A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether it be a multicountry trip or a city break, some regions are more suited to a solo travel experience.
Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, no matter what you’re interested in.
best for adventure
South America:
With mountains, rivers, ancient ruins and jungles, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. Don’t let its size daunt you – it's more conducive to solo travel than you may think.
The well-worn Gringo Trail promotes recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and, for those inclined, provides ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction.
This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes travel relatively simple.
best for self-reflection
Ubud, Indonesia:
Bali’s artistic and spiritual center is a great place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud is a magical place.
Solo travel is extremely common here, meaning no more probing glances upon arrival at a morning yoga class or when dining at one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes.
To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills surrounding the town.
best for a group tour
East Africa:
Have you dreamed of seeing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda, meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya or spotting the Big Five in Tanzania - but lack the confidence to tackle East Africa independently?
Opting for a group tour means you can bundle in a number of big animal-viewing experiences together in multiple countries, without getting hit by lone traveler supplements.
best for food
Vietnam:
Subtle in flavors and outstanding in diversity, Vietnamese cooking is a huge draw for travelers, who’re lured into lingering at cramped tables swapping travel tales over a fifth plate of bánh cuốn.
All over the country, you can mingle with locals and sample dishes in Vietnam’s many regional markets, while street food tours and cooking schools foster social environments in major cities.