My 10 Favorite Places to Travel Solo

If you are like me then that means you don’t always have the luxury of finding someone to travel with you. Most people don’t have the flexibility or even the desire to go to far away areas of the world. Most would rather say they’d love to travel than to take the initiative to make it happen. However, not having someone to go with you doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go! In fact, some of my favorite trips I’ve taken have been solo trips. Not because of any reason other than the fact you can do what you want, when you want. You have the liberty to be completely selfish and it is an insanely liberating feeling. Being completely content on your own and figuring it out as you go gives you a sense of pride and confidence that will stick even after the trip. Even if you can only take off for a weekend-GO! Do it. I can promise you that you won’t regret it. Looking for some advice or inspiration on where to travel alone? Well, here you go! These are my favorite solo travel destinations:

1. Japan

Japan all-in-all is pretty much heaven. It’s unbelievably picturesque, has incredible food, and some of the sweetest locals. Every city feels vastly different with the its vibe- you can have the bustling city or zen countryside.  With the very efficient train system it’s easy to get around which is a plus for solo travelers! The people are very friendly and if they can speak English I guarantee you they will be trying to talk to you. I never once felt lonely being there. On my visit I only visited Kyoto, Mount Fuji, and Tokyo but plan on returning one day to explore more. Click here for more about Japan!

 

 

2. Nepal 

This was my first country I ever visited solo. I know what you’re thinking- Nepal? Seriously? Yup- seriously. I got a wild hair up my butt and decided that if I was going to try to go somewhere on my own this was going to be the place. I’m sure glad that I mustered up the courage to go because it was INCREDIBLE. I won’t lie, I did hire a guide for my trip to plan with hotels, etc but I’d still recommend doing that. The language barrier is difficult if you are on your own, except if you visit Pokhara where there are a lot of Westerners about to embark on different treks. On my week long tour I visited Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bandipur , Chitwan, and Bhaktipur. It was a life changing experience and I can’t recommend Nepal enough. Click here for more on Nepal!

 

 

3. Antigua, Guatemala

I, on a completely whim, decided to book a ticket down to this picturesque little city for the weekend. From the moment my taxi entered the city I felt differently. The colors, the vibrancy, the history, the architecture- it all blew me away. I spent a long weekend in pure bliss exploring all that Antigua had to offer. This might be my favorite city of all time. I know, that’s quite the statement but I mean it! I absolutely fell in love with the vibe of this magical colonial town. Oh, and the food there is amazing. Click here for more on Antigua!

 

 

4. Georgia 

Nope, not the state- the country! Didn’t know it existed? Me neither, until I visited Ukraine and fell in love with the post-Soviet country vibe. Georgia is BEYOND words magical. The people are the sweetest in the world and the food is some of the best I’ve ever tasted. I spent a week there exploring Tbilisi, Mesita, Ushguli, Kakheti, Signagi, Kazbegi, and so much more. It was the most beautiful country I think I’ve seen and still to this day my heart yearns for Georgia. Click here for more on Georgia!

 

 

5. Bhutan

When I was booking my trip to Nepal, I knew while I was over there that I had to visit Bhutan. Most have never heard of this small Himalayan country but the second you google it you’re hooked. Its one of the most beautiful countries I’ve seen and from the moment you land you feel- indescribably different in the most euphoric way possible. This beautiful, vibrant country is still very much rich in their traditions, having being the last country to open its doors to tourism not that long ago. When visiting, you have to apply for a visa and pay a fee for each day you want to visit. It may seem hefty but what you don’t know is that the visa fee for each day covers your hotel, food, guide, and driver. YES. It’s amazing- and perfect for solo travel! They work with you on what you’d like to see and once you’re there you will have the time of your life I promise. Click here for more on Bhutan!

 

 

6. Istanbul, Turkey

I’m sure most of you (especially women) wouldn’t think to travel to Istanbul alone. On my way back from Georgia I had a layover in Istanbul that turned into almost a week of being there due to a hurricane hitting my home. I made lemonade out of those lemons and Istanbul really blew me away. Most people wouldn’t think that being a blonde in an Islamic country would be a good idea but I’ve very much found that to not be true. As long as you dress respectfully you won’t be bothered. Istanbul is an absolutely beautiful city and I loved exploring. I walked just about everywhere you could go and would love to go back one day! Click here for more on Istanbul!

 

 

8. Chile

Santiago, the capital of Chile, is an absolutely amazing city. Vibrant, clean, beautiful, and filled with life- and food. This city is easy to navigate around and there is so much to see and do. After exploring Santiago I HIGHLY encourage you to go out to the wine country of Colchuaga Valley. It is beyond words amazing and the wines are to die for. After that (or before) hop in a plane and head to Pucon and Huilo Huilo which is the Lakes & Volcano District of Northern Patagonia. The untouched beauty of this area everyone should see at some point in their life. I am dying to get back down there to explore- it really is an incredible country. Click here for more on Chile!

 

 

9. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Ugh, Amsterdam. You absolute beauty. Amsterdam is probably the only city in the world that I wish I could live in. The picturesque canals, houses, food, and flowers galore make this city unbeatable. It’s very easy to navigate your way around and there is always something to do or see. I’ve been to Amsterdam a few times and I find every time I go the less I want to return. The best part about Amsterdam is that no matter what season it is- it’s always beautiful. Click here for more on Amsterdam!

 

 

10. Doha, Qatar

Once again most people have not even heard of this country-but you will! This Middle Eastern gem is SOO much cooler than Dubai. It’s rich in traditions, history, culture, and just plain rich. I visited Doha not really knowing what to expect and boy, was it just amazing. I loved every second of being there and can’t recommend it enough. Go soon, because Doha will be on everyone’s list here soon I’m sure. One again, never felt unsafe- even though this is an Islamic country! They’re very accepting people and were super nice. Click here for more on Doha!