The silver lining is that mistakes strengthen character and make for more interesting tales of adventure. If you've never traveled alone before, it might be difficult to decide where to go, much alone organize the rest of the trip. I've had the most fun in those places with convenient public transit and an abundance of cabs and rideshares. Beyond the gates of hotels and resorts, my favorite locations seem alive and secure. Keep in mind that places that worked well for one solitary traveler can be a living hell for another. While certain places may be fantastic for guys, they may be dangerous for women or racial minorities. Make sure a destination is a good fit for you by doing research beforehand, and take common-sense safeguards like checking your mobile device's coverage in your destination country.
Here Are The 7 Best Places For People Traveling Alone
1. Iceland
There's a reason Iceland has been a top travel destination year after year: it's a naturalist's paradise, with countless caves and caverns to discover, volcanoes and glaciers to climb, and relaxing geothermal spas to soak in. Plus, it was recently named the world's other very peaceful country by the Global Peace Index, so even solo travelers can feel safe exploring the country. Day trips from Reykjavik include visits to the Blue Lagoon and whale viewing at Faxaflói Bay. Thingvellir National Park is a great getaway for city dwellers, with its camping, hiking, and equestrian opportunities, as well as its freshwater Silfra fissure, which is renowned as one of the world's top diving locations.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica topped the most current edition of the Happy Planet Index, which compares the standard of living in 140 nations across issues of happiness, life expectancy, equality, and environmental impact. Whitewater rafting down the Reventazón River, ziplining through lush jungles, rappelling down waterfalls, as well as trekking throughout Arenal Volcano National Park are just a few of the many outdoor activities that make Costa Rica one of the world's happiest countries.
3. New Zealand
According to the International Peace Index, New Zealand has been the world's second-most tranquil country, making it a favorite destination for solo travelers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Those who like the outdoors will feel right at home in this nation, and it's also a great spot to meet other tourists. Travelers may enjoy a cruise around Milford Sound's fjords, rainforests, among waterfalls; heli-hike over Franz Josef Glacier; climb a portion of or the whole Tongariro Alpine Crossing; see the wonders of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves; or spot whales in the Bay of Plenty.
4. Mexico
Recommendations from other single travelers who have gone wherever you want can help you choose the best destination for your solo travel journey. Ciara Johnson, the founder of the travel blog Hey Ciara, is a seasoned solo female traveler who has visited 60 countries. What is her favorite place to visit by herself? Mexico. That Mexico becomes Johnson's preferred destination while traveling alone may come as a surprise to some. "I've been trekking around the area for months, and there's still so much to see. There is a wide variety of activities and sights to view, from swimming alongside whale sharks to touring Mayan ruins."
5. Switzerland
Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, and a train journey across the country may be the best way to see it. If you buy a Swiss Travel Pass, you can ride the trains, buses, and boats as much as you like while passing through the country's beautiful landscape of mountains, forests, and lakes. Once you reach your destination, you can get off to hike in the Alps, explore ancient castles, and sample the local wine. It's only natural to overindulge in milk chocolate when visiting the nation that came up with the idea. Take another chocolate-themed walking tour through Lucerne or Zürich, or stop by one of the many world-renowned chocolate manufacturers instead of just picking up a bar from Toblerone as well as Lindt at the corner shop.
6. Chile
According to Janice Waugh of Solo Traveler World, one of the greatest nations in which to travel alone is Chile. She explains that Santiago is a great place to begin since it is a sophisticated city with much to offer. "Afterwards, you may go south to the Chilean fjords and then continue on to Patagonia & Torres del Paine National Park, all of which are excellent trekking destinations for those with no prior hiking experience. You can combine some of the greatest trekking in the world with a cruise and a taste of metropolitan life all in the same vacation."
7. Netherlands
The Netherlands is an excellent location for the first solo traveler to test the waters of independence. In Amsterdam's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, it's best to follow the lead of the natives and explore the city on two wheels. Begin your bike tour of Amsterdam from Vondelpark, a well-liked urban park, and make your way to world-famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum while passing under the city's lovely canals and bridges. If you visit Holland between the middle of April and the second week of May, you'll be greeted with a beautiful display of tulips, the national flower.
Conclusion
Whether you're a graduating high school student or a middle-aged parent, taking a trip without anybody else is one of the most liberating and humiliating experiences you can have. You can go anywhere you want, whenever you want, and do anything you want. But you're also way out of your element. You may need to learn how to avoid social gaffes and insults in a different culture. There's a chance you'll fall short. The silver lining is that mistakes strengthen character and make for more interesting tales of adventure.