Traveling alone is becoming more and more popular with women in Generation Z; a recent poll found that over half of them would consider doing so. This indicates that a greater number of women than ever are traveling to remote locations in quest of new acquaintances, intriguing experiences, and diverse cultures. However, what should they know and where should they go?
Read More: best solo female travel destinations
With well-traveled backpacker routes, amiable natives, and opportunities to meet new people or spend quality alone time, a few nations are recognized to be quite safe and simple to traverse for women seeking adventure. Here are nine of the top travel spots for women traveling alone, along with helpful safety tips.
The top places for women traveling alone
1. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, the little island that resembles a teardrop, is a great place for female travelers to start their journey across South Asia since it is like India in miniature yet has its own distinct appeal. Popular with hikers, it’s the ideal length for a week or month of touring historic Unesco sites like Sigiriya and Dambulla, or visiting tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya. Additionally, the golden beaches of Arugam Bay, Mirissa, and Hikkaduwa offer beachside accommodations, surfing, and delectable local cuisine for a wonderful getaway.
2. Portugal
Portugal is becoming known as the ideal place for lone travelers since more and more digital nomads are relocating there. In addition to the Baroque castles and palaces, hiking paths, and expansive beaches, there are also hipster hangouts for backpackers, a growing number of co-working spaces, and adorable cafés where you can have a pastel de nata as a snack. There are rolling vineyards in the Douro Valley, historical cobblestone alleys in Lisbon, and opportunities for water sports and whale viewing in the southern Algarve. It’s also easy to go around by bus, rail, and automobile.
3. The Czech Republic
What more could a single female traveler ask for when the cuisine is delicious, the beverages are inexpensive, and the cities are breathtakingly beautiful? The Old Town Square, Prague Castle, and the Charles Bridge may all be seen by strolling through the city’s winding alleyways. Prague is the capital of Czechia. Meeting people is also made easier for individuals who aren’t used to traveling alone with walking and bicycle tours of the city. Have you visited the gorgeous town of Český Krumlov? There are many wonderful day excursions, main attractions are accessible, and there is very little crime.
4. Japan
Japan’s courteous culture, manners, and customs make it one of the safest places on earth—not only for lone travelers, but for everyone who travels there. Although big cities like Tokyo might be intimidating, Japan offers a lot of safe havens for women, including women-only hotels and train carriages. You may go from volcanic hot springs and snow-capped mountains to white sand beaches and cascading rice terraces in a single journey with easy and effective transportation, such as the lightning-fast bullet train. Best of all, eating by yourself is accepted as usual in Japan!
5. Guatemala
The number of independent travelers is gradually increasing across Central America, and Guatemala is a favorite destination for female travelers traveling alone because of its excellent infrastructure, inexpensive dining options, and plenty of hostels and tour routes. Since most travelers take the same route to see the breathtaking Lake Atitlan, the historic pyramids at Tikal, and the glistening blue falls at Semuc Champey, making new acquaintances is easy. The vibrant streets of Antigua serve as an ideal starting point for exploring Guatemala’s well-known walk up Acatenango, which offers breathtaking views of Volcano Fuego erupting at dawn.
6. Vietnam
Thailand and Vietnam continue to be the most popular locations for women backpacking in Southeast Asia, although Vietnam is a fantastic place to start. The nation features mountains, beaches, islands, historic towns like Hoi An and Hue, as well as some of the greatest food in the area. It is connected by a popular tourism route that runs from the capital city of Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Thousands of other lone travelers will be traveling in the same direction, whether they choose to go by train, sleeper bus, or motorbike.
7. Australia
Due to its easy visa application procedure and beautiful East Coast tourism route, Australia is a popular destination for independent travelers. It’s safe and straightforward to arrange, especially if it’s your first time there. A stunning introduction to the nation is provided by Sydney’s bustling beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and picture-perfect buildings, such as the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Up north, the Great Barrier Reef provides jeep tours on Fraser Island and snorkeling cruises. Don’t worry too much about the other animals, though; sunlight, friendly Aussies, and lovely nature are all practically assured.
8. Greece
A solitary journey to Greece is an ideal setting for a Mamma Mia film. For those seeking sun, beach, and a little history on their own, the nation is an excellent first trip location. With the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Panathenaic Stadium among its many other historic treasures, Athens is among the oldest cities in the world. In addition to the popular islands of Corfu, Kefalonia, and Kos having the blue waters, beaches, and charming villages you’ve seen in movies and being easily accessible by boat, modern hotels and hostels ensure that you travel in comfort and can eat out on Mediterranean cuisine at reasonable costs.
9. The country of New Zealand
One of the safest destinations for lone female travelers is New Zealand, whether you decide to visit the North or South Islands separately or together. While in the nation, you may explore fjords, mountains, glaciers, and beaches by self-driving or by taking excursions. With a concentration of hostels and motels in Auckland, Queenstown, or Christchurch, the natural landscapes are ideal for adventure and road vacations. Nature enthusiasts will find much to do on this amazing outdoor location, which includes hiking, swimming, and kayaking. Despite the somewhat higher expenses, there are always other single female travelers looking to go with them.
Tips for being safe when traveling alone as a woman
Just before you go
Think ahead before packing.
Being stylish when packing doesn’t just mean wearing what you think is appropriate for the place you are visiting. To ensure you never go without a connection, make copies of your passport, driver’s license, and visas and have them close at hand along with cash and a phone charger or power bank. Try utilizing a money belt or bag with anti-theft protection, and lock your luggage whenever you can.
Install helpful applications
Download applications like maps.me if you’re traveling somewhere you’ve never been so you may always have access to instructions, even when you’re not connected. Download Backpackr to meet people of both genders or Tourlina, which is exclusive for women, if you want to meet other travelers. You can also always adjust the settings on dating apps to connect with individuals as friends. Use safety applications such as BSafe, which records your travel time to a designated contact in real time.
While on the road
As a single woman traveling alone, you may still be impulsive, but doing your homework ahead of time will guarantee that you are aware of key details such as your approximate itinerary, vital local phone numbers, and frequent travel scams.
Make sure you always have travel insurance and read reviews of hotels, trips, and guides. In conclusion, maintain an open mind, make an effort to socialize with new people, and remember that this is your vacation; nobody can stop you from taking a break, booking a five-star hotel, or rejoining a group if you so want.