Welcome solo adventurers! As a seasoned traveler and the voice behind Gophari, I understand the excitement and sometimes overwhelming challenge when you need to choose a solo travel destination.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my top tips and insights on how to pick a destination that caters specifically to solo travelers.
Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, safety, or simply a sense of wanderlust, let’s find the ideal destination for your next solo adventure.
What are the safest Countries for Solo travel?
Some countries are generally considered safe for solo travel due to low crime rates, political stability, and well-developed infrastructure. Every year, World Population Review shares a list of the safest countries in the world.
Here are a few examples of countries included in the list of the safest countries in the world:
- Japan
- Singapore
- New Zealand
- Canada
- Denmark
Just because these countries are said to be super safe doesn’t mean you can’t explore other places too. There are plenty of factors to think about.
So, let’s chat about some questions you might wanna ask yourself when you’re picking where to go on your solo adventure.
Is your destination a place where you Can easily meet people and other solo travellers?
Yes, deciding to solo travel does mean embarking on your trip alone. However, it does not need to mean that your full travel experience should be done solo.
Meeting other travellers while you solo travel can be one of the best parts of solo travel. In my experience, being alone encourages me to start conversations and meet new people.
But how and where do you meet people when you solo travel? And how do you meet other solo travellers?
If you are looking for a social experiences, choosing solo-travel friendly destinations should include some social checks. Picking a destination that offers social experiences is a good way to increase your chances of meeting other travellers.
Some examples include Tulum, Mexico and Cape Town, South Africa. Both of these destinations are buzzing with travellers, activities and social get-to-togethers.
Airbnb Experiences for solo Travel
A great starting point to join group activities is Airbnb Experiences. If you don’t already know, Airbnb Experiences is a platform provided by Airbnb that offers you the opportunity to book unique activities and experiences hosted by locals in various destinations around the world.
These experiences cover a range of interests, including cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, culinary tours, workshops, and more.
Niche Community groups for solo travel
There are also niche groups outside of Airbnb Experiences that you can consider. While preparing for my solo trip to Mexico, for example, I came across a community called Black In Tulum, which organises events and experiences for black travellers visiting Mexico. I went to one of their parties in Tulum and had such a great time!
How easy and safe is it to get around alone?
When picking your solo travel destination, consider the transport options the destination offers. The transport options available will guide you on how easily it will be to get from place to place alone.
Public transport is generally the cheapest way to get around. Research which public transport options are available (Bus, trains etc) and whether these are considered safe and reliable for tourists.
It’s also worthwhile checking if there are any particular areas to avoid.
A destination without (Or with limited) public transport may mean you’ll need to hire a car or use e-hailing services like Uber (If available). When considering car hire, you’ll need to check whether the roads are safe. Some parts of South Africa (Like the Wild Coast, Eastern Cape) have potholes and limited phone reception – making them, in my opinion, unsafe for solo drives.
Are the locals welcoming?
It’s not easy to find an answer to this question because friendliness is subjective. Complexity also comes in because different demographics can have different experiences in destinations. Travelnoire shared a post specifically about safe destinations for black women.
I find that the best way to go about researching this is from other travellers’ reviews and feedback.
There are many talented creators across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and blogs sharing helpful reviews of their travel experiences around the world.
I post across all of these channels as well 🙂 Swahili Gecko shared a list of African Influencers To Follow that you can browse through.
What are the accommodation options and do they cater well to solo Travellers?
When choosing accommodation as a solo traveler, it’s essential to consider factors such as safety, location, budget, and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Researching options and reading reviews from other solo travellers can help you find the perfect accommodation for your trip. Let’s breakdown some popular solo travel-friendly accommodation types.
Should I stay in a hostel?
Hostels/Backpackers are a popular choice for solo travellers, especially if you are on a budget. They offer dormitory-style accommodations where you can book a single bed in a shared room. Many hostels also have private rooms available for solo travellers who prefer more privacy.
During my first trip to New York, I stayed at Pod Times Square which is considered a hostel. I opted for a private room which was quite small but it had everything I needed. Check out my room tour video Pod Times Square of my room to get a better idea.
Choosing solo-travel-friendly hotels and guest houses
When you choose a solo travel destination, look for hotels with consistently positive feedback regarding cleanliness, safety, and customer service.
It’s helpful to Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, or Google Reviews to gauge the experiences of other solo travellers.
When booking a room at a hotel or guest house they may charge you a fee for booking the room alone. This is referred to as a single occupancy premium.
Generally, single occupancy rates tend to be lower than double occupancy rates since only one person is occupying the room. However, some hotels charge a premium for single occupancy. This is to make up for the loss of revenue from not booking the room to its full capacity.
Does the destination fit the purpose of the trip?
As you embark on your solo travel journey, remember that the destination you choose sets the stage for your adventure. By considering safety, ease of navigation, and opportunities for solo exploration, you can find the perfect destination that aligns with your interests and comfort level.
Whether you’re craving bustling city streets or serene natural landscapes, there’s a solo-travel friendly destination waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and let the journey begin!