Exploring the world by yourself can be an empowering experience for a woman. You have the freedom to go where you want, eat when you choose, see and do what interests you and skip what doesn’t. No consultation, consensus or compromise required. It can be a confidence-boosting rush of self-discovery. But some women are a little intimidated to go it alone. They focus on potential obstacles like getting lost, feeling lonely, keeping healthy, ᴀvoιᴅιɴԍ нᴀʀᴀssмᴇɴт oʀ sтᴀʏιɴԍ sᴀғᴇ. The fact is, solo women do face some challenges when they leave the comfort zone of home. With careful planning, commonsense street smarts and a regard for the local culture, you can minimize the risks and maximize your chances of a rewarding trip.
Norway
Vikings aside, Norway has a worldwide reputation for being a safe and friendly destination – two major criteria for a lone female traveler. Scandinavian countries always top the list in terms of quality of life and happiness ratings. Norwegians are particularly welcoming and proud of their culture. They seem genuinely happy to lend a helping hand, give directions or offer a suggestion to a visitor. Most speak some English (and often a few other languages too), so a communication barrier isn’t a big concern.
Japan
Japan is another destination ideal for the solo woman. It has exotic Asian appeal but is relatively clean, polite, efficient and orderly – rather remarkable for a country with such a high population density. Their public transportation system is easy to navigate, both in urban and rural areas. The language barrier may be a challenge, but that’s all part of the adventure. Most Japanese are thrilled when you attempt even a word in their ɴᴀтιvᴇ тoɴԍuᴇ, and many want to practice their English with you.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the destination for women seeking a taste of the pura vida. Whether you want active adventure, a nature immersion or a relaxing retreat, you’ll find endless options here. Zip-line through the rainforest, hike a cloud forest trail, learn to surf or ride the white-water rapids
The Netherlands
Holland is a compact country that’s easy to get around, so women wanderers can pack a lot in on a short trip. No need to plan a sтʀιcт agenda. Ride a bike alongside the canals or just get lost meandering the blissful city streets of Amsterdam, Utrecht or Maastricht.
Bali
The whole Eat, Pray, Love phenomenon has put Bali on the map for a wide range of women travelers. Young backpackers, adventurous singletons, souʟ-sᴇᴀʀcнιɴԍ ᴅιvoʀcᴇᴇs ᴀɴᴅ ᴇмᴘтʏ-ɴᴇsт wιᴅowᴇʀs all find their place. You may start off traveling alone, but you don’t have to be lonely here. There are many opportunities to meet like-minded people from all over the world at a guesthouse, cafe, yoga class, temple or tour.
New Zealand
New Zealand rates as one of the best places to travel alone because of its down-to-earth people, varied natural wonders and range of activity options.