Traveling alone is quickly becoming a popular vacation choice for many reasons. Today, more people are staying single, and Google makes it easier to navigate than ever before. The Telegraph reports that, in 2017, nearly one out of eight people in the 18-24-year-old range said they’d gone on vacation alone. Some say it shakes things up and exposes you to different people and cultures, as well as helps you build confidence.Six of the most amazing places to visit if you are planning to travel Solo. Take a look at this list for some solo travelers inspiration.
Here are some of the best places for solo travelers to visit:
- Norway
You may not connect Norway with warm weather, midnight sun, and plenty of outdoor activities to do because many people think of snow and cold weather when they think of Norway. But all of this is true if you travel to Norway in the summer. There are parks, museums, and great restaurants in the country’s capital, Oslo. Cruise around fjords on the Hurtigruten steamer, where you’ll stop at many ports to dog sled, kayak, and more.
In northern Norway, you can take a cable car ride up the Storsteinen where you’ll find a great observation deck to take in the majestic scenery over Tromsø and the islands surrounding it. The Northern Lights are truly a sight to behold, so plan a trip to Norway from November to March, which is the peak season of the aurora borealis. Norway is a beautiful scenic country that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
- Indonesia-Lombok and the Gili Islands
Lombok and the Gili Islands are not as famous as their neighbor Bali, which makes them the perfect solo traveler’s destination. This location is excellent for diving, snorkeling, and learning how to surf. Opulent emerald paddy fields give way to the colossal Gunung Rinjani volcano with hot springs and picturesque waterfalls.
The three small Gili Islands are easy to get to, with Gili Trawangan the most renowned for its fun nightlife. There are many high-season parties at different venues, and the low season has fun full-moon parties. You can find them using the flyers disbursed all over the island, and most kick-off at 11 p.m.
- Ireland
Ireland is on the vacation bucket list for many people, and it’s not surprising, considering its history and beautiful scenery. The country welcomes travelers to sit down in a traditional pub and mingle with the locals. If you buy the person next to you a pint, you’ve made a friend.
If you’re lucky, you may get to see a Celtic musical performance. Having your own transportation is the easiest way to visit Ireland’s remote west coast, and it’s worth the trip. You can see Ireland’s most sacred sites—Rock of Cashel, Croagh Patrick, and Skellig Michael.
- San Diego, California
Perhaps, for your first trip, you’d rather stay in the country? Then San Diego is a fabulous vacation spot. San Diego has so many places to do fun activities if you’re traveling alone. Surf and lie in the sun at Pacific Beach or party at night in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. La Jolla has great places to shop, and you can also visit the seals.
Visit San Diego in July so you can go to the popular and funny Comic-Con. It’s the largest yearly convention dedicated to U.S. pop culture and comics. Strap on your tactical backpack and men’s tactical boots for a hike in a state park close by. You shouldn’t visit San Diego without seeing the San Diego Zoo.
While you’re there, stay at La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla, Curio Collection on Coronado Island, or the famous Hotel del Coronado.
- Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the best beach destinations for the lone traveler. Nosara, La Fortuna, Santa Teresa, Puerto Viejo, and Tamarindo are friendly places to start your visit, with hostels such as the Tamarindo Backpackers that are perfect for the solo adventurer. Find your people while climbing volcanic mountains or exploring a cave, or hang out with the surfers and yogis on the beach.
Costa Rica is one of the planet’s most biodiverse countries, and its people prioritize the preservation of wildlife, land, and renewable energy. There are many outside adventures based on green wind and hydro energy. It’s the perfect place for eco-minded vacationers. You can zipline, kayak, and mountain bike across the nation, and it’s easy to do even if you’re on your own. Eat at restaurants that focus on sustainable resources and trendy cafes. Costa Rica is a beautiful and exotic vacation destination with plenty to do for the person traveling on their own.
- The Greek Islands
The Greek Islands have plenty to offer, with party locations and entire beautiful coastlines dedicated to mainstream tourism, but they also offer a place to escape from the rest. Visit a traditional Hellenic village or find a pristine beach off-season and stay with locals for a completely different experience.
Travel the ferries with ease between a few of the 6,000 islands that Greek sovereign land incorporates. Only 227 of the islands are populated, and that’s still many more than most of us are aware of. Visit colorful towns on the coast with beautiful beaches and hidden bays and coves. Many islands are included in the Blue Flags of Europe Program, one of the world’s leading voluntary eco-labeled awards that recognize sustainable boating, marinas, and beaches.
Some of the oldest European civilizations began in the Greek Islands, most notably those of the Minoan and Cycladic people. Some islands have unique archaeological sites with intriguing local traditions and exceptional architecture. Crete has Phaestos and Ayia Nikolaos and the Minoan Knossos.
When traveling in unfamiliar areas, you should also pack a legal self-defense tool or accessory to defend yourself from possible threats. If you plan on walking or hiking even just for a day, bring water and at least some energy or protein bars in case you get stranded or lost. It’s also a good idea to carry your smartphone if you need to call for help. You can switch to an international plan just before you travel if you’re going to another country. Research the location you’re going to visit to see if there are other supplies you should bring on your trip.
These six locations are paradises for solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for the best restaurants to eat at, taking in local history, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying the thrilling nightlife or outdoor adventures, these places can fulfill any bucket list. All you need to do now is pick one and start making your plans for an epic travel journey. Maybe all these places will make your list and you can start the process of checking them off.
