Travelling solo may not be something you would consider, but it can be an exercise in self-discovery and self-empowerment.
For many people, the pandemic restrictions highlighted how easily our freedom of movement can be taken away, and this has encouraged more people to travel solo without waiting for a better time or for friends to join.

A lifetime of travelling alone

“When you travel solo, you have the opportunity to meet new people and make lifelong connections.” – Unknown

Inspirational 89-year-old Joy Fox recounts her lifetime of solo travelling and she shares her tips with newbies to ease into it.

"Go and eat out a few times, so that you're used to eating out on your own when you go abroad," she advised. "I like my own company, I'm happy as a solo person, but it's important to get used to [it]."

She either plans her trips by herself or uses a travel agent. She prefers women-owned accommodations because she feels safer, and safety is her number one priority. She also advises getting off the beaten track to experience things tourists wouldn’t ordinarily see.

Despite her age, her travel list continues to grow, and she hopes she can tick off all the places on her list. 

While solo travel opens up plenty of new opportunities to meet others along your journey, it's important to also be mindful of avoiding awkward and potentially dangerous situations. Safety is feeling comfortable while walking by yourself, walking around at night time, and a feeling of reassurance that you’re safe. In this article, we have selected a few destinations that are considered safe when travelling alone.

Iceland: An adventurer's paradise

Known as the "land of fire and ice," Iceland attracts nature enthusiasts and solo adventurers.

The country is blessed with a myriad of caves, black-sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, active volcanoes, and bubbling geysers. This Nordic gem offers unparalleled landscapes to explore.

Reykjavik, the capital city, offers must-visit spots like the rejuvenating Blue Lagoon, a whale-watching excursion in Faxaflói Bay and the tranquil Laugarvatn Fontana for solo relaxation.

Further afield, Thingvellir National Park beckons with camping, hiking trails, horseback riding, and the mesmerising Silfra fissure, a diver's paradise renowned worldwide.

What sets Iceland apart for solo travellers is its unmatched safety record. Continuously lauded as one of the safest destinations globally in the Global Peace Index due to its low crime rates and inclusive society, Iceland assures worry-free exploration. It's an experience that belongs on every traveller's bucket list.

Iceland's allure as a premier destination stems from its outdoor wonders - from exploring caverns to hiking glaciers and indulging in geothermal spas. Renowned for its tranquillity, Iceland ranks as the world's most peaceful country, ensuring solo travellers can immerse themselves in its natural splendour without a care.

• Read our article: The Safest Countries in the World

Australia: From coast to outback, a solo traveller's guide

Australia boasts a vastness that can initially seem overwhelming, especially for solo travellers. But classic routes stretching from Adelaide to Brisbane offer adventurers a chance to explore a variety of captivating towns, each boasting its spectacular ocean vistas. Renowned for their sociability, Australians ensure that meeting new people is effortless in this remote corner of our planet.

This popular solo travel destination is widely recognized for its exceptional safety and diverse attractions.

Begin your journey in Sydney, with a friendly atmosphere and thriving cultural, culinary, and sporting scenes. Take a stroll around Sydney Harbour or bask in the sun-kissed sands of Bondi Beach.

Chase epic waves in Victoria before indulging in a coffee shop crawl aboard Melbourne's iconic tram system.

Alternatively, lace up your hiking boots in Tasmania to immerse yourself in Australia's pristine natural beauty. And for underwater enthusiasts, the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef beckon just off the coast of Far North Queensland.

While flying between destinations is often preferred due to the country's immense size, renting a car for an Australian road trip offers freedom and adventure. Alternatively, opt for a nostalgic journey aboard The Ghan, traversing the vast Outback on a rail odyssey from Adelaide to Darwin.

Botswana: Safari adventures and solo exploration in Africa

If you're eager to explore the marvels of Africa, Botswana emerges as a top contender. Famous for its abundant wildlife, nearly 40% of Botswana's land is designated as national parks.

From the iconic Okavango Delta to the sprawling Kalahari Desert and the majestic Chobe National Park, this country boasts world-class safari experiences, offering encounters with diverse animals, including giraffes and rhinos.

Botswana stands out as a beacon of political and economic stability within Africa, consistently ranking high on safety indexes. Furthermore, the widespread proficiency in English among locals eases navigation for solo travellers, making it an ideal destination to explore by yourself.

Canada: Adventures in the great white north

Canada frequently tops the list for solo travellers because this vast country is renowned for its friendly people and diverse attractions. From the majestic Rockies to the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls and the pristine wilderness of Banff National Park, the Great White North offers boundless adventures for explorers.

Toronto, hailed as one of the world's most multicultural cities, brims with vibrant energy and artistic flair, while Vancouver captivates with its striking cityscapes against breathtaking natural landscapes. Despite the occasionally inclement weather, the warmth of the Canadian people shines through, enriching solo travel experiences.

From the slopes of British Columbia to the cosmopolitan allure of Toronto, Canada promises an array of entertainment options for solitary adventurers. Accessible by quick flights or reasonable drives, the country boasts a traveller-friendly environment with familiar language, favourable exchange rates, and efficient transportation systems.

In Toronto, immerse yourself in the arts and culture of the Harbourfront Centre, indulge in culinary delights at St. Lawrence Market, or wander through the city's diverse neighbourhoods. Meanwhile, in Vancouver, embark on scenic bike rides along the waterfront or brave the dizzying heights of the Capilano Suspension Bridge, offering panoramic views of lush woodlands below.

For nature enthusiasts, Alberta beckons with the renowned Banff National Park, boasting crystalline glacial lakes and majestic Rocky Mountain vistas awaiting exploration.

Vietnam: A land of beauty and history

Vietnam's beauty and complex history make it a captivating destination, particularly for solo travellers. As the country emerged as a popular hotspot, a vibrant social scene flourished, offering numerous opportunities to connect with like-minded adventurers along the well-trodden tourist routes. With iconic destinations like Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, and the Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam attracts tourists with its rich tapestry of experiences.

Benefiting from excellent transport networks, affordability, and a plethora of welcoming hostels, Vietnam caters to the particular needs of solo travellers.

Whether cruising through the mesmerising Bai Tu Long Bay from Hạ Long, exploring the vast chambers of Hang Sơn Đoòng, which is the most extensive natural cave; or immersing yourself in the magical ambience of Hội An's full moon festival, where scores of lanterns float down the river, endless adventures await.

In Ho Chi Minh City, delve into the culinary delights of Bến Thành Market and Vietnam War history with visits to the War Remnants Museum and the Củ Chi Tunnels. Meanwhile, in Hanoi, embark on a journey through the capital's rich historical and cultural heritage, punctuated by casual strolls around the picturesque Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Chile: Solo exploration in South America's gem

Chile stands out in South America for its exceptional quality of life and notably low crime rate, making it an ideal destination for solo travellers.

It boasts a close-knit community of backpackers and plenty of attractions waiting to be explored.

In the north, the Atacama Desert, renowned as the driest desert on Earth, beckons with its otherworldly landscapes, while Santiago, the vibrant capital, offers many cultural delights. Chile has a superb selection of local beer and wine, while its high-altitude locations make it a premier destination for stargazing enthusiasts.

The country's diverse landscape presents endless opportunities for exploration. Whether trekking through Torres del Paine National Park, marvelling at the San Rafael Glacier in Patagonia, summiting an active volcano in the Lake District, or camping beneath the dazzling night sky in the Atacama Desert, Chile promises adventures to suit every taste.

In Santiago, a fusion of adventure and culture awaits. Whether on foot or by bicycle, the city invites you to hike San Cristóbal Hill or Santa Lucía Hill for sweeping views of the city below. You can immerse yourself in the unique ambience of the Bellavista neighbourhood's boutique shops, cafes, and cocktail bars, or explore the rich heritage showcased in its numerous museums and art galleries.

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