TOP COUNTRIES BEST FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
Travelling solo can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences. The benefits of traveling solo range from the freedom to fully indulge your every whim to a sense of empowerment to opportunities for reflection, self-discovery, and new friendships.
Whether you’re about to embark on your first solo trip or your 10th, tackling a trip by yourself can be incredibly nerve-wracking. We wouldn’t want lack of company to keep you from checking off a bucket-list trip, so we’ve come up with a list of countries ideal for both first-time and experienced solo travelers — safe destinations where you can expect a warm welcome.
So summon your courage, book that ticket, and get ready to embark on the solo travel adventure of a lifetime.
1) JAPAN
If I was forced to make the decision at gunpoint, I would name Japan as my favourite solo travel destination.
Japan is famous for many things but, for me, it’s the intoxicating mix of the ancient and the modern that continues to seduce me.
Unlike many countries, it manages to retain its rich culture and historical heritage whilst innovating and embracing technological advances.
Kyoto has temples and shrines-a-plenty (spend three days in Kyoto to fully appreciate the city). And Japan is also home to some of the most sublime gardens in the world (Kenroku-en in Kanazawa and Sengan-en in Kagoshima are my favourites).
2) THAILAND
Unlike Japan, Thailand is very budget friendly. Transport is cost-effective and there is no shortage of cheap accommodation, including hostels and apartments.
There is a well-established tourist path and infrastructure and there should be no difficulty in meeting fellow travelers.
The Land of Smiles really does have something for everyone.
Temple hop in Ayutthaya and Chang Mai. Or take a boat trip to see the best of Bangkok’s history.
Thailand brims with natural beauty, from hills and waterfalls to picture-perfect beaches. In 2022, it’s still possible to find your own piece of paradise on an unspoilt Thai island. Whilst Thailand is considered to be relatively safe, remain vigilant.
Sadly, spiking drinks is common and theft on night buses has been reported.
3) MALAYSIA
Malaysia is a criminally underrated solo travel destination that has a rich historical heritage and offers a diversity of cultures and landscapes.
This is a relatively safe and inexpensive country and has an efficient travel infrastructure.
Furthermore, Malaysia is home to some of the best, and cheapest, food in Asia. This is hawker stall heaven.
Peninsular Malaysia is a good place to start. Although it is more developed and more touristy, it includes the capital, Kuala Lumpur as well as other popular destinations, including Melaka and Penang.
Eastern Malaysia is quieter and may appeal to those with a more adventurous nature. This side of the country features white sand-fringed islands that offer sensational diving and the jungles of Borneo. Above all, don’t overdo it.
Malaysia is a vast county and unless you have a lot of time available, you will need to choose between Eastern Malaysia or Western Malaysia.
4) ITALY
Italy is famous for many things. From the serenading Venetian gondoliers to the hilltop Tuscan towns, this is an outrageously romantic country. But neglect the smaller medieval towns such as Tuscania and Civita di Bagnoregio at your peril.
Italy’s landscape is equally majestic. From the lakes of Lombardy to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, there’s something for every solo traveler in Italy.
I’m a complete Italian Renaissance fangirl and Italy’s artistic legacy is the best in the world. Florence, Sienna and Urbino are amongst many towns and cities that display their artistic treasures like the jewels they are.
A well-worn cliché, I know, but Italian food is to die for. Whilst I wouldn’t go as far as to say that Italy is a super safe destination, Italian cities are likely to be no more dangerous than those in Europe or North America.
5) SPAIN
This place is consider it to be one of the best places in Europe for those travelling alone, especially for Solo travelers.
Amongst the many things for which Spain is famous are its beautiful beaches, dramatic mountains and volcanic peaks and has a temperate climate, allowing year-round travel.
Spain is also relatively affordable compared with other destinations in Western Europe.
The chance to step inside the whimsical buildings of Antoni Gaudí is reason enough to go to Spain. Visiting La Sagrada Família is an essential part of any Barcelona itinerary.
Mass tourism is well established, and its infrastructure is well developed. RENFE, the country’s train network serves major towns and cities.
Smaller towns and villages are covered by buses. Spain has a
rich historical heritage and is second only to Italy in the number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Roman Empire – Tarragona has the best Roman ruins in Spain – the Goths and the Moors have all left their mark on the country.
There is a vibrant cultural scene and foodies will leave the dining table feeling very satisfied. What makes it so exciting is that each region or city has its own specialty not to be found elsewhere(try an ensaïmada in Palma de Mallorca for instance).
Melt-in-the-mouth seafood, fragrant olive oil and spicy chorizo are the staples of Spanish cuisine. And let’s not forget the excellent local wine, tapas and paella.
6) FINLAND
Finland has consistently been ranked as among the safest countries in the world year after year thanks to its very low crime rate.
This makes it an ideal place for solo travelers. It is a small country in terms of population, and English is widely spoken.
You will not have a problem going around or asking for directions.
7) NEPAL
A sovereign country located on the southern slopes of the Himalayas is a solo traveler’s paradise. With abundant natural beauty and welcoming and gentle locals, Nepal is a great place for a solo trip.
Your solo trip to Nepal can begin at its capital Kathmandu where you can visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Monastery.
Bhaktapur and Patan are also both great destinations if you’re looking to explore authentic Nepalese architecture and culture. While in Nepal, you also need to visit Pokhara, home to the magnificent Phewa Lake and a host of water-based activities and adventures.
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If you’re looking to experience the majesty of Mount Everest, head over to the South Base Camp and embark on the Everest Base Camp trek.
Good food, friendly people, and plenty of gems of nature await you in Nepal