Bonderman Travel Fellowship, as well as Pamela’s TV show, Me, Myself and the World.

Next week, we’ll be back with an in-depth look at off-the-grid, luxury travel at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.

Jenn Flowers: I’ve heard that Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers the Imax version of these landscapes. You get to see them by air, land, and sea. As we climb higher in our seaplane, heading west toward Vancouver Island, urban areas give way to hillside forests.

Some forests are a multi-hued green. Others are made up of stubby trees that look like mowed grass from above, transected by brown logging roads. Then we begin to approach Clayoquot Lodge, and the peaks around us climb dramatically in height.

We’re whizzing by the stands of western red cedar, western hemlock, Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, and bigleaf maples. We’re so close to the trees that I’m almost convinced I can reach out and touch them. My heart is racing, and I can’t tell whether this is because of that epic view or the gusts of wind jostling the aircraft. On our final approach, I spot the lodge’s new solar field. A winding estuary hugging the property spills out into Clayoquot Sound. I can’t wait to see it all up close.

Ready for more unpacking? Visit afar.com, and be sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter . The magazine is @afarmedia. If you enjoyed today’s exploration, I hope you’ll come back for more great stories. Subscribing makes this easy! You can find Unpacked on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or your favorite podcast platform. And be sure to rate and review the show. It helps other travelers find it. We also want to hear from you: Is there a travel dilemma, trend, or topic you’d like us to explore? Drop us a line at afar.com/feedback or email us at [email protected].

This has been Unpacked , a production of AFAR Media. The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland. Music composition by Chris Colin.

And remember: The world is complicated. We’re here to help you unpack it.

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How (and why) to travel alone

Smart solo travel tips to help you avoid scams, creeps, and loneliness.

by Allie Volpe

In 2019, Alea Simone quit her job, sold all her furniture, packed her bags, and embarked on a four-month trip across 17 countries in Europe and Asia — by herself. It was the first time she ever traveled solo. The Texas native had never visited Europe or Asia before, and she admits she was intimidated. Would she be able to navigate public transportation ? Communicate in non-English-speaking countries?

“I was really scared,” Simone says, “but at the same time, I had to push myself forward because there really wasn’t much for me to go back to.”

Four years and countless solo trips later, Simone is something of an expert. She recounts her travels to thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram , offering insight to adventurers, from cheap flight deals to a review of airport nail salon services . While she still gets anxiety ahead of solo travels from time to time, the best way to quell her fears is to hop on the plane and go.

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More travelers than ever before are choosing to venture on their own. According to a survey by the travel search engine Kayak , searches for single-person flights in 2023 are up 36 percent compared to 2022. Search interest in solo travel hit an all-time high in July 2023. The benefits of solo travel are wide-ranging, from complete flexibility to the potential for a transformative experience . Beholden to no one but themselves, solo travelers can eat where they want, spend what they want, and see what they want.

This isn’t to say solo travelers shouldn’t take their safety seriously. “Solo travel is definitely about getting to know yourself,” Simone says, “and trusting your intuition.” Travelers of color, queer people, and women on their own may be targets for scammers , endure catcalls , and encounter racism and other forms of bigotry. Still, travel experts say the potential for negative incidents shouldn’t deter those who hope to travel alone from doing so. With no one else to depend on, solo travelers must take extra care while planning a trip, navigating around new locations, and interacting with new people. Seasoned independent adventurers offer their best advice for staying safe, yet open to new experiences.

How should I prepare to travel by myself?

Regardless if you’re traveling to the next town over to attend a concert by yourself or you’re hopping on an international flight, you need to be prepared for what awaits you. The farther you venture from home, though, the greater the opportunity for cultural miscommunications and misinterpretations. “You’re not going to read every situation correctly, because you’re in another culture,” says Janice Waugh, the publisher of the website Solo Traveler , “whether you’re from Kansas and going to New York or New York to Kansas.”

Do some Googling to see whether your proposed destination has any travel advisories and whether there are any laws that would make your visiting unsafe. But keep in mind that countries are vast places and while one city or province may not be amenable to tourists, that doesn’t mean the entire country is unsafe for a solo traveler.

Research which neighborhoods are near restaurants, parks, public transportation, or other areas that interest you. Can you walk from place to place? Is your hostel located near all of the sites you want to visit?

Try to identify various local communities on Instagram in your proposed destination — say, a yoga club if you’re into yoga, or a queer social club — and reach out to members for recommendations on what to do and where to stay, says travel writer Bani Amor . Amor also suggests solo travel Facebook groups where you can find intel on various businesses and locals to meet up with.

Familiarize yourself with popular tourist scams, Simone says, so you don’t unknowingly get into what you believe is a taxi at the airport and are grossly overcharged. “It’s usually a very easy Google search,” she says. “What are the common scams in Morocco? What are the common scams in London? What are the common scams in Bangkok?”

When booking flights or other transportation, Waugh recommends arriving during daylight so you can get your bearings. While you’re coordinating your transit, make a plan for how you’ll get to your lodgings, says writer and travel expert Jessica Nabongo . Especially after a long flight where you may be tired and disoriented, knowing how you’ll get out of the airport is crucial. Nabongo is a fan of booking a car service, but for cheaper options, research the public transportation options from the airport. The app Rome2Rio provides a variety of routes, from subway and bus to train and car.

As a good rule of thumb for all travelers, Simone recommends a few crucial travel accessories: locks for your luggage and backpacks , and a portable door lock for hotel and hostel rooms. She also suggests an RFID-blocking wallet to prevent new-age pickpockets from using sensors to steal your data without having to even steal your wallet. A low-profile money belt that you can wear under your clothes helps keep your money close and out of sight.

If you’re traveling to a location where you don’t speak the language, try to learn a few phrases, Amor says, just in case you need to ask for directions or read signs on public transportation.

Before you leave for the airport, train station, or bus stop, or get in a car, tell a few friends and family members where you will be. You can even share your location with a contact in your iPhone or via Gmail on Android and Google Maps (you can always turn this off once you’re home). Someone should always know where in the world you are.

Where is a safe place to stay as a solo traveler?

Travel experts sing the praises of all forms of lodging: hostels, hotels, Airbnb , staying with a friend of a friend. The main consideration is your budget. Hostels will be the cheapest option since you’ll share a room and bathroom with other travelers. However, this is a great opportunity to meet other people, some of whom may also be on their own. “I always like to suggest that people who have never traveled solo stay at a hostel, because hostels are built for solo travelers,” Simone says. “They’re always going to have tours going on you can sign up for.” Remember to always keep your items secure and locked.

For a slightly more expensive option, Amor suggests a private room at a hostel. You’ll have a door that locks and won’t need to share a bathroom.

Hotels and Airbnbs will be the costliest places to stay. “I like the amenities,” Nabongo says. “I like having breakfast and my gym. And I like having a concierge, so I can ask, ‘What should I do? Where should I eat?’”

Take advantage of the staff and hosts wherever you stay, experts say. These people are often locals and are familiar with where you’re visiting. They can provide tour recommendations, directions, and places to avoid.

Before booking, Waugh suggests looking at the lodging’s location on Google Maps’ street view. “Make sure that the area looks like it’s active, that it’s well-maintained, and that you’re going to feel safe,” she says.

You can always tap your network, Amor says, and ask if anyone has a trustworthy friend who might be willing to let you crash. “Before I book anything, anywhere, I’m going online to my social network and I’m being like, ‘Who has got a place? Who has a friend of a friend?” they say. “If I’m a part of a radical community or a punk community, then I know we have some sort of ethos that is very mutual aid [focused].”

No matter where you stay, write the address in a note on your phone or mark the location on Google Maps so you always can find your home base.

How do I meet other people? Is that even safe?

While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your own company, solo travel gives adventurers the opportunity to meet new people. Group tours and Airbnb Experiences are great ways to mingle with other travelers. Opt to sit at the bar if you can since you’ll be better positioned to chat with other patrons and the bartender. These new connections might invite you to other events they have planned, Simone says, and give you strength in numbers. “You have to be open-minded and you have to be willing to say yes to things,” she says.

Try searching for clubs or social groups that align with your interests, Nabongo says. In major cities, there’s a good chance you can find a manga lovers group, beer runners, or a poetry reading event.

However, always keep these interactions in a public place, Waugh says: a cafe, a park, a museum, a store, historical sites. Simone and Waugh caution against going out by yourself at night unless you’re with an organized group like a bar crawl. Don’t tell anyone where you’re staying either, even if they ask. You can give a general location, like “on the other side of town,” and then keep the conversation moving, Waugh says.

Because different cultures have varying social norms around the appropriateness of certain comments or questions — what one culture considers a compliment may seem creepy to a person from a different background — you may be caught off-guard by offhand remarks. Sometimes cab drivers, for instance, might make comments about the way you look, misgender you, or ask intrusive questions. You don’t need to lie or justify who you are to a stranger, but keep the details to a minimum if you’re not comfortable. “Sometimes they’re just hitting on you, and … not everyone who’s hitting on you wants to abuse you,” Amor says. “But sometimes, it’s not fucking safe. I’ve never lied about having a boyfriend or a husband, but I usually just say ‘no.’”

Should a stranger become persistent in getting you alone, by offering to give you a ride or to veer off a marked hiking trail, consider that a red flag, Amor says. Don’t go anywhere private by yourself with someone you just met, be wary of people who are insistent you make a decision immediately (about whether you’ll join them on a day trip, for example), and don’t worry about being rude. “One thing a lot of us are trained to do is just to be nice,” they say. “You really have to put your foot down at some point.”

Continue using whatever metric you use at home to suss out new connections. If you get a weird feeling from a super-persistent person sitting next to you at the bar, signal to the bartender for assistance, move to another seat, or leave. “If you feel suddenly under threat,” Waugh says, “you just yell.”

Just as there are nefarious people wherever you go, there are kind and curious people, too. You have the opportunity to transform a local’s weeknight dinner into a charming memory. Be open to new connections, Nabongo says, and don’t assume everyone is out to harm you.

What do I do if I get sick or need help?

There are plenty of things that can go wrong when traveling, from the mundane — like getting lost — to the more serious, such as needing medical assistance. With no one else to rely on in a pinch, you may need to outsource help. For logistical issues, like asking for directions or inquiring how to purchase public transit passes, walk into a store and ask an employee or approach a family for assistance, Waugh says.

Waugh also recommends travel insurance , which covers medical expenses should you unexpectedly get sick or injured and need to be hospitalized. (Travel insurance also covers lost luggage and missed connecting flights .) In countries that have universal health care , a visit to a doctor or emergency room is generally cheaper than in the US, but travel insurance can cover the cost of evacuating you to a location where you can get appropriate care if you’re, say, in a remote area. The local US embassy or consulate office can also help you find a medical provider.

For less dire illnesses, local pharmacies are great resources, Waugh says. When she sprained her ankle in France a few years ago, she took an Uber ride to a nearby pharmacy, where employees helped her make an appointment with a specialist.

If you’re a victim of a crime overseas, contact the nearest US embassy or consulate ; they can replace a stolen passport, inform your family, and provide information about local points of contact or organizations familiar with that country’s laws. Involving police may not be helpful or even safe, so it’s up to you whether you want to file a police report if you’re involved in a crime, both stateside and internationally.

Although it’s important to be prepared for potential snafus, fear of the unknown should not hinder your experience. Millions of people live in traveler destinations — many by themselves — and don’t feel threatened by their hometowns. “In particular for women, society puts so much fear into us that I think is completely unwarranted,” Nabongo says. “The world is not as scary as they want us to believe it is.”

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How I Stay Safe and Enjoy Every Trip: My 7 Solo Travel Guidelines

Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

328 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 98 U.S. States Visited: 45

Michael Y. Park

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Stella Shon

Senior Features Editor

129 Published Articles 815 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 25 U.S. States Visited: 22

Table of Contents

1. pack light, 2. have backup technology, 3. be transport savvy, 4. choose a safe and convenient location, 5. select the right credit cards, 6. organize my currency, 7. mingle with others, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Traveling with friends or family can be rewarding. There’s nothing like sharing epic scenery or experiencing a delicious local meal together. Plus, I’ve found the interests of others help expand my own choice of experiences. And, when things go wrong, it can be helpful to have another person there to help sort things out. I can also appreciate the cost savings of splitting lodging and transportation expenses.

But, despite all the positives of traveling with others, traveling solo comes with its own valuable rewards . I’m responsible for my schedule, able to change my itinerary on a whim, and more apt to meet other travelers during my journey.

While traveling solo can have added benefits, I follow this general set of rules to help ensure my trip goes as smoothly as possible.

My No. 1 rule is no checked bags for this girl. And, I may wear the same clothing multiple times. Traveling solo makes me less concerned about having a new look each day.

Traveling solo means I cannot borrow someone else’s phone if mine dies or is stolen. I’ve had 2 phones stolen and another die, so traveling without a phone will not happen to me again.

I now travel with an extra, refurbished backup phone I purchased on Amazon for less than $200 . It works great for everything except network calls and messaging, but I can add a SIM if needed.

Arriving late at night and not knowing how to get from the airport to my hotel is risky behavior. I use Rome2Rio to estimates transport costs and routes . Researching any local ride-share options and downloading the associated apps is also important.

I know the shuttle pickup locations and schedules (if available) and email the hotel in advance if I need to request pickup.

And finally, I’m prepared with backups should I have flight disruptions. I check for these before leaving home but I also have a basic Expert Flyer subscription to search for alternate flights in real time. It costs $5 per month for up to 250 searches.

When I’m traveling alone, I want to be in a safe area but have access to restaurants, activities, and the local sights.

I use Google Maps to zero in on where I might select my hotel and review what’s available in the area. I can then use Google Street View to take a virtual walk nearby. Hotel reviews can also help me select the right hotel.

Hopefully, I’ll be able to use a credit card for nearly all my purchases, but each trip dictates the selection of cards I carry. Here are the cards I typically carry on any given trip:

Destination Expenses

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC
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Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Reserve ® is my go-to travel credit card . It has excellent travel insurance benefits , but I use it more for my destination expenses. I earn 3x points on everything travel-related, including most expenses I incur during my trip, such as:

• Bus, train, ferries, and taxi fares
• Tours, events, entrance fees

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card also gives me complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges worldwide . This benefit is useful, especially outside the U.S., and I use it frequently. Plus, when I arrive home, I can save a list of all my travel expenses from my card statement.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges , along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
• High annual fee of $695 ( rates & fees )
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card ® , here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $199 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR ® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card ® .
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable

American Express Membership Rewards

I also always throw in The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express or The Platinum Card ® from American Express to access any Centurion lounge I might encounter during my travels.

Airlines and Hotels

Whichever airline I fly — or hotel brand I stay in — I carry that branded credit card.

Selecting the right affiliated cards ensures I earn miles or hotel loyalty points for any expenses I incur, whether those are in-flight or on-site hotel purchases.

Fortunately, many destinations are becoming cashless, making it less of a requirement to carry a large amount of local currency. Still, I’m responsible for all my expenses, so I need to know exchange rates and organize my foreign currency .

I can always look up the currency exchange rate on my phone, but having a small cheat card and a memorized conversion ratio in my head serve as reliable backups. This knowledge is also important for determining the amount of local currency I need to withdraw from an ATM.

I use Coinmill to print out a quick summary of currency conversion examples and then calculate a formula to memorize. For example, if 100 Icelandic krona are worth 70 cents, I memorize a factor of 0.7. When using cash, I mentally convert the currency using the factor I’ve memorized, accessing the rate on my phone or referencing my cheat sheet, whichever is the most convenient. It’s a system that hasn’t failed me.

Finally, traveling solo doesn’t mean I want to avoid people. I actually look forward to meeting new acquaintances during my travels.

For this reason, I normally book at least 1 small group day tour or city walking tour. I use Viator to find local tours, as I’ve had good experiences with the company and like earning triple rewards on my purchases with them.

I have even met other travelers in the hotel lounges who invited me on excursions. Additionally, when available I may eat my meal at the bar versus a sit-down table, increasing the chance for interaction.

Traveling alone can be just as fulfilling as traveling with others. In some cases, it can be more so.

However, with the freedom of traveling solo comes the responsibility of ensuring I’m prepared for any potential derailments. There’s also the responsibility of making sure I have a good time. My top 7 rules help me organize, create plans that minimize disruption, and set the foundation for having a fun and rewarding journey.

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Citi ® / AAdvantage ® Platinum Select ® World Elite™ Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Group Tours Especially for Solo Travelers

Dozens of solo travel trips updated monthly.

Note: We do not book travel. Solo Traveler does not receive a commission on any trips sold.

This is the only list of singles group travel deals that we know of. Solo travel tours and cruises with no or low single supplements. Advertisers cannot surpass 20% single supplement on any trips advertised on Solo Traveler. In many cases there is no single supplement at all.

Also check out our Searchable page to filter tours for singles by destination, style and length of trip.

Do you have a solo travel tour to promote? Please contact Simon Constam .

Are you a tour novice? Read: Solo Traveler On a Group Tour , How to Choose a Tour and River Cruises for Solo Travelers .

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Culture and Cuisine for Solo Travelers and others

For curious travelers who love authentic cultural experiences, local cuisine and a little bit of comfort when they travel. Travels with Talek focuses on experiential travel with an emphasis on interaction with local people, culture and traditions. Personalized attention, I lead all tours. I’ve traveled to over 110 countries and love sharing my favorite destinations […]

Our upcoming 11-day Cuba cultural tours are 100% consistent with U.S. travel regulations. They include: Low single supplements, dedicated English-speaking guides, lovingly curated itineraries providing maximum interaction with local populations, flexible cancellation policy.

• Visit China on a Cultural Tour: An 11-day China Cultural tour visiting Shanghai, Xi'an (Terracotta soldiers) and Beijing
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Luxury Small Ship River Cruises in Asia

Pandaw Cruises is the top choice for solo travel, offering numerous sailings with no single supplement. Explore Asia’s rivers in comfort and style, enjoying the freedom to travel independently while making new connections. Discover why Pandaw is the number one river cruise line for solo adventures.

Africa for Solo Female Travelers

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Travel Solo, Not Alone With EF Go Ahead Tours

EF Go Ahead Tours offers 18 tours just for solo travelers. On our solo tours you'll enjoy an included private room, and your tour mates will be solo travelers, too. 2024, and 2025 dates available. Book your next adventure with us today!

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Encounter Travel. 'Solos Only'.

Have travel dreams come to a grinding halt because you don’t have a travel buddy? We believe sharing the journey takes 'alone' out of solo travel. Small group tours, plus resort & cruise groups. Just choose, pack and join in. Since 2006, leading the way for solo travellers.

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Create for the joy of it! Women only

See the Tuscany you've been dreaming of. Each day is an adventure as we explore Florence, Siena and create easy and fun art in the Tuscan countryside. All the details, including authentic apartments, private drivers, attractions and unbelievable meals, are taken care of for you.

Overseas Adventure Travel

For a limited time, save 10% off the total price of your trip when you pay in full, plus an additional $200 per person when you purchase O.A.T.’s airfare on ANY 2025 O.A.T. Land or Small Ship Adventure.

• Japan’s Cultural Treasures: 15 Days, starting from $6,395, including international airfare
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Solo adventure travel for 30s and 40s ⛵️✈️🌎!

We're a good mix of adventure, comfort & social travel. Our itineraries blend not only must-see attractions but also hidden gems where we break away from the tourist path. Always leaving with stories, connections & memories for life.

International and Domestic Group Travel Specialist

Travel Planners 4 U is more than just a travel agency. We curate travel experiences for culture enthusiasts, romantics, cruise lovers, soloists, adventurers, relaxation seekers, and everyone in between. We will deliver a trip experience that suits your travel style.

Unique holidays in Egypt for Solo Travellers

Follow in the footsteps of writers, work on your own book, or dive deep into the culture of this amazing country with our unique Egyptologist-led tours. Our tours are perfect for the solo traveler: we'll meet you at the airport and make sure you're looked after every step of the way.

Fun, affordable, active vacations for women!

Our mission is simple: we’re women who empower women just like you. We take small groups of women on active vacations to some of the most scenic places on earth. Through our guided adventures around the globe, we empower you to explore. To learn. To connect. To grow. To discover yourself. Join us!

• Palm Springs and Joshua Tree NP: Soft adventure tour for women in Palm Springs featuring the stark beauty of Joshua Tree NP
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Sophisticated voyages on board Small Cruise Ships.

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Worldwide small group Solo Holidays with a Host

At Friendship Travel we offer a wide range of fun and enjoyable solo travel for like-minded travellers. We have been in business for 26 years and know how to look after solo travellers. With departures all year we can offer a trip to suit your vacation needs. Give our friendly team a call today.

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Go Your Own Way with Cosmos and Solo Like a Pro

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Creating Life-Changing Experiences for 50+ Singles

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Embark on the solo trip of a lifetime to meet the penguins in person and become one of the few to have ever set foot on the White Continent. Book a dedicated single cabin, share to avoid paying a single supplement, or take advantage of our no single supplement deals and get a cabin all to yourself!

Join us for a fabulous week in beautiful Paris!

"The best group trip I've ever been on." "Group travel that doesn't feel like group travel." "You had me at 'no tour buses'." Whose clients come back for the same trip more than once? Ours do! Our trips are ideal for solo travelers for so many reasons. 2025 trips are open for registration!

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Solo Traveler Specials: All Trips 🌍

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Fully guided small-group adventures

Active Adventures and sister brand Austin Adventures have nearly 70 years of experience guiding small-group adventure vacations in the most breathtaking regions of the world with every detail covered. Our Early Bird Super Saver is on now! Get 15% off ALL 2025 adventures. Book by Sept. 30.

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• Ult Galapagos Islands Adventure: Hike, bike, cruise, & snorkel the Galapagos Islands on a 10-day island-hopping adventure.
• Ultimate North Island Adventure: Explore NZ’s North Island: Hike, bike, & kayak through stunning landscapes & rich culture.
• Patagonia Hiking Adventure: Behold jaw-dropping scenery as you hike, bike, and cruise your way through Patagonia.

Connect with Scotland through your creativity!

Art holidays & creative retreats in Scotland's most stunning locations. Join us on a creative adventure and connect with Scotland's locations, fellow creative travelers and yourself.

Women's Transformational Retreats in NM & England

This is a call to Women who desire to Reconnect with Themselves and Embody Their Radiant Authenticity! Join our small group retreats to reclaim and celebrate your beautiful Self while being nourished by the Land and supported by your Soul Sisters. Perfect for Solo Travelers!

Travel allows you to cultivate love and trust in yourself like nothing else. Spiral Path Journeys wants to help you experience your own Transformational Travel through heart nourishing Group Retreats and life changing Solo Travel Quests.

Distinct Solo Travel For Over 50's Since 1971

Travel as distinct as you. Be a traveler, not a tourist. Journey on an escorted small group tour as a solo traveler, in the comfort and ease of a group. Make new like minded friends on over 150 tours. It's all about you! SAVE up to $200 on any 2024 trip.

• Tulip Time Rhine River Cruise: Cruise along the fabled Rhine RIver passing colorful landscapes, windmills, and tulips.
• Danube River Christmas Markets: Get into the Christmas Spirit on a river cruise along the Danube.
• National Parks of America’s West: Blaze an unforgettable trail experiencing the legends and lore of America’s Wild West.
• Highlights of Japan: From the vibrant city of Tokyo to shrines steeped in 1000 year old history. Come to Japan.
• Gems of the Adriatic: The best small group tour featuring Croatia and Slovenia.
• Sunsets & Southern Charm: Experience the charms of Charleston and Savannah on this small group tour of the South.

Walking holidays on the Greek island of Ikaria

Walk with us in the mountains of the Greek island of Ikaria or participate in the olive picking in November. For those who are interested in immersing themselves in the nature and local customs of Ikaria. Ikaria is known as the blue zone, an area where people live longer than average.

Adventure Canada

Join a fun, educational, and life-changing small-ship expedition to the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, and Atlantic Canada. Free single supplements are available on a limited quantity of cabins in categories 3 through 7 aboard the Ocean Endeavour. Shared cabin options are also available.

• Greenland & Wild Labrador: Cross the Arctic Circle. Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit cultural.
• Heart of the Arctic: Explore the coasts of Greenland & South Baffin Island. Encounter famous Inuit art-making.
• Newfoundland & Wild Labrador: Hike in Torngat Mountains National Park. Enjoy Inuit culture. Visit Battle Harbour.
• Newfoundland Circumnavigation: Witness sublime hospitality. Striking wildlife and scenery. Hike Gros Morne and Red Bay.
• High Arctic Explorer: Cruise at the foot of icebergs. Seek seabirds, polar bears, and walruses.
• The Northwest Passage: Explore the best of Greenland & the Canadian Arctic on this ultimate small-ship expedition

Small group walking tours & art vacation workshops

We are about experience, people, and beauty and are more like traveling with friends than joining a traditional tour. With blue skies and blue water, Blue Walk guests enjoy leisurely strolls along coastlines, village squares, and open spaces of Europe. Our art workshops are a travel artist's dream.

• Leisurely Walking in Spain: Sep 1 – 7, 2024 discover Barcelona and the Costa Brava on beautiful, half-day excursions.
• Walk the Cote D’Azur and Villages: May 27-Jun 2: Discover coastal walks, lively markets, and the colorful French Riviera
• 12-night Walking Tour in Greece: Athens, then Island Hop through Amorgos, Naxos, and Santorini. Explore authentic Greece.
• Italian Riviera and Lake Como: By foot and rail experience off-the-beaten-path Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Lake Como.
• Leisurely Walking in Switzerland: A dream vacation exploring the Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen regions by foot, ferry and rail.

The lowest Solo Supplement in the industry

Our fleet of 50 ships with 2 and 3 decks accommodate only 16 to 200 passengers. Their size and cutting-edge technology allow them to sail exclusively on certain rivers and to moor in the heart of cities. We offer single cabins on most rivers. Single Cabins = Waived Single Supplement.

• Amsterdam to Vienna – 15 Days: 15 Days cruising the Rhine. 8/5/24. Free single supplement. Code "SINGLE"
• Cruise The Romantic Rhine: 5 Day sailings. June -August. FREE solo supplement. Code "SINGLE"

Your crew is departing....

Embark on our specially curated trips designed with young professionals and millennials in mind. Dive deep into local culture, challenge yourself beyond your usual boundaries, and connect with other solo travelers with similar interests. Sign up for our one of our exciting excursions today!

Mexico Health Retreat for Solo Travelers

Health Retreat in Huatulco, Mexico, April 1-7, 2024 Active getaway perfect for solo travelers, which includes morning walks and workouts,, evening yoga, hikes to waterfalls & other tours, delicious Mexican food cooked by locals, and lots of R&R time in a stunning hillside villa.

Motivated Movement focuses on helping people move their health & life forward. A personal training & coaching focused company that offers Health Retreats - active weeks (or weekends) away in fun locations that allow you to sweat, decompress & explore. MMPT Health Retreats are focused on those who like to be active on vacation, while of course fitting in some R&R time. No single supplements are charged & single travelers are welcome & encouraged to join us!

The Leader in Small Group Active Adventures!

For 50 years, Exodus has been creating small group trips to Europe and beyond. With 500+ tours across the globe, they are the leaders in creating award-winning active adventures.

• Cuba: La Isla Grande: it’s time to uncover the true soul of the largest and most evocative Caribbean island!
• Cycle the Baltics: Discover the best of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by bike.
• Trails of Vietnam: On foot, in the saddle, with paddle – actively discover the best of Vietnam!
• Highlights of Albania: Journey through the beautiful Albanian Riviera and discover the land of eagles.

Don’t miss out on some of our best offers -

GG2W travels in style, 4-5* hotels, wine with dinner + you always get your own private room. It’s true, you get what you pay for. Our groups are small, just 6-10 women hailing from all backgrounds, countries & ages.. Use Code SOLOJW to get $375 off all trips listed.

Activity Solo Holidays

Flavours Holidays is a specialist tour operator offering quality cooking, painting, Pilates, language and photography holidays in Italy since 1998. Set in idyllic regions you will discover new places with the inside-knowledge of our Flavours host to hand!

50+ Bicycling Tours: Fun, Safe, small groups

Senior Cycling provides fully supported, small group bike tours for folks 50+ almost exclusively on Rail-Trails in scenic & interesting sites across U.S. & Canada. Emphasis is on enjoyment and fitness at your own pace, not speed, 25-35 mi/day. Hotel/B&B lodging, meals are local, quality cuisine.

To Italy with Love

To Italy with Love: “Trip of a lifetime!” A small group (max 14 travelers) guided by June Morocco who lived 10+ years in Italy. Stay 14 nights in enchanting, coastal Sperlonga, 2 hours from Rome. Accommodations at Marconi’s charming B&B. Trips to quaint villages, Ponza Island, Ninfa Gardens & Pompei

• To Italy with Love – Sept/Oct 24: Sept 24-Oct 8, 2024. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love: Apr/May 2025: April 28-May 13. A unique intimate group, 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – May 2025: May 13-27. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – Sept 2025: Sept 9-23. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco.
• To Italy with Love – Sep/Oct 2025: Sept 23-Oct 7. A unique intimate group tour of 4-14 people guided by June Morrocco

Enjoy a cultural & culinary tour in Puglia, Italy!

Embark on an unforgettable journey to a hidden gem of Italy, Puglia! As brother & sister, born and raised in Puglia, we offer guided tours for small groups, designed to showcase the best of this part of Italy with authentic food and wine experiences! For Solo Travelers 50% OFF single supplement!

Extraordinary Small Group Adventures

Penguins2PolarBears offer sustainable and community-based travel that has a positive impact on the communities visited. Travel with like-minded individuals who want to truly experience a destination. Share a room with a person of the same gender -no single supplement. (Single supplements available).

Ocean and River Cruises for Solo Travellers

Cruising is such a wonderful way to explore, whether on the rivers of Europe, South America or Asia, or the many oceans around the world! Solo travellers are welcomed aboard many of the cruise lines with reduced, or sometimes, no single supplement. Let us help you plan your next cruise vacation!

Group Trips for Solos 30s & 40s!

In your 30s & 40s, getting friends to commit to travel plans is near impossible. We have a solution for that 😉

• 9 Days in Morocco (30s & 40s): Morocco Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Marrakech, Fes & Sahara Desert!
• 12 Days in Brazil (30s & 40s): Brazil Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Sao Paulo, Paraty, Ilha Grande & Rio
• 8 Days in Croatia (30s & 40s): Croatia Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik
• 11 Days in Mexico (30s & 40s): Mexico Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Mexico City, Oaxaca & Tulum !
• 12 Days in Peru (30s & 40s): Peru Group Tour For Solos 30s & 40s – Lima, Amazon & Machu Picchu !
• 11 Days in Colombia (30s & 40s): Colombia Group Tour for Solos 30s & 40s – Medellin, Cartagena, Bogota & Tayrona !

Small groups, unforgettable adventures

At Explore, solo travel means joining a community of like-minded adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences. 60% of our customers travel solo and our average group size of 11 allows you to get to the heart of a destination. Save $200 on your 2024 adventure! Use promo code: STW2024

• Discover Belize: Culture & Wildlife | 13 days starting at $3,650
• Baltic Capital Cities: Cultural Discovery | 8 days starting at $1,540
• Highlights of Morocco: Cultural Discovery | 9 days starting at $980
• Malta and Gozo Discovery: Cultural Discovery | 8 days starting at $1,970
• Active Turkey: Multi-Activity | 8 days starting at $930
• Amalfi Coast Walking: Walking & Trekking | 8 days starting at $1,970

Solo Travelers! Travel Safely in Authentic France

You know how overwhelming, tiring, stressful and ultimately disappointing it can be to go on a group tour or plan your own.

On this amazing trip, you'll be staying for the full trip in Aveyron in southern France in the immaculate home of Veronique. From there you'll do day trips and get into the rhythm of real French life! - No single supplement. We do not charge extra for solos.

• Experience The Authentic France!: Small, private, hosted, guided tours over 10 days: a VIP experience for solo travelers!

The Women's Travel Tribe (For Women 50+)

Join The Women's Travel Tribe! Discover the world in a small group of spirited women eager to embark on adventures taking the road less traveled. Immerse yourself in fascinating cultures with some of the coolest guides in the business. Forge new friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Okushu Tours - Experience the Difference

We tailor-make individual and group tours to Asia, South America and the Middle East. We offer authentic experiences, values and peace of mind within our handcrafted tours. Our tagline - "Experience the Difference," allows guests to enjoy their time and truly immerse themselves in the local culture.

Hosted Tours and Retreats for Women over 40

Solo Kiwi Ventures – Discover yourself through travel - no single supplement

Worldwide Sacred Journeys & Spiritual Travel

We provide opportunities for spiritual growth and personal transformation by visiting some of the world's most important sacred sites. We are committed to small groups, carefully crafted itineraries, and passionate tour leaders ready to share their wisdom and help you deepen your spiritual life.

Sail Solo! Waived Single Supplements

From January 9, 2023 through January 31, 2023, we’re waiving single supplement fees for several sailings aboard the Baranof Dream, Chichagof Dream, and Admiralty Dream. Call our reservations team at 1-855-747-8100 to hear the current list of availabilities. Offer valid for new bookings only and can only be combined with our military discount. *Don’t delay! This is a limited time offer with a limited number of availabilities.

Go solo but not alone with MT Sobek

Small group travel is a great way for solo adventurers to explore the world. Enjoy the leadership of fun and engaging expert guides, travel with a cool group of like-minded adventurers, and relax—knowing all the details have been handled for you! Nearly 30% of our guests travel solo on group trips.

All Staterooms & Suites with No Single Supplement

Our outstanding cruise directors and local guides, meticulously crafted itineraries, award-winning reputation, personalized experiences, luxury ships, and first-class service, are all reasons to book with Riviera River Cruises. We’ve been delighting customers for 37 years.

In Your 30s or 40s? Come explore with us!

Join other English-speaking travelers in their 30s and 40s on Indico Travels' tours to Vietnam, Colombia, Morocco & more. 95% are solo travelers! Meet the locals & dive into their culture with unique activities in a small group.

Edible Destination Offers for Solo Travelers

Special offers for solo travelers

If not now, When? Small Groups Tours for Women

Exclusive, curated, fully guided small group tours for women. Safe, inclusive, wellness & adventure tours with low single supplements & lots of unique experiences – Filling up quickly! These tours focus on wellness, hiking, yoga, culture, connection and community immersion. Come join me.

Adults Only & Solo Travelers Colorado River Trip

Experience the roaring, red heart of Canyonlands National Park via a motorless rafting trip through Cataract Canyon. Arrive on your own and depart with new friends.

Senior Discovery Tours

Senior Discovery Tours is the leader in escorted group travel for the mature traveller, proudly Canadian-owned for more than 45 years, offering 100+ international tours and cruises.

Stay Connected with Nomad eSIMs in 100+ countries!

Leave expensive data roaming behind with Nomad - we bring you local data rates with the magic of eSIM. Just visit our webstore, pick a plan, and check-out. Scan the QR code in your inbox, and your eSIM is installed in less time than it takes to order a cup of coffee.

Travel In Nepal | Nepal Himalayas Trekking P. Ltd

I would like to list my travel Packages for Solo Travelers.

Gorilla Trek/ Primate Safaris in Uganda & Rwanda

Secure your space on one of our unique African safari experiences tailored to discover the most remarkable areas, all our guests can immerse themselves in the magic of the continent, while enjoying the unique experiences and up-close encounters in the wild likecoming face to face with Mt. Gorillas

Pay No Single Supplements & Secure A Private Room

We offer solo tours to Europe, river cruises, safari tours in Africa, historic expeditions in Africa, tours to Latin America, and vacations in Asia. Whether you prefer to see powerful predators, beautiful beaches, world heritage sites, or gorgeous landscapes, the options are abundant!

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Sociable holidays for solo travelers

Solo holidays with no single supplement! The Mistral Hotel is a singles resort in Crete, Greece, which caters exclusively for solo travellers who enjoy great food, good company and a warm, natural environment.

Space-saving Vacuum Compartment Isolates Odors

Get more from a travel backpack that has a vacuum compartment to provide more space for your carry on items. With large pockets to keep your items separate so you wouldn't have to go through the entire bag to find one thing. Comes with a separate laptop compartment. - Perfect carry-on -

AWESOMIZE YOUR SOLO ADVENTURE WITH A PRIVATE DRIVE

As the world opens up again, we know that the safety of you and your loved ones will be among your top priorities. A “TravelDriver” is a safe and reliable, exceptional, high-quality, English-speaking private and personal driver-guide who is a “local” in your travel destination, and has, as his or he

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