Few experiences compare to exploring a new city, town, island, or country on your own, but the place you visit could have a profound impact on how you view solo travel. It’s up to the traveler to determine how their solo expedition will unfold, but some places are much better for those traveling alone than others, especially if you’re new to the world of solo travel.
Whether you want to explore an island on your own or you want to take a trip to the motherland, keep these destinations in mind your next solo adventure.
Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg is still making a name for itself as a major tourist destination, but the city is great for solo travelers due to the favorable exchange rate for Americans (you can find sleek Airbnbs for $25 a night and Ubers cost $3 to get just about everywhere), and the familiar vibe you’ll get exploring neighborhoods like Maboneng and Braamfontein. Jozi is a melting pot and home to people from everywhere in Africa and from around the world, so meeting friends to share drinks and a great conversation will come naturally.
London, England
If you’re nervous about embarking on your first solo journey abroad, it doesn’t get much better than London. London often has reasonable direct flights from the U.S. into the city’s two major airports (Heathrow and Gatwick), and though it’s a pricey city when it comes to accommodations and activities, the US dollar to Great British Pound exchange rate is better than it was a decade ago. You won’t have to worry about a language barrier and the city is easy to navigate thanks to the Tube, so if you want to ease your way into solo travel, start here.
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Seattle, Washington
In a city filled with more coffee shops than you can imagine, it’s no surprise that Seattle is ideal for solo travelers that just want to do their own thing. Sample the fresh produce and seafood at Pike Place Market, hike through Discovery Park, and experience the quirks that make Seattle great, all without having to rent a car.
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
A camera and a bit of curiosity go a long way in place a majestic as Ubud, so travel here to connect with a destination that is rooted in spirituality while also admiring some of the must lush landscape on Earth. Affordable and convenient, Ubud is a place where you can relax and simply…be.
Namibia
Nambia is vast and sparsely populated, so if the goal of your solo trip is truly to be alone with your thoughts, this is where you should go. Visit a Himba tribe, hike Waterberg Plateau, marvel at the trees in Quiver Tree Forest and Giant’s Playground, and see for yourself why Deadvlei, home to 900-year-old dead trees, is one of the most popular places to visit in Namibia.
Paris, France
Paris may be the most romantic city in the world, but you don’t have to be in love to fall head-over-heels for this gorgeous destination. There’s something magical to discover at every turn in Paris, so if you’re looking for a solo destination where you don’t have to plan an itinerary to have a good time, simply strolling the Parisian streets and stumbling into shops, galleries, cafes, and landmarks is enough to keep any traveler in awe.
Grenada
Honeymooners and families seem to be everywhere on many of the Caribbean islands, but there are plenty of adults-only resorts designed for grown-up clientele. Grenada is famous for being a safe island destination for solo travelers, and while you’ll want to rent a car to get to landmarks like Seven Sister Falls for hiking, the island is peaceful and friendly.
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Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a feast for all of the senses, so whether you’re eating the best sushi of your life at a train station, shopping in Shibuya, dancing the night away in Shinjuku, or enjoying quiet time in Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo has everything a solo traveler could want.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Sure New Orleans is the go-to spot for an epic girl’s trip, but the city is so overflowing with historical landmarks, events, music, food, and nightlife that you’re guaranteed to be apart of a crowd, even without trying. Whether you want to stroll quietly through the garden district or grab a Hurricane and dance in the middle of Frenchmen Street, the “Crescent City” has something for every solo traveler.
Singapore
Clean, safe, and endlessly entertaining, Singapore is nearly perfect when it comes to solo travel destinations. Foodies will fall in love with the island’s symphony of flavors, and though Singapore is one of the most expensive places in all of South East Asia, it makes up for it with the gorgeous gardens, beaches, and kind people.
Peru
Peru is ideal for solo travelers because the country’s tourism infrastructure is just so enjoyable to navigate. There’s an abundance of art, history, and flavors to take in everywhere you go, and it’s simple to get to Machu Picchu from the bustling coastal capital Lima.
