10 of the best international destinations for travelling solo

A woman travelling in Thailand
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Many people feel anxious about travelling alone, but it can actually be very liberating. Not only are you visiting new places and seeing the world, you are doing it on your own time. You can choose where you go and when, putting your needs first without anyone else’s opinions blocking your view. You will meet new people, have unique experiences, and discover who you really are. To help start your journey, take a look at the best destinations to travel alone.

New Zealand

New Zealand

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Lush green countryside and an entire country lined with ocean views. New Zealand is not just for fans of Frodo—although there are some amazing Lord of the Rings attractions—it is a country of epic landscapes and adventure tourism. Oh, and don’t forget to check out a game of rugby; cheering for the All Blacks is the best way to fit in with the locals.

If you’re feeling brave and looking for some adventure, head to the South Island. Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand and provides endless excitement, such as bungee jumping, zorbing, skydiving, whitewater rafting, and horseback riding. There is also some great nightlife, so when you’re done with mountains, glaciers, and coastlines, head to a local pub for some great food and friendly company.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands

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Thanks to Amsterdam’s coffee shops and red light district, many people view the city as a party destination; however, Amsterdam offers so much more. The city itself is quite small, so renting a bike is a viable travel solution, and not only will you get to experience more on two wheels, you will also be part of the thriving cyclist life.

There are cozy cafes, endless museums, funky nightclubs, and tons of green space. You will see windmills, bridges, and houseboats on a regular basis, and each winding street will provide more curiously thin, unbelievably tall, lines of colourful houses that lean forward towards the canals. For something extra special, visit the city during the King’s Day celebrations, when the entire city becomes a street fair.

Croatia

Croatia

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Croatia is becoming a popular destination of late. Not only was it used for filming scenes from Game of Thrones, it is also located on the sparkling shores of the Adriatic. The Adriatic Sea is like a dream, it’s the perfect temperature for swimming, is clear enough to see your toes at the bottom, and it shimmers a bright turquoise blue in the sunlight.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a historic walled city right on the sea, with endless opportunities for spectacular photographs and unexpected vistas. Be sure to rent a sea kayak to experience the city from outside the walls, and try some fresh seafood from one of the many delicious restaurants inside the city. If you have time, head to Hvar Town for more great architecture, night life, and stunning views of the Adriatic.

Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia

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Indonesia is appealing on many levels; it’s beautiful, it’s cheap, and it’s super laid-back. You can pretty much travel anywhere in Indonesia to enjoy temples, massages, beautiful beaches, outdoor yoga, delicious food, and general spiritual getaways, but Bali is a popular choice for backpackers and solo travellers.

If you’re looking for something a little less touristy, Lombok is just as beautiful and holds a steady reputation among travellers. If surfing and diving are on your bucket list, Lombok is the place to go, thanks to the clear waters and ample tour possibilities. Lombok also has lush green countryside, a volcano, hot springs, and waterfalls. It will be hard to leave such a paradise.

Ireland

Ireland

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If listening to Celtic music while sipping on a pint of tasty beer sounds appealing, Ireland is the place for you. With endless rolling hills, dense coastlines, and sacred sites, you’ll easily get lost in the mystical history of this great country.

Dublin, a UNESCO City of Literature, is a great place to start. The city has many great museums and a rich history, along with the Guinness Storehouse. If you’re feeling lonely, it’s easy to just pop into a nearby pub and swap stories with the locals over a glass of Irish whiskey or a pint of local microbrew, and don’t forget to try some champ or shepherd’s pie while you’re at it.

Iceland

Iceland

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Iceland is quite possibly the safest solo destination, but that doesn’t mean it won’t satisfy your travel needs. Iceland is the place to go if you love outdoor adventure travel. The capital is Reykjavik, and while it might be difficult to pronounce, it’s a great home base for all your Iceland adventures.

In Reykjavik you can enjoy some natural wonders by heading to the Blue Lagoon to relax in the outdoor geothermal hot springs. The water is rich in minerals, and the view is unbelievable. From Reykjavik, you can head out on day trips and adventure excursions to ride horses across the rugged tundra or go whale and seal watching along the coast.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica

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In comparison to Europe and Asia, Central America is still relatively untouched by popular travel. It remains an adventure destination, full of eco-tourism, outdoor adventure, and wildlife encounters. The Pacific coast is well known as a surfing and white-water rafting haven, where travellers can also experience unforgettable excursions into the cloud forests and lush jungle, enjoying canopy zip-lining, countless waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries.

For a taste of Costa Rican city life, try San Jose City. It’s found at 3,690 feet above sea level and is smack dab in the middle of Central Valley, so everywhere you look there are views of rolling hillsides and volcanic peaks. There are some great museums to visit, as well as open-air markets, a lively nightlife, and freshly roasted coffee.

Japan

Japan

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There are many safe travel zones for solo adventurers in Asia, including Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea. If you only have time to experience one country, then Japan is your best bet for great food, amazing cultural experiences, and friendly people. Japan is a country of contrasts; bright neon cities and untouched country landscapes. You can experience the best of both worlds.

Tokyo is a megalopolis, with intense cityscapes brightly lit and bustling with people day and night. In Tokyo you will taste the best sushi and ramen you have ever had, stroll through the most beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy nightlife like you have never seen before. Make sure to visit the Imperial Palace before hopping on a bullet train past Mount Fuji to visit old Kyoto’s Zen gardens and communal hot springs.

Chile

Chile

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It’s time to head south and check another continent off your list. South America is quickly becoming the favourite for solo travellers. The locals are welcoming, the scenery is beautiful, and all the other travellers you meet are up for anything. The country itself has mountains, never-ending coastlines, deserts, and even glaciers, making it the perfect destination for adventure.

The Atacama Desert is unlike anything else in the world, and after you’ve captured some stunning photographs of dunes, mountains, and wide-open skies, a trip to Patagonia is in order to shoot some moving icebergs and the great glacial walls of snow and ice. When it’s time to head back to the city, visit Santiago to enjoy some delicious food, trendy bars, local art, and unusual architecture.

Canada

Canada

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Canada is the world’s second largest country, and it is one of the safest for solo travellers. Although some of the most beautiful spots are in the Canadian wilderness, where lakes, forests and open skies abound, the safest places to visit as a solo traveller are the cities. Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are all worth a visit, and will keep you busy with cultural attractions, physical excursions, and friendly locals.

However, if you feel like heading off the beaten path, Newfoundland might be secluded, but it is filled with charm and promises a unique experience involving a kiss from a fish. Algonquin Park in Ontario will let you get up close and personal with nature, while not getting too lost in the woods, and Whistler, B.C., is the perfect destination for anyone interested in winter sports and mountain views.


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