Many people go on solo adventures to “discover themselves” and explore their identities. Being alone also teaches you that you don’t need anyone to make you feel whole. Being alone is good for the mind and can even help you manage social anxiety and stress.
Keep in mind that what was ideal for some solo travelers can be disastrous for others. Some may be great for men but dangerous for women or people of color. Do some research before you go on vacation to make sure the place is right for you.
Here is a list of the best travel destinations for a solo trip.
Balinese
Bali is the ideal destination for a solo vacation in heaven. A Washington Post contributor claims that after her first visit to Bali in 2015, she felt the urge to return to spend more alone time, feel safe and comfortable while surfing, eating, making new friends, the language learns and explores the coast and nearby islands.
San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico
The village of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the Chiapas highlands makes this list for its open-air markets, textile artists and Spanish colonial architecture.
Sample the tamales, roasted plantains and other fruits the city has to offer along with guavas, apples and passion fruit.
Istanbul
Saghar Setareh, food writer, photographer and cookbook author, has developed a list of criteria to help you determine if a place is suitable for solo travelers. Istanbul has it all: efficient public transport, a rich cultural and historical offering, and an intriguing dining scene to explore at a range of price points.
Denver
Denver tops the list of “Best (and Worst) Travel Destinations for Introverts.” That’s according to data from VacationRenter, which took into account factors like population density, walking ability, and variety of activities. This makes sense as Denver has a laid-back vibe and is easy to navigate, with options for all types of solo travelers.
Amsterdam
One of the safest cities in the world, Amsterdam’s architecture, parks, restaurants and nightlife attract solo travelers. The Dutch capital was travel writer Ali Wunderman’s first stop when he was traveling alone, and has long been a favorite of those with similar experiences.
Japan
Tokyo is the obvious destination, especially for those who might be uncomfortable traveling alone. The restaurants, pubs, and public toilets here cater to solo travelers. You can stay in the country’s capital for the duration of your trip or take the train to explore other unique regions of Japan, including bustling Osaka, the beaches of Okinawa and hilly Sapporo.
Tanzania
Chanice “Queenie” Williams, founder of blog and travel planning service Fly with Queenie, says her solo trip to Tanzania this summer was the right combination of relaxation and excitement. With cities, national parks and beaches on the itinerary, it was “perfect for solo travellers, especially women who don’t feel comfortable alone”.
san francisco
Stroll the city’s 49 square miles to get a taste of everything from the amazing atmosphere of the Outer Sunset to the beachfront Embarcadero, stopping along the way to sit at the bar at one of the many restaurants.
Ponza, Italy
Visitors are advised to hire a boat to explore the island’s gorgeous bays, says Katie Parla, author of forthcoming cookbook Food of the Italian Islands. Parla remarked: “It’s pure freedom to rent a scooter and cruise around the volcanic contours of Ponza on your way to an aperitivo or dinner in the village of Le Forna while the sun sets over neighboring Palmarola in the distance.”
san francisco
Stroll the city’s 49 square miles to get a taste of everything from the amazing atmosphere of the Outer Sunset to the beachfront Embarcadero, stopping along the way to sit at the bar at one of the many restaurants.
Mexico City
For any solo traveler, Anais Martinez, a food writer and gourmet tour guide based in Mexico City, suggests visiting her hometown. As one of the greatest cities in the world, it’s packed with delicious food in every price range, parks and public squares to people-watch, museums and archeological sites to explore.
