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8 perfect destinations for the first-time solo traveler

Do you ever want to stay at a local Airbnb, but your travel partner wants to stay at a five-star resort? Have you ever found yourself on a tropical holiday, relaxing by the beach with a margarita in hand, only for your travel companion to start itching to go zip lining or bungee jumping?

There are certainly many perks of traveling with friends, family or loving partners. However, nothing quite compares to stepping out of your comfort zone and traveling on your own. Solo travel has become increasingly popular over the past several years, as more and more people fall in love with the idea of globetrotting party-of-one style.

For those who've never ventured out alone, however, the idea of planning where to go can feel daunting. After having traveled to over 50 countries by myself, here are my top eight recommended destinations for the first-time solo traveler.

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Vietnam is a Southeast Asian sliver of adventure, paradise, beauty, delicious eats, nature and more. It's a country that truly has it all. Ask any avid traveler what their favorite nations are, and Vietnam is bound to be included in that list, for good reason. Vietnam is safe, cheap, beautiful and full of adventure.

Hanoi is a perfectly chaotic city where motorbikes buzz through the streets from all different directions. Try some Bun Cha at Bun Cha Huong Lien, a restaurant visited by both President Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain. Here working women pour you large bowls of a fishy broth with clipped noodles, herbs and pork. Wash it all down with a beer at Train Street. Head to Ha Long Bay to see one of the new natural wonders of the world. When you're ready for a city escape, head south to Da Nang, Vietnam's hippest beach town, where expats from all over the world relax.

Extra perks? Vietnam is incredibly affordable. Meals run on average $2, and traveling around the country via bus will run you an average of $5 per ticket.

Where to stay: Intercontinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort .

Related: Cambodia, South Korea and Vietnam loosen COVID-19 restrictions as Asia reopens for tourists

When discussing different destinations around the world, it's easy to group them into one of two categories: safe and unsafe. This can perpetuate negative stereotypes, and it's important to keep in mind that every traveler's journey is subjective. However, when it comes to Iceland , it would be hard to argue that it's even remotely unsafe.

Iceland is absolutely, hands-down, one of the safest place on earth. You'll likely meet several solo female travelers, as well as LGBTQIA+ travelers, because of the country's inclusive and equitable societal standards. Downtown Reykjavik has a booming LGBTQIA+ scene. Also, walking alone at night isn't as much of an issue if you choose to visit in the summer, because, around the summer solstice, it's daylight (or twilight) 24 hours a day. Iceland is so safe that it's been said there are more horses on the island than police officers.

As for the landscape, it's true that Iceland is like another planet. You'll be greeted with geysers, waterfalls, glaciers and volcanoes. If you're feeling adventurous, try scuba diving between the tectonic plates that separate the North American and European continents. Keep in mind that Iceland is a bit more expensive than your average destination, so a downfall to traveling solo to this destination is not having anyone with whom to split the cost.

Where to stay: Hotel Ranga .

Related: Iceland is open to Americans: Here's how to travel there on miles and points

One of my first destinations as a solo female traveler was to Colombia , and never have I ever received as many questionable stares as when I told people I was headed there alone. Thankfully, I didn't let the pessimistic comments get to me and headed out on a direct JetBlue flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Cartagena anyway.

Once riddled with a bad reputation, Colombia has cleansed itself of its ugly past and has become a backpacker's and luxury traveler's haven in recent years. It's incredibly affordable, with some of the best cuisine in Latin America, and short flights from the U.S. make it an easy getaway.

If you visit Cartagena, expect to find a vivid city with nearby picturesque beaches, friendly locals, late night arepa stands and all-around sunny good vibes. Feeling adventurous? Take a day trip to El Totumo Mud Volcano. Don't skip out on visiting the crystal-clear blue waters of either Isla Baru or the Rosario Islands. In Medellin, you'd be a fool to not take advantage of the flourishing and efficient transportation system. The city is full of beautiful architecture and museums.

Help rid a fabulous country of a negative stereotype by visiting solo — and have the time of your life while doing so.

Where to stay: Ermita, Cartagena, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

Related: 11 sunny spots to spend a winter holiday

What traveler hasn't dreamed of visiting Paris , the city of love? Though it may seem like a top choice for honeymoon getaways, who says you need a partner to enjoy a romantic vacation? Treat yourself to one of the world's most popular destinations and choose your own adventures.

Enjoy freshly baked baguettes with cafe au lait each morning as you wake up to views of the Eiffel Tower or Seine. Explore the Paris Catacombs for a creepy history tour. Head to a winery, or even more luxuriously, to the Champagne region to savor the real deal. Explore the rocky beaches of Nice. If you want to make it a two-for-one deal, take a day trip to Monaco and tick off another country as a solo traveler.

Where to stay: Hotel de Louvre.

Related: 10 of the best points hotels in France

Has life been stressing you out? Are you looking for a proper getaway in a tropical location where you can sit on a hammock, drink a beer, pet some local dogs and just relax? Look no further than the tiny Central American oasis of Belize.

All international flights go into Belize City. You can spend a few days on the mainland to explore Mayan ruins or head out on a local ferry to one of the many islands, or cays. Why not opt for Caye Caulker? It's a 45-minute boat ride from Belize City. Upon arrival, you'll likely notice the absence of vehicles. Bikes are the primary mode of transportation on this car-free cay. The island's motto is "Go Slow," and it's easy to feel the relaxing vibes all around you. If you want to venture out, head to Shark Ray Alley and swim with the nurse sharks. Want to tick off a major bucket list item? Scuba dive the Great Blue Hole, just off the coast of Belize.

Where to stay: Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection.

Related: 6 solo travel mistakes to avoid on your first trip

For travelers looking to jump into an extraordinary adventure, look no further than Japan . It's unlike anywhere else in the world and has something for every traveler.

In Tokyo, feel the fast-paced energy of Shibuya, play Mario Kart at underground cafes in Akihabara and enjoy the street food of Omoide-Yokocho. In Kyoto, feel the calmness and history of Japan at one of the many shrines, preferably one of the country's top visited sites, Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take a day trip to Nara, Japan's original capital. Here you can meet and feed sacred deer who will bow to you. If your time and budget allow, head to Okinawa for some of the best scuba diving in the world.

Why travel to Japan alone? Japan will catapult you out of your reality quicker than most destinations. The traditions and cultures of Japan don't bend and shift with trends, and you won't be catered to based on your needs. That's not to say that the locals are not above and beyond friendly. However, Japan is hard to make a home out of if you're an outsider, pushing you to the ultimate limits of your comfort zone.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Tokyo.

Related: 3 of the best-value points hotels in Tokyo

New Zealand

If you're into nature, serenity and road trips and want to get as far away as humanly possible from everything and everyone, New Zealand should be on your radar. It's quite far from most destinations around the globe, meaning you're likely to lose at least a day from travel. However, what awaits you on the other side includes stunning landscapes, sheep and bunnies to greet you, fresh Manuka-honey-laced ice cream and friendly Kiwis to assist you in anything you might need.

Road tripping New Zealand is the proper way to explore either island, and it's almost a travel requirement to rent a car while here. Keep in mind, New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. Though it might sound daunting, as long as you're a decent driver it takes very little getting used to. There are also plenty of road signs to remind you to stay in your lane.

For adrenaline junkies, Queenstown on the South Island is a must. It's known to be the adrenaline capital of the world, with the Nevis Swing (the world's biggest canyon swing) as well as canyon bungee jumping. New Zealand can easily be done in just a few short days, or a few long weeks. Itinerary options are nearly endless depending on your time and budget. If you rent a car, as you should, New Zealand is one of the destinations where traveling solo means you'll truly be alone.

Where to stay: The Carlin Boutique Hotel in Queenstown.

Related: 4 new hotels to visit when New Zealand reopens in May

What travel list would be complete without including Indonesia ? This nation is a popular choice for honeymooners, families, and yes, even solo travelers. It's affordable, aesthetically pleasing and boasts some of the most beautiful scenery this world has to offer, from waterfalls and rice terraces to pristine beaches and more.

Traveling solo in Indonesia seldom means traveling alone. In popular destinations such as Bali, Nusa Penida, Jakarta, Lombok or Java, you're bound to meet plenty of other travelers, many of them traveling solo. All over Indonesia, you can chase waterfalls, ride swings over rice terraces, meet playful monkeys and try the world's rarest coffee called Kopi Luwak. Each corner is more picturesque than the next. If you feel adventurous, rent a motorbike to get around. Prefer to travel without responsibilities? Hire a driver to take you around for as low as $30 per day.

Don't skip out a visit to Komodo Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Komodo National Park is home to about 2,500 Komodo dragons, as well as other species of reptiles, animals and mammals.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Bali.

Related: 5 unique solo trips to take on points and miles

15 Great Destinations For First Time Solo Travelers

• Post author By Nick
• Post date 8:07 pm
• No Comments on 15 Great Destinations For First Time Solo Travelers

OK, so you’ve decided you want to go on a solo adventure. But where to?

There are almost 200 countries in the world, each with something unique to offer. Seasoned travelers might say that anywhere is a good travel destination, provided you have your wits about you, the budget to keep going, and an open mind.

However, we believe that some places are much better suited for solo travel than others. Factors include: safety , ease of getting around (e.g. public transportation), density of attractions , ease of meeting other travelers , available resources , traveler infrastructure , and more.

With all this in mind, we’ve narrowed it down to a list of 15 trip ideas for solo travelers – for both first-time travelers and more experienced adventurers alike!

Note : we feel that these are great for all genders. Given the (relatively) high level of safety for travelers in these 15 places, this article could just as easily have been titled 15 Destinations for Female Solo Travelers . Of course, no place is 100% safe–so common sense should still be applied!

#1. Thailand

Thailand is South East Asia on “easy” mode. More than 35 million people visit the country annually, and the Thais have got it all worked it out – from hotels, flights/transport, and endless tour activities. Tourist infrastructure is well developed, and most Thais by now speak at least a few words of English. It’s safe, cheap (by Western standards), and often sunny – what more could you ask for in a destination?

As a bonus, Thailand is serviced by a multitude of air routes – and affordable flight deals are easy to find.

Example solo itinerary : Phuket → day trip on a boat to outlying islands → back to Phuket → ferry to Ko Lanta, more snorkeling and relaxation → Krabi → back to Phuket → fly to Bangkok, spend 2-3 days there → fly to Chiang Mai, explore for 2-3 days → minibus to Pai, stay overnight → back to Chiang Mai → fly back home!

Pro tip: never, ever make fun of the King. Oh, and please don’t have your photo taken with sedated tigers (their treatment is decidedly not #awesome).

Another pro tip: most ATMs will charge you 200 BHT (~6 usd) just to withdraw each time. Get a debit card that refunds withdrawal fees, or bring cash to exchange.

#2. Australia

Aside from being quite an expensive place to visit, Australia is very travel-friendly. While a proper exploration of the country could take months (and perhaps best done in an RV/camper van), a quick solo adventure is logistically easy to pull off. Just be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as hotels are very pricy and hostels fill up fast!

Example solo itinerary: Fly into Perth (3 days there) → fly to Melbourne (4 days there, including day trip along Great Ocean Road) → fly to Sydney (4 days there, including 2 nights in Katoomba to explore the Blue Mountains) → Cairns (4 days there, including rainforest tours and a day spent lamenting the dying Great Barrier Reef).

Pro tip: Australians have a very direct sense of humor – don’t take it personally!

The biggest danger in Italy? Falling in love with the place!

It’s a perfect country to explore at your own pace, taking in the culture, history, and amazing cuisine. A must-visit for any history buffs, and a great place to link up with other travelers.

Example solo itinerary (mostly train journeys): fly into Rome → explore Rome & The Vatican → Naples/Pompei/Salerno → Florence → Bologna → Venice → Milan → Genoa → back to Rome (Optional: Amalfi Coast, but perhaps best saved for the honeymoon!)

Pro tip: the most useful website for finding European train/bus tickets is loco2 . For train itineraries and journeys specifically, Seat61 is a treasure trove of info (has info for all over the world).

If you’re worried about traveling to Spain, just know that thousands of new retirees move there every year to enjoy a calmer way of life. While the big cities are not nearly as despacito as you might imagine, Spain makes for an easy trip even if you can barely say Ola!

As everywhere else in Western Europe, the backpacker/hostel culture is very well developed and you’ll find no shortage of affordable accommodations anywhere you go. The country has a great train system, and you’ll be spoiled by the high speed connections between cities.

Example solo itinerary : fly into Barcelona (3 days there) → Valencia (2 days) → fly to Malaga or Seville → explore Andalusia (including Granada, Córdoba, Ronda → make your way to Madrid (4 days there, including a day trip to Toledo) → fly back home!

Pro tip: take advantage of the delicious and filling set lunch menus available at almost any restaurant ( menu del dia ). For ~10 Euros, you’ll leave satisfied and full. And yes, dessert is included!

#5. Portugal

An underrated destination in Western Europe, Portugal is (finally) getting the traveler attention it deserves. Makes for an easy week-long trip by itself, or as the other half of a Spain/Portugal combo adventure.

Example solo itinerary : fly into Lisbon (3-4 days there) → full day trip to Sintra → up to Porto (2-3 days there) → back to Lisbon and home (or onwards!)

Pro tip: try to get a hotel or Airbnb in Lisbon’s historic Alfama district. You’ll be hearing beautiful (and somber) Fado music every night for free… while tourists will be overpaying to eat at the restaurants where the musicians perform!

#6. Croatia

Beautiful people, crystal blue waters, and a city that served as the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones – it’s no wonder that Croatia has quickly become a mainstream travel destination.

As a bonus, the country is a more affordable place to visit (compared to places Zlike Italy, France, or Germany). Unless you’re going there to spend thousands of dollars for a few days of Yacht Week, you won’t be breaking the bank.

Example solo itinerary: Fly into Zagreb (2-3 days there) → Zadar (by way of Plitvice Lakes) → Explore Zadar for a few days, with day trips to Dugi Otok and Nin → head to Split (with a stop at Krka National Park) → Hvar → Dubrovnik

See this blog – these guys have done a great job of outlining an excellent itinerary for Croatia.

#7. Bene(lux)

Quick recap: “Benelux” refers to the political and economic union of Be lgium, The Ne therlands, and Lux embourg. And we say (lux) because Luxembourg is a strictly optional part of this suggested itinerary.

Excellent train connections make exploring this part of Western Europe an absolute breeze. While all three countries combined are just half the size of New York (state), there’s a lot there to explore. As a bonus, Amsterdam is an excellent hub for air travel and affordable tickets are often available in and out of Schiphol.

Example solo itinerary: Fly into Amsterdam → Explore Amsterdam for a few days (with day trip to Haarlem) → Rotterdam (because Holland is not just about Amsterdam!) → Antwerp → Brussels (1 day max) → Ghent → Day trip to Bruges → Back to Brussels → Onwards (home? to Paris? to Cologne?)

Pro tip: don’t spend too much time in Brussels. Instead, take advantage of Belgium’s affordable local trains and check out Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.

There are just a handful of cities that defined the course of Western civilization in the 20th century – and Berlin is right up there. Almost anywhere you go, there will be evidence of what happened… and who it happened to. The city itself is almost one big open air museum – where are are you going to see Checkpoint Charlie, the Iron Curtain (East/West wall), and Holocaust Memorial all in one day?

Berlin is perfect for a solo traveler. Cheap hostels abound, and you could technically sustain yourself on 2 Euro doner kebabs and free* walking tours for a whole week (and still not run out of things to do).

And in case you haven’t heard by now, Berlin is also the nightclub/trance capital of Western Europe – this is a city that knows how to party. With its (comparatively) low cost of living, Berlin continues to attract artists, hipsters, and – most recently – young tech startup founders.

Example solo itinerary : fly into Berlin and spend a week exploring it! Make sure you take a day trip to Postdam, and don’t forget to check out some cool museums in the city (including the Technology Museum and the Museum der Charité – a fascinating museum of medical history and procedures). With cheap flights and a ton of train connections, you could either return home or continue your adventure to anywhere in Europe.

Pro tip: read our Berlin city guide for all the essential info, including how to get past those high-maintenance Berlin club bouncers!

*Please tip your walking tour guides!

#9. Hong Kong

OK, so we don’t recommend flying 10+ hours to Asia just to see Hong Kong. But if you’re going to make a stopover as part of a longer trip, this might just be the perfect place to do it. Warning: accommodations in Hong Kong are expensive!

HK is a perfect destination for solo travelers – it’s extremely safe, there are English signs everywhere (most people at least speak basic English), and the public transport system is one of the best in the world. Photographers will love this place (it’s highly #instagrammable), foodies will be in heaven, and even outdoorsy folks will be pleasantly surprised (there are 100s of km of pristine hiking trails, both on Hong Kong Island and a short ferry ride away on the outlying islands).

If you’re going to make a stop in Hong Kong, make sure you read our Essential Solo Travel Guide to HK first! It’s got everything you need to create a great travel itinerary. 3-4 days is a perfect amount of time.

Pro tip: for a good “bang for the buck” accommodation plan, find a room in an Airbnb somewhere on the West side of Hong Kong Island (e.g. Sheung Wan, Sai Ying Pun, HKU, or Kennedy Town). This way, you’re still on the main metro (MTR) line, but not paying ridiculous business hotel prices.

Hah! Thought you wouldn’t see Bali on this list? So did we, until we gave it some thought.

On one hand, Bali is a bit of a “played out” travel destination. It seems everyone and their mothers has already been there, done that, and got the yoga mat to prove it. But there’s a reason why Bali is such a popular destination: there really is a lot to do there – you just have to get out of Kuta (the city where you first land).

Bali is a huge island, so it helps to know what you want. Want to catch waves and hang out with the surfers? Make a beeline for Canggu. Just want to relax and party on the beach? North Kuta is great for that. Interested in the whole Eat, Pray, Love experience – with artisanal coffee and daily Warrior II? Ubud is your place. Looking for some great scuba? You’ll want to see Bali and hop over to Lombok ASAP, then.

This is a great place for newbies to build some real travel skills – all the basic stuff (e.g. asking for directions, buying a SIM card, arranging for private transport) is just a hair less predictable than somewhere like Thailand. And it seems the farther you get out of Kuta, the more interesting stuff you’re going to find. There’s a lot to explore here – and lots of “insider” info that you’ll only get by talking to other travelers or semi-permanent residents on the island.

For more info, check out our Essential Solo Guide to Bali .

Pro tip: while you can use Uber on Bali (I did it all the time), you have to be discreet about it as Uber is technically not allowed on the island. If there’s a taxi or police nearby, your Uber driver might keep circling until the coast is clear (to pick you up). Other transport options – aside from the local taxis – include Grab, GoJek, and BlueBird.

#11. Vietnam

A popular phrase travelers use to describe their trip Vietnam: “It’s like visiting China… ten years ago.” 

While the memories of war still linger, the people of Vietnam are definitely not living in the past – this is one of the fastest growing economies of Asia (and it shows). Wherever you go, big changes are happening here: from soaring office towers in Saigon, to miles of beachfront resort developments near Da Nang, to hundreds of new factories popping up all over (ready to export to the rest of the world). Everyone is on the move in Vietnam, and business is booming!

Even with rapid economic growth, Vietnam continues to be an affordable  travel destination. Decent hotel rooms in Hanoi can be had for as low as 15 USD/night, and a bowl of delicious street-side pho  noodle soup is just 1-2 dollars. Even a SIM card (with a month of LTE data) will only set you back $5 or so.

Example solo itinerary:  before your trip, check weather reports for the 3 major cities (HCMC, Da Nang, and Hanoi). Depending on the season, it could be very rainy in the South and perfectly clear in the North (or vice versa). This will affect which direction you travel in as you explore Vietnam. For example, you could start in Hanoi (with day trip to Ha Long Bay → bus north to Sapa (spend 1-2 nights here and enjoy the hiking and views) → back to Hanoi → fly to Da Nang (or ride a scooter down if you’re feeling brave) → take train up to Hue (2 nights here) → back to Da Nang by bus → Hoi An (1-2 nights here) → back to Da Nang → fly to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and explore the city for a few days → (optional) continue onwards to Cambodia

Pro tip: people of (most) nationalities will need to obtain a tourist visa for Vietnam prior to arrival. It can usually be all done online – there are many agencies that offer this service, ranging from excellent to dubious. We recommend just sticking with the official government e-visa service . If you want to stay longer than 30 days, you’ll need to get the traditional tourist visa.

#12. Cambodia

Sandwiched between Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia is another popular destination on the so-called Banana Pancake Trail in South East Asia. Cambodia is affordable, tourist-friendly, and makes for a perfect solo adventure – especially when combined with a neighbouring country.

If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll probably enter the country via one of two cities: Siem Reap or Phnom Penh (the capital). Just as well, because these happen to be the two must-visit places: Siem Reap for its proximity to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, and Phnom Penh for witnessing not only the rapid economic rise Cambodia, but also to learn about and reflect on the horrors of the country’s recent past under the Khmer Rouge regime.

Example solo itinerary : Phnom Penh (2 nights) → Explore the city, making sure to take a day trip to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center → Siem Reap (wake super up early for the Angkor Wat visit, it’s worth it) → fly home (or continue to Bangkok!) Optional: Sihanoukville + islands, Kampot, and Battambang

Pro tip: the best bus companies to get from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (and vice versa) are Giant Ibis and Mekong Express. Probably best to just stick to those.

While Japan has been exporting its culture for decades, no amount of movies, TV, anime, or Pokemon play-throughs will prepare one for the real thing. If you can afford it, this is simply a must-visit country – the history, architecture, cuisine, nature, infrastructure, and unique culture will amaze all but the most jaded of travelers.

For travelers, Japan is the safest country on our list (and of the safest in the world). As long as you don’t go out of your way to start trouble, it’s unlikely that anything bad will happen to you there. It’s also next to impossible to be ripped off in Japan – in almost every case, you will pay the exact same price as locals do.

Example solo itinerary : fly into Tokyo → spend 3-4 days exploring Tokyo’s neighborhoods, temples, and gardens (with a day trip up north to Nikko) → Optional: climb Mt. Fuji (summertime only) and come back to Tokyo in the same day → Hakone (stay at a hot spring hotel or hostel overnight) → train to Kyoto (1-2 nights here) → train to Osaka → With Osaka as your base, make day trips to Kobe, Himeji, and Nara → done! (or continue south to Hiroshima)

Optional add-ons: Japan is not just the mainland. If you really want to get a good sense of the country, make sure to visit Sapporo (and surrounding cities) in the North, as well as the sun-kissed beaches of Okinawa (in the South).

Pro tip: if you’re looking for a truly unique experience in Japan, take the bullet train down to Kagoshima and board the ferry (or turbo jet) to Yakushima . This is a beautiful island, known for its unique animal species (deer, monkey) and ancient cedars (some over 2,000 years old). A great resource for visiting Yakushima is Yaku Monkey .

#14. Central Europe

OK, so “Central Europe” sounds a bit vague.

To be specific: the idea is to hit up all the most interesting cities of the Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. It’s a great way to get off the (very beaten) tourist trail of Western Europe and experience something East of Germany for a change. There’s so much variety of culture, history, and cuisine all packed in a relatively tiny geographical area – from the fairy tale architecture of Prague to the thermal baths of Budapest.

This is a great option for newbie solo travelers, as all our recommended cities are quite safe, offer plenty of affordable hostel accommodation, and are connected via cheap and plentiful transport options (train, bus, car share, etc.)

Example solo itinerary (remember, all of these can be done backwards too): Prague → bus to Brno → Vienna → Graz → Optional: visit Ljubljana (Slovenia), and continue on to Zagreb (Croatia) → Budapest, Hungary (spend at least a few days here)

Pro tip: to quickly see all transportation options within Europe, try the following apps: Rome2Rio or Omio .

#15. Peru to Chile (Gringo Trail)

What kind of a destination list would this be without at least one location from the New World?

Latin America (everything from Mexico down to the southern tip of Argentina) is daunting to new travelers for a variety of reasons. First, it’s far away for many – requiring expensive airfare or 40+ hour journeys with multiple connections. Then there’s the language barrier: you’re at a disadvantage if you don’t speak any Spanish or Portuguese. Finally, there’s the looming question of safety.

With that said, there are definitely “easier” countries to visit on the continent. For first-time (or less experienced) travelers, we recommend starting with the tried and true destinations on the so-called Gringo Trail. There are all backpacker-friendly, and offer plenty of accommodation options (along with affordable activities/tours and just enough of a hospitality industry that you’ll eventually find someone that speaks good English).

Example solo itinerary (loose suggestions): fly into Lima (Peru) → spend a day or two in Lima (not too long here) → Optional: take a desert / sandboarding / off-road jeep day tour from Lima → Cusco → Explore Cusco for a couple of days to acclimatize to the altitude → Book a tour locally in Cusco to hire the Salkantay or Inca Trail to Machu Picchu → fly to La Paz (Bolivia) → Optional: Death Road biking tour day trip (dangerous!) → bus to Uyuni → Salt flats jeep tour to San Pedro de Atacama (Chile) → Spend a few days in San Pedro, exploring local rock formations and stargazing at night → fly or bus down to Santiago → back home! (Optional: visit Easter Island via plane from Santiago)

Also, just in case you haven’t heard: learning Spanish is key! Every  hour you spend learning basic Spanish phrases is going to translate to considerably more enjoyment while visiting South America. For free lessons, head over to Duolingo and make an account.

Pro tip: some of you may be tempted to try ayahuasca  (or other similar substances) while backpacking in South America. Please understand the possible side-effects prior to going in, and don’t take unnecessary risks. If you’re going to do it, it would be wise to go with a travel buddy so you can look out for one another.

(The full “ Gringo Trail ” includes many more countries, encompassing almost all of Latin America)

And there you have it: 15 great destination ideas for your next solo travel adventure!

(If you’re traveling within to the United States, make sure you see our recommendations for the Best Solo Destinations in the USA ).

Or: check out one of our 180 free destination guides (organized by country)!

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THE 15 BEST FIRST TIME SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

• Categories: Travel Guides

*this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase anything through the links provided I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you!

Solo travel can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. That is why, after 7 years of travel and over 60 countries later, I’ve created this list with the 15 best first time solo travel  destinations.

There are so many choices in the world for places to go and if you’re not too sure where to even start looking, it can be a little too much to comprehend. I remember my first time solo, I was nervous, excited and a little overwhelmed. I went in with no research, and while I enjoyed my first solo trip (which was to Luxembourg), I definitely could have picked somewhere a little more catered to solo travellers. Ultimately, the destination you choose will determine how much you enjoy your first solo trip, so it’s imperative that you pick wisely, with this post, I hope I can give you a guiding hand to the best choices! 

Here are the 15 best first time solo travel destinations . 

These places are perfect for your first ever solo trip, being: safe, fun, with plenty of other travellers and lots to see/do/eat! What more could you want for your first solo travel adventure? As someone who has solo travelled for 6 years, I have been to my fair share of places and these are destinations I can wholeheartedly recommend for a first timer. 

These 15 best first time solo travel destinations hit the main criteria I mark each destination against: safety, activities, easily accessible, affordable, communication and being busy with other travellers. These criteria are what I think are the most important for not only feeling safe and comfortable but ultimately having the best time possible as a newbie solo traveller. 

what is the criteria FOR THE BEST FIRST TIME SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION?

What are the criteria for these 15 destinations being the perfect beginner friendly, first time solo travel destinations? Well, after travelling to over 60 countries these locations tick a few, if not all of the criteria to be great safe, fun, and accessible destinations for your first time solo travelling. These six criteria are what I would mark a location on for being a great solo travel destination, and these 15 spots are the perfect matches. 

So before I delve into these 15 best first time solo travel destinations, let’s first discuss WHY these are on the list!

Safety is one of the biggest concerns as a traveller, and solo travelling can often heighten that concern. These destination are some of the safest and most comfortable I’ve felt while travelling solo, so you can feel reassured that you can enjoy your time fully. Safety includes feeling comfortable walking around alone, being able to walk around at night time, and a feeling of reassurance that you’re okay solo. 

In saying this, safety precautions should be practiced everywhere you travel! I can only ever speak from my personal experience as a solo traveller, and it’s important to always practice safety while travelling.

As a first time solo traveller one of the biggest mistakes you could make is not planning out activities. Without activities, your trip can quickly feel lonely and isolated. Having some great, fun and unique activities planned for your first solo trip will not only make it the most memorable trip you could imagine but also help you get into the full swing of solo travel.

My favourite places to book activities are GetYourGuide and Viator . 

easily accessible

Whether you’re just travelling for a few days or embarking on a longer trip, travelling to destinations that are easily accessible not only means saving money on costly transport, but also makes the overall experience feel less daunting. These destinations are all incredibly easy to fly to and travel within, making them the best first time options for your solo travels!

While not all of these places are affordable, there are some great options for those who are on a tight budget. Each place will be categorised into: affordable, midrange and expensive , so you can get a gage on how accessible it is for you.

communication

One of the biggest concerns for first time solo travellers is not being able to communicate with the locals and having no one else to help. Communication is obviously very important and all these destinations are known for their great English speaking locals, so you can rest assured that you can easily navigate your way through the place, completely solo.

While this is important, I always recommend testing out your language skills and practicing some key words like: hello, please, thank you. A small gesture like this can go a long way and it’s always very appreciated. 

busy with other travellers

Travelling is about meeting amazing locals, but also connecting with other travellers. For first time solo travellers, choosing a destination that is a little more popular with other travellers can relieve some of the stress of navigating completely solo and will give plenty of opportunities for new friends. These 15 destinations are great for travellers and backpackers and you’ll have no problems finding people to hang out with on your trip.

Hostels are the best way to meet people quickly and easily. If you ever need help deciding on a good hostel, check out my 150+ hostel recommendation blog post .

1. bali, indonesia

At the top of the list as one of the best first time solo travel destinations is Bali, Indonesia. This is the perfect introduction to South East Asia as it’s very catered to Westerners, while still holding the essence of Balinese charm. Bali has the perfect mix of surf, amazing cafes, temples, incredible nature and the friendliest locals, while also being a very affordable option to choose. 

Bali is particularly perfect if you want an introduction to South East Asia and you’re not sure where to begin. Balinese people speak amazing English and because it’s so popular with tourists, you’ll have no problem finding other solo travellers to connect with during your time here to explore the island. 

In Bali, you can find cascading waterfalls, rice terraces that stretch out over the hills, jungles, and beaches built from a surfer’s dream. Bali also has another side to it, made for the beach clubgoers, daily brunch girls and ravers. So whether you’re a yoga lover or all night partier, Bali is very diverse in what it offers solo travellers. 

The south of Bali is the most popular area where you’ll find other travellers, however, because Bali is so safe you can easily explore the whole island and go off the tourist trail very easily. For more places in Indonesia that are great for solo travellers, you can also check out Nusa Penida, Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Lombok and even the Komodo Islands. 

Bali is the perfect mix of culture, nature, good food and affordable!

Affordability: Inexpensive

where to stay in bali

Bali has a lot of different areas on offer to explore. The main spots tourists tend to stay are:

All these locations are in the south of the island and are only a couple of hours from each other. To get around Bali there’s an app called Gojek (similar to Uber), which you can use for rides within Bali. Or opt for hiring a motorbike, which is very inexpensive and a lot of fun. 

Canggu and Ubud are my personal favourites out of these areas, and some great hostel recommendations are Farm Hostel in Canggu and Puri Garden Hostel in Ubud. 

what to do in bali

Whether you want to keep yourself busy or you’re looking to relax, Bali has everything. A lot of tourists stick to the south, but the whole island has a lot to offer. Here are some of the most popular choices to choose from:

• Monkey forest Ubud
• Ubud ATV tour
• Instagram highlights tour
• Mount Batur hike
• Blue Lagoon beach snorkelling
• Bali cooking class
• Make your own silver jewellery 
• Massage at Prana Spa
• Tegalalang Rice terraces and swings
• Kanto Lampo waterfall
• Try some of the delicious brunch spots in Canggu (Penny Lane, Miel Coffee, Crate Cafe)
• Visit one of the beach clubs (Mr Potato Head, Finns)
• Check out the nightlife (Motel Mexicola, Luigi’s Hot Pizza, the Lawn)

2. New Zealand

New Zealand is a bucket list place for so many people and it’s the perfect destination for solo travellers. The country is so diverse with impeccable nature and adrenaline filled activities , making it an unbelievable beginner friendly solo travel destination. While it’s a great solo travel country, your suspicions are correct, New Zealand is very expensive to travel. To combat the high pricetags attached to travelling to New Zealand, a lot of solo travellers opt to do a year working holiday. The best part is, it’s very easy to obtain a working holiday visa. You can read more about them here.

While New Zealand is a small country, it has a lot to offer, especially for nature lovers. From its pristine glaciers, mountains, rainforests, beaches, and Fiords to the bustling cityscapes, there is so much to choose from in New Zealand. Not only does it have endless activities to enjoy, it’s incredibly safe for solo travellers, and there is a great backpacker scene all year round!

The best way to travel around New Zealand is either by renting a van ( Jucy is one of the most popular companies to do this) or a hop-on hop-off bus. Check out Kiwi Experience for a great backpacker friendly option (that’s also great for first time solo travellers)!

New Zealand is great for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies

Affordability: Expensive

where to stay in new zealand

The north and south islands of New Zealand both have a lot to offer depending on what you’re looking for. Some of the best spots you definitely can’t skip out on are:

NORTH ISLAND

• Waiheke island

SOUTH ISLAND

• Abel Tasman
• Franz Josef 
• Milford Sounds
• Lake Tekapo
• Queenstown 
• Steward Island

what to do in new zealand

New Zealand is a hub for culture, nature and most importantly, adrenaline. The South Island in particular is known for its bungees, skydives, canyon swings, and Shotover Jets, so if you’re an adrenaline junkie, this is the perfect place for you. If adrenaline isn’t for you, there are also plenty of incredible hikes, beaches and diverse landscapes that can be found stretching across New Zealand. 

• Mãori dinner and cultural experience in Rotorua
• White water rafting with the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world in Rotorua (one of the best things I’ve ever done)
• Bungee jump into Waikato River in Taupo
• Ride the funicular in Wellington
• Enjoy the beautiful beaches at Cathedral Cove, Coromandel
• Climb Auckland Harbour bridge
• 134m Bungee jump in Queenstown
• Shotover Jet speedboat ride in Queenstown
• Try the famous Fergburger in Queenstown
• Queenstown to Milford Sounds scenic flight 
• Milford Sounds boat trip
• Whale watching in Kaikōura 
• Lavender farm in Wanaka
• Roys Peak in Wanaka
• See the Lupins in Lake Tekapo 
• Hike in Abel Tasman
• Visit Twin Glacier in Franz Josef 
• Hike in Stewart Island

3. Budapest, hungary

Budapest is one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel . Safe, bustling with things to do and an amazing atmosphere, it’s hard not to love Hungary’s capital. For first time solo travellers, Budapest offers a great mix of activities while still being affordable. Whether you’re interested in checking out the vibrant party culture or you want to delve more into the interesting history of Hungary, there is plenty to do in the city that can easily fill up your days and nights. 

Some of the best things to do in the city that you definitely can’t miss out on (and that are great for solo travellers) is: Budapest’s famous thermal baths (Szechinyi and Géllert are the most famous), Climb St. Stephen’s Basilica, river cruise down the Danube and checking out the Jewish Quarter/District 7. These activities are great for getting an overview of the city, and they aren’t expensive!

Budapest has a lot of ground to cover in the day and also comes alive at night time. If you love a night out, this is the place to come, even when solo travelling. Budapest has some of the best bars and clubs in Europe, while also having great, social party hostels to tie the whole experience together. 

Hungary’s capital really has it all. When I was 21 I spent a summer working at a hostel in Budapest and completely fell in love with what the city has to offer. For more information about my experience, you can read about here . 

Budapest is great for culture, food, nightlife and history.

where to stay in budapest

Budapest has a lot of great accommodation options to choose from. For solo travellers looking to get out and meet people, Hive Hostel , Avenue Hostel , and Carpe Noctum are all great hostel options that offer safe, comfortable accommodation. Personally I would go for Carpe Noctum, it’s won many awards over the years as one of the best hostels worldwide!

For hotel options, check out Boutique Hotel Budapest and Roombach Hotel . These options are comfortable and within walking distance of all the main attractions, while also being very reasonably priced. 

For more European solo travel destinations check out my 5 best European destinations for solo travel

what to do in budapest

Budapest is a city that caters to every need and wants… and you definitely won’t be bored. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, great food, thriving nightlife or interesting history. Hungary’s capital has it all and is one of the best first time solo travel destinations in Europe. 

Some of the best things to do are:

• Thermal Baths ( Széchenyi , Gellért , Rudas )
• Climb St. Stephen’s Basilica
• Hungarian Parliament
• Prosecco River Cruise
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Buda Castle
• Sziget Festival
• Citadel (great during the day and night)
• Karavan food market

4. portugal

If warm weather, beautiful beaches, great cafe culture and endless pastel de natas sound right up your alley, then Portugal is perfect for you. Portugal is incredibly safe, easily accessible and a very affordable European solo travel destination . There is a lot to discover within Portugal, whether you’re a city girl or a nature lover. 

For first time solo travellers, especially those who may be a little nervous/apprehensive, Lisbon is a great city to start off with. Although it’s a capital city, it doesn’t feel the same level of intensity as other large capitals, for example, Paris or Rome. Instead, everything is very walkable, with a low crime rate and plenty to see along the way. Making it a perfect first stop on your solo travel adventures.

Unlike other places in Western Europe, Portugal retains being very affordable for a visit, and is great for a long weekend! Especially with the affordable flights you can find from the UK and Europe. It’s to be expected that Lisbon is more expensive than other parts of the country, but I was really pleasantly surprised by how affordable I found Porto. 

Porto and the Algarve are also great options for first time travellers, and Portugal is very easy to travel around via trains or buses. Book buses on Omio and trains on Trainline !  

Portugal is ideal for great weather, relaxed vibes and friendly locals. Plus it’s very easily accessible and Portuguese people have great English!

Affordability: Midrange

where to stay in portugal

Some of the most popular places to visit in Portugal are:

• Algarve (Lagos, Albufeira and Carvoeiro)

If you’re planning on staying in Lisbon then definitely check out We Hate F. Tourists . It’s an absolutely beautiful hostel with great views over the city. Yes Hostel is also great and is a little closer to the city centre. This is a little more of a party/social choice.

what to do in portugal

Portugal offers a lot of great nature and cultural activities, and a great selection of food to try out! Some of the best things to add to the itinerary are:

• Pastel de Nata class in Porto (cooking with Grandma’s recipe)
•  Sunset boat trip in Lisbon and Porto
• Time Out Market Lisbon
• Boat trip along the Algarve (With Benagil cave)
• Surf lessons in Albufeira
• Day trip to Sintra
• Wine tasting in Douro Valley
• Hike along the Algarve Coast

5. thailand

Thailand is by far one of the best choices for a first time solo travel destination. The country is rich in culture, while also being safe for travellers, very affordable, friendly locals and incredibly easy to navigate. Much like Bali, this is a great introduction to South East Asia. In Thailand a lot of locals speak amazing English, so you can really get a taste of the local culture while not feeling ridiculously overwhelmed. 

Thailand is very easy to get around , with a great connection of ferries, trains and buses. And also very affordable domestic flights! Sticking to the typical tourist routes through the north or island hopping in the south means that there are lots of transport options, which are comfortable and very safe. 12Go is the best place to book transport while travelling Thailand.

Some of the most popular destinations to visit (that are great for first time solo travellers) are: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Krabi and Koh Tao. The Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan is also an iconic destination, although it’s important to be extra careful if you’re planning on doing this solo as there can be robbing and spiking, so try and get a hostel group together if you can. 

Thailand is perfect for foodies, culture, nature, history and is very affordable. It’s also very accessible to fly to!

where to stay in thailand

There is so much to see in Thailand and you need at least a month to even scratch the surface. Depending on what kind of trip itinerary you’re looking to do for your first time solo travelling, there are a lot of different routes to choose from.

Typically the north offers a bit more of the cultural activities while the south and the islands are great for nature, relaxing and partying. Here are the best places in Thailand that I would personally recommend. 

• Khao Sok National Park

There are also destinations like Koh Samui, Phi Phi and Phuket, which are very popular for people visiting Thailand, however personally I don’t think they are worth the visit. Do your own research and see if they interest you! 

what to do in thailand

• Full Moon party in Koh Phangan 
• Street food tour in Bangkok
• Floating Market and Maeklong Railway market tour
• Visit some of Bangkok’s best temples (Wat Arun, Wat Sam Phran (you can read about my blog post here) , Wat Pho)
• Do your dive certification in Koh Tao
• Chiang Rai temples (White Temple, Blue Temple, Wat Phra Sing)
• Visit Khao Sok National Park
• Cooking class in Chiang Mai
• Tipsy Tubing in Pai
• Explore Thailand’s previous capital, Ayutthaya
• Muay Thai lessons

6. prague, czechia

Another amazing European city for solo travellers is Prague, Czechia. Prague is very similar to Budapest in terms of safety, lots of things to see and do, great nightlife and very social – a perfect first time solo travel destination option. One thing I think is important for destinations is whether a city is walkable or not. Prague is a great European city for this, and wandering through the streets by foot is a great way to get around and fully immerse yourself in the city. 

Prague offers a great, busy atmosphere all year round and has lots of gorgeous architecture and interesting history. Here you can dabble in some activities that are new to you, like watching a classical concert or visiting one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. 

Prague is also a great city for nightlife and is named one of the best cities in Europe for partying. 

Prague is a social, beautiful city which is easily accessible within Europe via plane or bus/train. It’s great for culture, history and nightlife.

where to stay in prague

Prague is a fairly big city and the best part of the city to stay in is the Old Town. Staying in or around the Old Town means the main attractions are very walkable and there are plenty of great bars and restaurants to check out. Alternatively, Malá Strana is a great neighbourhood to stay in. While it’s across the river from a lot of the main sights, Prague Castle, the Lennon Wall and Prague’s narrowest alley are all in this area. 

Prague has plenty of great hostels, however, Roadhouse and Madhouse are the best by far. These hostels are world renowned and have won many awards. Please note these book out well in advance, especially in the summer, so make sure you put your booking in early! 

what to do in prague

Prague is a vibrant city with a lot to do, and is hands down one of the best destinations in Europe for solo travellers. Here are some of the great things you can do in Prague.

• Astronomical Clock
• Klementinum Library (one of the most beautiful librbaries in the world)
• Explore the Jewish Quarter
• Watch a Classical concert 
• Jerusalem Synagogue
• Prague Castle (it’s best to prebook tickets)
• Lennon Wall
• Prague’s narrowest alley
• Čapadlo summer terrace
• Dancing House
• Rent a pedalo
• Charles Bridge
• 2 hour dinner boat trip
• Evening Ghost tour
• Národní Museum

Italy is a country that has almost everything you could need, and if you’re a foodie, you’re in the right place. From the intricate architecture of Florence to the cooling waters of Bari, Italy has so much to offer and is another great choice for first time solo travellers. While there is a lot to offer across the whole of the country, there are some areas that are better catered and more importantly – safer, than others.

For example, avoid Naples or Milan, both aren’t great choices for first time solo travellers. These destinations are known for their crime and pickpocketing, and this isn’t a great way to start your solo travel adventures. Instead check out Lake Como, Florence, Cinque Terre or even Verona.

Italy is drenched in rich history, and is the perfect solo travel destination for lovers of history, architecture and culture. It’s easy to spend days visiting museums and galleries and exploring the winding alleyways, and if you’re looking for your ‘Eat, Pray’ Love’ moment, this might be it. While the cities are packed with people, it takes less than an hour by public transport to head out of the city centres and discover the Italian countryside for some quiet. 

Italy is incredibly well connected via trains and buses, making it easy to travel and navigate. So picking a few different destinations to travel between is more than doable! Trainline is the best choice for finding train options, and Flixbus offers plenty of bus options across Italy and the rest of Europe. 

Check out my Northern Italy travel guide and itinerary for more ideas!

Italy is great for foodies, culture, history and nature. 

where to stay in italy

Italy’s a big country with very diverse regions and not all of them are great for first time travellers. Here are the places in Italy that would work best for first time solo travel:

• Cinque Terre

what to do in italy

There is so much to discover in Italy, here are some of the best things I would recommend. 

• Pizza and gelato class in Florence 
• Boat trip around Lake Como
• Visit the Colosseum in Rome
• Hike the five towns of Cinque Terre
• Visit Juliet’s Balcony in Verona
• Roadtrip through the Dolomites

8.krakow, poland

Krakow, Poland is a personal favourite choice of mine. The city is often overlooked, but is one of the best hubs in Europe as an affordable, safe and fun destination, especially for solo travellers. Krakow is another European destination that offers a lot for both the day and nighttime and is bustling with tourists all year round. 

For history lovers, there is a lot of really dark, intricate history to learn about – the Museum of Torture and the Museum of Krakow are both really worth a visit. Krakow is also where you can do a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, one of the former Nazi concentration camps. 

Krakow is a great city to wander and explore. With each neighbourhood very different to the next. The Old Town is small, so a lot of the sights are found outside of the centre. However, everything is walkable from each other and Krakow is also a great city if you’re on a budget! Krakow is a great city to explore, and if you do enjoy nature, heading out to the neighbouring mountain town of Zakopane is the perfect day trip addition to your trip. Or even choose to stay for a few nights!

Krakow is perfect for a weekend away and anyone who loves: history, culture, nightlife and architecture.

where to stay in krakow

Krakow has a great range of accommodation options, especially social hostels that are calling your name! The Old Town is where all the action takes place, however accommodation can be a little more expensive in the centre, so choosing somewhere just outside the Old Town can give you the best of both worlds. 

For hostels, Greg and Tom’s Beer House is a great option. With a social atmosphere and free breakfast, dinner and a free hour of beer, this hostel offers a lot for solo travellers. For a more quiet version, check out Greg and Tom’s Home Hostel , which is the original of the chain. This hostel is a 10 minute walk out of the Old Town and is a lot more quiet than the Beer House, but you get to join in on the free beer and dinners! 

If you’re looking to party, then check out Let’s Rock Hostel for something a little crazier! They work very closely with Krakow Party Animals , so if you love a night out this might be perfect for you.

what to do in krakow

Krakow offers a lot to do and is a great choice for a long weekend in Europe. Here are some great options to add to the itinerary:

• Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Day trip to Zakopane (or great for a few nights – you can book the journey on Flixbus)
• Visit St Mary’s Basilica and climb to the top
• Wawel Castle
• Try Polish Perogis (Polish dumplings)
• Wieliczka Salt Mine (one of the world’s oldest operating mines)
• Visit the Jewish Quarter 
• Try a Zapikanka (Polish open sandwich)
• Do a cycling tour  

9. costa rica

Costa Rica is a great introduction to Central America. The country is rich in wildlife, culture and things to do (including great adrenaline activities), all while being very accessible to fly to. Not only this but because it’s so touristy, a lot of the locals speak great English, making it a great first time solo travel destination! Costa Rica is a little more challenging than some of the other listed destinations, however is definitely doable solo. 

Costa Rica has some of the most unique and diverse nature in Central America, with some of the best animal sightings I’ve seen! San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital, isn’t particularly safe, but once you head out the city there is a lot to discover. If you’re looking for an introduction to Latin America, this is a great place to start. Not to mention there are some incredible activities you can tick off, like white water rafting, night safaris, ziplining and more.

If you’re looking for an introduction to Central America but maybe going completely alone is a little too overwhelming, I did a tour with Tru Travels around Costa Rica that I highly recommend. It was a great way to see an overview of the country and the best way to meet travellers. I absolutely loved my time and really recommend checking out their Costa Rica group trip .

Costa Rica is perfect for nature lovers, culture lovers and adrenaline lovers!

where to stay in costa rica

Costa Rica has both the Pacific side and the Caribbean side to explore. I only spent time on the Pacific side but have heard great things about the whole country. Here are the places I visited and would whole heartedly recommend to you. 

• Santa Teresa
• Monteverde 

what to do in costa rica

Costa Rica is the perfect place for adrenaline, adventure seekers and nature lovers. There is so much to unpack in this amazing Central American country, some of the top things you can do are:

• Surf in Santa Teresa
• Cloud Forest in Monteverde  
• White water rafting in La Fortuna
• Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna
• Natural hot springs in La Fortuna
• Walking tour of San Jose
• Central America’s longest zipline in Monteverde
• 143m bungee jump

10. croatia

Croatia had a sudden boom in tourism over the last 10 years, expedited by the popularity of Game of Thrones. Croatia is a gorgeous country situated on the Adriatic Sea and is a country that consists of rugged mountain ranges, architecture that dates back to the Romans and pristine blue waters. There is so much to offer from their 70+ islands and mainland, and while there are some well known tourist spots like Dubrovnik, that can get kind of crazy in the summer months, there are also some lovely, lesser known destinations in Croatia that would offer you solo travel ‘relax and disconnect’ vibe.

Croatia has gotten a lot more expensive over the years, even since I spent a summer working in Split. However it is a great first time solo travel destination because of a few different reasons. It’s very easy to travel within via ferry and bus, locals are very friendly and have great English, and despite being very busy, it’s super safe for solo travellers.

A great way to cover a lot of ground when you’re in Croatia is by doing a sailing week through the islands. I had one of these experiences with TruTravels and absolutely loved my time. The week takes you through some of the best spots in Croatia including Split, Mjlet National Park, Korčula, Dubrovnik and Hvar, so you get a little taster of everything!

This is a great way to see a lot in a short amount of time and also an easy way to make some new friends as a solo traveller! Check out the Croatia sailing week with TruTravels here. 

Croatia is a great choice for first time solo travellers if you love history, beaches, nature and partying

where to stay in croatia

There is a lot to see in Croatia and being so well connected, it’s easy to travel around to both the popular destinations and the lesser known gems. Some of the best places for first time solo travellers to check out are:

• Mjlet National Park 
• Pula (a lot quieter than other recommendations)

what to do in croatia

• Visit Plitvice Lakes   (check out my blog post about Plitvice Lakes here )
• Visit Krka waterfalls
• Visit the Blue Cave
• Dubrovnik Game of Thrones w alking tour 
• Dubrovnik City Walls
• Sea Organ in Zadar
• Pula Amphitheatre

11. australia

The stretches of white sandy beaches, rainforests and the ‘happy go lucky’ lifestyle make Australia another great choice for beginner solo travellers. While it’s no secret Australia is expensive, it’s one of the best destinations for first time solo travellers (or backpackers in general).

Australia’s East Coast is generally the most accessible and enticing part of the country for solo travellers and backpackers. The coast offers plenty of stops along the way and a lot of other travellers, making it a great choice as a first time solo travel destination. My Adventure Project is a great company that organises tours along the East Coast, or if you’re looking to do it more independently, then you can go via Greyhound buses . 

If the price tag makes Australia feel a little unobtainable, consider doing a working holiday visa for a few months up to a year. It’s a great way to earn travel and even save some extra cash for ongoing travel plans. A lot of travellers tag Australia on to a South East Asia trip, so you could head out there either before or after your time in Australia! 

where to stay in australia?

Some of the best places to visit in Australia are:

• Sunshine Coast (specifically Noosa, Caloundra, Maroochydore)
• Gold Coast (Burleigh Heads)
• Fraser Island
• Whitsundays
• Rottness Island

what to do in australia

Australia is a haven for amazing nature and there is so much to see and experience. There is so much to cover across the entire country, but here are some suggestions to start you off:

• Byron Bay Lighthouse 
• Fraser Island experience 
• Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge
• Whitsundays scenic flight
• Drive the Great Ocean Road
• Philip Island penguins 
• Visit Uluru 
• Uluru Helicopter ride

12. netherlands

The Dutch not only have some of the best spoken English in Europe but also are some of the friendliest people you’ll encounter. The Netherlands is one of the best first time solo travel destinations and is a great choice for a long weekend. Especially if you’re coming from the UK as the Eurostar is quick and very comfortable. 

Amsterdam is both beautiful and slightly chaotic, with roughly 20 million visitors arriving to the city each year. Nevertheless, this is an amazing city for exploring, getting lost and enjoying some of the many coffee shops on offer (you can pick which type you prefer).

The reason the Netherlands is not only a great visit, but perfect first time solo travel destination, is for many reasons. The Dutch speak amazing English so you don’t need to worry about language barriers, Amsterdam is very accessible from within Europe or long haul flights, it’s always busy with lots of other travellers and there are plenty of activities to try out during your visit.

Perhaps the only downside to your visit is that the Netherlands is notoriously expensive, so it’s best to keep that in mind when planning your visit. 

The Netherlands is great for foodies, culture and scenery (and Amsterdam is a popular party city)

where to stay in the netherlands

Amsterdam is the obvious answer when it comes to the Netherlands, and it’s a great base for your visit. However, there are some beautiful areas outside of Amsterdam and further afield that need to be on your radar too. The Netherlands is a very small country, making everything easily reachable from each other. Consider taking some day trips to these locations or extending your time in the Netherlands to spend some extra days in each place!

• Keukenhof flower show
• Texel Island

what to do in the netherlands

For such a small country the Netherlands offers a lot, and it’s a gorgeous place to visit, especially in the spring and summer months. Amsterdam is also a great, solo travel friendly city, that is easy to get around and very safe. Here are some great things to check out in Amsterdam and surrounding areas:

• River cruise in Amsterdam
• Anne Frank Museum (this books out a few weeks in advance)
• Van Gogh Museum 
• Heineken Museum 
• Try the famous Van Stapele Koemakerij cookies
• Amsterdam hidden gems cycling tour
• Visit Keukenhof Flower Show (this only runs for a few weeks a year during April and May)

13. singapore

Singapore has been named one of the safest cities in the world. This country is an affluent melting pot of so many cultures and influences, it’s one of the most unique cities in the world. Singapore is one of the best first time solo travel destinations because of its safety, accessibility and easy communication with locals. Not to mention it’s a good base for people coming and going from South East Asia. Making it a great first or last stop! 

You only really need a few days in the city to see the crux of what it has to offer, but in those few days you can easily see how  Singapore has some of the most unique city activities in the world , including the Gardens by the Bay and seeing Buddha’s tooth at Buddha’s Tooth Relic temple. Like, where else can you do that?!

For solo travellers, Singapore offers a safe, accessible start point where you can dip your toe into solo travel life. Unlike some of the other first time solo travel destinations listed, it’s not as social as other places like Thailand or Bali, but there is enough of a travelling scene where it’s definitely still possible to meet some likeminded travellers! 

Singapore is great for a safe, vibrant city break with a lot of activities.

WHERE TO STAY IN SINGAPORE

Singapore is a big city, and not particularly walkable. However, they have an amazing public transport system that is easy to navigate and incredibly clean. I definitely recommend getting an eSim while you’re there, so it’s easy to find your way around, I use Airalo . 

I’ve stayed in two different hostels during my time in Singapore, which have both been very clean and comfortable. Unfortunately, you can still expect to pay between £50 -£70 per night for a hostel bed, which is a lot more than the rest of South East Asia, but these hostels are great! 

The two hostels I recommend are Dream Lodge Hostel and The Pod.   Both are the ‘pod’ style of bed which is popular in Singapore and they offer a comfortable night’s sleep while also being very private. 

WHAT TO DO IN SINGAPORE

Singapore is one of the best first time solo travel destinations you could choose from. It’s super safe, well connected (both in the city and internationally), has lots to see and comes with a very international crowd! You only need a few days to see all the best bits, and here are the places I would recommend:

• Gardens by the Bay
• Marina Sands
• Night Safari
• Botanic Gardens
• Cloud Forest
• Universal Studios
• Explore China Town
• Visit and eat at a Hawker
• Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Greece offers so much and is one of the best first time solo travel destinations in Europe with its friendly locals and stunning scenery. The Greek islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Paros and Naxos are all worth visiting in their own right, but if you want to go a little further off the tourist trail Mainland Greece also has a lot to offer. Meteora is one of the most unique destinations in the world, with Eastern Orthodox Monastersitting sitting atop rock formations hundreds of meters high.

While Greece is most popular during the hot summer months, it’s a lovely destination all year round and offers a temperate climate even during shoulder and off seasons (October – April). Plus these months are a lot less busy and cheaper! 

My favourite Greek island is easily Corfu . The island is located in the north of Greece, close to the border of Albania. Corfu is a luscious green island, with amazing vegetation and great scenery. Porto Timoni, the famous double sided beach, is one of the best beaches in Greece! From Corfu, you can also do an amazing day trip to Paxos and Anti Paxos, and swim in some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. Corfu is quite easily one of my top recommendations as a first time solo travel destination, I promise you’ll love it!

Greece is great for culture, nature, relaxation and some great party spots, too!

You can check out my affordable and underrated European destination blog for more info .

where to stay in Greece

A special mention to Santorini and Mykonos, these islands are both beautiful in their own rights and are worth a visit, however they aren’t personal favourites of mine!

what to do in greece

• Paxos and Antipaxos boat trip from Corfu   (one of the best things I’ve ever done!)
• Porto Timoni double sided beach, Corfu 
• Acropolis, Athens
• Hike through Meteora
• Rent quad bikes in Naxos 
• Explore Paros’ Old Town 
• See the suspected spot of the Colossus of Rhodes
• Party in Mykonos
• Visit the picture perfect Oia, Santorini
• Cliff jump in Milos

15. munich, germany

The last destination that is great for first time solo travellers is Munich. While all of Germany offers a lot and there are plenty of great choices including, Berlin, Cologne, Füssen and Hamburg, my personal choice is Munich. The city is lively, with a bustling atmosphere and really friendly locals. As a first time solo travel destination, Munich has a little bit of everything and is a great weekend away, plus very easily accessible through land transport or flying.

The best time of year to visit Munich is during September, so you can experience the infamous Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest originated in Munich in 1810 and is now an annual tradition that flocks thousands of people to the city each year.

The thought of going to a festival with hundreds of thousands of people, completely solo, seems absolutely insane! Instead, to enjoy Oktoberfest and feel safe visiting solo, check out Stoke Travel . They host their own Stoketoberfest , which includes a private campground and is the perfect place to meet people and visit the beer tents with new friends. I went solo in 2022 and met an amazing group of people within the first 10 minutes of being there, and the rest is history! Munich is definitely worth the visit and Oktoberfest is absolutely worth the hype!

Use SHETRAVELLEDTHEWORLD for an unlimited drinks pass at Stoketoberfest or any other Stoke events. 

Munich is great for food, history and beer!

Where to stay in Munich

Munich is another European city that is very walkable and really safe. I stayed at Wombats Hostel when I was in Munich, which is super central and within walking distance of all the major sights. 

If you’re looking for a hotel alternative, check out Star G hotel , I stayed here after Oktoberfest. It was very comfortable and clean, however not too close to the centre of the city. 

What to do in Munich

Munich is a lovely city and is surrounded by some stunning nature in the Bavarian countryside, so whether you decide to stay in the centre or venture out solo, Munich has a lot to offer. Here is what I recommend:

• Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle (or stay in Füssen for a night or two)
• Old Town walking tour
• Bavarian beer and food tour
• Brewery tour and wine tasting
• Marienplatz
• Nymphenburg Palace
• Concert in the Court Chapel of the Residenz

Solo travel is one of the most daunting, challenging things you can do, but also one of the most rewarding and worthwhile adventures you can undertake. These 15 first time solo travel destinations are your seamless introduction into the solo travel world and these are places that I fell in love with and cherish dearly.

I hope you enjoy your first ever solo adventure!

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Travel Solo for the First Time: Complete Guide for Newbies

June 7, 2023 by Janice Waugh

You're going to travel solo for the first time. It's a big deal and yet, not such a big deal if you know how.

You likely have some questions.

You may have some concerns.

Don't worry, we're here to help.

For more than 14 years, Solo Traveler has been helping people with solo travel tips for newbies, as well as for those stretching their solo travel muscles to more challenging destinations.

Some people don't give their plan to travel solo a second thought. Others live with anxiety at every stage of the planning process. For still others, their worries only come at the 11th hour. They are about to leave and start to panic.

Having a good sense of what solo travel is like and planning for it will go a long way to easing you into your first solo trip. There is a lot of information on Solo Traveler. In fact, there are over 700 posts about the many aspects of solo travel.

This post covers the basics of how to travel alone for the first time. It will also point you to more in-depth articles on specific aspects of solo travel. If you're in your 20s or 30s, check out this piece on solo travel .

It's my hope that it will help those who are new to solo travel find what they need to go with confidence.

Table of Contents

How to Travel Alone for the First Time

When first-time solo travelers announce their intention to travel alone, they often face a lot of questions from family and friends. The primary one is, “why”? To get this issue out of the way, read about the why of solo travel here .

Now, let's get on to the how.

Preparation for your first solo trip can be broken down into a number of parts. You need to decide:

• How much you have to spend.
• Where to go.
• How to get there.
• Where you will stay.
• How long you will stay.
• How you will travel at your destination.

Huh! Those six decisions look pretty familiar to anyone who has traveled. Yes, much of solo travel is the same as all travel.

However, there is another list, this time of questions, that first-time solo travelers need to consider:

• Am I ready to travel by myself?
• How challenging a destination should I consider?
• Am I comfortable with my own company?
• Do I want to meet people on my trips or is solitude my objective?
• What do I need to do to be safe?
• How do I ensure my loved ones that I will be safe?
• Am I better to go solo on a group tour or is independent solo travel right for me?

Those seven questions are not the questions that every traveler asks. They are, however, important for those traveling solo for the first time.

Below, we'll get into tips and advice that will help you answer each question.

Is Solo Travel a Good Idea? Get Ready for Your First Solo Trip

Solo travel is a confidence booster but you have to actually travel solo for that to happen. So how do you gain confidence before you go? I have a few suggestions.

• Find your cheerleader . When you tell people about your trip, notice who is excited about it. Spend as much time as you can with those people as they will build your confidence. Try to avoid the naysayers.
• Stop watching crime shows. They are not representative of the dangers in the world.
• Plan how you will stay in touch with home . The fact that you will stay connected will build your confidence.
• Find a local contact . Chances are, someone you know, knows someone where you're going. Get the concept of six degrees of separation working for you.
• Find out if there is a Greeter program in your destination so that you can meet up with a local.
• Be patient with yourself . Take your time. Please know that even very experienced solo travelers become overwhelmed from time to time, especially at the outset of a trip. It will pass! Be prepared to handle this by reading Feeling Overwhelmed? How to Conquer First-Day Solo Travel Anxiety .

Best Countries for a First Solo Trip

Your choice of destination for first time solo travel is important. It can make the difference between a successful, confidence-building first trip with a future of many more solo trips, or one with mixed results. I suggest that first trips be to destinations where it's easy to find people who speak your language. In your own language, you'll find it easier to navigate, feel safer, and meet more people.

Certainly you can travel your own country. There is always more to see near home. But if you want to visit another country, as many new travelers do, consider Canada , the United States , the United Kingdom , Ireland , Australia , or New Zealand .

You'll find more specific ideas for where to go on your first solo trip here.  You may also want to read  Best Solo Travel Destinations: Real Solo Travelers Love These,   Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers , and Summer Solo Travel: Great Destinations, Good Times Guaranteed .

Travel Solo but Not Lonely

Solo travel need not be a lonely experience. Many solo travelers say that they meet more people traveling alone than they do when traveling with others. After all, you are not focused on a companion. You are open to meeting people and that makes people feel comfortable approaching you.

However, there are things you can do to make sure you have a social experience. Here are a number of posts that will help.

• How to Travel Alone Without Being Lonely: 10 Tips & 12 Posts
• Eating Alone Is Easy When You Know How
• Expert Tips for Shy Travelers and Solo Travel Introverts

Stay Safe While Traveling Solo

There is so much to be said on this topic, especially when you are traveling solo for the first time.

Here's a link to our  Solo Travel Safety: 50 Tips post that covers just about everything you need to know.

Here are a few basics:

• Arrive at a new destination well before dark . Daylight gives you a better sense of the safety of a place.
• Take the business card of your hotel with you when you go out for the day.
• Don't tell people you meet where you're staying. Your accommodation should be your safe zone.
• Be prepared to be impolite if someone is bothering you. This comes up in Solo Female Travel Safety: Advice for What Women Worry About .
• Always have travel insurance . Since I started to travel at 15 years of age, I've always had insurance. Read: A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .
• Use public Wi-Fi with a VPN. If you're planning to use public Wi-Fi for doing anything that requires security, such as booking a hotel room with a credit card, make sure you have a VPN. Read  Best VPN for Travel: What, Why, How & New Recommendations .
• Keep your money and credit cards in multiple places . Here's  How to Manage Money While Traveling .
• Download these safety apps . Here are 10 Solo Travel Safety Apps to give you peace of mind.

Remember, as you travel you're in a holiday mindset and a different culture. Both factors will affect your ability to judge situations. To keep you safe in a variety of situations, it's helpful to be clear on your safety rules before going. And, most importantly, trust your instincts.

Should Your First Trip Be a Tour?

When does a tour make sense?

• being alone
• your safety
• finding the time to plan
• missing important highlights
• navigating new cities
• getting lost
• If you want to go to a destination that you consider challenging.
• If you want to break up a long trip. If you're on your own for a month or more, you may want to include a tour so that you have company for a while and you can relax while someone else manages the details.

Tour companies are not all the same. There are a wide variety of experiences available and a number of things to consider when choosing a tour.

Read  How to Choose a Tour: Top Tips for Solo Travelers.

Taking a tour can be a good way to get an introduction to a destination and help you build your confidence. By adding time on your own at the end of a tour, you can then travel solo independently for the first time as well.

You'll also want to browse our solo travel tours  page or, if you already have a good idea of what you're looking for, use our searchable trips page to get to what you want faster. Solo Traveler is the best source for a continuously updated list of a variety of tour companies offering trips with no or low single supplements. If you'd like to receive it by email each month, you can sign up here .

How to Plan to Travel Alone

If you have decided that you have the confidence, that you are comfortable in your own company, and that you can take care of your safety, you may have decided that you will travel solo independently.

Here are my suggestions:

• Make a budget . Know how much you can spend so that you plan your transportation and accommodation, the two most expensive aspects of a trip, accordingly. Here's more on creating a budget , along with a handy interactive spreadsheet.
• K now the basics . Before you leave, be sure you understand the visa requirements and spend a few moments to understand the currency exchange. Make sure your passport doesn’t expire for at least three months after your trip ends as some countries have such a minimum for visitors.
• Book your flights/trains.  Yes, you check your passport and visa needs first and then book your flights. You don't want to get ahead of yourself, put the money out for a flight and discover later that you have to pay a fee to have it changed. Also, book your transportation so that you arrive before dusk. Everything looks better in daylight and, if your hotel/hostel isn't to your liking, you'll have time to make changes.
• Book your accommodation. Arriving in a new city, not knowing how it works, and still having to find a place to stay can be stressful, especially when it's your first time traveling solo. Plus, you can end up spending more than you budgeted because you just have to get a place. If you're looking for a hotel, we use and recommend booking.com . Here are a variety of other options: Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers: The Choice is Yours .
• Study a map. Maps provide a bird’s-eye view of a new destination. They give you a sense of distance between places and, therefore, what’s possible to do in a day. You’ll also get a sense of where the areas are that you want to avoid for safety reasons.
• Add important numbers to your phone. Research useful apps for your phone and download them when you have free Wi-Fi. While you may not want to stay connected with home as you travel, important numbers should be in your phone before you leave. Get the front desk staff at your accommodation to help you add important local numbers to your phone such as the one for your hotel or hostel.
• Pack light so you can manage your own things. One carry-on sized bag and a daypack or large purse should do it. Here's how to pack light . A reader recently provided an excellent reason for this from their own experience: “I used the info on your blog about traveling with only carry-on and a small wardrobe when I traveled solo to Peru. Having no checked bag saved me from missing a connecting flight in the Lima airport.”
• Arrive at the airport, train, or bus station early. Whether it’s traffic congestion or a massive lineup at the airport, many things can slow you down when trying to catch a flight.
• Don’t plan much for your first day. Take the time to settle in and get to know the city and how it works. Do people line up for the bus? What’s the street food like and where are the busiest stands? What’s within walking distance of your lodging? Take it slow and learn.

Tips from Seasoned Solo Travelers

Over on the Solo Travel Society on Facebook, there are many experienced solo travelers as well as people who are new to traveling alone. I asked those experienced travelers what tips they would offer a solo travel newbie and here's what they had to say.

• Annalie   Carry a game with you, like a backgammon set, chess, a pack of cards. People all over the world can become friends over a simple game!
• Scott   Leave the third pair of socks and the fourth t-shirt at home. Pack more smiles than you think you'll need, and more patience. Take all the expectations out of your pack and leave 'em at home.
• Pamela   Go to the market while you are traveling. The experience will shed light on cultural, culinary, agricultural, linguistic, and family composition differences. People are always willing to teach you something new and befriend a stranger with a wealth of information. My first experience of this was in Aruba. I saw very little at the market that I was familiar with, but I came out with knowledge and friends.
• Tony   Join free walking tours whenever you can! It's great for getting to know the city, learning its history, and meeting other backpackers.
• Laurie   When you travel solo for the first time–or any time, for that matter–spend Day One at your new destination getting oriented: stop at the local chamber of commerce for a free map and suggestions for must-see points of interest; if you ride, rent a bicycle, you'll cover a lot more ground and still be able to see things up close and personal; chat with storekeepers, cab drivers, and servers and ask them their thoughts about their mayor, their favorite place to eat and drink, changes they've seen in the area over the years, and where they would take out-of-town visitors. Spend the rest of your time following up on their suggestions and return to let them know how you fared.
• Toni   Give yourself the gift of strangers: ask questions, share impressions, get directions. Use Facebook or Twitter to friend or follow for ongoing exchange and learning.
• Sam   Make sure (wherever possible) that you arrive at your next destination during daylight hours. When you have to find your way from the airport or train station to your accommodation it is much less nerve-racking to do this during the day when you can see where you are going and there are lots of people around and shops open to ask for directions. Once you get to your accommodation you then still have some time up your sleeve to get your bearings, have a look around, and plan where you will start exploring the next day. Plus, if you are staying at a hostel it is good to arrive before people are making dinner or having afternoon drinks as this is one of the best times to get a feel for the place and meet new people.
• Tracey   Take the time to observe how people interact and how things work. While sitting at a sidewalk cafe, on a park bench, or just killing time standing in a lineup, I love to watch locals going about their day. If you pay attention to the little things, you can learn a lot: how to use public transit (and how to conduct yourself on it), whether to pay your bill at your table or at the counter, whether people are expected to line up in an orderly fashion or just jump in where you can, how to tip, or how to hail a cab. I find this particularly useful in a place where I don't speak the language.

Stories About First Solo Trips

What is first time solo travel really like? Well, that depends a bit on you, but here are a few descriptions by readers of Solo Traveler.

• Deborah I was a late bloomer as far as travel goes. I took my first solo trip to Nassau, Bahamas when I was 34. I was nervous at first, but I got there and made so many travel friends. I had a glorious time. I haven’t stopped traveling yet and I’ll be 64 soon. I'm planning another big trip around the world. I'm retired now and will live on the “road” until I decide to come back.
• Massy On my first solo trip I went to Japan. I am an introverted person and I get very self-conscious about myself (seriously). On January 1, 2013 I posted on my Facebook page the “2013 mission to Japan.” On my birthday in July 2013, I bought a ticket as a gift for myself. I got a lot of questions from friends because no one really went solo. I made it to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. It was the most worthwhile and enjoyable experience. It was fascinating to see how communication clashes and cultural differences bring people together. It was just an amazing journey. I learned so much. I met new people. What a journey! It’s addictive.
• MG I went to Puerto Vallarta and I was depressed. Then I met new friends at the hotel. I didn’t expect to end my vacation having so much fun. This is one good thing about traveling solo. You get to meet new friends that you wouldn’t have if you were in a group.
• Leslie I had just gotten my professional designation, which took 7 years of exams (post-college) and I wanted to do something big to celebrate. I love to travel, but several of my friends said they couldn’t get the time off or couldn’t afford to go somewhere too far away. I finally decided I shouldn’t be held back just because no one could travel with me, so I booked a camping safari in Tanzania! I love animals and an African safari had always been one of my dreams. Surprisingly, I wasn’t that scared to get on a plane and fly halfway around the world by myself (and to a Third World country, no less). It was exciting! I learned that I’m much more self-sufficient than I thought and that traveling alone can be fun and very rewarding. Now that I know I can travel alone and be just fine, I feel like the possibilities are endless!
• Zola My first earned vacation out of college I booked a week in Mexico. I loved going on an adventure by myself. I learned a few lessons from first time solo travel that have been useful for my other solo trips I have taken to Bali, Egypt, and Thailand.

If you're looking for even more tips, don't miss The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It .

Enjoy your first solo trip!

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

9 Epic Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on my affiliate link and purchase something (at no additional cost to you!), I may earn a small commission that helps me keep the blog running. Thank you so much for your support!

Travelling alone for the first time is both thrilling and terrifying. It is a completely different experience than anything you’ve had before.

I always encourage anybody who can and feels comfortable to travel alone at least once in their life.

To help you with your first solo trip, I’ve come up with the top things everybody should know before travelling alone for the first time.

One of the best ways to ensure a great first solo travel experience is to be prepared and have a bit of an idea how your trip is going to go.

I definitely didn’t prepare before my first solo trip, and I think I would have had a better experience if I had. I’m not saying my first solo trip wasn’t amazing because it was. But I made a lot of mistakes!

Hopefully some of the tips and tricks on this list will help you feel more prepared and confident as you get ready for your first solo trip.

The tips and tricks on this list are rather broad and will help you when you’re travelling alone for the first time no matter where you go or how long you travel for.

Tips for flying alone

Table of Contents

1. Have a Budget and Stick to it

One of the most important things anybody travelling alone for the first time can do is have a realistic budget.

This was one of my biggest mistakes, and it really impacted my first solo trip.

I read way too many blogs saying you can travel on $50 a day, and you shouldn’t spend more than $50 per day no matter where you travel.

My first mistake was not converting $50USD to CAD and ended up trying to spend $50CAD per day, which was about $37 a day at the time.

I don’t like to subscribe to the notion that everybody has to be a budget traveller and that you’re travelling wrong if you’re spending more than $50/day.

It can sometimes seem that that is the norm- especially when you’re researching backpacking trip ideas.

My biggest advice to you is to figure out what type of travel you’re most interested in and create a budget around that.

For me, I’m a mid-range traveller.

I don’t need anything fancy, but I’m not interested in staying in hostels anymore, enjoy paying to visit attractions, and enjoy a decent meal out.

You may be different.

You may love budget travel. Or want a more luxurious travel experience.

As a first time solo traveller, you may want to spend more money and go on a group tour or group day trip.

It doesn’t really matter.

The important thing is you sit down and create a realistic budget for you . A budget that you can stick to.

Because you’re the only person on this trip and you’re 100% responsible for every penny spent.

You don’t have a friend or family member you can bum money off of if you run out a few days before the end of your trip.

If you run out of money, you’re in a messy situation that you need to find a way out of.

2. Let Go of Perfection

I don’t know if it was just me, but I had very unrealistic expectations on what my first solo trip would look like.

I thought it would be all rainbows and sunshine, but no trip is going to be perfect.

The sooner you let go of the rose-coloured glasses and accept that things are going to come up during your trip, the more prepared you will be for travelling alone for the first time.

I’m by no means saying something terrible will go wrong on your trip. The odds of that are very slim.

But, there is a pretty solid chance that something inconvenient will arise, and you need to figure out how to pivot around that inconvenience.

It could be anything from it raining on a day you were planning to go hiking to attractions being closed all the way to you were robbed.

Although, the last example is very uncommon and not something you should expect to happen.

Even if everything goes 100% to plan, no trip is going to be perfect.

Something as simple as there being heavy crowds could make your trip not perfect.

What I’m trying to get at is no trip is perfect, and you need to stop thinking it will be.

An imperfect trip is more fun anyways! You may experience things you never knew existed a city, meet your new best friend, or stumble on the perfect sunset spot.

If things don’t go exactly as you imagined, breathe and don’t let it ruin your trip.

As someone with major anxiety, I know this is easier said than done. It does get easier with practice though!

Overcome your fear of solo travel

3. Be Internet Safe

Travelling puts you and your online data at risk of being accessed and stolen. Everybody who travels needs to be internet safe, but it is even more important for solo travellers.

Imagine this scenario.

You’re on an amazing solo trip and are connecting to public wifi networks all over the place. At the hotel, the airport, restaurants. Wherever you can find wifi, you’re connecting to it.

One day you wake up and discover there are charges on your credit card that you didn’t purchase.

Someone has stolen your credit card, and now you have to go through the process of calling the bank and cancelling your cards.

Not to mention that headache of trying to manage the last of your trip without your credit card or (potentially) your debit card.

That is an absolute nightmare.

This entire scenario could have easily been prevented if you had installed a VPN on your devices.

A VPN puts a forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for prying eyes to access your online data.

It makes using public wifi networks as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

In my opinion, installing a VPN on all your devices is an essential part of travel. You’re putting yourself at too much risk if you don’t use a VPN!

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot a different VPNs over my many years of solo travel and hated them all.

That is I hated them all until I discovered NordVPN .

I’ve been using NordVPN since 2018 and love it. I have no plans to ever leave them and trust them with protecting all my online data.

The reason I love NordVPN and recommend them to my fellow travel lovers is because they are the fastest VPN on the market.

VPNs are known for slowing down your internet connection to the point where you want to throw your phone against the wall it is so frustrating.

Or at least I did!

I’ve never had an issue with slow internet connection when using NordVPN . I don’t even notice that there is a VPN on my phone and laptop, which is saying a lot .

It is foolish to not install a VPN on your devices. It is one of the most important (and least talked about) safety steps you can take when travelling alone for the first time. Or anytime you travel.

There are no excuses not to protect your online data.

You can protect up to six devices with a single NordVPN subscription, and a two-year subscription costs less per month than a latte.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online data and information.

It is just the smart, responsible, and safe thing to do!

Plus it takes zero effort, so you have no excuses not to protect yourself!

4. Choose a Destination Similar to Your Home City

This is one of my favourite tips for people travelling alone for the first time.

It is also one of the best ways to make sure your first solo trip is a good experience and makes you want to travel alone again and again.

If you’re new to travel and travelling alone, choosing to go somewhere similar to where you live is a great idea.

For example, if you live in Canada like me, you could visit the UK or New Zealand.

If you live in Hong Kong, Taiwan is a great option.

Choosing somewhere similar (but different) to where you live is the best of both worlds. You get to experience something new but don’t have an overwhelming amount of culture shock.

Once you become more comfortable with travelling alone and navigating a new city by yourself, you can branch out into countries that are way different than yours.

But, I do think starting with somewhere similar is the best option and sets you up for long-term success.

Benefits of travelling alone

5. Have an Itinerary (but be flexible)

This is something I didn’t do on my first solo trip, and I really wish I had. I’m not a huge planner and enjoy showing up in a new city without any plans and figuring it out as I go.

That’s all fine and good, but it isn’t something I would recommend to someone travelling alone for the first time.

I remember walking around and feeling a bit awkward and uncomfortable on my first solo trip. I wasn’t terribly confident and didn’t want people to think I was weird for being alone.

One of the best ways to stop that feeling from coming in is to have a plan and keep yourself busy.

You don’t need a rigid plan (and, in fact, would recommend against that), but having a general idea of what your trip looks like is very helpful.

Figure out things like:

• What countries or cities you’re visiting
• What attractions you need to visit
• If there are any day trips you want to take
• Book your accommodation (at least for the first city you’re visiting)

These may seem like small steps to take, but they can have a huge impact on the success of your first solo trip.

Little things like this help you have confidence and know what you’re going to get up to.

On the flip side, you want to be flexible with your schedule.

There may be a cool festival on while you’re in a city, you may discover another day trip you want to take, the weather may get in your way, or you may meet someone you want to travel with, so you merge your itineraries.

The moral of the story is to have a loose plan on what you want to do on your trip but leave room to change it and go with the flow.

A little yin and a little yang.

6. Have F*ck You Money

You need to keep your money separated and have a stash of extra money just in case something happens.

I cannot emphasize enough how important this tip is for solo travellers.

You can lose your wallet, get pickpocketed, or get robbed, which is bad at the best of times and is even worse when you’re travelling alone.

You’re 100% responsible for paying for everything. If you lose your money (or over spend), you’re going to go hungry and not be able to eat for the rest of your trip.

I highly recommend you have $100 or so stored in a separate location away from your normal pot of cash.

A lot of women are told to keep some f*uck you money to pay for a cab home if a date goes wrong. This is the travel equivalent of that.

It may seem silly or not worth it, but trust me. I’ve solo travelled for years and know first hand how thankful I’ve been to have some extra money when something has gone wrong.

I like to keep my extra money in the inner zipper pocket of my purse.

This way it is on me at all times, and I can use it to pay for transportation if necessary.

Some people prefer to keep it in the safe at the hotel or in their suitcase.

It doesn’t really matter as long as you have some extra money tucked away somewhere for emergencies.

The hidden downside of travel

7. Beware of Local Scams

No matter where in the world you go, there are local scams.

Some of them are innocent like pick pockets in France . Some of them are more serious like the tea house scam in China.

One of the best ways you can protect yourself when travelling alone for the first time is to do a quick Google search and learn about the most common scams in the place you’re going.

I don’t like the idea that solo travellers are more at risk of being scammed, but it is more important to know about local scams as a solo traveller.

When you travel alone, you only have two eyes, and you can’t see everything going on around you. You don’t have an extra pair of eyes (or multiple pairs of eyes) to notice something you may not have.

If you’re aware of the local scams, you know what to look for and can keep an eye out for anything that looks like it might be connected to that scam.

I don’t want you to think that you’re going to get scammed as a solo traveller. I’ve only been scammed two or three times in all my years of solo travel, so it isn’t very common.

I just want you to know what to look out for, so you can keep your eyes open. It would not leave a very good taste in your mouth if you were scammed on your first solo trip!

8. Get Outside Your Comfort Zone

Travelling alone for the first time definitely pushes you outside your comfort zone, and I think you should keep that momentum going while you’re on your trip.

Do one or two things on your solo trip that push you out of your comfort zone.

It can be something as small as going for a nice dinner alone when you normally wouldn’t. Or something as large as bungee jumping for the first time.

One of the best parts of solo travel is that it pushes you to be a better person and grow, but it only does that if you step outside your comfort zone.

But, it is important to know the difference between pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and doing something reckless.

For example, going on a wine tasting adventure alone is getting out of your comfort zone.

Going on a five hour hike when you’ve never hiked longer than an hour is reckless.

See the difference. 😉

So, my challenge to you (and one I give myself as well) is to get outside your comfort zone at least once every trip you take!

Tips for eating alone at a restaurant

9. Keep in Touch with Friends and Family Back Home

Your friends and family are going to worry about you when you’re travelling alone for the first time.

Be a good person and keep in touch with them while you’re gone!

Even to this day I text my mom when I leave my hotel for the day and when I get back. It is sometimes annoying for me, but it makes her feel much better about my travelling alone.

It is a simple thing you can do to put their minds at ease.

Plus you get to brag about how good of a time you’re having!

There is no better way to make someone jealous than by sending them vacation photos! So, update them on how you’re doing and what you’re seeing.

And don’t just post it on social media. Text them and Facetime them as well!

Watch This Video!

I hope these tips have helped you feel more confident and ready for your first solo trip.

No matter what your first solo trip looks like, it will be full of a variety of different emotions, and I guarantee that at least once during your trip you’ll question why you’re doing it.

But I promise that travelling alone is worth it.

Even if you only do it once!

There is nothing else quite like travelling alone for the first time. It pushes you and makes your grow as a person.

I don’t think I’ve ever talked to a fellow solo traveller who didn’t say they came back from their first solo trip a different person and a better person.

I really hope you get to experience the joy of solo travel to see if it is the right travel style for you.

Solo travel isn’t for everybody, but you don’t know if it is for you until you try it!

Related Posts

• 9 Epic Tips for Travelling Alone in France
• Scared of Travelling Alone?! I was Too!
• 9 Undeniable Benefits of Travelling Alone

20 Best Countries to Travel Alone for the First Time

06/26/2023 by Kristin Addis 23 Comments

Hey, I know that going on your first solo trip can be nerve-wracking, from deciding to go, to planning it, to actually going.

I was surprised to find — and I think this is a common experience — that the hardest part was making the decision to go. Once I was on the road, everything fell into place. I found my stride, and I enjoyed it so much that I laughed at how scared I’d been of the whole idea.

Traveling alone is a gift. You will be presented with daily opportunities to learn and grow, and you will become closer to yourself as a result.

Since it can be overwhelming to decide where to go first, I’ve compiled a list of 20 destinations that I loved over nine years of firsthand solo traveling experience, and I know you will love them too:

Table of Contents

1.  Thailand

It should not come as a surprise that the Land of Smiles is first on the list — it’s the perfect spot to “test the water.” Thailand is friendly, affordable, easy to travel through, and full of other travelers and delicious food. There are multiple daily flights from all over the world arriving in Bangkok, the country’s capital, sending new and seasoned backpackers, budget and luxury travelers, fresh grads and retirees, solo travelers (like you!) and tour groups on an epic journey around the country.

I recommend beginning in Bangkok and learning how to  fall in love with the city , or starting off in Chiang Mai up north — there are so many things to do there, like  cooking courses and temples , and  playing with elephants ethically .

Next, head south and go scuba diving around one of the  many gorgeous islands , some of which are well known and some of which are  lesser known , or even participate in a  10-day silent meditation retreat .

If you end up loving your experience in Thailand, it is so easy to extend your journey and explore nearby countries by plane, train, or bus.

A Complete Guide to Thailand

2.  Malaysia

Malaysia is often overlooked as a travel destination in favor of its neighbors — and to me, that’s mind-boggling! As a multicultural country, the locals generally speak at least two languages, and English is usually one of them. I personally never had a problem with communication when traveling there. In fact, having a common language helped me have more local interaction in Malaysia, including  participating in local events  and  being invited to local family celebrations .

Like in Thailand, you can have all kinds of travel experiences in Malaysia, from cities and small towns to beaches and mountains. I also think, when it comes to islands, diving, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, it’s hard to beat Malaysia, both the peninsular part and Borneo.

So if you are hoping for an interesting cultural experience minus the language barrier on your first solo trip abroad, Malaysia could be the ideal choice.

A Complete Guide to Malaysia

Japan is one of the cleanest, safest, most polite, and most organized countries I’ve ever visited. It was also one of the most unique in terms of culture,  food , and the delightful mastery of technology in everything from  art museums  to bathrooms. Plus, cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are some of the most interesting in the world and are great to visit any time of year, even in the dead of winter .

I should warn you that language  will  be a problem at some point. I got pretty confused at the train stations, as some signs are only in Japanese. And since English isn’t commonly spoken, it was challenging at times to communicate with some hotel staff and restaurant waiters. However, you can always rely on apps to navigate and use the classic “point and nod” method to order your food. All that said, people are so kind and friendly, the language barrier wasn’t as stressful as it can be elsewhere.

If you are traveling solo for the first time, the idea of sleeping in a hostel room can be daunting. In Japan, you can opt for a capsule hotel, which is very similar to a hostel, except that your bed space is much more confined, and your personal space is respected. Eating alone is not only acceptable but a norm in Japan, so it’s an awesome place to do that, especially if that’s usually intimidating to you.

A Solo Female Travel Guide to Japan

A Complete Guide to Japan

4.  Iceland

Iceland is gorgeous, and an outdoorsy person’s dream. Plus, it’s been ranked as  the safest country in the world  several years running. This means that you ( and your parents ) can put your worries aside. Another thing you wouldn’t have to worry about is getting lost. Most travelers in Iceland drive  the Golden Circle  or  Ring Road , and while I think that’s just right for  a road trip with a buddy , it’s amazing solo too. If you don’t feel like driving, the public transportation system is great as well.

Additionally, Iceland is delightfully small and intimate. With such a small population, it feels more like a big neighborhood where everybody knows everybody and there’s so much trust that people don’t even lock their cars when they grocery-shop. Almost everyone speaks English quite well, too, so there’s no language barrier either.

The only drawback is that  Iceland is pretty expensive . You can cut your costs by staying in hostels and buying your own groceries. But I’d say that Iceland is absolutely worth it if you can afford it!

A Complete Guide to Iceland

5.  Germany

Germany is my favorite country in Europe. I liked it so much that  I moved to Berlin for five years . I think that Berlin in particular is perfect for first-time solo female travelers: there are  so many things  one can do alone, such as visiting galleries, joining an alternative street art tour, and shopping at flea markets. When you’ve had enough of the artistic scene there, you can hop on a train to  Spreewald  or  Stuttgart , or visit the castles in the rest of  Baden-Wüttemberg  and enjoy the beautiful nature Germany has to offer.

The country is safe, navigation is a breeze, English is widely spoken, the locals are generally helpful — Germany just checks all of the boxes for first-time solo travelers! I also really appreciate its cultural diversity, and for some reason, I feel like I can be 100% my true self there without being judged — and perhaps that’s exactly what you are looking for for your trip.

A Complete Guide to Germany

6.  New Zealand

If you are under the age of 30 and planning a working holiday, New Zealand may end up being the destination of your first solo trip abroad! Many people use this opportunity to explore the country on their days off or after finishing up work contracts, and as New Zealand is such an awesome country for a road trip, I highly recommend gathering 3-4 people and renting a camper van for a drive around both islands.

Even if you are not considering the working-holiday opportunity, New Zealand is still awesome for first-time solo travelers, especially if you are comfortable driving long distances. You could take buses and trains, which are generally convenient and inexpensive, but to  get to off-beat places , a car is much more ideal. It’s also the best way to  find all these amazing views . Navigation is fairly easy, and the locals are incredibly friendly and helpful. Find more info on  road tripping New Zealand here.

Perhaps the best thing to do is to stay in a social hostel for your first couple of days and look for a road-trip buddy — just because you set off on this trip alone, it doesn’t mean that you need to be by yourself the entire time!

A Complete Guide to New Zealand

7.  California

To my non-American readers, if you are looking at the States for your first solo trip abroad, allow me to present to you the home I grew up in — California! While each state has something to offer, and  many places in the US  are perfect for solo travelers, I truly believe that California is the ideal destination for first-time solo travelers.

Some of the best spots in California are San Francisco,  Humboldt County , Orange County, and everything along the  Pacific Coast Highway . I suggest beginning in San Francisco, as it’s a tourist favorite, with ample public transport, high walkability, and a vibrant cultural scene. There’s truly nowhere else like the Bay Area.

If you want to head off the beaten path,  Humboldt and the Lost Coast  are beautiful and laid-back. There are also a bunch of road trip routes to choose from. My favorites are the  Southwest  (California and beyond) as well as  Highway 395 . Finally, if you want to see the last free place in America, head down to  Slab City . You can also enjoy dozens of amazing state and national parks, like Anza Borrego and Death Valley . There are just endless ways to  enjoy California as a solo traveler !

A Local’s Guide to California

8.  Hawai’i

Hawai’i isn’t typically what comes to mind when most people think of a solo trip. But I was so pleasantly surprised there that I genuinely think it’s perfect for first-time solo travelers!

Thanks to its rich culture and tropical climate, Hawai’i feels more like a country of its own, with so many things to do that are totally solo friendly. You could do a road trip along the  Road to Hana , explore  Lanai , or join the  Maui Surfer Girls  camp, designed specifically for solo female travelers who are looking for a supportive group of women to take up a new sport with. It’s an experience that is both empowering and fun!

The Big Island  is especially suited for  solo female travelers in Hawaii  because of the amount of  spiritual experiences  there are, plus the rugged adventure you’ll find.

A Complete Guide to Hawaii

9.  Peru

If your heart is set on South America for your first solo trip, I recommend Peru. This incredibly diverse country will expose you to a variety of experiences, cultures, and especially climates. Iconic spots, such as  Rainbow Mountain ,  Huacachina , the  Peruvian Amazon , and  the Inca Trail  (and  many other hiking trails ), are absolutely gorgeous. I mean, they are all bucket-list worthy!

As most people visiting Peru end up at these sites, you will hardly be alone, so most tours are more than happy to welcome single supplements. Peru also has a vibrant backpacker scene, so it’s really easy to meet others at hostels and on tours.

Note: My biggest piece of advice for you is that you learn a little Spanish. Don’t expect locals to know English.

Also, Peru’s safety reputation isn’t as great as the other countries on this list, but really, all you need to do is to exercise the same precautions as you do back home. Here are  safety tips from 31 solo female travelers  to get you started.

A Complete Guide to Peru

10.  Botswana

Want your first solo trip memories to be filled with wild elephants? Botswana’s the answer, as it has more than anywhere else in Africa. In fact, it’s my favorite country for  wildlife viewing  out of all of the African nations I’ve traveled to so far. It is slightly more expensive than other countries in Africa, but it’s also one of the safest, and has decent roads and a great safari lodge system as well. It is also quite the perfect place to try out glamping, especially since the cost of private accommodations may not differ much from that of basic dorms.

A Guide to Botswana

11.  Switzerland

The mountains make Switzerland ideal for solo female travelers (and the country is considered safe, too). Outdoorsy girls will love staying in little huts in the Alps owned by local families. While many places in Switzerland are pricey, hiking is free. If you don’t want to  hike in Switzerland  alone, there are hostels where you can join a day trip. You absolutely must go for a hike on the Edelweiss Trail, which gives you an amazing view of the Matterhorn.

A Guide to Switzerland

12.  Namibia

Namibia has a special warmth — both temperature-wise and people-wise. In the summertime, it’s in the 80s or 90s, and there’s so much to do. The place is an adventure junkie’s dream!

Go  sandboarding  if you visit Namibia. It’s like snowboarding, but you go down a sand dune. I’d only gone snowboarding once in my life and told the guy how terrified I was — but I was fine. The sand is really soft, and it doesn’t hurt to fall.

The country is surprisingly a wonderful place for a road trip — you can read all about mine  here . You’ll see plenty of wildlife in Namibia, along with some amazing  astrophotography  opportunities.

A Guide to Namibia

13.  Canada

Canada is world-renowned for having some of the friendliest people, so this comes at no surprise. Finding where to travel alone for the first time often boils down to where travelers will find the perfect balance of adventure and safety, and Canada is right at that intersection. I love Montreal for a winter weekend escape or Quebec for a fall road trip . If you want to experience the Canadian wilderness, head to Banff, where I found some of the most breathtaking hikes.

Since Canada as a whole is such a stellar pick for solo travelers, it might be tough to choose where to go. I put together this list of the absolute must-visit spots to help narrow down your search.

A Guide to Canada

14.  Singapore

You’ve never been to anywhere cleaner than Singapore, I guarantee it! There are so many rules — no littering, spitting, or chewing gum — and they enforce them. It does, however, make it nice to walk around. Also, English is one of the main languages there, so you can communicate just fine, making this a great pick for solo female travelers.

You absolutely must see Supertree Grove. It has giant trees that light up at night, synched to music. Plus, it’s open all the time. I had no reservations about going there at 4 a.m. — Singapore is that safe.

Singapore gets a reputation for being ungodly expensive, but some careful planning focused on  free activities in Singapore  will help you save money here. You can also find more info on  traveling in Singapore like a local here.

A Guide to Singapore

15.  Ireland

Some people may be surprised that  Northern Ireland  would be a good choice for solo female travelers, but it’s super safe now — the problems are in the past. Hospitality is one of Ireland’s strong suits. Irish people are so friendly and welcoming. You walk into a pub, and you’ve made a roomful of friends.

Belfast is a lot more manageable than Dublin for solo female travelers. It’s just calmer and less overwhelming. When you’re by yourself, you don’t need all the constant stimulation, and in Belfast, you’ll feel more at ease. Don’t miss the Titanic Museum there. I don’t have much interest in the  Titanic , but the museum was so well done and interesting and interactive!

If you can make it to western Ireland to see some natural beauty, definitely work that into your itinerary as well.

A Guide to Ireland

The beautiful architecture is the star of the show in Spain, especially in Granada. You don’t need to be with anyone else to enjoy its cool mix of Eastern and Christian influences. You especially can’t miss the Alhambra, a famous fortress originally constructed all the way back in 1889.

Also, Granada is safer than Madrid and Barcelona, where you have to be constantly watching your back for pickpocketers.

Other smaller cities are definitely worth checking out, like seaside Málaga, because they’re the perfect size for solo female travelers. You’ll be able to see more of those places without the greater safety risks of bigger cities.

17.  Mexico

Some travelers are too quick to write off Mexico as unsuitable for female travelers, but I disagree. Mexico is an incredible place to travel solo for the first time because it’s bursting with cultural richness, amazing food, and an astounding variety of landscapes. Mexican people are generally very warm and hospitable, making it a great place to meet locals and get to know the culture.

In Mexico, you’ll find  pristine beaches , beautiful mountain landscapes, crystal clear cenotes (swimming holes), and fantastic cities like  Oaxaca ,  San Miguel de Allende ,  San Cristobal de las Casas , and many more to explore.

If you’re concerned about  staying safe as a solo female traveler in Mexico , I get it. With alarming stories on the news about violence in Mexico, it can be daunting to think about going there alone. However, most of these stories come out of specific regions of the country that are far off the tourist track. This isn’t to say that popular areas don’t have risks, but there are plenty of ways to stay safe in Mexico as a solo female traveler.

A Complete Guide to Mexico

18.  Costa Rica

There are few places on earth with as much biodiversity and an overall abundance of outdoorsy things to do as Costa Rica. It’s also one of the best places in Latin America to  travel through as a solo female traveler  because of how easy it is to meet other travelers and how safe it is .

From the thick  green jungles  of Costa Rica’s interior to the golden beaches on both coasts , this is one of the places I will go back to over and over again. Imagine going from a  remote beach with rock arches  one day to hiking to a gushing waterfall in the jungle the next. Plus, the national parks here are next-level. My favorites are  Manuel Antonio National Park  and  Tortuguero National Park . Costa Rica is paradise on earth, and as a solo female traveler, it’s absolutely ideal.

-READ NEXT-

A Complete guide to Costa Rica

19.  Finland

Finland is a fantastic destination for first-time solo travelers not only because of its beautiful scenery but also because it’s one of the safest places on Earth to travel alone in. Crime rates in Finland are astonishingly low, the people are super friendly, and you don’t have to know any Finnish because most people speak great English.

From idyllic cities like Helsinki to small coastal villages and wintry Nordic scenes, Finland is perfect for travelers who love the outdoors and don’t mind chilly temps.  Finnish Lapland  is one of the best places to visit in Europe in the wintertime, too, because of the unique celebrations of the region and the possibility of catching the northern lights.

20. Portugal

Gorgeous cobblestone streets, astounding seaside views , and warm hospitality all keep solo travelers coming back to Portugal over and over again. As one of Europe’s most affordable countries to visit, it’s become an excellent place for budget-conscious travelers as well. Pair that with amazing food, delicious wine, and stunning landscapes, and you’ve got yourself a world-class travel destination fit for adventurous women.

Like most of Europe, pickpockets are common in big cities like Lisbon and Porto, but overall, crime is still quite low here. Plus, Portuguese people tend to be friendly and willing to help visitors, so even if you’re alone, you don’t have to feel alone.

First Name:

So these are the 20 destinations that I have personally traveled to and think are perfect for first-time solo travelers. Which one will you choose?

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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Jerry James says

12/03/2018 at 3:50 am

Wow… awesome list there. From Asia to Europe, Europe to America and Africa, hard to pick destinations as there are many other places just like this, nevertheless you have crafted marvelous content, loved it. Hope to visit all those places. Firstly, I wanna got to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal from Ammonite Adventures and then I will try to go through this list. Thanks !!!

Anil Kumar says

08/28/2019 at 2:38 am

I am a beginner solo traveler.I am going to start my first trip to Bhutan on this 1 st September.and want to see the world.need good suggestions and recommendations. I am 50 year old.

Vijay Patel says

03/28/2019 at 3:47 am

Wow! Amazing list about the destinations across the globe. One of my favorite place to visit is Thailand and my dream destination is California. These 2 are one of my favorite places. So, thank you for sharing just great and very helpful list of some of these travel destinations.

JoAnne says

04/11/2019 at 5:46 am

We’re you actually traveling solo? I was just wondering who took the pics.

This is great information.

Kristin says

04/11/2019 at 9:34 am

I took them, ye of little faith: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-take-best-travel-selfies/

Whitney says

05/24/2019 at 9:09 am

Im new to global travel and I realize that my friends are not about this life?. I want to see the world and I am so down to do it as a solo traveler. Thanks for the post it has givien me lots of insight?

05/25/2019 at 11:28 am

Yay get it!

Mylene says

06/25/2019 at 10:02 pm

Sooner or later, I’ll start my fist solo travel! I hope so hahahaha

Frances says

07/15/2019 at 10:37 am

I have Christmas Holiday OFF (all 2 weeks)… any recommended places specifics to traveling alone for the Holidays? Thanks1

09/26/2019 at 7:15 am

Taiwan should be on this list!

09/26/2019 at 8:30 am

Agreed. I haven’t been back in over 10 years but it’s such a lovely place with friendly people.

Simon Payne says

12/30/2019 at 12:31 pm

Wow! Great stuff, thanks Kristen. I backpacked in 1992 as a young 20 year old and did many of the places you mention. I’ve just had my 50th and I am going to do it all over again. No distractions, just nature and me. Where are you now then? Simon.

12/30/2019 at 12:39 pm

Wow that’s amazing! I’m still traveling! Not done yet.

D. Styne says

03/07/2020 at 3:11 am

I am making some life memories fantasy about heading out to the entire world and investigating each culture that presents on the planet. In the wake of perusing your accommodating article, I think my 50 to 70% dream is finished and I now just set up the bank balance for it. This is an extremely helpful article for travelers and tourists who want to travel to the best places all around the world. In any case, it’s extremely supportive and you’re the best for imparting it to us. Keep this work ongoing.

Tina K. says

07/07/2020 at 7:16 pm

What a lovely and inspiring writer you are, not to mention an intrepid solo traveller. I found the content organized, informative and uplifting.

Thank-you. I am ready for my next journey

07/08/2020 at 11:07 am

Thanks Tina!

suzanjack says

09/24/2020 at 4:04 am

It’s a wonderful place to visit with friends thankyou for sharing with us , I am planning to visit Iceland with my friends but unfortunately, just because of COVID we cancel the plan. But definitely, we will visit there. Once again thank you for sharing beautiful places.

grasya.com says

02/23/2021 at 9:51 pm

I started traveling alone at a very young age. I agree Thailand and Malaysia are great countries to start with. I cant wait to explore more of this earth as a solo female traveler

Camilla Centerwall says

03/22/2022 at 1:17 am

I love the list of travel destinations! I also think that the Nordic countries of Sweden,Norway, Denmark and Finland could/should be on it! 🤗 So please come and visit! You are most welcome!

Fatima Ahmed says

03/28/2022 at 2:41 am

Hi Kristin,

Great blog! Kudos to your solo travels all around the world, very inspiring too.

I would like to suggest a few more to the list. I would add Albania, Czechia, Canary Islands, Austria and Poland where one can easily travel solo, saying from personal experience 😉

Good luck on future travels.

Kind regards

03/30/2022 at 9:20 am

Thanks for the additions!

04/18/2022 at 2:59 am

South Korea is also a great country for first time travellers. Safe, convenient and there are more English signs compared to Japan. It’s also a small country, so you can cover most key places just within 2-3 weeks. I would also like to add Hong Kong (& Macau), Taiwan, Vietnam, the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands and New York.

04/18/2022 at 2:42 pm

Great suggestions!

14 Best Destinations for First-Time Solo Female Travelers

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

What makes a good destination for first-time solo female travelers? You want a destination that thrills you — but as a first-timer, you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew.

My first solo trip ever was to Buenos Aires, Argentina when I was 23 — and while I was already an experienced international traveler, I actually got robbed on my first day. I survived and had a great rest of my trip, but in retrospect, I should have eased myself in with a gentler destination.

So where would have been a better choice for a first solo trip? I created a list of 14 places. Each of these places has three major things in common:

English proficiency. You don’t have to worry about a language barrier here — even if the official language is different, enough locals are fluent in English that you’ll be able to get by.

Good travel infrastructure. Lots of accommodation options and restaurants, lots of activities and cool things to do, and it’s easy to get around on transportation.

Safety. These destinations are all very safe, particularly in the areas that tourists visit. Of course, anything can happen anywhere, and you should always take measures to stay safe.

Read More: Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Let’s take a look — the best destinations for first-time solo female travelers!

Table of Contents

Somewhere Near Where You Live

Your first solo trip doesn’t have to be a long, complicated, fly-in adventure! If you’re completely new to solo travel, and especially if you haven’t traveled much, I recommend starting small.

Go visit a destination within a few hours of your home, and stay one or two nights. That’s it. Keep the stakes low.

This is good because it gets you used to the rhythms of solo travel in an environment that feels familiar. “Oh — so this is what it’s like to eat alone.” “Oh, wow — I only needed 45 minutes at that museum, not two hours!”

As someone from the Boston area, I really loved visiting the Berkshires solo for a few days.

Are you in the Chicago area? How about Milwaukee? I was surprised how much I enjoyed this city!

Are you around South Jersey, Pennsylvania, or DC? I really loved Maryland’s Eastern Shore . A really beautiful place that I knew nothing about before going.

And in New York, you can’t beat my little town of Hudson or the North Fork of Long Island .

Speaking honestly: if you start with a big, complicated solo trip, it might dissuade you from ever going. Especially now, when international travel is hairy. Instead, get your feet wet with a nearby trip.

Now that we’ve gone over that, let’s move on to the destinations!

Iceland might be one of the best first-time solo female travel destinations on the planet. It’s easy to reach, with nonstop flights from several US cities; it’s incredibly safe, like leave-your-purse-on-a-park-bench-and-no-one-will-touch-it safe; everyone speaks English; and there are so many unique landscapes and organized day tours.

You can base yourself in tiny-but-funky Reykjavik and take a variety of day trips, or do a road trip around the country on the Ring Road. I love Iceland’s South Coast for the variety of landscapes: giant waterfalls, black sand beaches, the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón.

Signature Experiences: Snorkel the neon, ice-cold waters of Silfra , go horseback riding with Iceland’s shaggy horses, see the Northern Lights if you time your trip right, go glacier walking and ice climbing, visit the Blue Lagoon for a soak before your flight home.

Caveat: A lot of people plan Iceland trips around seeing the Northern Lights, but even if you time your trip right (in the winter or during the spring or fall equinoxes), you might not get to see them. Know that this is a gamble going in, and plan lots of other fun stuff.

Join a tour: If you’d like to visit Iceland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Iceland trip that circles the island. You can see all of their Iceland tours here .

READ MORE: Why Iceland is Great for First Time Solo Female Travelers

If you dream of rainforests and beaches, ziplining and volcano-climbing, toucans and sloths, allow me to introduce you to the nature-filled gem of Central America. Whether you want to hike, bike, and raft or simply laze on a gorgeous beach during the winter months, Costa Rica is a solid choice.

A lot of people think that Central America is unsafe for women traveling alone. I’ve traveled Central America extensively solo and I disagree — with the right research and preparation, Central America can be traveled very safely.

And Costa Rica is the easiest Central American country to navigate as a newbie solo traveler. It’s phenomenally safe and has very strong travel infrastructure, each town exploding with different tours and activities you can try. And Ticos (Costa Ricans) are amazing people!

Signature Experiences: Learn to surf on the Pacific coast, go zip-lining through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, watch sea turtles on the beach at night, hike to hot springs on an active volcano, go wildlife-watching in Corcovado National Park.

Caveat: Some Costa Rica travelers end up isolated from the public on their trips. To avoid this, I recommend avoiding big resorts and instead staying in small guesthouses or hotels within walking distance of a bustling area.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Costa Rica with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Costa Rica trip that goes to some of my favorite spots, like Monteverde. You can see all of their Costa Rica tours here .

READ MORE: Solo Female Travel in Costa Rica: The Guide

Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a small city that will put a smile on your face, allow me to recommend the wonderful town of Asheville, North Carolina! This small city nestled into the Blue Ridge Mountains is home to an art scene, a beer scene, and tons of awesome shops and restaurants.

But if you’re looking to meet good people on your trip, Asheville is my top recommendation in the US. I still can’t get over how NICE and GENUINE everyone was — especially since so many Ashevillians grew up elsewhere. As a native New Englander, I’m not a big fan of overly sweet southern manners, but Asheville is “Mountain South.”

Asheville is the perfect size for a long weekend getaway — and don’t be surprised if you start wondering if you could live here.

Signature Experiences: Visit the over-the-top Biltmore Estate, go on a local farm-to-table food tour, go tubing down the French Broad River on a hot day, visit the galleries in the River Arts District and get to know the affable artists, go on a “blind date with a book” at Malaprop’s Bookstore.

Caveat: Asheville is easy to see on foot and by Uber, with one big exception: the Biltmore Estate, which is best done with your own car. You might end up paying for a rental car that you only use one day.

READ MORE: 14 Reasons to Fall in Love with Asheville, North Carolina

If you are dreaming of spectacular islands in the Mediterranean, let me point you toward the Adriatic instead. Croatia is one of the countries I know best (I even won Croatia’s top travel writing award in 2021!), and it never fails to stun me with its sheer beauty.

Many people think that Croatia is Eastern Europe, and is thus unsafe or difficult to travel. None of that is true ( and calling Croatia “Eastern Europe” is a good way to get punched ). I think Croatia is fantastic for solo female travelers because everyone speaks English, there’s tons of travel infrastructure, and the roads are in excellent condition, making it a perfect road trip.

Not only that — island-hopping in Croatia is cheaper than the most popular Greek islands or the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and Croatians are more Central European in personality than Mediterranean, meaning that things are organized and get done on time.

Signature Experience: Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik , hike through the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes, take a boat trip around Vis to the Blue Cave, go on a bike tour to wineries in Korčula , marvel at the incredible sunsets of Rovinj or Zadar .

Caveat: Once you get onto the smaller islands, it tends to be the same food over and over. Good food, and primarily seafood, but it gets old quickly. Get your fill of different cuisines in Zagreb , Split and Dubrovnik!

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Croatia with a tour group, G Adventures has an eight-day Croatia sailing trip that visits several islands. You can see all of their Croatia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Croatia: The Guide

If travel is about the people you meet, Ireland is the best destination in the world. Irish people are the highlight of their country: outstandingly friendly and welcoming, always eager to tell a story, with lilting accents that sound like music. Oh, and they won’t hesitate to take the piss out of you, which is how you know they like you.

Beyond that, Ireland is home to stunning natural landscapes, interesting small cities, and fascinating ruins. It’s an excellent destination for a road trip — albeit one driving on the left side of the road — and some of the most memorable moments are in little towns you discover on a whim.

Many Americans visit Ireland to explore their Irish ancestry, and it can feel like “coming home” in lots of ways. But even if you don’t have a drop of Irish blood, you’ll instantly feel welcome.

Signature Experiences: Visit the remote island of Skellig Michael , find your favorite picture-perfect town in the Ring of Kerry, have a night out to remember in pub-drenched Galway, explore the geological wonder of Giant’s Causeway, listen to “trad” music in local pubs.

Caveat: In Ireland and throughout the British Isles, it’s common to “shout” beers — one person buys a round of beers for the whole group, and then the next person buys the next round. I recommend opting out of this because it can get you very drunk, very fast, with people who can hold their liquor better than you. Just say you’re only having one drink tonight, and nurse it.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Ireland with a tour group, G Adventures has a nine-day Ireland trip that includes both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. You can see all of their Ireland tours here .

Read More: Visiting Skellig Michael, Ireland’s Most Stunning Destination

Ah, Amsterdam — the land of canals and bridges, superb art museums and historic sites, stroopwafels and smoked Gouda. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and nowhere else in the world looks quite like it.

A lot of people associate Amsterdam with the Red Light District and sex tourism, and thus think that it’s too wild or unsafe for solo female travelers. I disagree with this emphatically. This is a tiny corner of a large, safe and diverse city, and anyone can easily avoid the sex stuff.

I think the Netherlands has the best public transportation system in the world, and it’s so easy to travel all over the country (and beyond!) by train. Finally, everyone in Amsterdam speaks perfect, fluent English. In fact, asking an Amsterdammer “Do you speak English?” is tantamount to an insult.

Signature Experiences: Take a canal boat cruise around the city, eat a warm caramel-drenched stroopwafel off the grill, spend your day museum-hopping around the Museum Quarter, go out for an elaborate Indonesian rijsttafel meal, take a day trip to Rotterdam or Delft or The Hague.

Caveat: Amsterdam attracts groups of drunk young men, mostly Brits, who come here for the illicit activities. I’d recommend steering clear of party hostels, which tend to be a bit wilder than in other European cities, and choosing accommodation far from the Red Light District.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Amsterdam with a tour group, G Adventures has a six-day Paris to Berlin trip that includes Amsterdam. You can see all of their Amsterdam tours here .

Read More: Sexy Dutch Design in Amsterdam and Rotterdam

My long-term solo travels began in Thailand, and what a great choice that was. Right away I fell in love with this country, a land of gorgeous beaches, misty blue mountains, one of the best megacities on the planet, and $7 hourlong massages.

Asia can be tough as a first-timer — it’s a big cultural change, and on top of that, you might be disoriented by a big time difference. But Thailand is probably the easiest place to meet Asia for the first time. Thai people are so friendly, the food you’ve likely seen before, there is plenty of English signage, and prices are nice and cheap (especially so in the north, less so on the islands).

On top of that, Thailand has excellent travel infrastructure and options for every price point. You can walk into a travel agency, say you want to go to another city the next day, and they’ll prepare all the tickets you need! It couldn’t be easier.

Signature Experiences: Go shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok, take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai, get foot or body massages every day, learn to ride a motorbike around the mountains of Pai, go to the island of Koh Lanta and enjoy the best sunsets in the country.

Caveat: Most solo travelers in Thailand tend to be young backpackers; if you’re outside this group, it might be hard to meet people you have something in common with. Try joining organized activities to meet other people.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Thailand with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Thailand trip that includes a stop on my beloved Koh Lanta. You can see all of their Thailand tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Thailand: The Guide

Australia is the epitome of a bucket list destination. From kangaroos and koalas to the Sydney Opera House, images of Australia have dwelled in our imagination since childhood — and because it’s far away and expensive, it’s worth investing in a quality trip.

While Australia has cool cities, the nature is what makes Australia exceptional. Whether you snorkel or dive Australia’s reefs, trek into the national parks of the Outback, take a boat to Rottnest Island to meet the quokkas , or beach-hop along the coast, make sure you prioritize getting out into nature.

Sometimes I hear about Australia travelers who only visit Sydney and Melbourne on their trip, and as much as I love both those cities, they really missed out!

Signature Experiences: Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge , go snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef, explore the hidden coffeeshops and arcades of Melbourne , see koalas and kangaroos in the wild, watch the sunrise over Uluru in a million different colors.

Caveat: I don’t recommend driving in extremely rural parts of Australia as a first-time solo traveler. The isolation factor plus the kangaroos-jumping-in-front-of-cars factor makes it risky. Keep your driving to more populated areas, or skip driving altogether.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Australia with a tour group, G Adventures has a 14-day Australia trip that goes from Sydney to Cairns. You can see all of their Australia tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Australia: The Guide

Savannah, Georgia

There was a time in my life when I was living in New York and visiting Savannah often — I felt like the city was my mistress of sorts. And it couldn’t have been more different and lovely, stately brick homes edged by oak trees dripping with Spanish Moss.

I feel like Savannah is one of the places every American has to visit at least once — it’s just so special and unique. I love the food here, I love the historic homes, I love the cafes, I love the shopping, and I love the sweet-yet-sinister ambiance that is depicted so well in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil .

Savannah, like Asheville, works very well as a long-weekend destination. Here is my recommended three-day Savannah itinerary.

Signature Experiences: Learn about Savannah’s spirits on the superb Dead of Night tour, have a family-style lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, browse for gorgeous home wares at the Paris Market, explore the historic homes or take an architecture tour, spend a day at Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach .

Caveat: Savannah attracts a lot of couples, and if you join a group tour, you may be the only person who isn’t part of a couple. Be prepared for that going in, and you won’t be surprised.

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Savannah, Georgia: The Guide

One of my Scottish friends likes to say that if Scotland had better weather, it would be the best country in the world with absolutely no competition. I could easily see that (and have experienced a few scintillatingly beautiful days in Scotland).

Scotland just feels magical, from the storybook-like streets of Edinburgh to the cliffside castles that dot the country, to the beaches of Scotland’s 790 islands, some of which are home to Caribbean-clear water. On top of that, Scots have fantastic accents and are wonderfully friendly and welcoming.

You might think that Scotland would pair well with Ireland — stunning landscapes, friendly people — and you’d be right. Go to one or go to both, and you’ll feel very welcomed. Also, it’s an excuse to buy a lot of tartan.

Signature Experiences: Walk all the way up Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, try to spot Nessy on Loch Ness, drive through the gorgeous landscapes of the Isle of Skye, explore the local whisky distilleries, dance all night long with Shetland Vikings at Up Helly Aa .

Caveat: You can see a ton of Scotland by public transportation, but for the really special and more remote parts, you’ll need to have a car — and driving on the other side of the road can be a challenge.

Join a group tour: If you’d like to visit Scotland with a tour group, G Adventures has a 7-day Scotland trip that hits up my beloved Edinburgh and Skye, among other spots. You can see all of their Scotland tours here .

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Scotland, England, and Wales: A UK Guide

Atlantic Canada

Canada’s four Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — tend to fly under the radar a bit . But they are some of the most scintillating places to visit in the country, especially as a solo female traveler.

Sometimes I joke that my blood pressure is at its lowest whenever I’m in Canada. Canada is just so EASY and CLEAN and FRIENDLY and BEAUTIFUL. And Atlantic Canada is full of beautiful landscapes, brightly painted cottages, and so much fresh seafood.

There is so much to see in Atlantic Canada that you’re best off choosing a single province and doing it in depth. I’ve done that twice, in Newfoundland and in Nova Scotia, and I can’t wait to return to them again!

Signature Experiences: Drive Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail , go moose-spotting in Cabot Highlands National Park or Gros Morne National Park , hike or bike along the red beaches of PEI, become an honorary Newfoundlander at a Screech-In ceremony, eat as much lobster as humanly possible.

Caveat: The best time to visit Atlantic Canada is during the summer months, when you have the best weather — but the summer season is very short. (Though I did enjoy an early fall trip to Nova Scotia!)

Read More: What’s It Really Like to Travel Newfoundland?

New York City

My home, my love, my energy. I lived in New York for four years and loved every bit of it (and miss it daily!). It’s a travel dream for quite a few people, and it’s one destination that absolutely pays off. Everywhere feels like you’re in a movie.

What I love most about New York is that you can be whoever you want to be there, even changing whenever you feel like it, and you’re both accepted and ignored. Take a trampoline fitness class in Tribeca! Go out for Sri Lankan food in Staten Island! Join a protest in lower Manhattan! Go to an off-off-off-off Broadway show in an office building in midtown!

New York is one of the safest major cities in the US, with most high crime areas being places where tourists would never end up. And New Yorkers are friendly and helpful — but efficient and always in a hurry. If you need help, ask in the fastest way possible and you’ll get an equally fast reply.

Signature Experiences: Ride the Staten Island Ferry and enjoy the free views, go on a food tour in the global neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens , party all night at a warehouse event in Bushwick, explore the Botanical Gardens followed by lunch in the Bronx’s Little Italy, explore the food and architecture of Harlem .

Caveat: Many first-time New York visitors end up doing the same cliché things over and over: Times Square! Central Park! Fifth Avenue! Then they get home and say they could never live there. Well. We don’t live in those places, either. Get out of midtown, get into the other boroughs, and explore neighborhoods that have more locals than tourists.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in New York City

Some states are worth every bit of hype. Colorado is one of those places. Filled with the gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Colorado is all about getting outdoors, with some of America’s best hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Colorado is a great place to try out a new outdoor activity — maybe whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or even sand boarding! And if you’re apprehensive about hiking solo, as I was, there are plenty of guided hikes and activities you can join. It’s a great way to make new friends, too.

Colorado is also home to cool cities like Denver and Vail that have a lot to explore: museums, breweries, and one of the most spectacular concert venues around.

Signature Experiences: Go hiking with llamas in Vail, visit the Tajik teahouse in Boulder, see a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, gorge yourself on brunch food at Snooze or desserts at D Bar, go sand boarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Caveat: You’ll need to watch your drinking, especially when you arrive. Colorado’s altitude leads you to feeling more intoxicated than usual. I had one glass of red wine on my first night in Vail and was loopy for hours. Locals recommend drinking a lot of water.

Read More: Vail, Colorado, Might Be Better in the Summer!

There are plenty of other spots, too!

There are plenty of other places that didn’t make this post. Some because I haven’t been — like New Zealand and the Canadian Rockies — and some that I think are better suited for solo travelers with more experience, like Mexico , Japan , and Belize .

If you’re a very experienced traveler, and just haven’t traveled solo yet, you might have an easier time in destinations with a language barrier — like Paris or Italy — or places where you need to be more on guard about safety, like Colombia or South Africa .

Finally, there’s traveling solo to Antarctica . Which is easy, and I loved every minute of it — but it’s all the most special if you save it for a milestone.

But it’s entirely up to you. Solo travel is about going wherever you want, whenever you want — and that’s one of the things I love most about traveling solo.

More on Solo Female Travel:

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Why You Should Always Consider the Source

How to Survive Pre-Trip Anxiety

See our full Solo Female Travel hub here.

Where would you recommend for a first-time solo female traveler?

Traveling Solo For The First Time: 50 Essential Tips

Traveling solo for the first time ?

Let me start off by saying congratulations!

Personally, aside from my family and friends, nothing has shaped me to the extent that solo travel has.

My confidence, sense of adventure, compassion for others, and tolerance for differing beliefs have all grown stronger because of traveling alone.

Additionally, you can use traveling solo to find yourself and to grow the relationship you have with the most important person in your life — you!

This is why I encourage you to travel solo for the opportunity to grow mentally, spiritually — and physically, too (because you’ll see those muscles toning from lugging around a backpack with no help!).

That being said, I realize that the idea of traveling alone for the first time can be scary for many.

To help you plan an incredible experience with confidence, this solo travel guide shares 50 essential tips for traveling alone for the first time. As you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of traveling alone , this list can help you see just how rewarding solo travel can be. Ha, that rhymed!

Table of Contents

How To Travel Alone (Free E-Course!)

Want to learn how to travel alone as a woman and how to feel confident exploring solo in general?

My free Savvy Solo Travelers E-Course can help!

The six-day ecourse is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

My Favorite Solo Female Travel Destinations [Video]

Watch the video above!

You’ll learn nine of my favorite places to travel alone , though note this list is in no way exhaustive. For instance, Tulum solo travel , taking a solo trip to Amsterdam , and traveling Israel solo are also incredible experiences. There are also some truly great places to travel alone in the US .

After watching, let me know in the comments below what destinations you’d add to it!

Is It Weird To Travel Alone?

Before diving into the tips for traveling alone , I just want to address this question that I get frequently.

In my opinion, it is not weird at all to travel alone — and once you get the hang of it, you won’t feel strange doing it.

Personally, I started traveling solo because I was sick of waiting around for travel partners. After numerous cancelled trips and plans that never came to fruition, I decided to take matters into my own hands and start traveling solo.

The best part?

Along with no longer needing to wait on other people, traveling solo allows for ultimate freedom over your trip itinerary — no negotiation required.

Okay, so now that we’ve gone through that little pep talk for traveling by yourself , let’s dive into the tips.

50 Essential Tips For Traveling Solo For The First Time

Here are 50 essential solo travel tips for a more successful independent journey.

Bonus Tip: Before traveling, check out this guide to choosing the right travel backpack . Comfort and organization on the road = happy traveler.

1. Book your first night (or the first few nights) of accommodation to help you ease into your solo travel journey.

2. Do you tend to get anxious? Planning out your itinerary and having things booked can help relieve this.

3. However, realize you may want to change your plans as you meet other travelers and learn about new cities along the way. This is why I personally choose to travel without making plans .

4. Traveling solo doesn’t necessarily mean you’re “alone.” In fact, I find it almost impossible not to meet other people while traveling, especially as being on you’re own makes you more approachable. For example, when sharing about the Black solo female travel experience, my friend Efia noted that within 10 minutes of her first solo trip she’d made a friend!

5. Invest in some Clever Travel Companion pickpocket-proof clothing , featuring hidden pockets that hide your valuables and eliminate the need for a purse.

By the way, this is a very important solo travel safety tip. Here are others to keep in mind, too:

6. Always carry your accommodation’s card with address. It makes it easier to hop in a cab and get home, especially if you’re in an uncomfortable situation.

7. Give yourself a day or two to get used to your new environment and resist the urge to plan too much during this time.

8. If you’re looking to find a travel buddy make sure to ask them essential questions , such as what their trip budget is and how much alone time they require.

9. Carry a safety whistle . Not only can this help startle ill-intentioned individuals, but it assists with scaring away wild animals, letting people know if you’re trapped somewhere and really any time you’d need to attract attention to your situation. I often wear one around my neck — especially when hiking — tucked into my shirt.

10. Know about travel apps and communities that exist to help connect travelers, like Couchsurfing , Penroads, HereToMeet and Reddit’s Travel Partners message board .

11. Get involved in the sharing economy to help introduce you to locals and immerse you in local culture. Some of my favorites include BonAppetour and EatWith for dining with locals, Skillshare for classes with locals, and Airbnb for staying with locals.

13. Walk and talk with confidence. Don’t make it obvious you’re an unsure tourist by burying yourself in a map or walking with your head turned down. Walk tall and proud and people might even think you’re a local.

14. Give yourself the opportunity to grow. Traveling solo means you’ll be presented with challenges and new experiences that you’ll need to navigate. Every time you conquer an obstacle or try something new you’re giving yourself the opportunity to learn and grow.

15. As soon as you walk into your accommodation ask for an annotated map of which areas are safe or unsafe to walk alone. Keep it on your person — although don’t be glued to it while you’re walking, as you’ll both make yourself a prime target looking like a distracted tourist, and will miss out on taking in your surroundings. This is an important tip for traveler safety .

16. Make sure any gear you bring with you — if you must bring gear — is insured ( I use a floater policy adjoined to my renter’s insurance ). While I’d recommend this to both solo and group travelers, you are a bit more susceptible to theft when a friend isn’t watching your back. That being said, the mere act of moving from place to place means you’re less organized and sometimes rushed.

17. Keep those valuables at home or hidden. There’s no need to attract unnecessary attention to yourself. Moreover, less important things with you means less important things to worry about.

18. Erase the word “can’t” from your vocabulary. If you think you can’t, then you can’t; however, if you think you can, then you can. A positive attitude will lead to an enhanced solo travel experience.

19. Invest in an intervalometer and a Joby SLR GorillaPod to take better solo photos of yourself, no selfie stick needed. More on my experience using these gadgets on the road here .

20. Look for hostels with common spaces — kitchens, TV lounges, movie theaters — as well as hostel-planned outings and events if you want to meet other people.

21. Invest in a good flashlight or headlamp . I cannot count how many times I surprisingly needed one of these, whether on an unexpected camping trip or night hike, overnight trains, or having the electricity go out at a place I was staying.

22. Be open-minded and flexible. If you don’t know how to use a squat toilet in Thailand they’re not going to roll out the red carpet for you and bring you a flusher. You figure these things out as you go, and as you encounter new situations and cultural facets you’re able to engage, process and react to them without influence from others.

23. Try to arrive to your destination during the day to avoid being alone in any sketchy areas at night alone.

26. Packing light is always a good, but an even better idea when traveling solo and having to manage your luggage on your own. Here’s how I travel with just a carry-on . Also, a few cool carry-ons I’d recommend:

• Tylt Energi Backpack + Battery (for shorter trips; it charges your gear)
• AmeriBag’s Healthy Back Carry-All Bag – HBBEvo (great for those with back and shoulder issues)
• Booq’s Cobra Squeeze laptop backpack (eco-friendly with lots of organizational pockets)
• Travelers Choice Siena 2-In-1 Hybrid Hard-Shell Carry-On Wheeled Garment Suitcase (great for those who will be doing business on the road as there’s a garment bag)
• Granite Gear Cross-Trek 22″ Wheeled Carry-On Duffel (a rolling suitcase, backpack and duffel in one)
• Granite Gear Cross- Trek Convertible Wheeled Carry-On with Removable 28L Pack (if you’ll be doing adventurous activities having the removable back is nice)
• Deuter Futura Pro 34 SL Pack (this is what I use for backpacking trips)

27. Enjoy at least one new experience each day, whether it be taking a class, trying a new sport, going for a scenic hike , sampling a new food or wandering through an interesting museum.

28. Don’t tell everyone you’re alone. While I tell other backpackers in my hostels and guesthouses that I’m traveling alone when trying to put a group outing together, if a stranger asks you who you’re traveling with, tell them your husband/wife/friend is in the bathroom and will be out in a minute. Moreover, if you ever feel uncomfortable, move to a very public area, and even start chatting to someone to make it look like you’re traveling together.

29. Use solo travel to strengthen your relationship with yourself. You’ll be having a lot of alone time — reflecting on what you’ve learned and how you’re feeling — allowing you to get to know yourself without distraction.

30. Eliminate doubt from your mind. Have confidence in your social and problem-solving skills and you will conquer any challenge that comes your way.

31. If you’re a US citizen, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program is a free program designed to help keep travelers safe. By entering your information into their system before you leave, the government is then better able to assist you in the event of an emergency.

32. If you carry a bag keep it in front of you. Always have your belongings in sight.

33. Start a blog , or at least an up-to-date social media account about your travels. It’s a great way to keep a sort of journal of your experiences and keep friends and family up-to-do on what you’re doing (although I also recommend keeping in touch with loved ones via phone or email to let them know your accommodation and location details).

34. Before leaving for your trip make copies of your passport, visas, ATM card, credit cards, birth certificate, driver’s license and other important documents or ID cards. Leave one copy at home with your family or a close friend, and take another to hide somewhere in your bag, away from the originals. This will save you much trouble if anything gets lost or stolen.

35. Revel in your complete freedom. Solo travel means you call the shots. Do what you want, where you want, when you want, without having to answer to anyone.

36. Don’t get distracted. One of the most common tactics thieves use to pickpocket travelers is distracting them with a chaotic or interesting situation. For instance, when embarking on female solo travel in Morocco , you may encounter the “wrong way” guys who will purposefully give you the wrong directions to try to get a “tip” out of you.

37. Know when a group is a good idea. While solo travel shouldn’t limit you from doing and seeing what you want, there are certain situations where you will be better off with a group. For example, while popular hiking areas are fine to trek alone, more remote ones are better done with a companion.

38. Don’t assume your hotel room is 100% safe. Make use of in-room lockers and safes, where only you know the combination.

39. Be aggressive in your pursuit of cultural knowledge . Don’t look at the culture you’re visiting as an outsider, but inside dive in headfirst by interacting with locals, taking cultural classes, sampling typical dishes, attending community events and partaking in local life as much as possible. One of the many benefits of solo travel is you’re forced to interact with the community since you don’t have travel companions to talk to.

40. Talk to strangers . Remember how your parents told you never to talk to strangers? Don’t listen. This doesn’t mean go back to a stranger’s house all by yourself; it means interact with locals in public places and meet other travelers in hostels and on tours for a social and well-rounded travel experience.

41. Instead of making it obvious you’re a tourist, leave your Yankee’s t-shirt and fanny pack at home and instead try to assimilate with the locals.

42. Be selfish. Solo travel means there is nobody there to tell you what to do. Take the opportunity to be selfish without compromise.

43. If you venture out on your own let the front desk — as well as loved ones back home — know your plans. Better safe than sorry.

44. Hire a local guide, at least part of the time, to see your destination from a local point of view. Many cities nowadays also have greeter programs or free tours by locals, where you pay on a tips only basis. Visiting NYC? I offer private photo tours !

45. Learn a few phrases in the local language. While nobody’s expecting you to become fluent in another language before your vacation – although, if you can, you’ll certainly have an advantage – knowing a few useful phrases is crucial. Along with being able to ask where the nearest bathroom is, how to order food and the proper way to greet someone, it is important to know how to ask for help.

46. Say “yes” to adventure — without doing anything completely stupid — and go home with unforgettable memories and stories you can cherish for the rest of your life. That being said, use your common sense and make sure your adventures aren’t jeopardizing your safety.

47. Learn how to defend yourself. Taking a self-defense class is not only smart for solo travelers, but for everyone. Whether you’re on a trip or at home, violent attacks are possible.

48. Don’t get too drunk. Whenever you are so drunk people need to take care of you, you’re making yourself vulnerable. This is especially true if you’re traveling alone in a foreign country.

49. Replace fear with curiosity. Instead of being afraid of the unknown, turn on your curiosity and make a list of trip goals. Bonus points if you do something that completely freaks you out like skydiving or bungy jumping.

50. Most important: listen to your gut! Your intuition is stronger than you think, and usually knows before you do when a situation is positive or negative.

Solo Travel Tips

New to solo travel ?

I made so many mistakes when planning my first trip solo — like booking out every second of my itinerary so that I had no room for adventure.

That’s not what I want for you.

To help you plan a meaningful and memorable trip, I’m sharing my top tips for planning the perfect solo trip — with confidence!

What tips would you add to this guide on traveling solo for the first time?

Bonus solo travel benefits resources:.

14 Benefits Of Traveling Alone + Tips To Make It Happen

An Open Letter From The Father of A Female Solo Traveler

An Open Letter From The Mother Of A Female Solo Traveler

Black Solo Female Travel: An Eye-Opening & Empowering Guide

How To Travel Solo Successfully: 31+ Important Tips

20 Pros & Cons Of Traveling Alone

Psst – Don’t forget to pin these tips on traveling solo for the first time for later!

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Those are some great tips Jessie. I am a seasoned traveler because I am trapped in my 9-5, but loving it 😉 I have one question for you though; How selfish are you LOL.

Anyway, thanks a lot for the share, It was very interesting to read.

@Cindy: Thank you for the kind words and for reading!

This is a great post. I particularly like the fact you encourage your readers to book at least a few days’ worth of accommodation. This is one area of travelling that’s always pushed me way out of my comfort zone as I like to know where I’m going next and what to expect.

No matter what you solo travel will become a hell if you’re not friendly with people. I think as a solo traveler it becomes tough to take pictures of yourself with wonderful things or scenarios. Other than that, I’ve traveled twice solo and really enjoyed a lot.

@Roger: Agreed, though I have a setup for the pix! 🙂 https://jessieonajourney.com/how-to-take-the-perfect-selfie/

OMG Super good article, Very useful for a solo traveller like me 🙂 What’s the best way to travel solo, while travelling in Europe?

Your post has really helped a lot in guiding me with the process of creating my travel blog. It is so articulated. Especially the plugin’s suggestions……

Truly great tips for traveling solo first time! In fact, these tips can also be implemented by season travelers. You have covered every single minute and major preparation necessary to ensure traveling safe.

Your blog is very informative and helpful. Traveling alone is one of the best experience. Challenging but you will discover something different to yourself.

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Let Your First International Vacation Be A Peaceful One With These Traveler-Approved Laidback Destinations

S o, you've decided to jump in and plan your first international trip, and while you're excited, you may want to choose a stress-free destination, as you don't want to be overwhelmed while planning or post-arrival. Overseas travel is not to be undertaken lightly, especially if it's your first time abroad. But don't worry, we've got you covered if you're enthusiastic but a bit inundated with options regarding where to go on your first international vacation.

We've chosen 12 amazing countries perfect for your inaugural trip as an international traveler, sourcing the list from well-known and trusted travel bloggers as well as travel discussion forums where seasoned travelers give their recommendations for a first trip abroad. We've specifically selected places where English is either the (or a) main language of the country or where high tourist numbers mean locals often speak English. This ensures you won't encounter too many language barriers , which can be stressful, even for seasoned travelers abroad. Additionally, all the listed destinations are well-worn by international tourists, so you can relax knowing the infrastructure (both in general and for foreigners) is high-functioning and that all destinations are more or less easy to navigate. We hope after reading this article you will have the inspiration and confidence necessary to book that flight.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Canada is a massive country. Geographically, it is the second-largest country in the world and has a little bit of everything, which makes it ideal if you're not quite sure what you want to do during your trip. Numerous threads on Travel Reddit noted that the country is an easy and stress-free destination for travelers taking an initial trip abroad. On Reddit , Artistry for Adventure says the country is "great for beginners looking for some adventure." The Great White North is ideal for those who want to participate in a few varied activities and visit multiple destinations during an international trip.

If you love the outdoors, the west of Canada is a fantastic place to explore. Hike the Rocky Mountains in Alberta, ski your heart out in Whistler, British Columbia, or learn to surf on Vancouver Island. If cities are more your thing, you'll love the Montréal and Vancouver food scenes and Toronto's cosmopolitan vibe. And don't miss the Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, where coastal walks and uncrowded beaches await you. On Reddit , curiousrambutan adds that Québec may be ideal "If you want to do something that's much closer, rich in culture, but less of a cultural shock." 

Canada is a great baby step into international travel, as it is simple to get to from the U.S. and has enough cultural similarities that you won't feel too out-of-sorts. English is the main language spoken throughout all provinces, even in Francophone Quebec.

While it might be thousands of miles away and a completely different culture from the American continents, Thailand makes for a fun first trip overseas. It frequently tops the list of relaxing destinations as well for people traveling abroad for the first time. Well-known (and well-traveled) travel bloggers Matt Knepes (Nomadic Matt) and Oneika Raymond (Oneika the Traveller) both cite the country as a good choice of destination for newbie travelers. Thailand is also one of the most frequently endorsed countries in "first international trip" forums on Reddit.

That's because it might be quite a divergent place from the U.S., but it is popular enough that the country is used to welcoming foreigners. You'll find plenty of hostels, guesthouses, and day-trip tour companies in the majority of destinations. All of these will have English-speaking staff ready to help you plan your best trip yet and ensure your only job is to relax and enjoy it all. 

From the bustling cities of Chiang Mai and Bangkok to the lush mountains in the north and the tranquil beaches of the islands, Thailand is such a unique destination. In addition to super helpful hospitality staff, Thais are known to be friendly and welcoming. So you'll never feel on edge as a visitor. Additionally, the country has been on the backpacker route for decades, which has made language barriers less of an issue and created a good tourist infrastructure for first-time travelers.

At first glance, Iceland might not seem like the most obvious place to have a relaxing first séjour abroad. The terrain and weather can be unforgiving, and you probably don't know much about the country beyond those fantastic pics all over social media. However, thanks to Iceland's big push in the past decade-plus to become a major tourist hotspot, the formerly harsh country is now a very easy place to travel! 

This all began when Icelandair began a stopover program back in 2014 that allows passengers to book up to seven days in the country as part of a larger itinerary between North America and Europe, free of charge. The goal was to, yes, increase passenger bookings with the national airline, but also increase tourism to Iceland. Nearly a decade later, it's safe to say the strategy has been a success. Visitor numbers have risen steeply, from under a million in 2014 to nearly two million in 2019, the peak of foreign visitor numbers in the country.

Travel expert and blogger extraordinaire Kate McCulley (Adventurous Kate) is known for top-notch travel advice. And she highly recommends Iceland for newbie passport holders. Today, the country is well-prepared to welcome international travelers, with great things in place like bus routes stopping at popular sites en route to Reykjavik and numerous day trips and tours departing from the capital city. Or, you can explore Iceland's famous and well-maintained Ring Road  if you want to drive yourself. Additionally, English is widely spoken, should the thought of learning Icelandic intimidate you.

The Cayman Islands

If all you want to do is chill out, preferably in the sun, then head to the Cayman Islands , a postcard-perfect place to sun tan and relax. On Reddit , Quaerenti_Librorum says, "The Cayman Islands have the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen and plenty of sites to keep you and your friends entertained." The famous (on Instagram and in general) Seven Mile Beach is exactly what one pictures when "Island in the Sun" by Weezer plays. The turquoise waves of various shades crash against, well, seven miles of bright white sand. If that doesn't scream "laidback vacation," we don't know what does. 

However, that's not the only beach worth visiting and reclining on. The three islands that make up the territory Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman are awash with hundreds of miles of coastline. Drive a few minutes down the road and, suddenly, you're gazing at what you swear is the best beach you've ever laid eyes on. If you want to do something more active than just lounge, you're in luck. The area has a ton of aquatic activities available to visitors. You can go scuba diving, swim with giant Manta Rays, or try out kayaking and kite surfing. And don't worry, English is the official language, and the roads are well-maintained, which is important as you'll need to rent a car here. 

The Irish are universally known to be some of the friendliest folks you'll ever meet. And a visit to their country means you'll be surrounded by this warmth and good humor for the duration of your first international trip. Nothing better than good laughs all around to help curb any nerves or apprehensions you might have about traveling abroad. Beyond friendly locals, Ireland is a beautiful place to visit, with so much history and natural beauty that it's hard to go wrong, no matter which direction your itinerary takes you. 

On Reddit , user cat4nav points out that Ireland is an easy trip from the U.S., while Redditor lazyjk describes the country as an "easy stepping stone" into international travel. And it's true. Aer Lingus  offers numerous nonstops to Dublin from many American hubs, clean water and good food are abundant, and renting a car isn't too difficult.

The rugged coastline out west and beaches that rival those in the Mediterranean (as long as you aren't looking for warm water) will delight those looking for a holiday by the sea. Additionally, between the Wicklow Mountains, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, hikers and outdoors enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice. And if you're ever lost, whoever you pull over to ask will always be more than happy to give you directions, as well as some personal insights, before sending you on your way.

The Balkans is a trickier region to travel; thus, we would normally recommend it for more experienced travelers. However, the one exception is Croatia, which in the past decade has made it a goal to become a top tourist destination. That effort has been a success, with  Statista showing a steady increase of visitors to the country between 2006 (9.4 million) through 2019 (19.6 million), before numbers dipped during the pandemic years.

Kate McCulley of Adventurous Kate cites it as one of the best countries for first-time, solo female travelers. She notes the high number of English speakers, decent infrastructure (that's easy for visitors to navigate), and general safety. That makes it a great choice for anyone looking to plan their first international trip, not just women traveling alone. And what a beautiful option. Croatia boasts the Insta-famous Dalmatian coast, tranquil islands, breathtaking national parks, and quirky cities like Zagreb, Split, and Zadar. The bus and ferry system is also robust and easy to navigate for tourists. If you want to drive, Croatia has some of the best roads in the Balkans — just be prepared for fast drivers. 

Bloggers and solo travel experts Kate McCulley (Adventurous Kate) and Alexx (Finding Alex) both tell their readers that Australia is a fantastic choice for a newer international traveler. And like Thailand, it came up over and over again in discussions on Travel Reddit when users would ask for suggestions for initial trips abroad. Like Canada, Australia is culturally close enough to the U.S. that you won't feel too out of sorts, and English is the main language (even if they use funny abbreviations sometimes). And Aussies are also very friendly and happy to help, just like the Irish.

As for an itinerary, we'd advise you to stick to one to two states maximum and base yourself in a mix of major cities with decent public transportation and smaller towns with a car rental. Sydney and Melbourne have robust train, tram, ferry, and bus systems that are simple to use and allow you to see the sites without the stress of driving. However, you should rent a car for part of your trip. You've come all that way after all, so drive the coast to enjoy beach towns like Byron Bay, Berry, and Lorne. Or perhaps you want to hike the Blue Mountains or trails in Tasmania. Choose two neighboring states and build a trip from there!

Costa Rica is the quintessential "laidback destination" with a beach town vibe that can be felt throughout the country. It's one of the best-developed in terms of visitor infrastructure in Central America. Travel experts, OG bloggers, and influencers Oneika Raymond (Oneika the Traveller) and Kate McCulley (Adventurous Kate) both cite Costa Rica as an ideal first overseas destination. Reddit backs up this recommendation, with Redditor merlotmadre writing, "I've been to Costa Rica a few times and it's an excellent choice for a first trip," while tube_advice adds that "tourism is very developed and the infrastructure is cater[ed] to tourist." Many others in the forum agree that Costa Rica's quite safe, not too difficult from a logistical standpoint, and that English is widely spoken.

Additionally, it's not too far from the U.S. (just a bit further south than Mexico), and many airlines such as Alaska Airlines and JetBlue offer nonstop flights from various U.S. hubs. The proximity also means no matter where you live, the time change won't be more than a couple of hours. This can be huge, as you don't want to be exhausted from jetlag on your first international trip.

The Benelux (Belgium, Netherlands, And Luxembourg)

The three countries that make up the Benelux region are a fantastic choice for an initial trip abroad, due to their small size, which makes them explorable in a single go. Numerous forums we sourced cite at least one country, and sometimes all three, as great destinations for first-time international travelers. On Fodor's Travel Forum , MyriamC writes, "Public transport is very well organized here and, our countries being very small, everything is nearby," and numerous others in the same thread provided fantastic itinerary ideas and echoed the sentiment of Myriam. Additionally, one Redditor listed the Benelux as their choice for a first trip abroad, which received many positive responses.

Beyond being able to see a lot in a small region, it's also very easy to get around within and between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The train and bike-lane systems are well-maintained and connected. English is also spoken by the majority of the population in all three countries. Finally, crime is also not a huge concern, as the region is known to be safe. Just always keep an eye on valuables, and be on extra alert in touristy areas like Amsterdam's Red Light District, the Grand Place in Brussels, and at train stations.

The Nordic countries are a great option because they speak English, and the roads and other infrastructure are well-maintained (and visitor-friendly). These points were reiterated throughout Travel Reddit . One anonymous user wrote, "People are nice, very safe, and everyone speaks English. It's like Europe for beginners." The last part is very accurate. Many first-time international travelers place Europe at the top of their bucket list.

However, if traveling independently (without a tour group or organized trip), some of the most popular destinations, such as France and Spain, can actually be a bit trickier. This is due to higher language barriers, especially outside of major cities and tourist sites. In Norway though, most locals speak English and are happy to help a lost traveler (albeit with a little less enthusiasm than the jovial Irish and Aussies.) This and a low crime rate make the country a terrific option for newer travelers looking to explore Europe. And it has a bit of everything, including hikes along fjords and mountains, cute towns, and bustling cities. You'll never be bored or stressed during a Norwegian holiday.

Ecuador is a great South American option for first-time international travelers. The country has everything found in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia: the Amazon Rainforest, mountains, coffee, chocolate, and cute towns, but with a few important differences. First, the country is much smaller than all of the aforementioned, which makes logistics simpler versus say, Brazil, where a trip to the Amazon could be an entirely separate trip from a Rio beach vacation. In Ecuador, it's easy to visit the capital Quito, the rainforest, the cloud forest, and the coast over a week or two.

The country also has fewer safety concerns than many of its neighbors. Numerous forums on Travel Reddit repeatedly underscored this point, and many travelers noted they felt safer in Ecuadorian cities than many cities in the U.S. The locals usually have a decent grasp of English, but it is advisable to brush up on basic Spanish for the best experience.

For those very green in the international travel space, we normally don't recommend regions such as Central America. While it is a gorgeous area, rich in history, home to amazing food, stunning scenery, and wonderful people, it usually requires more planning, constant awareness on the ground, and at least some basic Spanish language skills. Belize though, is an exception, and we highly endorse it for an initial journey overseas.

Due to numerous reasons, Belize makes for an easy stepping-stone for first-time passport users. On Reddit , kvom01 says, "Belize would be an easy intro. No Jet lag, fairly inexpensive, and you could combine it with Guatemala easily." The no jetlag has been a major reason we've suggested other Western hemisphere destinations such as Canada, Costa Rica, and the Cayman Islands. Depending on your origin, you might not change time zones at all! Additionally, unlike the rest of Central and South America, English is one of the official languages of the country, making communication easy. If you want to relax by the beach, have a jungle adventure, and not worry about speaking a second language, Belize is a sure win.

Methodology

The destinations above were chosen based on recommendations from a few sources. First, we read through numerous "where to travel solo" or "where to take your first international trip" posts from well-known travel bloggers. This included Kate McCulley of Adventurous Kate, one of the first solo female travel blogs where tens of thousands of readers come every month for travel advice; Oneika Raymond of Oneika the Traveller, who also hosts "About the Journey" by Marriot Bonvoy Traveler; and Matt Kepnes of Nomadic Matt and author of "Ten Years A Nomad" and "How To Travel the World on $50 Day."

We then read through many travel discussion forums on Reddit and Fodor's, where travelers advised those looking to take their first international trip. We note which countries overlapped between those approved by these travel bloggers and what others suggested on travel forums. 

Read the original article on Explore .