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20 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: The Best Trip Destinations in the World (& The 5 Worst!)

by Aileen Adalid Solo Travel 5 comments

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More than ever, women from all over the world are now choosing to travel solo — this comes as no surprise because traveling alone is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. (Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers)

In fact, in America alone, there are about 32 million women who are traveling solo and that number keeps rising every year! But… as the number of solo female travelers is rising, the number of unsafe destinations is also increasing as they are slowly being brought to light.

I long for the day that I don’t have to write about which are the safest countries for solo female travelers; but the reality is that there are just some destinations that are more dangerous than others.

Looking for more solo travel tips?

Check out my solo travel guides and female travel tips !

Thankfully, journalists Asher and Lyric Ferguson helped make my research a lot easier when they created the “ Women’s Danger Index “. They basically ranked the top 50 countries with the most international tourists in order to see which are the worst and safest to visit. To do this, they utilized 8 danger factors as they put more weight on street safety and intentional homicide:

Safe to walk alone at night
Intentional homicide for women
Non-partner sexual violence
Intimate partner violence
Legal discrimination
Global gender gap
Gender inequality index
Violence against women attitudes .

As mentioned in their findings…

To measure safety abroad, one cannot look at only data on street safety, rape, or violence. It also depends on the general attitude of the culture, the minutiae of the legal system, and the systematic oppression of local women. These issues can affect everything, from easily getting a taxi alone to having your voice be heard in a conversation, to even needing a male escort for your personal safety. . A lot on our list, such as attitudes toward partner violence may not affect solo female travelers directly, but these factors are a good indication of overall attitudes within the culture.

So for all female travelers out there who are itching to book that plane ticket and tick off their bucket list destinations, below are the top 20 safest countries for solo female travelers (ordered by rank) that are ideal for both first-time and experienced female solo travelers.

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Table of Contents

» Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers «

Photo by: Shutterstock

Aside from being the second most visited destination in the world (just next to France) , Spain turned out to be the safest country for female solo travelers as per the Women’s Danger Index. After all, it ranks high in street safety along and has low legal discrimination as well as low violence rating against women.

So apart from the aforementioned reasons, there are also plenty of other reasons to visit this beautiful country: its scenic Mediterranean coastlines, endless servings of paella, rich culture, and fabulous architecture such as the Sagrada Familia among many others!

READ MORE: Spain Travel Guides

2. Singapore

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Singapore

This small island nation is considered the safest Asian country on the planet! The country scores high in more than half of the factors, with 92% of women claiming that they feel safe when walking alone at night — which I also personally find to be true.

So travel to your heart’s content when you’re in such a dynamic destination like Singapore! Marvel at how old and the new seamlessly coexist as it packs a lot of surprises for its visitors despite its small size. Some of the things you must NOT miss? As a start, don’t skip out on the Gardens by the Bay and Skyline Luge !

READ MORE: Singapore Travel Guides Singapore Layover (Things to Do)

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Ireland may not have the best weather, but you’ll love the fact that it has particularly low levels of discrimination, gender inequality, and violence against women. Not to mention, it is a breathtaking destination with laid-back cities, beautiful countryside, and vibrant culture.

So don’t forget to indulge yourself with some beer (how about a glass of Guinness ?) and explore glorious sights like the Cliffs of Moher for an incredible Irish experience!

READ MORE: Ireland Travel Guides

For many travelers, Austria is an almost perfect country and they even say that Austrians enjoy some of the best quality of life i n Europe . This notion trickles down and reveals itself in the study as it shows how Austria has some of the lowest levels of sexual violence and lowest gender inequality among the countries reviewed.

Aside from being one of the safest countries for solo travelers, Austria is truly a must-see destination for those who have a taste for fine culture .

READ MORE: Austria Travel Guides

5. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its stunning landscapes and fjords which are not limited to Mount Titlis , Jungfraujoch , and Grindelwald .

Aside from such promising beauty, Switzerland is the seventh (7th) most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Thus, it’s an incredibly safe country for a woman to travel alone. The country even performed very well when it came to street safety and low crime rates — I can attest to this fact because of my personal experiences.

One situation that always comes to mind was when I once left my wallet at a crowded train station to Matterhorn ; I only found out that I lost it when it was sunset ( as it was my cue to go back to my hotel ). ‘Lo and behold, the train staff held on to it and nothing was lost!

READ MORE: Switzerland Travel Guides

If I say so myself, it comes as no surprise that Norway (or any of the Scandinavian nations) is regarded as one of the most female-friendly countries in the world. With high standards of living, crime rates are found to be extremely low even in major cities such as Oslo and Stavanger .

With that said, it’s a must to try and do a road trip through this wonderful European city and chase the northern lights , hike to the famed Trolltunga or explore Arctic fjords !

READ MORE: Norway Travel Guides

7. Portugal

Portugal makes it to this list of the safest destinations for female travelers and it scores big points not only for its magnificent scenery but also for its good track record with women’s rights and cultures.

Some of the things to look forward to during your visit are the vibrant city of Lisbon , the dramatic views over Christ the King , and the turquoise-blue waters .

READ MORE: Portugal Travel Guides

Officially called the Republic of Croatia, this Mediterranean paradise features sapphire waters and pristine days — perfect for those who are seeking that premium European summer experience! Thankfully as well, crime in Croatia is relatively low, making it extremely safe for solo traveling, especially for females.

So don’t miss out on this country’s beauty and consider booking yourself a tour of the Plitvice Lakes or a sailing experience . I went solo on a 7-day sailing trip from Split to Dubrovnik before and I met a lot of amazing people, ate a lot of amazing Croatian delicacies, and did a lot of amazing experiences. True enough, it was one of the most amazing Eurotrip activities that I’ve done!

READ MORE: Croatia Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Canada

Canada attracts solo travelers for its safety, solid women’s rights record, and diverse range of scenery. In fact, of all the countries in North America, Canada is considered the safest destination for women travelers. Besides, Canadians have this worldwide reputation of being the friendliest people, and you’ll soon see why once you set foot in this spectacular country.

To add, it is home to a wide range of landscapes, including centuries-old forests, snow-covered mountains, breathtaking countrysides , and pristine lakes.

READ MORE: Canada Travel Guides

Did you know? This Eastern European country is regarded as the safest place in Europe according to OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) and it’s mainly due to its low crime rates and positive attitude towards tourists. Even in the capital of Warsaw , though there might be some petty crimes here and there, solo travellers and female travelers alike will still feel relatively safe, especially with how hospitable Polish people are.

For some of the top must-do’s, I recommend rediscovering the story of World War III by stopping at Auschwitz and the Schindler’s Factory .

READ MORE: Poland Travel Guides

11. United Kingdom

Comprised of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, this historic state packs a lot of allure for visitors of any kind — no matter if it’s from their bustling cities such as London or peaceful countrysides like Windsor .

To date, much like most European countries, traveling to the United Kingdom is very safe. For years, it is regarded as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers given that violent crime is rare. Though one of the reasons why it is placed a bit lower in this list is on how it ranks low on gender inequality and this can be somehow attributed to the pervasive ‘lad culture’ that has developed in the UK. Still and the same, for as long as you keep your wits with you, travel is generally regarded as safe.

READ MORE: United Kingdom Travel Guides

12. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a famous European destination where tradition and innovation intertwine. There is much to be desired here: from tulip fields to romantic city canal cruises , from Van Gogh paintings to the gnawing history of Anne Frank , and so much more!

And as a solo female traveler, you will be needing some caution especially in big cities like Amsterdam — but still and the same, the Netherlands is generally a safe country to explore in (your biggest concern might just be pickpockets) . Besides, the Dutch are laid-back folks who are fairly polite; plus, I have traveled to this country far too many times by myself, and I have never felt unsafe.

READ MORE: Netherlands Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: France

France is the most sought-after destination in Europe, and due to this popularity and ensuing crowdedness, it’s expected that most females don’t feel fully safe at night (especially in the big city of Paris ) . Nevertheless, it still earns its spot as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers because of how it puts high regard for women’s rights.

Truth be told, the country has a low gender gap according to Ampersand. Moreover, catcalling and street harassment are outlawed and placed with hefty on-the-spot fines.

So don’t let any of your fears stop you from flying to this popular destination as you finally witness the majestic Eiffel Tower , visit the Louvre Museum , explore the fantastical castle island of Mont Saint Michel , drive through the French Riviera , and more!

READ MORE: France Travel Guides

14. Denmark

As I previously mentioned, you should always expect Scandinavian countries to be on the list of safest countries for solo female travelers. Visitors will have little to worry about when it comes to crime, and women travelers also don’t have much to worry about when it comes to harassment. Crimes still occur, that’s a fact, but common sense should keep you out of trouble.

To make the most of your stay in Denmark, don’t forget to explore the Tivoli Gardens , take a trip to the ancient city of Roskilde, look for fossils at Møns Klint, sail a real Viking ship with the Viking Ship Museum, and so much more!

READ MORE: Denmark Travel Guides

When it comes to solo travel, Italy is an outstanding destination: it’s relatively safe and plenty of sights or activities to keep you occupied for a while! One of my favorite destinations in the country is Rome and even if it’s crowded, female travelers like I do will generally feel safe while exploring key places like the Colosseum , the Sistine Chapel , and Roman Forum among many others!

Of course, let’s not forget the other stunning cities of Florence , Venice , Naples … aaah , I can go on and on about Italy! All in all, there is just so much to see in this country, and as a solo traveler, you will be indulging in a lot of rewarding experiences.

READ MORE: Italy Travel Guides

16. Czech RepubliC

Rates of violent crimes are low in the Czech Republic, and even most of Prague’s areas are safe to walk around even after dark. The country just so happens to be low on the list given the bad rating for its global gender gap. But as per usual, just use common sense much like how you would in any place in the world (even your home country) and you’ll be fine here as a solo female traveler.

There is much to see, after all, in this amazing country: the Charles Bridge along with the grand Prague Castle , the quaint town of Český Krumlov , and many others.

READ MORE: Czech Republic Travel Guides

Old Town (Gamla Stan), Stockholm, Sweden

This Scandinavian wonder earns its place in this list of safest countries for solo female travelers due to its secure and progressive environment for women. The reason why Sweden scored lower than the other Scandinavian countries is mainly due to its low rating for non-partner and intimate partner sexual violence, as well as the global gender gap.

These factors aside, Sweden is still one of the safest countries in the world and you can enjoy a number of activities, namely: chasing after Northern Lights through Lapland, hiking through the King’s Trail (Kungsleden), etc. etc.

READ MORE: Sweden Travel Guides

18. Germany

Germany is also incredibly safe, not just for solo female travelers but also for other kinds of travelers as well. Plus, with a highly efficient rail network to take advantage of, tourists can move between central cities and most places in between with great ease!

And of course, aside from being a safe country to travel to, Germany has so much to offer — from magical castles like Neuschwanstein to stunning natural sights of Zugspitze , from vibrant Oktoberfest festivities to enriching city tours , and more!

READ MORE: Germany Travel Guides

With over hundreds of inhabited Greek islands, tourists are highly unlikely to experience crime or violence — even more so for women. Hence, Greece is a very safe country to travel to at any time.

You might need to put more caution when traveling to more popular places like Athens, but in general, most destinations are safe with petty crime being the main crime you might have to pay heed to. But as long as you do basic precautionary measures, your trip should be smooth sailing!

Speaking of sailing, apart from trying sailing trips , you should also try sailing (or flying!) to other places to experience incredible sights such as that of Santorini , Crete , and others!

READ MORE: Greece Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Japan

I gotta admit, I expected Japan to be ranked higher on this list because it’s truly one of the safest countries for solo female travelers. Case in point, I’ve been traveling to this destination solo for probably more than 15 times now; I’ve walked through tiny alleys by myself in the wee hours of the night, and yet I have never felt unsafe nor encountered dangerous individuals.

So it truly came as a surprise to me to see that in the Women’s Danger Index, Japan ranked 20 out of 50. But then I realized that indeed… Japan has some problems when it comes to gender equality and attitudes toward women given that its society is still fairly misogynistic (which is deeply rooted in its old traditions and history) .

That aside, Japan is generally safe and it is even ranked 6th among the most peaceful countries in the world! With that in mind, it ticks all the other boxes: lively cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hiking trails, and delectable cuisine. Beyond the well-known cities of Tokyo and Kyoto , don’t forget to explore its off-the-beaten-path spots too such as the Chubu region.

READ MORE: Japan Travel Guides Japan Itinerary Guides

– – –

» Other Safe Destinations «

As you may have noticed by now, the Women’s Danger Index is only limited to the top 50 most popular destinations in the world for international tourists, so there are off-the-beaten-path (yet safe) countries that this research has missed out on as well as some other key destinations, namely…

1. New Zealand

I was actually surprised that this was not included in the previous top 50 list; nevertheless, New Zealand or ‘ Middle Earth ‘ (for Lord of the Rings fans) is the perfect destination for those who love adventure, sports, and nature. It is one of the safest countries in the world for solo female travelers and backpackers too given that it is the 2nd most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index.

READ MORE: New Zealand Travel Guides

2. Australia

Australia , just like New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in for solo female travelers. The Australian metropolis even continues to hold the crown as the Most Livable City , according to the Economist Intelligent Unit. The locals are also known for their warm hospitality and good cheer that’s why a lot of solo travelers consider backpacking around the country safe.

READ MORE: Australia Travel Guides

Iceland has some of the lowest crime rates and it’s ranked number one as the most peaceful country in the world on the Global Peace Index! The country is also one of the best destinations for solo female travelers in search of an ultimate female adventure journey (or a road trip at that!). After all, the country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors, with numerous waterfalls to explore , glaciers to hike and geothermal spas to soak in .

READ MORE: Iceland Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Seoul, South Korea

4. South Korea

South Korea is actually #21 on the Women’s Danger Index, so I thought that it’s worth mentioning this in this list of safest countries in the world especially because it IS safe. Much like Japan, I’ve had no problems traveling around the country as a woman; the only issue why South Korea scored low is its attitude towards women due to its society that’s similar to Japan. But don’t let this dissuade you from traveling to this amazing destination!

READ MORE: South Korea Travel Guides

When it comes to world standards, Taiwan’s crime rate is low; so much like its other East Asian countries , it’s a destination that is pretty much safer than many other places in the world. And as a solo female traveller, you’ll love the array of things to do in Taiwan !

READ MORE: Taiwan Travel Guides

The only explanation why this Scandinavian country is not in the top 20 is because it was not regarded as the top 50 most visited countries in the world. Nevertheless, much like its neighbors, the country is a haven for solo women travelers who are seeking for a range of exciting sights and activities!

READ MORE: Finland Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Philippines

7. Philippines

I’m not just saying this because of bias, but primarily because the Philippines IS a safe destination for solo girl travelers. After all, the Filipinos are probably the friendliest and most hospitable people that you’ll ever meet. Add the fact that English is one of the 2 official languages in the country, you won’t have a hard time going around the islands. Just use your best instincts and ‘street smarts’ at all time to not be targeted for petty crimes.

READ MORE: Philippines Travel Guides

8. Indonesia

Single travelers should never shy away from Indonesia’s charms because they hardly face any real threat or danger. A lot of solo travelers, after all, have been to this amazing country and they have all had a great time! Just don’t throw your common sense out of the window and you’ll have a smooth Indonesia trip right from day one.

READ MORE: Indonesia Travel Guides

9. Thailand

This is truly a favorite destination in Southeast Asia and while Thailand is generally safe, you should still be wary of your surroundings, as well as some of the cultural norms (e.g. some temples don’t allow women, you shouldn’t sit beside Buddhist monks in public transport, etc.) . There’s much to be said about attitudes toward women, but still, it’s a relatively secure destination for females.

READ MORE: Thailand Travel Guides

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers: Sossusvlei, Namibia Desert

10. Namibia

This has got to be the safest country for solo travelers in Africa especially since the locals are friendly and that most towns exude a safe atmosphere for tourists (the biggest danger that you might face are wild animals) . Just do your research beforehand and you’ll be fine!

» 5 Worst Countries for Women Traveling Alone «

DISCLAIMER : The countries in this list are those that ranked the poorest on the Women’s Danger Index that collects the top 50 most-visited countries worldwide. Naturally, this does NOT mean that you shouldn’t travel to these countries — in fact, it’s the opposite. . You should still go especially if you want to, BUT just take note that you must exercise caution due to the country’s bad record or attitudes toward women. If you’re still not confident, it doesn’t hurt to travel with a companion!

1. South Africa

When I first visited Africa, Zambian locals expressed worry when I told them that my next solo destination was South Africa . “Are you heading alone to Johannesburg?” , they asked. When I replied ‘ Cape Town ‘, they breathed a sigh of relief and added, “that’s fine, just be aware of your surroundings especially since you’re alone.” I found it odd how they reacted like that, but after careful research, their reaction made sense because the country has historically treated women cruelly, not to mention the high crime rates.

My trip to Cape Town went smoothly and though there were a few moments that I felt unsafe, I still thoroughly enjoyed my stay there! It might be because I spent most of my time driving around tourist areas ( it’s said that most crime takes place in the townships ); nevertheless, just exercise caution at all times and behave conservatively.

It might not be a surprise to you to see Brazil in this list of worst countries for solo female travelers because if you do a Google search, most articles won’t sugarcoat the reality that it’s a dangerous country — not only for women but for men too. It has a high rate of crime and most embassies will caution you to never walk alone at night and to never resist any robbery attempts.

It’s still fine to travel alone, but if you ask me, this is not the best place to start with especially if you’re a newbie or beginner solo traveler.

This is yet another surprising discovery when I went through the Women’s Danger Index because I have also traveled to Russia alone but I have never felt unsafe there — not even in the big cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg . But indeed, that’s just my experience. Apparently, this vodka-loving destination is one of the worst when it comes to legal discrimination and general attitudes towards women.

Safety is, of course, never guaranteed wherever you may be in the world but some places are riskier than others. Mexico is one of those places and this may be also expected by some of you especially because it has low ratings when it comes to street safety and violence.

Other solo travelers might argue otherwise and I’m a bit on the fence with that. I traveled to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, as well as Tulum in 2021 at a time when some cartel shootings just happened and there were a lot of army folks doing their rounds — it added a sense of security but it still felt unsafe at some times. My whole trip ended with no incident and I believe that some areas are safer than others (e.g. Valladolid); but I guess what I’m just trying to say is: just do your research and be cautious, and I’m sure you’ll be able to gauge your level of comfort.

This came as yet another surprise for me because I regard Iran as one of the safest countries in the Middle East (I guess it just scores low as compared to the rest of the top 50 most-visited places worldwide) . Though for you, you might have expected this because of how the media portrays this country; however, I urge you to do your own research so you can see how a lot of solo female travelers had no problems journeying through this country alone. You just need to prepare for some things first (e.g. knowing how wearing a hijab is mandatory in the country, knowing how there’s gender segregation in public, etc.) and you’ll be fine.

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Solo female travel has since become a worldwide trend and I hope that this article helped give you some ideas on the safest countries to travel to!

Of course, there’s the reality that despite this assuring list, the chance of being harassed is still possible — however, this should never stop you from pursuing your travel dreams! A lot of women have gone through such adventures and YOU can too.

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Wonderful post! I’ve been eyeing Switzerland for a solo trip but never got the time. Once the borders are open, I will make this my first destination to travel in 2021.

You’ll definitely love it! I hope you get to go soon :D

I find all countries in South East Asia considerably more safe than ANY in mainland Europe or the UK. The reason for this is that predatory men are considerably more interested in Asian women than in taking on a European woman traveller. The countries that are predominantly Buddhist have a completely different mindset and you are very unlikely, if you take a modest and respectful approach, to experience crime. Quite the reverse…l understand that if you expose yourself to full moon parties, excessive alcohol consumption and red light districts this may not be the case.

Thanks for sharing our research, Aileen. I loved your commentary and personal experiences you included throughout the article.

I’m glad you like it! Thank you as well for the amazing research. :D

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Solo Female Travel in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

02/11/2024 by Guest Blogger 20 Comments

This is a guest post by Taylor K.

Europe is a great destination for solo female travelers! It’s pretty safe, small, and easy to travel around, and it’s full of gorgeous spots to see. What better way to spend a vacay than sipping espresso in Italy, eating fish and chips in England, diving into the gorgeous beaches of Portugal, and chasing the northern lights in Iceland?

That said, there are a few things to be aware of that will make your time there easier, such as what to bring, how to stay safe, how to keep your belongings from getting stolen, and which spots are the best even if, and especially if, you’re traveling alone:

Table of Contents

11 Best European Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Ireland might just be one of the best places for solo female travel in Europe, especially if it’s your first time! The small “Emerald Isle” is incredibly beautiful with so much to do! And while the people might be a little on the sarcastic side, they are so friendly and welcoming! Better yet, the main language is English which makes getting around a whole lot easier.

Recommended destinations: Dublin, Cork, Dingle, Galway , and Aran Islands.

From the waterfalls on the Ring Road and Golden Circle to the Glaciers, black sand beaches , gorgeous hikes and even the possibility of the Northern lights , Iceland is other-worldly. Each season promises a unique adventure, and while it is not the cheapest destination in Europe, there are many ways to save on your trip .

Iceland is also one of the safest places for solo female travelers in Europe as it is the safest country in the world which means you’ll find a a lot of other travelers to hang out with!

Recommended destinations: Vik, Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, Húsavík

Ready for beer, pretzels, magical castles , and lederhosen? All the cities in Germany have such unique characteristics, from the hip city of Berlin to the boisterous, beer-drinking city of Munich to the fairy tale city of Baden-Wüttemberg , I loved being able to experience SO much in one country. You can even experience some of the best Christmas markets if you visit in December!

solo female travel europe Christmas market

Germany has incredible transportation which makes getting around easy and English is widely spoken, or at least enough to get by! I felt safe in all the cities so, like all cities, as long as you use your street sense you’ll be perfectly safe!

Recommended destinations: Stuttgart , Berlin , Munich, Hamburg, Leipzig

France

Ahh France – baguettes, cheese and croissants! Not only is the food amazing in France, but it’s also incredibly beautiful and safe for solo female travelers. Many first-time solo travelers choose France ( hello-Paris !) so you’ll also have lots of opportunities to meet others and most of the people in big cities speak English, even if they prefer not to! Make sure you venture out of Paris and visit the beautiful lavender fields of Provence or wineries in Bordeaux.

Recommended destinations: Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Provence, Strasbourg

Finland

Known as the happiest country in the world , the friendly people make Finland a safe and amazing choice! If you love the outdoors, you’ll love hiking alone while feeling safe. If you visit in the winter you can cross some serious cool winter activities off your bucket list like watching the northern lights in an igloo hotel (one of the coolest things I’ve ever done!) or throwing boiling water in the air and watching it vaporize. Crazy right?

Recommended destinations: Lapland , Helsinki , Rovaniemi.

England is small but so diverse so you can see a lot in one visit, while still being able to speak the language! You’ve got everything from the Medieval town of York to the storybook-cute Cotswolds to the bustling city of London and everything in between. It draws a lot of solo travelers so you should have no problem making friends to adventure around with!

Recommended destinations: London, Brighton, Manchester, York, The Lake District, The Cotswolds.

I dream of the crispy-sweet liege waffles from Belgium and you will too after leaving. Home to the best chocolate and so many languages and cultures, Belgium is a great place to experience a lot as a solo traveler. The capital, Brussels is a centrally-located major city and one of those European destinations that attracts a lot of solo travelers to enjoy the most amazing Belgium fries and beer!

Recommended destinations: Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp

Switzerland

Switzerland is an amazing destination for solo female travelers who want to get outside in the summer or winter! In the summer you can go hike the Matterhorn, visit Oeschinen Lake or Lavertezzo , go paragliding or go mountain-climbing in Interlaken!

In winter, enjoy skiing in ski towns like Davos Klosters , Grindelwald, or Gstaad. It’s cheaper than skiing in the States and the Swiss Alps are GORGEOUS , especially with a glass of mulled wine or cheese fondue after a day on the slopes.

Recommended destinations: Gimmelwald, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Zermatt, DavoKlosters, Wengen

Spain

Spain has some of the friendliest people I’ve ever encountered, amazing transportation, beautiful weather, and most big cities speak enough English to get by comfortably. There are also so many awesome things to buy and bring back from Spain to remember your trip! You could spend days just exploring Madrid or Barcelona city center because it’s a country that feels like it never sleeps and the cities are always alive and buzzing!

Recommended destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, Mallorca, Seville, Ronda, Valencia, Granada.

If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path, look no further than Estonia. This tiny Baltic country is not usually on the top of travelers list, but it should be. There is so much history in Estonia and walking around old town Tallinn feels like you’re in a medieval storybook – it’s one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe. Because it’s less visited, Estonia is a nice break on your wallet .

Estonia is also a short ferry ride from Sweden or Finland, so it’s a great base to knock a few countries off your list at once.

Recommended destinations: Tallinn, Tartu

The central European country of Austria is underrated when it comes to its neighbors of Switzerland and Italy, but it’s just as incredible! It’s one of the safest countries, the people are super friendly and English is widely spoken. Due to its central location, it also makes getting around the rest of Europe a breeze. I found it to be similar to a cheaper version of Switzerland which may be a great alternative based on your travel budget.

The Capital City, Vienna, is loaded with stunning architecture, art, and culture. On the flip side, the adorable town of Hallstatt feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

Recommended destinations: Vienna, Hallstatt, Salzburg, Innsbruck

While this is not an exhaustive list, these are some of the best countries in Europe for solo female travel! However, there are t ons of places worth checking out all over Eastern and Western Europe which can be safe, fun, and great places to meet others.

How to Get Around Europe

solo female travel europe Germany Berlin

Budget Airlines

Flying within Europe can be a steal, especially if you’re flexible with your dates. Use comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights for the best deals. Ryanair, Easy Jet, Norwegian Airlines, and WOW are also budget-friendly options.

NOTE: Some of the budget airlines (I’m looking at you Ryanair) have odd rules for check-in or luggage so read EVERYTHING before booking!

Europe’s train system is vast, eco-friendly, and comfy. Look for passes online and plan your route. If you’re touring multiple countries, the Eurail pass can save you big bucks. Plus, trains often connect airports to city centers.

When you’re getting around the cities themselves, look for the metro. The public transit is affordable, saves you time from walking from place to place, and is dry on a rainy day.

Flixbus and Megabus offer reliable service at a low cost.

Taxis in Europe can be pricey. Use them only when you have lots of luggage or no other transport options. Uber is a bit cheaper, and BlaBlaCar offers car-sharing.

This is one of the best ways to get around European cities and discover cute neighborhoods or local eats! Expect cobblestones and bring sturdy walking shoes.

How to Meet Other Solo Female Travelers in Europe

solo female travel europe hot air balloon ride Germany

Europe is easy to get around, small, and iconic for the art, food, architecture, and variety of cultures so you’ll meet a lot of other solo travelers – especially if you stay in hostels! Here are some tips for meeting others:

If locals see you traveling Europe alone they are more likely to invite you to events and show you around. It’s easier for them to accommodate one person than a group.
Opt for hostels or couch surfing to save money and meet people. Check sites like hostelworld.com for hostels with social spaces or events. For couch surfing, go for hosts with good reviews. Be aware, the hostel crowd is often younger and full of study abroad students.
Use Social Media: Platforms like Instagram or travel forums can be great for connecting with other solo travelers to meet up with.
Join Female Travel Groups on Facebook: Look for women-only Facebook travel groups like this one.
Local Events: Attend local events or festivals where you’re likely to meet like-minded travelers.
Tinder: Some solo female travelers use it platonically to meet other travelers. Just be clear about your intentions.

What to pack

While you want to look cute, you don’t want to draw attention to the fact that you’re traveling alone in Europe. Think dressing down with neutral, muted colors and basic items that you can layer depending on the weather such as leggings, cardigans, basic jeans, and cute, longer dresses. I would recommend you avoid anything skin-tight and opt for looser-fitting and more flowy attire. Also, keep a thin sweater or scarf in your bag to throw on if you feel awkward or cold.

READ NEXT: The perfect Europe packing list for summer , fall , and winter

You also want to ensure you are avoiding pickpockets . Bringing an RFID-blocking travel bag , such as a Pacsafe bag, or an RFID-blocking wallet is a great idea. Leave the expensive gadgets at home and don’t have any kind of expensive items, like jewelry, showing.

Make sure you have closed-toe comfortable shoes for all the cobblestone streets you will be walking on and leave the flip-flops at home unless you are going to the beach! Many larger hostels have coin laundry service, but even if they don’t, it’s easy to track one down in the city, so don’t worry too much about not packing enough clothes.

Where to Find the Best Food in Europe

Europe is pretty much heaven for foodies! Here are some of my best tips for getting the best eats:

Skip restaurants with English menus or the ones in city centers that have big menus with photos posted outside. Don’t worry about not knowing the language; just check out what others are eating and point to what they are having! It’s always worked well for me!
Forget the diet. Savor pasta in Italy , feast in Greece, and enjoy Swiss chocolate. YOLO baby!
Ask your hostel or hotel about nearby food markets. Street food is often cheaper and just as tasty as restaurants. For example, Berlin has a vibrant street food scene.
If you have access to a kitchen, hit the local morning markets. It’s cheaper and you’ll get to experiment with fresh, local ingredients.
Make sure you know local dining times and operation hours. For example, Spaniards eat late dinners, and some Italian restaurants close in the afternoon.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. This site is a good resource for country-by-country information.
Join a local food tour to discover hidden gems. Try to do this the first day so that you get the local road recs from the guide right away! You’ll also usually meet some cool people on the tour!
Use social dining apps like EatWith to dine with locals with amazing experiences and food.
Check out local food blogs for recommendations.
Always Google search restaurants before eating. I always eat at those with 4.5+ stars and it’s never led me to a bad meal.

Is Europe safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Europe is very safe for solo female travelers overall and can sometimes even be safer than large US cities as most countries have outlawed guns and have fewer assaults. Like in any other country, you should take some safety precautions such as not walking home alone at night, not drinking too much alcohol, using a theft-proof bag, and locking up your passport!

You can check out some safety stats here.

Long-term living and working abroad in Europe

Visa deets : Most travelers from countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia get a 90-day Schengen visa upon arrival. Some can also secure working holiday visas or longer-term visas, like the German freelancer visa.

Consider becoming an au pair: You’ll take care of a family’s kids in exchange for room and board. It’s a great way to see Europe, especially if the family covers your flight and expenses.

Extra Tips for Solo Travelers

Language Skills: Knowing the local language can open doors to job opportunities.
Local Job Boards: Check local job boards and expat forums for job listings.
Co-working Spaces: These are great for networking and often have job boards.

Europe is a super welcoming place for women on solo adventures. The good news is, that you won’t feel alone if you stay open, friendly, and eager to explore. Follow our straightforward travel tips in this travel guide to stay safe and make amazing memories, just like you would at home.

About the author: Taylor is the creator of Culture Craving Couple , a travel blog focused on traveling in the USA and Europe. She and her husband’s goal is to help you explore the world while growing closer through off-the-beaten-path experiences and giving back.

The Power of Women in Travel

Women make up a majority of travelers and the lion’s share of the tourism workforce. as the travel industry rebuilds, it is time to put the so-called second sex first..

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Women hold a majority of the travel market shares across a number of categories.

Photos by Vonecia Carswell and Ricardo Gomez

The word “crisis” first gained popularity after floating from the lips of physicians Galen and Hippocrates, who used it to describe the difficulty of a doctor’s judgment and to mark that moment in an illness where a body swerves inexorably toward life or death. Krisis , in Ancient Greek, comes from the verb krinein , which means to sift, separate, judge, and decide. It knocks on the idea of keeping only what is worthwhile and discarding the rest. And so: after a world turned over, under, and around again by a devastating health crisis, what have we learned—and what will we keep—of our old ways?

At base, the question extends first to the deep cracks that widened into chasms under the unyielding thumb of this crisis: the inequalities across healthcare, workers’ rights, wages, borders, and who gets what protections, when. Ruminations about travel are minor in comparison, maybe, but essential nonetheless. Because human mobility is at the very core of tourism—board a plane, ride a train, drive a car, cross a border—and human mobility itself is a core element of spreading disease, the travel industry is inextricably braided with the successes and strifes of this pandemic.

Already, these strifes have very practically pulled the tourism industry asunder; 2020 was the worst year in its history. Around the world, international arrivals cratered 74 percent—a cool 1 billion fewer travelers than the year before—translating to an estimated loss of $1.3 trillion in export revenues, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Globally, that number meant a loss in an estimated 174 million jobs, per the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), an impact the London-based advisory forum called “devastating.”

Slowly, though, 2021 is looking up. Denmark is developing a digital passport proving vaccinations; travelers with vaccinations will be able to move freely between Israel and Greece . Betting big on domestic summer trips, United on February 12 unveiled three new routes to Hawaii. This anticipation of demand is not premature, but probable: U.S. households have saved $1.4 trillion in the first three quarters of 2020, about twice as much as in the same period of the prior year. Already, travel agents are reporting that 2021 bookings mirror prepandemic numbers.

In this period of tentative hope, there is also a sense of heightened responsibility. And as destinations creak open their doors to travelers once again, what we’ll keep from the wreckage is a worthwhile consideration. Never before has there been such an opportunity for the industry to reframe the balance of economic development with environmental sustainability, and to reimagine its place and its social impact on citizens and the communities that we travel in. But if the travel industry is intent on rebuilding from the ground up, then it must reconstruct with women, who—despite being a majority of travelers and comprising the lion’s share of the tourism workforce—are still largely treated as novelty and niche.

“If the feminine issue is so absurd, [it] is because the male’s arrogance made it ‘a discussion,’” wrote Simone de Beauvoir. “Representation of the world, like the world itself, is the work of men; they describe it from their own point of view, which they confuse with absolute truth.”

Dr. Catheryn Khoo studies gender equality in travel at Australia’s largest tourism research institute.

Photo by Daniele Levis Pelusi and courtesy of Catheryn Khoo

I. Bessie, Beth, Catheryn, Maggie

The earliest women travelers left home in search of some greater meaning, whether they were called by science or the Holy Spirit. One of the first records of such travel is from the 4th century, when a pilgrim named Egeria traveled from the Mediterranean to the Holy Land and, with the Bible as her guidebook, stopped at the Sea of Galilee, the site where Eliezer met Rebecca, and Mount Sinai. Egeria chronicled her travels in a letter to women peers back home, addressing the sprawling missive to her “dear ladies” and titling it Itinerarium Egeriae , or “Travels of Egeria.”

“Setting out thence we pursued our journey continuously through the land of Goshen, among vines that yield wine and vines that yield balsam, among orchards, highly cultivated fields and very pleasant gardens, our whole route lying along the bank of the river Nile among oft-recurring estates, which were once the homesteads of the children of Israel. And why should I say more?” she wrote .

Egeria did say more, but eventually, she returned home from the desert. Time unspooled. Egeria, however, remained an outlier, a chronicler of an experience women were not often permitted to have. (Historians suggest that women did travel, but given that it was discouraged, there is little record of it.) In the centuries that followed, women the world round largely remained under the rule of men, with lives “lived” in the minutes between their metronome-like tick of responsibilities: clean, cook, marry, wash, bear children, shop, care for the children. If you were a woman of means, your responsibilities were not that altogether different: study, socialize, marry, bear children.

Women were largely barred from what is often considered the advent of modern-day Western travel: the first wave of the Grand Tour in the 17th century, described by a writer in 2008 in the New York Times as a period when “Three hundred years ago, wealthy young Englishmen began taking a post-Oxbridge trek through France and Italy in search of art, culture and the roots of Western civilization.” With the Industrial Revolution a century later, economic oligarchs found themselves with more money and more ways to spend it, and travel became more affordable for the masses. Upper-class women were finally permitted a Grand Tour of their own, though they most typically required a chaperone in the form of a “spinster” aunt or relative. See it through the perspective of Lucy Honeychurch in E. M. Forster’s needling of conservative British society in his 1908 novel, A Room With a View :

“In her heart also there are springing up strange desires. She too is enamoured of heavy winds, and vast panoramas, and green expanses of the sea. She has marked the kingdom of this world, how full it is of wealth, and beauty, and war—a radiant crust, built around the central fires, spinning towards the receding heavens. Men, declaring that she inspires them to it, move joyfully over the surface, having the most delightful meetings with other men, happy, not because they are masculine, but because they are alive. Before the show breaks up she would like to drop the august title of the Eternal Woman, and go there as her transitory self.”

In the 18th century, women’s “transitory selfs” typically needed the permission and protection of men to travel solo: British writer Isabella Bird, the first woman to be elected Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, only began traveling after her wealthy father “gave her [£]100 and leave to stay away as long as it [unspecified ailment] lasted”; in 1776, French botanist Jeanne Baret disguised herself as a man named “Jean Baret” to board the Étoile and circumnavigate the globe by ship. (Though Beret was traveling with her partner, Philibert Commerson, her crewmates assaulted her when they discovered her true identity.)

Of women from the Americas, it would still be nearly a century until they were more frequently documented in travel history. “As I grew into womanhood, I began to indulge that longing [to travel] which will never leave me while I have health and vigour,” wrote Jamaican British travel nurse Mary Seacole, whose fame rivaled Florence Nightingale’s, in her seminal 1857 autobiography, Wonderful Adventures of Mrs Seacole in Many Lands . Journalist Nellie Bly circled the world in 72 days 1889; Lilian Bland built her own plane in 1910; Bessie “Queen Bess” Coleman got her pilot’s license in 1921, making her the first Black woman and first Native American to do so. It wasn’t until 1925 that a U.S. woman received a passport in her “given”—not married—name. Women of color were even further disenfranchised.

In the past century, women travelers have risen steadily in number, mirroring shifting societal mores and increased self-empowerment. Dr. Catheryn Khoo , a professor and researcher who studies gender equality in tourism at the Griffith Institute for Tourism, Australia’s largest tourism research institute, says these changing expectations around women’s roles and responsibilities have led to a decline in travel guilt—something women continue to feel more acutely than men. “I remember speaking about women’s guilt [at a conference] and so many women came up to me after to share stories of how their guilt took away the quality of their travel experiences, and even the opportunity to travel,” says Khoo, who coauthored the UNTWO’s 2019 Global Report on Women in Tourism. “To free women of their guilt to travel makes a huge difference in their lives.”

Today, 56 percent of leisure travelers are women, and over the past five years, they have steadily held this majority stake. Women make close to 85 percent of all travel decisions: where to go, when to fly, where to stay, what to see. Of affluent travelers with annual incomes upwards of $250,000, women also account for 54 percent, according to MMGY Global, an advertising agency specializing in travel, tourism, and hospitality. In total, women represent 60 percent of the wealth in the United States, and they notch 58 percent of all online sales. Importantly, women also live longer than men and outnumber them in a crucial travel bracket—retirees—making them an investment that yields greater, and longer, returns.

Women make up a majority of travelers, and their share of the market only continues to grow.

Photo by Sydney Rae and courtesy Wild Women Expeditions

And women’s shares in the travel industry are only increasing. Black women are one of the fastest-growing travel groups, and in China, which has the world’s largest outbound travel market, women travel and spend significantly more while traveling than men. Although there are already four women solo travelers for every single male traveler, searches for “solo female travel” increased sixfold in the four years preceding the COVID pandemic, according to Google Trends , and Pinterest has seen a 350 percent increase in women “pinning” solo trips since 2014. (This, despite the fact that safety is second only to cost when it comes to women taking vacations.) As they take on more corporate leadership roles, women are also poised to continue their rise as business travelers, where—despite advertising that almost exclusively shows business travel as the “domain of suit and tie wearing, greying white men . . . who appear to be pondering the weighty matters of life,” according to Skift Research —they account for 47 percent of the pie. Still, research from the Global Business Travel Association found that only 18 percent of corporate travel policies “specifically address matters related to the safety needs of female business travelers.”

“Women’s travel is not a cute little segment of the market—it’s almost the entire market,” says Beth Santos, founder and CEO of Wanderful , a membership-based women’s travel community that has grown to 45,000 members since Santos founded the group in 2008. “And every time we go on a trip, we spend hundreds, thousands of dollars. There are not many other industries where every time you engage with that industry you drop that much money. The industry needs to start looking at it that way and seeing the real buying power of women.” So why is it not?

Ask a cynic, and their lazy take is that women’s interests and issues are seen as secondary in travel because that’s the way the world is. To them, criticizing this facet of travel is akin to a farmer blaming an egg for its chicken problem: Gender inequality is rife in the industry because gender inequality is rife in the world, where 2.5 billion women and girls live in countries with at least one discriminatory law, where nearly half a billion women and girls age 15 years and over are illiterate, and where 80 percent of women-owned businesses with credit needs are underserved—equivalent to a $1.7 trillion financing gap—according to the United Nations. All that even without considering the ways in which maternal health and parental leave policies undercut women’s advancement.

Sure. Maybe? But, says Santos, we should still fix the symptoms where we can. We should still pay attention to the issues within an industry. We should still commit to making progress, whether it’s in messaging and marketing to women or it’s ensuring more women are in charge of that very messaging and marketing. Besides, she wonders: What if travel could be the success story?

Santos is not swinging and striking out—she’s striking close to a truth. Though there are gulfs in opportunity, financing, and salaries between men and women across virtually every industry, that gap is smaller in travel: 54 percent of all employees in tourism are women, compared to 39 percent in the broader economy. Women in tourism earn 14.7 percent less than their male counterparts, but that difference is 16.8 percent on average.

Women may make up a large proportion of the formal tourism workforce, but they are primarily represented in service and clerical jobs that are dominated by informality, high staff turnover, long working hours, subcontracting, and seasonal variations in employment. (In family tourism businesses, women perform the largest amount of unpaid work.)

Yet compared to other industries, travel and tourism has the most potential for growth: According to the United Nations, the industry has been proven to provide women with more opportunities for empowerment, landing the sector what the U.N. calls “increased responsibility” for the advancement of women. In large part, this opportunity is owing to a confluence of factors; the advent of the sharing economy, for one, has allowed the everywoman to become an entrepreneur. (Airbnb, where women constitute nearly 56 percent of hosts and have earned $32 billion since the company was launched in 2008, is an example.)

Part of this potential can also be chalked up to flexibility. Within the tourism industry, there’s less emphasis on formal education and training and more on personal and hospitality skills. Entrepreneurship doesn’t always require heavy startup capital, and women are able to support themselves and in turn, hire more women, whom they are statistically more likely to support. The thinking: Empowerment leads to empowerment leads to empowerment. Says Maggie Duncan Simbeye, one of Tanzania’s six women guides and the only Tanzanian woman to own and operate her own tour company: “I love this job because it gives you a voice. In the middle of men, I can speak, which is not typical in my country. Why can I speak? Because I have a share, and I know what I’m talking about.”

There is also an economic incentive for investing in women. Research from the International Monetary Fund shows that if women’s employment equaled men’s, economies would be “more resilient.” Twelve trillion U.S. dollars in annual GDP could be added if all countries simply matched their best-in-region country in progress toward gender parity, according to a 2017 report from the World Bank . Not all countries have to be Iceland, which has been the top gender-equal country for 11 consecutive years, per the World Economic Forum —they just need to be better.

In many ways, Simbeye’s story is a real-world example of this case for gender parity, and of Santos’s belief in the power of the dollar: by more carefully considering where and how they spend their money, travelers can affect the change they wish to see from the bottom. Because if you do get there, to her trip in Tanzania, Simbeye says, you’ll realize she’s paying it forward and not resting idly by. You’ll see how she is hiring other women, and learn more about how her nonprofit, Dare Women’s Foundation , informs the way she thinks about women in travel and vice versa. In time, there will probably be a moment when you find yourself around the campfire, watching the clouds, moon, and stars. “We talk and share ideas, but we don’t just talk and do nothing once we leave,” Simbeye says. “Just watch.”

First Officer Gabrielle Harding, a pilot for United, puts on her uniform. In the U.S., just 7 percent of pilots are women.

Photo by Hello Lightbulb and courtesy of United Airlines

II. Stephanie, Samantha, Kelly, Kim

Our earliest impressions of the world and how we fit begin forming before we are even aware of it. It is often said that seeing is believing, but fittingly, that is only half the idiom: In its entirety, the quote from the 17th century reads, “Seeing is believing, but feeling is the truth.” Much as seeing something inspires us to believe it is possible, the saying suggests, experiencing that possibility is the mark of real change.

But if experience is the mark of true progress, then girls and women are left wanting in the travel industry, where representation remains discouraging across some of its most visible segments. Consider: Despite women’s majority stake as travelers, in the cruise industry worldwide, just 5.4 percent of officers are women, and women account for just 2 percent of the world’s 1.2 million seafarers, per Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Representation in air travel isn’t much better. Decades after Amelia Earhart said , “My ambition is to have this wonderful gift produce practical results for the future of commercial flying and for the women who may want to fly tomorrow’s planes”—and despite steady global growth in air traffic demand prepandemic and impending pilot shortages—women make up just 5 percent of pilots worldwide and 7 percent of pilots in the United States, where the “highly masculine image of aviation” pervades. (To randomly meet a woman pilot in the U.S. today, you’d have to shake hands with some 5,000 women.) The numbers are even more dismal for diversity: fewer than 1 percent of airline pilots in the United States are Black women, according to Sisters of the Skies (SOS), a professional organization of Black women pilots founded in 2018.

“A parent comes up to me and she says, ‘You a pilot?’ and I said, ‘Yes, ma’am.’ And she said, ‘They let us be pilots?’ And that really was something,” Stephanie Johnson, Delta’s first Black woman captain, told AFAR writer Syreeta McFadden in 2020. “The parents don’t know what the opportunities are, because they didn’t grow up with opportunities. And so it was even more important, that ‘OK, this has just got to be my life because I can open people’s eyes.’”

There has been progress in diversifying air travel, primarily due to member-focused organizations like the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), the Ninety-Nines , Women in Aviation International (WAI), and the International Society of Women Airline Pilots (ISWP), all of which focus heavily on education and mentorship and provide millions of dollars in scholarships. The industry has slowly responded with commitments of its own: Aeromexico, American Airlines, AirAsia, CityJet, and easyJet in 2019 began collaborating with flight training provider CAE to offer one full scholarship to a woman, per carrier; United provides scholarships and holds an annual global Girls in Aviation Day. Alaska Airlines, which has four Black female pilots, pledged in February 2019 to quadruple its African American women pilots by 2025. (It is the only airline to publicly commit to increasing this demographic.) Cruising, too, has signaled its own investment, with CLIA making its 2019 theme “Empowering Women in the Maritime Community.” “Elevating women to leadership positions in the cruise industry makes good business sense,” Kelly Craighead, the third woman CEO of CLIA, said of its ongoing work in 2019 .

But just what else companies do to elevate women in the wake of the pandemic remains to be seen. It is not enough to celebrate women one day a year and issue ambiguous commitments to empowerment, say advocates for growth. If the travel industry is to truly rebuild better than before, then those with the power to effect change must make public pledges to actionable items. Instead of offering just one full scholarship to a woman, why not give two or 20? Instead of simply acknowledging that having women in leadership positions is a benefit, why not follow in the footsteps of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo , the president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, who raised the ratio of women to men on the bridge of Celebrity ships from 3 percent to 20 percent in just 18 months? And when that’s done, ask again: How can we do better?

Travel TV host Samantha Brown, shown here with Helen Brink, who leads cemetery tours in Bath, New York.

Photo by Juniper Photon and courtesy of Samantha Brown

Much of what we learn about travel and its myriad possibilities for employment and enjoyment also happens before an actual trip: through photography and film, and on websites and in print products. One of the biggest means of consumption is television, where women in 2019–2020 comprised 30 percent of all creators, directors, writers, producers, executive producers, editors, and directors of photography on broadcast programs, 31 percent on cable programs, and 35 percent on streaming programs. Travel television specifically has long been bogged down by numbers trotted out by mostly male television executives, who use them to posit that onscreen women hosts don’t perform as well with viewers. As a result, women can be hard to find.

In 2017, Samantha Brown left the Travel Channel, where she had for years been its lone marquee woman travel host. (Though the channel currently counts women-led shows like Mysterious Islands with travel journalist Kellee Edwards and Alaska 1,000 Ways with Inupiaq bush pilot Ariel Tweto among its programming, its bread and butter is action, adventure, and supernatural series like Mountain Monsters , Hotel Paranormal , and Mysteries at the Museum .) Netflix, though it has more diversity in its male travel and food television show hosts, can pretty much only proffer Samin Nosrat’s Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat , in the way of women-hosted travel content; Hulu found similar success at the nexus of food and travel with Padma Lakshmi’s Taste the Nation , which debuted in June 2020. But like their travel peers and pioneers decades ago—those Nellie Blys, those Bessie Colemans—these women remain the exception, and not the rule.

Rifle through television programming and it’s clear that men are at the helm of a majority of travel and travel-adjacent shows. Chicken or the egg again, who knows. “Are the hosts men because the viewers are men, or are the viewers men because there’s not anything actually realistic about travel on these travel shows?” one woman quipped to me. She’s not alone in this thinking: A 2017 study from the Geena Davis Institute in Gender Media found that 66 percent of women surveyed in the U.S. and U.K. said they have actively switched off TV shows if they felt they were negatively stereotyping women.

But saying men don’t like women travel hosts is too “basic,” says Brown , who now produces and headlines her own show on PBS, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love . (Unlike with cable networks, Brown also has to raise her own funds.) Instead, Brown attributes most of it to faulty perception: to the ideas that only men watch shows at night, when most travel television programming appears, and that women watch the shows men want to watch. Regardless, Brown says, enough with the pondering. Representation of all kinds must improve.

“When a woman sees me traveling somewhere, she knows right away, that’s a safe place to be . It informs a certain audience,” she says. “But in that same respect, as a white woman, I can’t really inform a woman of color how she’s going to be perceived. So that’s why we need even more diversity .”

Says Kim Haas, PBS’s only Black woman travel host as well as the executive producer and creator of Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas : “A comment I hear often centers around how glad people are to see an African American hosting a travel show. Black people have been so hungry and ready to see someone who looks like them in the travel television sector.”

For Brown and Haas, the next steps are not only necessary to make the travel industry stronger but also something of a no-brainer: Put more women on television, and commit to giving them time to build their audience. The world is watching.

Katie Briscoe is the first woman president of MMGY Global, an advertising agency specializing in travel, tourism, and hospitality.

Photo by Annie Spratt and courtesy of MMGY Global

III. Mmamoloko, Elisabeth, Natalie, Katie

It is no coincidence that many of the decisions made about programming, scholarships, marketing, and diversity of and for women get made in places where women are largely absent: at executive levels. Of course, gender as a metric is inherently flawed, because gender in itself is no sort of monolith. Despite stereotypes of women in power, studies show that gender has no bearing on personality, cognition, or leadership abilities, and the differences that “do exist” reflect social expectations and not biology, according to the American Psychological Association . (The only consistent differences between men and women, across multiple studies: “Compared with women, men could throw farther, were more physically aggressive, masturbated more, and held more positive attitudes about sex in uncommitted relationships.”) But if “women” in statistics tell a story, then it is worth learning what we can from that story.

In the public sector, one of the highest rungs on the ladder is a Minister of Tourism post, the head of an apex body responsible for marketing one country to another. Around the world, just one in five tourism ministers is a woman. (Women’s “most commonly held portfolios” in the government are family, children, youth, elderly, and disability affairs.) In general, countries with a female tourism minister score higher on the Global Gender Gap Index political empowerment scale than those with a male tourism minister, reports the UNWTO.

Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane has been South Africa’s Minister of Tourism since May 2019; in December 2017, Elisabeth Köstinger became Austria’s first woman Minister for Agriculture and Tourism, and in January 2020, with her role expanded, she was sworn in as Minister for Agriculture, Regions, and Tourism. Köstinger has made gender equality a priority, saying , “Equal pay for equal work must be a matter of course in the 21st century.” Other countries with women at the helm of tourism are Ecuador (Rosi Prado de Holguín, since December 2018), Israel (Orit Farkash-Hacohen, October 2020), Bulgaria (Nikolina Angelkova, May 2017), Mali (Nina Walet Intallou, July 2016), and Malaysia (Nancy Shukri, May 2020). Crucially, however, none of these women are in permanent positions, and so it is all the more important that gender equality be embedded and codified into law; that importance be placed on “institutionalizing a gender perspective in tourism through gender mainstreaming” rather than leaving it up to the ministers, magistrates, presidents, and CEOs, who change with the wind.

As a case study in intentional change, many insiders point to Intrepid , which was founded in 1989 and is today the world’s largest B Corp adventure travel company, with annual revenue of 397 million AUD (US$308 million). In 2017, after noticing that a majority of its on-the-ground tour leaders were men, the company implemented a plan for regional managers in countries like Cambodia, India, and Morocco to speak in schools and local communities and to lobby governments to help change perceptions of women in tourism. Intrepid pledged to double its women leaders by 2020; they hit the target six months early, in 2019, jumping from 154 to 342.

Intrepid Travel offers women-only tours in countries like Iran, shown here.

Photo by Sergei Gulenok and courtesy of Intrepid Travel

There are other commitments: To better address unconscious bias, Intrepid requires that the ratio of men and women present at every job interview is equal. The company invests in mentoring and women’s leadership programs, it is a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact—a framework “used to align a company’s operations and strategies with universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, the environment and anti-corruption”—and it is internally obsessive about gender metrics and salary differences, which it shares in its public reports . Today, Intrepid’s board of directors is 40 percent women, and its Global Leadership Team is split 50-50. “Supporting women in all areas of our business—from tour leaders to executives and board members—has made Intrepid Travel a better business,” says Natalie Kidd, Intrepid Travel’s Chief People and Purpose Officer.

Intrepid and the adventure travel industry may be out ahead of the pack—on average, boards of adventure companies comprise 38 percent women compared to mainstream tourism and Fortune 500 companies, where 11 percent of board members are women, according to the Adventure Travel and Trade Association (ATTA) —but there have been other shifts. Hilton Worldwide has a public Women in Leadership strategy, which helps build a talent pipeline of women leaders, with key initiatives including a women’s leadership development program and a women’s mentoring program. Marriott International, where women account for 55 percent of its U.S. workforce and 41 percent of executive officers, offers paid maternity leave, adoption assistance, and infertility coverage and has its own Emerging Leader Program and women’s networking groups. The facilitation of such relationships is crucial: According to research highlighted in the Harvard Business Review , women in executive roles need an inner circle of close women contacts to reach the highest echelons of companies, “despite having similar qualifications to men including education and work experience.”

Some mandates for modifications in the industry come from even higher up. In 2008, Norway passed a law requiring companies to reserve at least 40 percent of director seats for women; Belgium, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, the U.K., and the Netherlands followed suit. Though there have been no measurable substantive changes in decisions, 10 years on, a February 2020 report from travel market researcher Phocuswright found that of 22,000 companies surveyed, those with more gender-diverse leadership overwhelmingly drove higher profits.

Of course, that is not to say women are the only ones who can—and should—effect change, says Katie Briscoe, the first woman president of MMGY Global; it’s about an overall accurate representation of the world. But women do need to be at the table, and there’s no time like the present.

“I think until you hold yourself accountable for diverse perspectives, it’s easy to just keep doing things the same way,” says Briscoe. “In some ways, what has come out of the pandemic are some really valuable learnings about what this industry can be.”

Black women are one of the fastest-growing travel groups.

Photo by Wu Yi and courtesy of Nomadness

IV. Evita, Annette, Jaylyn, Eyitemi

The pandemic has created unprecedented levels of hardship, but it is no secret that that hardship has not been felt equally. In the U.S., more than 5.4 million women have lost their jobs due to the pandemic, nearly 1 million jobs more than men. The net of these losses has fallen most to women of color , many of whom worked in the travel and tourism industry and had been on the ascent, both in participation in the workforce and in rising pay. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this outcome was in many ways inevitable, the result of policies that do not address systemic inequalities or create a safety net and of lawmakers and CEOs declining to assign value and support to those who have been the backbone of the industry. “I want women to get back into the workforce if that is what they desire,” says Briscoe. “But then I think, OK, what if women return to these roles and something [catastrophic] happens again and there’s still no backup or assistance?”

To Briscoe and others in the industry, the urgency to return to travel as it was should not be squandered at the expense of real change and disruption. If anything, it is the reform that should have a sense of exigence. Says Evita Robinson, who in 2011 founded Nomadness , an online community for travelers of color that comprises 26,000 members, 78 percent of them women: “We need to get out of this mind frame that creating change is something that needs to take a long time. As a society, we are beyond the scope of incremental change. We need to start breaking shit.”

For starters, say those interviewed for this story, gender constraints should be identified and action taken at all levels of the industry. Wages and benefits should be made equal. Workplace protections should be systematized. Women should be given training opportunities with a focus on segments and jobs with fewer women, and women should move into positions of responsibility and leadership. Even in countries with cultural constraints, there can be gains by supporting female entrepreneurs in gaining access to finance and information and by increasing women-led businesses in supply chains and distributors. These actions are not just good for business, but important to the public, too: Today, 79 percent of consumer purchase preference is based on social responsibility, inclusivity, and environmental impact.

At an industry level, women are already working to pull each other up where they can: The Women in Travel—BAME (Black, Asian, and minority ethnic) Program , which launched in 2018 with customized training sessions and mentoring services, in March 2020 introduced a three-year plan to address women’s racial inequality in the industry. That same year, in April, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association created a Women in Business group, and in December 2020, 20 women executives from companies like Expedia, Conrad, Duetto, and Universal founded Women in Travel Thrive to reduce the effect that COVID-19 has had on women’s career progression, facilitating a “Day of Impact” and inviting women to participate in mentor/mentee sessions. There are thousands-strong private Facebook groups for women pilots, cruise ship employees, and those in hospitality.

As with Nomadness and Wanderful, women travelers are creating more communities of their own and coming together to rally for rights and representation. Many initiatives launched around the presidential election of Donald Trump in 2016 and for years have been building momentum: The bilingual resource Latinas Who Travel was created in 2016 for travelers to ask questions and share tips, and after a series of conversations about feeling marginalized by mainstream travel resources, Portland-based colleagues Serita Wesley, Rebecca Russell, Farin Nikdel, Vivian Zhang, and Becca Ramos founded the digital platform On She Goes in May 2017 to empower women and nonbinary people of color to travel “more confidently, adventurously, and more often.” That same year, Annette Richmond inaugurated Fat Girls Traveling, a body-positive, social media–driven community today with nearly 13,000 Facebook members and 38,000 Instagram followers; and Jaylyn Gough launched Native Women’s Wilderness , an online platform where indigenous women and nonbinary people can connect. Individually and in sum, they are stepping in where mainstream media has fallen short and telling the stories women travelers really want. The message: Get better or get left behind.

Damesly offers tours for women who want to build a certain skill, like photography.

Photo by Fabio Santaniello and courtesy of Kelly Lewis

The upswing in women-focused tours and offerings is also a sign of sea change, say advocates. Although companies like environment-focused Wild Women (founded in 1981) and AdventureWomen (1982) have been around for decades, in the past six years, there has been a 230 percent increase in travel companies dedicated to women-only clientele. For a majority, it’s about paying it forward.

In 2016, Kelly Lewis—the woman behind Go! Girl Guides and the annual Women’s Travel Fest—and Alyson Kilday created Damesly , a tour company with a focus on staying in women-owned hotels, eating in women-owned restaurants, and working with women-owned suppliers and women-owned businesses. Girls Trip Tours , launched in July 2018 by Eyitemi Popo, hosts women-only trips to Africa where Black travelers connect on the ground with high-profile businesswomen and local industry leaders. Every retreat incorporates a few days of mentoring with girls ages 12–18 local to the country, and every experience booked with Girls Trip Tours educates a girl for a year. Says Popo, who is also the founder of Ayiba magazine: “I wanted to build an ecosystem for women who are seeking to travel Africa intentionally, give of themselves meaningfully, and continue to grow in everything they do. Our presence [there] speaks to our intention, and our intention is to be a living example, a blueprint, an embodiment of a dream realized. We show up as representations of what is possible for the girls we mentor.”

Not everyone will start a company or community or become a CEO, but on a day-to-day level, as travelers, we can support, empower, and truly see women in the industry. Much of what is required will ring familiar: We can research, book, and get back out there, but we must do it better than before, mindful of booking women-owned businesses and supporting travel companies that see gender equality as an incalculable investment and not an inconvenient box to be ticked. Perhaps above all, we must remember Santos’s challenge: That if our dollar equals a vote, then what are we voting for?

>> Next: Women Who Are Helping Us Explore the World in a Better Way

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Solo Travel

15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for solo women.

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a wealth of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling solo can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the community and stumble upon those moments of cross-cultural connection organically.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've rounded up some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report, so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and claiming panoramic views of the city for yourself.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

3. Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture , a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka "MoPOP." The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail.

4. Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

6. Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

Austin is often ranked as one of the safest big cities in the U.S. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

7. Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from "The Sound of Music" at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu . Cyclists should take note: While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

8. Taipei, Taiwan

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The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has " Safe Waiting Zones " marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn, the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens, a historic amusement park. Stop for a quick solo bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

10. Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit. Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including the Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

11. Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

12. Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center as well as the popular Shuri Castle. And within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

13. Norway’s Fjords

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There's no better environment for self reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen, you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

14. Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore further, it's easy to get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

15. London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London. Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods. After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

Protect Your Trip »

Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

African elephant (Loxodonta africana) Calves playing. Okovango Delta, Botswana

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

People hiking in a row on the ice of Perito Moreno glacier, Los Glaciares national park, Santa Cruz province, Patagonia Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Old City of Dubrovnik situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO. Clinging to a rock, encased by a girdle of ramparts and lapped by a turquoise sea, Croatia’s famous town is fully worthy of its title “Pearl of the Adriatic”.

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus) sniffs air while walking on rocky shore of Malmgren Island on foggy evening. | Location: Malmgren Island, Svalbard, Norway.

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Ireland, County Clare, Lahinch: tourist gazing at the majestic Cliffs of Moher at sunset in late spring.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Thai traditional wooden longtail boat and beautiful sand Railay Beach in Krabi province. Ao Nang, Thailand.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

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View of the Galata Tower and The Suleymaniye Mosque at dusk in Istanbul, Turkey

Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Young woman tourist in sun hat and white dress standing in front of Eiffel Tower in Paris at sunset. Travel in France, tourism concept. High quality photo

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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10 Best Solo Travel Tips And 10 Top Destinations For Women, According To Experts

Take it from women who've been there, done that, had the best time ever .

preview for 5 Reasons You Should Give Solo Travel a Shot

If you've ever thought about embarking on your own version of Wild or Eat, Pray, Love , you're (ironically) not alone. A whopping 84 percent of solo travelers are women, according to studies led by Booking.com and Condor Ferries . In fact, two thirds of all travelers are women , and 80 percent of all travel decisions are made by women, the George Washington University School of Business reports. Plus, solo travel was rated the second-most popular category of travel by respondents planning future trips in a 2020 survey conducted by travel company Cox & Kings .

Of course, a solitary sojourn poses its own challenges, but "traveling solo is one of the most empowering and fulfilling adventures women can embark on," says Mar Pages and Megan Jerrad of Solo Female Travelers . "It not only opens the senses to new smells, sights, and sounds, but the soul to different perspectives and ways to live life, thus contributing to making the world a more open, tolerant, and empathetic place."

But, before you book that plane or train ticket, here are the 10 best tips and 10 top destinations for solo female travelers—from women who've been there.

1. Just do it.

"It will never be the perfect time, so make now the time to live your travel dreams," says Amanda Black of The Solo Female Traveler Network . While it would be nice to receive a divine signal to get on that plane, if you keep waiting around for that moment when you finally have enough money, your trip is expertly planned, and all the stars align, you'll never get anywhere. Take the leap, and trust that the memories you make along the way will be worth it.

2. That said, it doesn't hurt to start small.

Many prospective travelers make a New Year's resolution to stop waiting on others and take their first solo trip, but then become overwhelmed with where to start. Pages and Jerrad recommend starting small, perhaps with an overnight trip to a nearby city or a weekend trip somewhere in the same country.

Reduce the number of changing variables by going somewhere where the culture is the same as back home, and then increasingly change these variables by next going somewhere where the language or culture is similar (e.g. from the US to Canada). This will help you figure out if solo travel is right for you and build your confidence to travel further. Eventually, you'll feel like a pro, ready to set off to an international destination with a completely different culture.

3. Stash cash in multiple places.

Money is a must when traveling (sad, but true!), so ensuring yours stay secure amid every adventure should be top of mind. "Keep some in your wallet, of course, but that could potentially get lost or stolen," says Black. She also recommends stashing some in your shoes, a hidden pocket in your clothes, and an obscure corner of your backpack. If your day bag gets stolen, you will still have backup bucks in your hotel room.

4. Download and sign up for a safety app.

Having "spent a lot of time last year testing and assessing a variety of safety apps and devices designed for women to call for help in case of an emergency," Pages emphasizes the importance of these tools for solo female travelers. Her top recommendation: UrSafe. (As a result of their app testing, Solo Female Travelers entered into a partnership with UrSafe where members can try the app for free for 30 days.)

The app has a voice-activated safety word that will contact emergency services and/or the police or private security services, depending on what country you're in. Unlike other apps or devices, you don't have to do anything beyond saying the word you have preset, and the camera of your phone will immediately start streaming a video of the situation to your safe contacts. For $2-4 a month, you can stay safe when traveling or wherever you live as UrSafe can be used even when walking home from work. Oh, and these apps also allow someone to track your location, so you can allow loved ones to know where you are and that you're safe. Peace of mind = priceless.

5. Travel on the shoulder season.

ICYDK, shoulder seasons are the sweet spot between the busy tourist season and the low season (which probably has bad weather). It's "the best time to travel to get thinner crowds, good weather, and cheaper prices," says Black.

6 . Get travel insurance.

The prospect of getting sick—alone—in a foreign place is daunting enough. Add the challenges, both financial and emotional, of paying for hospital bills or worrying if you can even afford them, and it's enough to give you a headache...on top of your original ailment.

Take it from women who've been there: "I broke my arm in South Africa and needed surgery, which cost upwards of $20,000 and had me off work for a month," says Pages. "My insurance paid for everything including my mother flying over." On the flip side, Jerrad had an asthma attack without insurance in Eastern Europe and was double stressed making sure nobody called a pricey ambulance to take her to a hospital.

More recently, the duo have seen an increasing number of their community members stranded abroad because of COVID-19, facing large hospital and quarantine bills—even if perfectly well. But word to the wise shopper: It's not enough to buy insurance, says Pages and Jerrad. You need to read the fine print and see if the policy will cover you in case you test positive but are asymptomatic, and in case you are quarantined because of someone you came into contact with on your travels.

7. Research safety in your destination.

Some cities or countries have specific safety concerns that are important to know before you go. For example, sometimes hailing a random tuk tuk or taxi won’t be safe. Black recommends "asking your hostel or hotel to arrange a ride, and always keep your map open to be sure you are going in the right direction."

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Small Crossbody Bag

In other places, mugging tourists may be common, so she advises against carrying a bag. But, if you need one for your travel essentials , "look at a slash-proof option with RFID pockets, especially [if you're traveling] in Europe or cities where petty theft and pick-pocketing is common," says Black.

8. Always get a SIM card with data as soon as you land.

If you have a SIM card and an internet connection, you can address a lot of the worries and fears that solo female travelers commonly share with Pages and Jerrad: loneliness (listen to music or an audiobook or text with friends), fear or embarrassment of eating alone (schedule a video or phone call with a pal), personal safety (an app like UrSafe comes in clutch), fear of getting lost (Google Maps and car-hailing apps, FTW!).

And while it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with key phrases in the local language, Google Translate can help bridge any language barrier that may come up along your travels. The pair praise the translation service's ability to have a full conversation in another language: "I've done it more than once," says Pages.

9. Save money on accommodations.

There are many creative ways to make your travel budget stretch further, and trying to save on what is usually the biggest expense—lodging—is the first place to start. "Try house sitting for a free place to stay in exchange for watering plants or watching pets," says Black. Road tripping and opting for camping or hostels over hotels for even just part of the trip will save you big, too.

10. Plan, but leave room for serendipity.

"It's a good idea to have a general sense of what you will see or do, but it's also important to leave space to breathe and for the unexpected to find you," says Pages. Some of the duo’s best stories from their respective solo travels come from unexpected moments where they met someone new, discovered a cool place that wasn't marked on any maps, or stumbled upon a street musician who sang amazing opera in a back alley. If you are on a check-list trip, you will miss those opportunities—and they're usually the ones you remember most.

What are the best destinations for solo female travelers?

Black, Pages, and Jerrad agree that Iceland is a top spot for solo female travelers because it's super safe with many roads that are easy to navigate. Not to mention, the gorgeous country will take your breath away. (I mean, the Northern Lights? C'mon!) Iceland may be an expensive travel destination, but it's one of the world's most equal countries for women.

2. Barcelona and surrounding areas

There is something for everyone within the city and surrounding areas, from culture and food to history and adventure to even the mountains and the beach, says Pages and Jerrad. In fact, Barcelona is a great first solo trip destination, based on the respondents to Solo Female Travelers' survey in 2020 and 2021. It's not only very safe for women, but also very affordable. Plus with 40 million visitors a year, it's easy to meet other travelers and locals. If you want to get out of the city and explore more of Catalonia, the public transportation options and various day trips means you can enjoy medieval villages, beach towns, holy mountains, and so much more.

3. Greeces Cycladic islands

Greece became an incredibly popular destination in 2020, ranking among the top three bucket list destinations among members of the Solo Female Travelers community, says Pages and Jerrad. Even better: The country has retained this title in 2021. With white washed fishing villas and those gorgeous blue domes, this well-loved sun and sea combo is known for its affordability. Women can indulge in great food, long hours of sunshine (it only rains 20 days a year in Santorini), quaint spots for photo ops and Instagrammable flying dress photo shoots, shopping, and more.

4. New Zealand

Another destination recommended by all three experts, this island is easy to navigate, and is so beautiful that it feels like something out of a picture book (or, ya know, a Lord of the Ring s film). The jaw-dropping nature and breathtaking landscapes offer some of the best outdoor experiences life has to offer—glow worm caves, anyone?—plus, the friendliest people.

Eat, Pray, Love truly left a mark on the rolling hills of Tuscany, turning it into both a top choice for many a female traveler's first solo trip, as well as an overall bucket list destination, says Pages and Jerrad. Whether you have specific experiences in mind or just want to leave it all up to chance, you can likely plan to enjoy the slow life among wine country, olive groves, undulating green hills, and quaint medieval villages.

6. Galapagos

Nature lover ready to spread your wings? The islands are full of incredible wildlife and pretty safe for women traveling solo. Choose a boat tour to be guided around the islands for hikes, go snorkeling, or join nature walks, recommends Black. You can also island hop using ferries whenever you want a change of scenery and to see even more amazing animals.

This hardly-visited country is the spiritual center of Buddhism and the place where GDP has been replaced with Gross Domestic Happiness, says Pages and Jerrad. The peace and calm that one can experience in Bhutan is the perfect background for anyone going through the process of self-reflection and self-healing. For example, Pages visited Bhutan solo after being diagnosed with a serious condition and returned hopeful and at peace with the healing journey she was about to begin.

8. Costa Rica

In recent years, Costa Rica has climbed to the top of the bucket list for many travelers, and has become a very popular destination throughout 2021 among Solo Female Travelers members, says Pages and Jerrad. The country features stunning nature and wildlife and has become a favorite destination for wellness retreats .

The language barrier may feel intimidating, but Japan is so organized and easy to navigate, from ordering food to using the public transportation system, says Black. It is safe, clean, beautiful, and runs more or less on schedule. A Type-A solo traveler's dream!

10. Maldives

Everyone thinks of the Maldives as the ultimate couple's destination, but that's no longer the case, says Pages and Jerrad. With more than a thousand hotels and resorts in the Maldives, there is something for everyone, including those who want to party. Plenty of travelers vacation here solo, whether to take a trip purposefully focused on self-care or simply to disconnect from it all and enjoy a beautiful place. Plus, more and more resorts are offering solo packages complete with butlers who will take your picture when requested and in-villa BBQs for one. So, if you're going to treat yourself (and you should), there's no better place.

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Pregnancy week by week

Is it safe to fly during pregnancy?

Generally, air travel before 36 weeks of pregnancy is considered safe for people who aren't dealing with any pregnancy problems. Still, if you're pregnant, it's a good idea to talk with your health care provider before you fly.

Your provider might suggest that you not fly if you have certain pregnancy complications that could get worse because of air travel or that could require emergency care. Examples include a history of miscarriage or vaginal bleeding, severe anemia, and high blood pressure or diabetes that's not well controlled. If you had preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy — a condition that causes high blood pressure and extra protein in urine — flying may not be advised. The same is true if you're pregnant with twins or other multiples.

Tell your provider how far you are flying, as the length of the flight might make a difference. Also, be aware that some airlines may not allow pregnant people on international flights. Check with your airline before you make travel arrangements.

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, your health care provider may advise against flying. And some airlines don't allow pregnant people to fly after 36 weeks. The airline also may require a letter from your health care provider that states how far along in your pregnancy you are and whether flying is advised.

If your health care provider says it's okay for you to fly, and your plans are flexible, the best time to travel by air might be during the second trimester. The risks of common pregnancy emergencies are lowest during that time.

When you fly:

Buckle up. During the trip, keep your seatbelt fastened when you are seated, and secure it under your belly.
Drink plenty of fluids. Low humidity in the airplane could cause you to become dehydrated.
Avoid gassy foods and drinks before you fly. Gases expand during flight, and that could make you uncomfortable. Examples of foods and drinks to avoid include broccoli and carbonated soda.
Think about medical care. Plan for how you'll get obstetric care during your trip if you need it. Bring copies of your medical information in case you need care while you're away.

Blood clots

Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs, a condition called venous thrombosis. The risk is higher for pregnant people. Moving your legs may help prevent this problem. Take a walk up and down the aisle every hour during the flight. If you must remain seated, flex and extend your ankles from time to time. In general, it's best to avoid tightfitting clothing, as that can hinder blood flow. Wearing compression stockings can help with blood circulation during a long flight.

Radiation exposure linked to air travel at high altitudes isn't thought to be a problem for most people who fly during pregnancy. But pilots, flight attendants and others who fly often might be exposed to a level of radiation that raises concerns during pregnancy. If you must fly frequently during your pregnancy, talk about it with your health care provider.

Mary Marnach, M.D.

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Allergy medications during pregnancy
AskMayoExpert. Health considerations for air travelers: Pregnancy considerations. Mayo Clinic; 2022.
Air Travel During Pregnancy: ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 746. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2018/08/air-travel-during-pregnancy. Accessed Dec. 1, 2022.
Ram S, et al. Air travel during pregnancy and the risk of venous thrombosis. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.ajogmf.2022.100751.

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More women are booking women-only tours and finding life-changing experiences.

The future of travel is female. Here’s why.

Women-focused tours are changing the world one trip at a time.

Four years ago, Shelly Kacergis joined a women’s trip to Kenya with Global Heart Journeys. It changed her life. Instead of following the typical tourist itinerary, Kacergis spent time with locals, bonding with female tea farmers and villagers at schools, orphanages, and craft markets.

Moved by the stories she heard, she came home to Atlanta and retired early from a career in banking to start a venture with one of her new friends. The program they launched, which helps women in Kenya gain financial independence as chicken farmers, now supports nearly 100 female farmers.

“The trip opened up a whole new world to me,” she says.

Like many Western travelers, Kacergis felt transformed by African travel. But her experience speaks to the power of female-focused travel amid the ripple effects of the #MeToo movement and the groundswell of women touring the globe with purpose.

“Woman-to-woman travel is one of the greatest unexplored frontiers,” asserts Global Heart Journeys founder Linda Higdon. About 17 years ago she traded her successful career as a classical pianist to work with women in the developing world. “It could entirely change the way we think about travel.”

In other words, the future of women’s travel is, well, female—from CEOs pushing new boundaries to locals calling the shots in the field.

In places like Peru, women-owned tour companies encourage local women to take unconventional career paths, such as leading treks along the Inca Trail.

A growing trend

Women-focused travel companies have existed on the fringes of the tourism industry since the late 1970s. And yet, when Wild Women Expeditions got its start with all-female canoe trips in Ontario in 1991, “women-only travel was the laughingstock of the outdoor adventure travel world,” says Jennifer Haddow, the outfitter’s current owner.

Now the niche has hit the mainstream. Three years ago, REI Adventures rolled out a collection of women’s trips—all led by local female guides—as part of a campaign to help “level the playing field” outdoors. In 2018, tour outfitter MT Sobek celebrated its 50th anniversary with a new line of women’s-only adventures.

‘Microcations’ and carbon offsetting: Here are a few more travel trends to watch.

Related: vintage photos of women working around the world

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Nicole Wineland-Thomson, part of the mother-daughter team behind AdventureWomen , believes the rise in solo travel has fueled the recent growth. And since safety is a factor for many women, she notes it can be appealing to book with a company dedicated to that market.

Options for women continue to grow, with boutique tour companies now serving everyone from plus-size hikers to lesbian and non-binary travelers.

“Society-wide, we’re working toward removing limitations for women, and travel is just one subsection of that,” says Kelly Lewis, who founded Damesly in 2016 to fill what she saw as a gap in the women’s travel space—pairing creative pursuits with wanderlust. “There are so many new avenues for women to travel the world.”

Enhancing experiences

In many parts of the world, taking men out of the equation expands opportunities for women travelers. In 2018, Australian-based Intrepid Travel launched expeditions that would be off-limits to co-ed groups. Think mingling with locals in a beauty salon in Iran and swimming on a ladies-only beach in Antalya, Turkey .

“When women are together, there are no traditional gender roles anymore. Women just get it, and they get each other,” says Wineland-Thomson. “When you bring in another culture to this environment, women really open up.”

Women are in charge in these places around the world.

Across the board, these trips prioritize support for local women. AdventureWomen’s new Cuba itinerary features artists and women-run restaurants in Havana. Wild Terrains trips spotlight female entrepreneurs, such as jewelry designers in Mexico and winemakers in Portugal . Damesly’s new journey to Uzbekistan includes face time with the female founder of a Tashkent fashion enterprise.

On the adventure circuit, WHOA Travel invites a local woman to join its signature climbs up Mount Kilimanjaro, all expenses paid. “We want to help shift the perspective of what a woman can do,” says co-founder Allison Fleece. Tour companies like hers are built on the concept that women often shine brightest—and let down their guard—in a community of women.

Ripple effects

The rise in female-focused tours means women have more influence in the industry. That translates to more jobs for women on the ground. Wild Women Expeditions commits to hiring local women to lead its globe-spanning trips, an effort that has brought Morocco its first woman mountain guide. In Peru , the pacesetting company hires female porters to assist with Inca Trail treks and goes a step further with training programs that empower Peruvian women to pursue this unconventional career path.

Read about Peru’s trailblazing women porters on the Inca Trail.

the town of Tinghir at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco

From the mountains of Morocco to the women-only beaches of Turkey, globetrotting women find meaningful experiences in a wide variety of places.

For some, giving women leading roles in the travel industry is a type of grassroots feminism. After surviving domestic violence, traveler Rocio Vazquez Landeta launched Eat Like a Local walking tours in Mexico City and made the decision to employ women only. “It’s my way of taking a stand,” she says. “As a woman in a powerful position, it is my responsibility to create better opportunities for other women.”

Deborah Calmeyer shares that mindset. In planning luxury safari provider Roar Africa’s women’s-empowerment retreat last year in her native South Africa , she tapped women for all positions, from chefs to pilots. Finding trackers to lead the group’s safari drives, however, proved challenging. South Africa’s first and only qualified female tracker drove one vehicle, while a pair of male trackers drove the other trucks.

Sometimes, changing just one mind is victory enough. “We asked one of the [male trackers], ‘Would you see your daughter doing this job?’” Calmeyer recounts. “He said no, outright. By the end of the trip, he tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘Yeah, my daughter can do this.’”

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Hey Women of 2021—Let’s Talk About Traveling Solo

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Ever the subject of romanticized movies and books, solo female travel will strike hard in 2021. Introducing the voices of women who will tell you why (and how) to go, brought to you by leading women’s travel community, Wanderful.

We’ve seen all the movies–woman ventures out into the world by herself, has a life-changing experience, meets some ruggedly handsome gentleman, and is forever changed.

In reality, solo travel isn’t nearly as glamorous. For women, there’s a lot that we must consider both before, during, and even after venturing out on the road, from the reality of cultural attitudes and norms abroad to safety and security to the social pressure we receive to take our friends, our partners, or our kids along with us.

That doesn’t mean, however, that we’re not getting out there anyway–and before COVID-19 struck, we were doing it more than ever before. Google Trends reported that searches for the term “solo women travel” increased a whopping 230% in 2019, up from 59% the year prior.

And contrary to what we may see on mainstream media, these women traveling solo are not just white, Western, thin, and straight.

The average solo traveler in the U.K. is 57 years old. Disabled travelers are spending $58.7 billion on their trips. Black Americans are contributing a whopping $109.4 billion to the leisure travel space. Women are equally as likely to be twenty-somethings preparing to study abroad as we are to be empty nesters rediscovering ourselves after our kids leave home.

Top Picks for You

Recommended Fodor’s Video

While travel has suffered on a whole in 2020, if nothing else, this past year has given us the motivation to not delay our dream trips another moment once it’s safe to get out there again. Whether you’re contemplating a first solo trip due to the loss of your travel partner, to indulge in a little self-care, or because you’re simply done waiting for another person to sign up for your plans, there are some key things you can start doing (yes, even now) to get you ready to travel in our new world.

Redefine What “Solo Travel” Means to You

We often think of traveling solo as an epic, adventurous, rugged experience reserved only for 21-year-old dudes with a single backpack. But you don’t have to be sleeping on the side of a mountain to be indulging in an enriching solo travel experience.

Instead, consider joining a small group trip, signing up for a volunteer experience abroad, or taking a course overseas. Programs like Vacation With an Artist (VAWAA) pair you with artisans around the world where you can apprentice in their craft for a few days (or a few weeks). Through WWOOF you can earn room and board while working on an organic farm.

Or if you’re okay with jumping into traveling alone, maybe you still want someone to join you for dinner. EatWith and Traveling Spoon offer ways to connect with locals and other travelers through a home-cooked meal.

Use Early 2021 to Work Your Travel Muscle

Even if you’re an experienced solo traveler, there’s nothing like a year of non-travel to throw you off your game. Lucky for you, traveling alone is as much a muscle as anything else. It’s not about how far you go, but how much it changes you and forces you out of your comfort zone.

So while you might not be booking transcontinental flights quite yet (or maybe you are), taking solo travel in small chunks can help you acclimate to some of the things you’ll experience on a much larger trip, while inviting you to find transformative travel experiences right in your own local region.

If you’re still in quarantine mode, try spending a day in a state park by yourself (though please exercise caution in doing anything even remotely strenuous alone, as this should be fun and not dangerous). Pack a picnic, or take a walk in a nearby town and order takeout. Take some time getting comfortable with being solitary (especially if you’ve been cooped up with family over the last year).

Once you feel safer about venturing out, take a two- to three-day road trip somewhere by yourself. Stay at a hotel, or for a more personal experience, a bed and breakfast, inn, vacation rental, or even a hostel (many hostels nowadays have private rooms with ensuite bathrooms so you can still have your sleep privacy while also meeting other travelers at the same time).

Give Yourself a “Day 0”

While it’s exciting to think about that “Day 1” of your solo adventure, starting out with a “Day 0” is an important way for any solo traveler to get her bearings in a new trip.

What is a Day 0, exactly?

It’s a day (or at least a morning, or an afternoon), to just take a look around. Discover where the grocery store is. See how the public transit works. Jump on a walking tour (you can go on a free walking tour from Sandeman’s , or have ultra-customized experiences from Context Travel , TakeWalks.com , and Tours By Locals ). Get your bearings during the daylight, and notice the differences at night. Take a picture of your cross streets. Write down your address and circle it on a map.

These activities are especially important when traveling alone, not only because you won’t have a fallback if you get lost, but also because it will allow you to travel more confidently the rest of the time you’re there, avoiding unnecessary deliberation in moments when you want to just get somewhere or are on a tight timeline.

Find a Community to Guide You

One of the biggest misconceptions about solo travel is that we spend so much time alone. While you certainly can use solo travel as a means to avoid people, it can actually be one of the least lonely things you can do. That’s because you’ll spend a lot of time meeting and chatting with other locals and travelers along the way, and most likely make some rich friendships in the process.

One of the best ways to do this is by tapping into an international network of travelers who are primed and ready to guide you around the world, whether taking you out for dinner, hosting you in their home, or just providing helpful advice and support when you need it.

With thousands of members now in our growing Wanderful community and chapters in over 50 cities, you’re almost guaranteed to have a friend wherever you land. Even when you’re not traveling, you can build cross-cultural connections through daily virtual events from cooking classes to language circles to simple fun travel talk and networking. It’s what drives our motto, “Women helping women travel the world.”

These Tips Are Just the Beginning: Introducing the Stories of Women Around the World

Of course, these tips only scrape the surface of how to take that first step into getting out there. In honor of Women’s Month, Wanderful is proud to team up with Fodor’s to offer a whole series of stories, tips, and advice from women-identifying travelers of various intersections to help you travel solo when the time is right for you.

Stay with us, share your questions, meet other solo women travelers and let’s all make this year the best one yet.

And don’t forget: While you may travel solo, you’re never really alone.

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Thousands of foreign tourists are visiting Afghanistan each year. The Taliban want more

The taliban have imposed a dress code for women and requirements for them to have a male guardian when they travel, article bookmarked.

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Afghans take selfies at the renovated Darul Aman Palace in Kabul, Afghanistan, Wednesday, April 24, 2024

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Around 30 men are crammed into a Kabul classroom, part of the debut student cohort at a Taliban -run tourism training institute.

One student is a model. Another is 17 and has no job history.

They are all men — Afghan women are banned from studying beyond sixth grade — and they don't know anything about tourism or hospitality. But they are all eager to promote a different side of Afghanistan . And the Taliban are happy to help.

Afghanistan’s rulers are pariahs on the global stage, largely because of their restrictions on women and girls. The economy is struggling, infrastructure is poor, and poverty is rife.

And yet, foreigners are visiting the country, encouraged by the drop in violence, increased flight connections with hubs like Dubai, and the bragging rights that come with vacationing in an unusual destination. The numbers aren’t huge.

In 2021, there were 691 foreign tourists. In 2022, that figure rose to 2,300. Last year, there were 7,000.

Mohammad Saeed, the head of the Tourism Directorate in Kabul, said the biggest foreign visitor market is China because of its proximity and large population. Afghanistan also has advantages over some of its neighbors.

“They’ve told me they don’t want to go to Pakistan because it’s dangerous and they get attacked. The Japanese have said this to me also," Saeed said. “This is good for us.”

But there are disadvantages, too.

Visas are difficult and expensive to access. Many countries severed ties with Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power, and no country recognises them as the legitimate rulers of the country.

Afghan embassies either closed or suspended their operations. There's an ongoing power struggle between Afghanistan’s embassies and consulates staffed by people from the former Western-backed administration, and those under the Taliban administration’s full control.

Saeed concedes there are obstacles for Afghan tourism to develop but said he was working with ministries to overcome them.

His ultimate aim is to have a visa on arrival for tourists, but that could be years away. There are problems with the road network, which is half-paved or non-existent in some parts of the country, and airlines largely avoid Afghan airspace.

The capital Kabul has the most international flights, but no Afghan airport has direct routes with major tourist markets like China, Europe, or India.

Despite the challenges, Saeed wants Afghanistan to become a tourism powerhouse, an ambition that appears to be backed by the Taliban’s top leaders.

“I have been sent to this department on the instructions of the elders (ministers). They must trust me because they’ve sent me to this important place.”

The students also have aspirations. The model, Ahmed Massoud Talash, wants to learn about Afghanistan’s picturesque spots for Instagram posts and its history for media appearances.

Business school graduate Samir Ahmadzai wants to open a hotel but thinks he should know more about tourism and hospitality first.

“They hear that Afghanistan is backwards, poverty and all about war,” said Ahmadzai. “We have 5,000 years of history. There should be a new page of Afghanistan.”

Classes include Afghan handicrafts and anthropology basics.

An unofficial subject is how to interact with foreign women and how their behavior or habits could clash with local customs and edicts. Examples might be women smoking or eating in public, to mixing freely with men who are not related to them by blood or marriage.

The Taliban have imposed a dress code for women and requirements for them to have a male guardian, or mahram, when they travel. Dining alone, traveling alone, and socializing with other women in public have become harder. With gyms closed to women and beauty salons banned, there are fewer places where they can meet outside the home.

In a sign that the country is preparing for more overseas visitors, the country’s only five-star hotel, the Serena, has reopened its women’s spa and salon for foreign females after a monthslong closure.

Foreigners must show their passport to access services. Women with “born in Afghanistan” on their ID are barred.

The restrictions on Afghan women and girls weigh on overseas travel companies, who say they try to focus on the positive aspect of cultural interactions by making donations, supporting local projects or only visiting family-run businesses.

Shane Horan, the founder of Rocky Road Travel, said visiting Afghanistan should not be seen as an endorsement of any particular government or political regime.

“Ultimately, the goal should be to support responsible tourism practices that contribute positively to the local economy and foster mutual respect and understanding, while also remaining cognizant of the broader political context in Afghanistan.”

He said there was no input from authorities about what tour groups saw or did, and that the company worked closely with a women’s rights organization in Afghanistan. A percentage of the tour cost went into supporting this organization’s programs, Horan added.

There are no women at the Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management. The students don’t mention it. But an official at the Tourism Directorate does.

“It’s a heartbreaking situation,” said the official, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals. “Even female family members ask if they can study here. But there was a change in policy with the change in government. The women who were studying before (the takeover) never came back. They never graduated.”

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36 Tips for Traveling Alone as a Woman

Updated : April 23, 2024

Research the Best Solo Travel Destinations
Set Your Intentions
Take a Walking Tour To Get Acquainted With the Area
Share Your Itinerary With Trusted Family or Friends
Keep an Open Mind
Blend In With Locals
Get Travel Insurance
Only Pack What You Need
Trust Your Gut
Arrive in the Daytime
Track Your Luggage
Check Ratings and Reviews
Learn Key Phrases
Meet New People
Keep Up With Current Events
Pack a First Aid Kit
Be Aware of Common Scams
Don’t Get Too Absorbed in Your Phone
Explore Sunrise to Sunset
Keep Your Bag Close in Crowds
Bring a Book to Dinner
Take Pictures
Review the Weather Forecast
Get Recommendations From Locals
Set Aside Time For R&R
Book a Group Activity
Maintain a Slow Pace
Store Your Valuables in a Safe
Learn How To Use Local Public Transportation
Know When To Lie
Bring Protection When Exploring Off the Beaten Path
Share Your Location
Bring a Portable Charger
Have Access to Maps
Write in a Journal
Start Small

Solo female travel is becoming increasingly popular—and for good reason. Traveling alone is a rewarding experience that can provide unique opportunities for personal growth.

However, the idea of traveling alone as a woman can be intimidating. Whether it’s safety concerns or worries that you’ll feel lonely, you may have certain reservations preventing you from booking a solo trip. Although these are valid concerns, you shouldn’t let them hold you back from embarking on an amazing adventure.

Whether it’s your first time traveling alone or you already have a few solo trips under your belt, read on to discover 36 tips for traveling alone as a woman to prepare for your next adventure.

1. Research the Best Solo Travel Destinations

If you’re a beginner solo traveler, it’s important to choose your first few destinations wisely since some places are better for solo female travelers than others. To start, consider choosing a top vacation spot since these areas cater to travelers. They are typically easy to navigate and offer increased safety measures. Plus, you’re likely to meet and interact with other travelers.

Cruises are another excellent option to ease into your first solo trip. With organized social events and plenty of things to do on a cruise , you won’t get bored. Plus, they include meals and entertainment, which means fewer things to worry about.

2. Set Your Intentions

Before you embark on your trip, think about what you want to get out of your time solo traveling. Then, make plans to ensure you get the experience you're hoping for. For example, if your intention is to experience new adventures, plan an activity to do during your trip or sign up for an excursion. Other intentions you may consider include self-discovery, mindfulness, creativity or connection.

3. Take a Walking Tour To Get Acquainted With the Area

On your first day, begin your trip with a walking tour to get the lay of the land. During the tour, your guide will point out popular landmarks and hidden gems while sharing stories about the destination’s history. Many tour companies offer cheap or even free walking tours—just remember to tip your guide!

4. Share Your Itinerary With Trusted Family or Friends

Before embarking on your journey, create an itinerary and ensure you share all the details with a trusted friend or family member. Include information such as your flight details, the address of your accommodation and contact information for anyone you’re planning to meet up with on your trip. Keep in touch with your trusted person and inform them if any of your plans change.

5. Keep an Open Mind

While an itinerary is helpful, it’s also important to leave room for spontaneity. Give yourself the freedom to meet new people and shift your plans as needed. You may be surprised by what you can experience when you’re not ticking landmarks off a list.

6. Blend In With Locals

When packing clothing, research what locals in the place you're visiting tend to wear. Blending in can help you avoid standing out as a tourist.

This is especially important in countries with cultural or legal dress codes. For example, in many Middle Eastern countries, it’s respectful for women to cover their shoulders and legs. You might also consider bringing a shawl if you plan to tour churches in Europe.

7. Get Travel Insurance

There are many reasons to buy travel insurance before embarking on your trip. With travel insurance, you can be compensated in the event that you have to cancel the trip due to unforeseen events such as illness, natural disaster or the loss of a family member. Utilize AAA’s partnership with Allianz Travel for domestic and international travel protection.

8. Only Pack What You Need

Limiting luggage will make traveling much easier, especially by yourself. Pack light, and consider bringing basics to mix and match with different outfits. You’ll also want to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs to bring back home!

Here are a few must-have travel survival tools to add to your packing list:

Portable charger
Travel adapter
Portable door lock
Safety alarm
Reusable water bottle
Anti-theft purse or fanny pack

9. Trust Your Gut

When solo traveling it’s important to trust your gut. Pay attention to your instincts and if your gut is telling you something is wrong, remove yourself from the situation ASAP.

10. Arrive in the Daytime

Schedule your flight so you arrive in the morning. Arriving while it’s light out will make navigating from the airport to your accommodation much easier and safer.

11. Track Your Luggage

Consider putting a tracker on your luggage in case it gets lost during transit. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind when you see that your luggage has successfully made it on the plane.

12. Check Ratings and Reviews

Before booking an accommodation or tour, make sure to read the reviews. These reviews can provide additional insight into safety, noise and customer service.

13. Learn Key Phrases

If you’re traveling to a country where you don’t know the native language, try to learn a few words before your trip. Examples of key phrases you should learn beforehand include:

I need help
Do you speak (language)?
Where is the bathroom?

Also, make sure to download a translator app like Google Translate in case you have difficulties communicating with someone.

14. Meet New People

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean that you spend the entire trip alone. Go out of your way to spark conversation with locals or fellow travelers. Common places to meet other travelers include group tours and hostels.

15. Keep Up With Current Events

When traveling alone, do your best to keep up with the local news. This can help you stay informed about any potential safety concerns during your trip.

16. Pack a First Aid Kit

Pack a small first aid kit to bring with you on your trip. Include necessities like a thermometer, bandaids, aloe vera gel, pain medicine, Benadryl and alcohol wipes. Even though you hopefully won’t need it, you’ll be glad you have it in a pinch!

17. Be Aware of Common Scams

Certain destinations have common scams people use to target visitors. Do your research so that you’re well-prepared and can avoid being an easy target.

18. Don’t Get Too Absorbed in Your Phone

When traveling, you’ll most likely be using your phone to navigate. And while this can be very helpful for solo travelers, it can also be easy to get so absorbed in your phone that you’re unaware of what is happening around you. Not to mention, looking distracted can make you a target for pickpocketing or other scams.

One trick is to enable the voice navigation feature on your maps app and listen to the directions in one headphone instead of staring down at your phone.

19. Explore Sunrise to Sunset

Exploring in daylight is always safer than doing so at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. When traveling alone as a woman, aim to hit the ground running as soon as the sun comes up to maximize your time in daylight.

20. Keep Your Bag Close in Crowds

Pickpocketing is very common in certain countries, so it’s important to be cautious, especially when exploring popular tourist areas. Consider getting a crossbody bag, which is great for travel since you can wear it in multiple ways. Plus, they typically have adjustable straps that allow you to shorten the strap while it’s on you. When encountering crowds, shorten your strap and wear it on your chest instead of your side.

21. Bring a Book to Dinner

If you’re nervous about feeling lonely when dining alone, consider bringing a book to meals as a form of entertainment. This will help give you something to do while waiting for your meal.

22. Take Pictures

Remember to document your journey so you can share it with others back home. Consider getting a selfie stick or tripod before your trip so you don’t have to rely on others to take your picture.

23. Review the Weather Forecast

Check the weather forecast before and throughout your trip. That way, you can dress appropriately and bring an umbrella if needed. Plus, you may want to alter your plans or head back to your hotel room early in the event of severe weather.

24. Get Recommendations From Locals

Seeking out recommendations from locals can help enrich your experience. Whether you're looking to find the best restaurant in town or explore a hidden gem, locals can provide invaluable advice.

25. Set Aside Time For R&R

Traveling can be exhausting, especially when you’re solo. Make sure to set aside time to recharge so you don’t experience travel burnout.

26. Book a Group Activity

If you’re worried about spending so much time alone, consider booking a group activity in advance. Whether it's a group tour or a local cooking class, interacting with others can help you avoid feelings of loneliness.

27. Maintain a Slow Pace

While you may want to pack as many destinations and activities into your trip, a slower pace can allow you to fully immerse yourself in each place you travel to. Plus, not having to rush from place to place will help you feel more relaxed and at ease.

28. Store Your Valuables in a Safe

Whether you're staying at a hotel, rental property or hostel, store your money, credit cards, jewelry and travel documents in a safe. Consider bringing a portable safe with you on your trip in case your accommodation doesn’t have one.

29. Learn How To Use Local Public Transportation

Before embarking on your trip, familiarize yourself with the public transportation so you’re comfortable navigating around the place you're visiting. Take a look at what routes you may take to landmarks on your itinerary.

30. Know When To Lie

While most people strive to be honest during their day-to-day lives, you may encounter situations where lying is necessary for safety.

For example, if a stranger asks if you’re alone and telling them the truth could compromise your safety, you could tell them that you’re meeting up with friends and they’re expecting to see you soon. Remember that honesty isn’t always the best policy where your safety is concerned.

31. Bring Protection When Exploring Off the Beaten Path

If you’re planning to explore nature or go hiking alone during your travels, research what potential hazards or wildlife you may encounter to ensure you bring along the necessary protection. For example, if you want to hike around Yellowstone National Park, you’ll need to bring bear spray.

Plus, you might consider bringing additional personal protection, such as pepper spray or a pocket knife. Research the laws in the country you’re visiting to ensure these items are legal to carry.

32. Share Your Location

Consider sharing your iPhone location with friends or family while you’re traveling. Apps like “Life 360” or the “Find My Friends” feature on your phone allow your friends to track your movements, which can be helpful in the event of an emergency or simply for peace of mind.

33. Bring a Portable Charger

When traveling alone, you’ll be using your phone for the internet, connecting with people back home and navigating around the area. Therefore, ensuring your phone stays charged throughout your journey is important. Consider packing a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.

34. Have Access to Maps

If you lose signal or internet connectivity, you should still be able to navigate your way around. Consider bringing a paper map or downloading an offline map on your phone.

35. Write in a Journal

Writing in a journal while solo traveling can help you document memories and reflect on your experiences. Plus, it gives you something to do during downtime.

36. Start Small

When it comes to solo traveling, it’s best to start small and work your way up. Consider first solo traveling to a nearby destination or even going to a spa resort to practice spending time on your own. For example, if you live in Boston, you could take a solo day trip to Salem and work your way up to further destinations.

AAA Travel can help you have the best solo trip experience. Our experienced agents can help you book a trip that is perfect for traveling alone as a woman. Plus, you can use your AAA membership for exclusive discounts on hotels and rental cars.

Travel like an expert with aaa and trip canvas, get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

Experts Share Seven Ways Women Can Travel More Sustainably

by Carolyn Ray | Oct 3, 2022

Woman walking with her bike through a park on an autumn day

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Last updated on March 1st, 2024

Advice from three experts in the field of sustainable travel

by Carolyn Ray

Ask any woman if she cares about sustainable travel and you’ll get a firm yes. We want to travel more sustainably — the question is, how?

Recently, I invited three well-respected experts in the field of sustainable travel to join a webinar to talk about the challenges and actions women can take as the world’s most influential travellers. Speakers included: Anna Pollock , founder of Conscious Travel and the 2022 recipient of the second JourneyWoman Award for Lifetime Achievement ; Norie Quintos, Contributing editor to National Geographic Travel Media and former executive editor of National Geographic Traveler; and Shannon Guihan , Chief Sustainability Officer, The Travel Corporation and Head of the TreadRight Foundation .

There is no question that women want — and expect — the tourism industry to provide more sustainable experience. Here are the major challenges and shifts that need to take place.

Challenges in sustainable travel

Challenge #1: The travel industry is behind other sectors

The first challenge is that the travel industry is falling behind many other sectors in terms of understanding the basic principles and practices of sustainability.

“Just the very structure and nature of mass tourism is based on our demand for novelty,” says Anna Pollock. “The emphasis is very much on numbers, not on net benefit. Name me a destination that has seriously changed the key performance indicators. They’ll still be expected to produce more visitors next year and recover from the pandemic and exceed pre-2019 numbers. We are talking about a fundamental shift in how we measure success.”

Challenge #2: The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals are not embraced at a meaningful level by the travel industry

“When I look for models and best practice, I don’t look to our sector,” says Shannon Guihan, Chief Sustainability Officer, The Travel Corporation. “I always look outside travel for those who are using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . The SDGs are embraced by our sector at a very high level, but not at a meaningful level. They’ll look at the goals and they’ll say, I support zero poverty because I go to XYZ place. That’s not actually how the goals work. You need to use the framework for the goals, you need to use the targets and measures and implement them in a meaningful capacity for the destinations that you operate in.”

Pollock says the host, or the supply side of the industry needs to take the lead. “If they were doing the same thing and taking a real genuine interest in the communities in which they’re located, then that would be fine. I would like to see more action come from the supply side of the business,” she says.

“Our industry is about 70 to 80 per cent small to medium size enterprises,” says Guihan. “They can’t put the resources into measures. But organizations such as mine can, and all of our competitors must.”

Challenge #3: The concept of regeneration is over-simplified

Thirdly, the concept of regeneration has been over-simplified, placing too much pressure on the traveller. All three —Pollock, Guihan and Quintos — agree that the travel media have played a role in the oversimplification.

“I’ve been saddened at the way that the concept of regeneration, which is really a very rich concept, has just been oversimplified,” says Pollock.

“You have an industry that has not progressed as far as other sectors when it comes to understanding sustainability, and you have media who is looking for that soundbite,” Guihan says. “I will express great frustration on being asked my thoughts on differences of definitions between regenerative, sustainable, transformative – I don’t care what you call it. You have travel trade or the sector that is saying, well, I need to find the right word because I want to catch the most media hits.”

“Unfortunately, travel media often acts like a promotional arm of the travel industry,” Quintos says. “Often we’re loathe to call out the bad actors, especially if they’re advertisers. I think we need to talk – you know, talk to travel media here, we need to take more seriously the journalism part of travel journalism, and give voice to the voiceless – nature, the place itself.”

“Somehow, it’s all up to the traveller to leave a place better than they found it,” says Pollock. “I mean that’s asking an awful lot of the traveller. To expect a traveller to arrive and spend their entire trip wondering how they’re going to improve a place just doesn’t make sense to me. But that became a very easy media soundbite. You know, leave it better than it was.”

Our choices will affect how tourism evolves

While we’ve always intuitively known that we are all connected and that every action we take affects something else, Pollock encourages women to make more conscious choices when it comes to travel.

“The choices that we make have to be conscious choices. We have to make informed choices,” she says. “We can’t just go on autopilot when travel, because that will simply make things far worse.”

“Imagine [tourism] as more like a forest or a field of grass or a swarm of fish, for example,” she says. “Each one of these networks is actually natural and alive. They are living systems. No one is in charge. In a forest, no one is running around telling the critters what to do. In the soil or the leaves on the tree to do what they do. Every part or every life form in a forest makes its own contribution to the health and appearance. So that’s why I say that what you say, think, do, the choices you make, will affect the way that tourism evolves and changes.”

Many of the systems that have been in place for years are unravelling. “We are facing multiple challenges: climate change, the loss of biodiversity, the inequality of wealth distribution, the weakening of democracy,” Pollock says. “They’re unravelling not just because of failing economics or in some countries a failing political system, they’re unravelling because we have been persuaded to see ourselves and our relationship with the planet, with other life forms, in a certain way that isn’t going to help us anymore.”

Seven ways women can help both people and places thrive

Ask if your travel is nourishing the destination, host and guest
Pressure the travel industry to create sustainable change
Change how you travel
Become ambassadors and support local conservation
Get more informed about the history of places
Read travel articles more critically
Support small, locally-owned businesses

1. Ask yourself how your travel is nourishing the destination, host and guest

According to Pollock, the concept of nourishment has many dimensions.

“Success isn’t just about making a profit, but it is about contributing to the health and wellbeing of the system we’re part of,” she says. “Nourishment has many dimensions. It has social, emotional, physical and even spiritual dimensions.”

“Every step at every stage in our travel journey is one in which we can be making conscious choices that basically answer the question, ‘how am I nourishing myself and the others?’” Pollock says. “How can you nourish yourself on a trip so that you’re growing personally in some way and you come home healthier physically, mentally, emotionally and spirituality so that that trip is really fulfilling.”

When you encounter another person, ask: ‘how is my behaviour potentially nourishing that other person?’ It could be as simple as they received your smile and you word of gratitude. It lifts their day.

3. Don’t stop travelling because of emissions, but do change how you travel

For many years we’ve heard carbon offsets are something the traveller should do to offset the impact of our travel.

“I don’t think that we should stop travelling because of emissions alone,” says Pollock. “Too many people now are utterly reliant on our travelling. We, the small percentage of people that are privileged to do that. But I do think we can travel more consciously, mindfully.”

Ultimately, however, the responsibility for reduction is with the industry, which The Travel Corporation’s Shannon Guihan says is still producing too much carbon dioxide. “Our priority first and foremost is reduction of what we produce through renewable energy, new technology, limit energy use, shifting to electric vehicles. Reductions, reductions, reductions must come first,” she says.

Slow travel, longer stays, choosing alternatives to airplanes like mass transit are just some of the things we can do. Look for more fuel-efficient planes, biofuels, hybrid ships and other technologies that are reducing impact.

A woman sitting on a train gazes out the window. Train travel as part of sustainable travel

As consumers, we can choose more sustainable modes of transportation when we travel / Photo by nualaimages on Envato

4. Become ambassadors for sustainable travel and support local conservation projects

As an alternative to carbon offsets, Guihan recommends that women shift to nature-based solutions and support local conservation grassroots projects.

“At The Travel Corporation we are shifting towards nature-based solutions that might not be accredited just yet, but are very valuable, such as kelp farming in the northeast through Green Wave and using natural wave action and volcanic minerals through Project Vesta to increase the sequestration ability of the oceans on carbon,” she says.

Quintos says there are incredible immersive sustainable experiences all around us, even in cities, that we can seek out and become ambassadors for.

“There are points of light all over the world that we can look to as models,” she says. “I’m thinking of the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, which is the result of many people over many, many years coming together and working on a landmark protection agreement and pioneering an economy around conservation so visitors can participate in protecting the culture of 26 distinct First Nations and then in a swath of rainforest the size of Ireland.”

“Winnipeg is an amazing city right in the middle of Canada,” Quintos says. “It’s one of those places that’s expanding offerings in the winter, traditionally the low season. It’s a place where they recycle 80 to 90 percent of everything that’s made there. They’ve really become a model city.”

5. Get more informed about the history of places

There are many aspects of the travel industry which are extractive and exploitive.

“Let’s be real,” Pollock says. “The travel industry is in my opinion the velvet glove of globalization. In the old days, they sent out missionaries and they did a lot of damage. And now we often send out a lot of tourists who can do equal amount of damage, thinking they’re doing good.”

“I think we can inform ourselves of the history of places and be willing to draw attention to the fact that these places are the end result, in some cases, of very – of huge oppression and exploitation. And show an interest in the reality that people are living. That to me is then when we start to connect as human beings. But to gloss it all over and just, you know, have a nice holiday and not want to get involved in those issues is completely contrary to everything I’m trying to talk about in terms of nourishment and reciprocity.”

Two Uro women embroiders their handicrafts on floating island in Lake Titicaca near Puno, Peru

Two women artisans in Puno, Peru. It’s important to connect with and respect the history of the places we travel / Photo by shandylight on Envato

6. Read travel stories more critically

National Geographic’s Quintos recommends that traveller needs to read articles with a grain of salt.

“Read things more critically,” she says. “Ask ‘what is being left unsaid? Who is not being represented?’ Perhaps it’s the people and the place itself.

“What is the tone of the pieces that you see kind of come through your feed? Is it acquisitive – all about taking – bad. Or is it inquisitive?”

She also suggests that when travellers see ‘bucket list’ articles, to remember it’s the media trying to make you feel like you have to have one.

“Often in travel media, we have this bucket list mentality,” says Quintos. “There’s an excessive focus on the bucket list, creating kind of FOMO or YOLO you know, fear of missing out, you only live once, which has definitely contributed to problems in over tourism and rampant consumerism.”

“We can consciously take a step back and say, okay, I don’t actually have to do what I’m being asked to do by the media,” she says.

7. Support small, locally owned businesses

As travellers, we can put more thought into following the money when we travel and support local communities.

“If you take a resort like Cancun, for example, 80 percent of the income leaves Cancun,” says Pollock. “It doesn’t even stay there. And yet they’ve been subsidized and invested in by the state as well as private sector investors.”

“Most of the money that’s coming in is now going out. That’s wrong. That’s a failing system. That doesn’t make sense to me. One of the questions you could be asking if you’re planning is how can I stay in places that are locally owned and run? And how can I find out where some of the money flows to? Are these – what I’m eating procured locally? Are these souvenirs just been shipped in from China? That kind of thing.”

To celebrate local communities, the Travel Corporation has designed a Make Travel Matter Experiences™ program which is mapped against the Sustainable Development Goals.

“We took the target for 11 of those 17 goals and from those targets we created our own criteria for what “sustainable” tourism experiences are,” Guihan says. “Our teams specifically seek out travel experiences that aren’t traditionally on the travel list. They really try and feature what makes a place a good place to live, because at the end of the day if you’re not a good place to live you can’t be a good place to visit and try and encourage those experiences that support what a place is today and social and environmental justice. For example, a walking tour of London led by refugees who now have employment because of the tourism sector.”

Glassworks glass manufacturing. Glass artisan working on a piece of hot glass.

As travelers, we must ensure we are supporting truly local artisans, and not products being shipped in from China / Photo by antoniohugophoto on Envato

As women, we can help create change in the industry

As the industry catches up to consumer sentiment, we can make conscious choices about how we travel. As the primary influencers and consumers of travel, women can advance and lead a new way to travel.

“When you look at the proportion of people on the planet that are able to travel internationally, the number is really quite small,” Pollock says. “Every one of us that is able to participate in seeing the world and several countries a year actually are part of a really small elite. If we can model good travel behaviour then we can have a big impact.”

Thank you to our speakers for their candid insights and to our webinar sponsor, Trafalgar Tours. We invite you to make a donation to the Adventure Travel Conservation Fund , which funds local projects engaged in the conservation of unique natural and cultural resources of adventure travel destinations.

To read the full transcript of the webinar, please click here .

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Carolyn Ray

As the CEO and Editor of JourneyWoman, Carolyn is a passionate advocate for women's travel and living the life of your dreams. She leads JourneyWoman's team of writers and chairs the JourneyWoman Women's Advisory Council and Women's Speaker's Bureau. She has been featured in the New York Times, Toronto Star and Zoomer as a solo travel expert, and speaks at women's travel conferences around the world. In March 2023, she was named one of the most influential women in travel by TravelPulse and was the recipient of a SATW travel writing award in September 2023. She is the chair of the Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), a member Women's Travel Leaders and a Herald for the Transformational Travel Council (TTC). Sometimes she sleeps. A bit.

I agree with many of the wonderful ideas in this article, however…. We really must travel LESS. Please, no short flights, or weekend getaways, extravagant resorts, etc. The reality is — those days are over — IF we are seeing the climate crisis as it actually exists. I understand we may be a small percentage of it all and yet it is the very elite that have the time and money to do things differently. Better. More conscientiously. PLEASE no private jets! I worked with them for many years and the amount of waste is appalling not to mention simply the fuel consumption. Long flights or trains, long stays, simpler accommodations, less often. Please.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

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For Black women in the U.S., the odds of surviving breast cancer must change

From under-diagnosis to access to treatment, Black women remain the most vulnerable to breast cancer — and no one individual or organization can tackle these challenges alone.

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Dr. Aida Habtezion, Black women and breast cancer, breast cancer survival, breast cancer, cancer rates in Black people, breast cancer survival rates for Black women, Black women, fighting breast cancer

Along with the “second wave” of feminism, the 1970s marked the start of the breast cancer awareness movement , with several prominent public figures bringing attention to the need for education, scientific research, and support for this disease. Since that time, major strides have been made in the prevention, detection, and treatment of breast cancer, and today, significantly fewer women are dying from the disease. However, these advances have not benefited everyone equally ; Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer compared to white women. And the disparity among younger women is even more pronounced: Black women under the age of 50 are twice as likely to die from breast cancer than white women of the same age.

As a physician and scientist — and someone of African descent — I am acutely aware of the devastating impact that breast cancer has on our community. In my over two-and-a-half decades of clinical practice, I am also no stranger to seeing the same disease impacting people differently across races, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds.

I am dedicated not only to addressing health disparities but also to better understanding those who experience them. Who are they? Where do they live? When do they receive the life-changing news that they have cancer? And, when they do find out, how do they navigate the healthcare system to receive appropriate and optimal care?

The unfortunate reality is that Black men and women generally have lower rates of cancer screenings overall . Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at an advanced stage, when the disease is more complicated to treat, and are twice as likely to be diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive form that has fewer treatment options . In addition, Black women have the lowest 5-year relative survival rate for every stage of breast cancer at diagnosis. This points to significant gaps in accessing quality care and treatment following a diagnosis.

At the root of these inequities lies an incredibly complex history of discrimination, biases and mistrust in the healthcare system. This history, combined with the lived experiences of many Black women today, can often limit or even prevent them from accessing cancer screening opportunities and seeking care and support once diagnosed. This disparity also extends to participation in clinical trials that are working to advance new potential breakthrough medicines. It is well-established that racial and ethnic minorities continue to be underrepresented in clinical trials — according to recently published data, it is estimated that only about 4-7% of cancer clinical trial participants are Black. Even this small percentage is thought to be an underestimation, given that only about one-third of cancer clinical trials report race. In addition to medical mistrust, factors that contribute to low participation in clinical trials include study design (e.g., lack of diverse recruitment), medical provider bias, enrollment requirements (e.g., exclusion of people with other illnesses), and barriers to access.

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In order to achieve true health equity for all and enable Black women to benefit from scientific advances in breast cancer screening, diagnosis and care, these disparities must be addressed. Despite the numerous barriers, I believe that by working together, we can find ways to make progress. No one individual or organization can tackle these challenges alone; it will take collaboration and partnership toward a shared mission.

To that end, Pfizer is partnering with the American Cancer Society to start creating change where it is most urgently needed, in communities that are disproportionately impacted by breast and prostate cancers and are medically underserved. Through the new “Change the Odds” initiative, we will raise awareness of no- and low-cost screenings, enhance access to support and patient navigation services, and provide general information about clinical trials.

As a Black woman, I know the importance of advocating for my own health to get the care I deserve — and I encourage every woman over the age of 40 or younger: If you have risk factors such as a family history, to seek regular breast cancer screening. But as a physician and advocate, I know the healthcare community simply must do better for women of color. Every life lost to breast cancer is a life we cannot afford to lose.

As Chief Medical Officer of Pfizer, Dr. Aida Habtezion leads Pfizer’s Worldwide Medical & Safety organization responsible for ensuring that patients, physicians, and regulatory agencies are provided with information on the safe and appropriate use of Pfizer medications. She also leads Pfizer’s Institute of Translational Equitable Medicine, an initiative to achieve health equity. Prior to joining Pfizer, Dr. Habtezion was a practicing physician and scientist at Stanford University’s School of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

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14 Best Places for Women to Travel Alone in the United States

L adies, let’s talk about solo travel – everyone seems to have a love-hate relationship with it. There’s something liberating about exploring the world on your own, but there’s always that pesky fear of safety . I’ve been there, but after traveling solo quite a bit, I can confidently say that the fear is often overrated. There are countless safe and beautiful places to explore, even here in the US. So, if you’re a single woman seeking a new adventure without the pressures of navigating a group, keep reading! Let’s dive into some of the best places for women to travel alone in the United States .

A Gal’s Best Solo Escapades in the USA

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing island getaway or an adventure-filled trip to the great outdoors, there’s a safe and fun destination out there for you.

Portland, Oregon

Views from Portland City Grill

Portland is perfect for women who love unique experiences and scenic beauty. With an eclectic food scene, atmospheric bars, and bike-friendly streets, Portland provides an unforgettable experience to any solo traveler. Enjoy a day trip to Mount Hood for some stunning views, or explore the Pearl District to see the city’s vibrant street art. Alternatively, unwind at a local spa or hang out at one of the many coffee shops for an all-around relaxing experience.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is the quintessential destination for coffee lovers and adventurers alike. The Emerald City is teeming with picturesque parks and forests, as well as some of the best shopping destinations in the US, including Pike Place Market . If it’s your first time in Seattle and you’re into hiking, the Summit at Mount Rainier is a must-visit. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at any one of its Michelin-starred restaurants or enjoy a laid-back sunset at Golden Gardens Park. I recommend staying at the Kimpton Palladian Hotel in Seattle

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a gem of a location for solo female travelers. Known for its healing powers, Santa Fe attracts visitors from all over the world making it the perfect place for anyone looking to rejuvenate their mind and body. Visit cultural landmarks like The Santa Fe Opera, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, or stroll around the Santa Fe Plaza. Take a guided walk or bike tour of the city to learn more about the rich history of New Mexico. I recommend staying at Bishop Lodge .

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona will blow your mind with its vibrant shades of red rock formations and unique hiking trails. It’s the perfect place for women who love exploring the great outdoors. After a strenuous yet inspiring hike, treat yourself to delicious, healthy snacks at one of the many local organic cafes. Sedona is also known for its strong spiritual culture. Visit one of the many retreat centers available to connect with yourself and recharge.

Miami, Florida

If you’re seeking a fun and carefree solo adventure, Miami is the perfect place. Miami is full of energy, from its year-round sunny weather to Latin-inspired music and cuisine. Enjoy a relaxing day on South Beach or sail to the nearby islands for some swimming, snorkeling, or diving adventures. The Wynwood Walls Art District is a colorful feast for the eyes and offers ample photo opportunities. Miami is a sunny, vibrant destination for any independent traveler. I recommend staying at Faena Miami .

New York City, New York

The city that never sleeps is a dream come true for solo female travelers who crave excitement, diversity, and access to world-class attractions, food, and shopping. Although it can be overwhelming at first, New York City has a well-connected transport system, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of things to do and see.

You can stroll through Central Park, visit museums like the Met or MOMA, attend Broadway shows, indulge in international cuisine, and meet people from all walks of life. While it’s true that New York can be expensive, there are many free or affordable activities and accommodations, especially if you avoid peak seasons and tourist traps. I recommend staying at Margaritaville Times Square .

Charleston, South Carolina

If you’re looking for a charming, historical, and hospitable city, Charleston should be on your radar. Known for its elegant mansions, cobblestone streets, and southern hospitality, Charleston blends past and present in a unique way. You can take a carriage ride through the historic district, savor traditional low-country cuisine, watch the sunset on the beach, or attend festivals like the Spoleto Festival USA.

Charleston is also a walkable city, with many attractions within a few blocks of each other. While you’re there, you can also visit nearby towns like Beaufort, Isle of Palms, and Sullivan’s Island for more sightseeing and relaxation.

Austin, Texas

If you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a fan of vibrant cultural scenes, Austin should be on your radar. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin offers over 250 live music venues, from honky-tonk bars to outdoor festivals. You can also enjoy savory Tex-Mex cuisine, shop at quirky boutiques, and attend events like South by Southwest or the Texas Book Festival.

Austin is also a bicycle-friendly city, with many bike lanes and rental options, and a welcoming city for solo women travelers who want to immerse themselves in a diverse and creative environment. I recommend staying at The Otis Hotel.

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Located just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing escape. With beautiful views of the Puget Sound and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, you’ll never be bored on this island paradise. Take a stroll through the town’s many art galleries and boutiques or rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic trails. And, with one of the lowest crime rates in the state, you can feel safe and secure while enjoying all that Bainbridge Island has to offer.

Door County, Wisconsin

If you’re looking for a charming small-town vibe, Door County is the perfect destination for you. With over 250 miles of scenic shoreline and numerous state parks to explore, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, sample local wines and cheeses, or simply relax on one of the area’s picturesque beaches. And, with a low crime rate and a friendly small-town atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home in Door County.

Big Sur, California

For anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Big Sur is the ultimate destination. This rugged stretch of California coastline is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, as well as numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities. Take a dip in a secluded hot spring, stroll along the beach, or simply marvel at the jaw-dropping views. And, with a strong sense of community and a low crime rate, you can feel safe and secure while exploring this stunning destination.

Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re looking for a destination that’s both beautiful and affordable, Salt Lake City is the perfect choice. With numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions to explore, as well as stunning natural beauty just a short drive away, you’ll never be bored in this vibrant city. And, with a crime rate that’s well below the national average, you can feel secure while enjoying all that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Kauai and Oahu, Hawaii

Of course, we can’t talk about safe and fun places for women to travel without mentioning Hawaii! Both Kauai and Oahu are great destinations for solo female travelers, with plenty of natural beauty to explore, delicious food to sample, and fun activities to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking through lush rainforests like Maunawili Falls in Oahu, Hawaii , catching some waves on a picture-perfect beach, or simply soaking up the island vibes, you’re sure to fall in love with these stunning destinations.

Conclusion:

We’ve come to the end of our list of the best places for women to travel alone in the United States. Solo traveling as a woman can indeed be daunting, but these locations make it easy to unwind, relax and explore. Each destination boasts something unique and exciting suited to every kind of travel style, be it laidback, adventurous, or healing. Whichever option you choose, embrace the freedom that solo travel brings, and soak in the local cultures and experiences. Remember, you are an independent, capable woman, so go ahead and scratch that wanderlust itch!

Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers

Advice for First-time Solo Travelers: Insider Tips

Get Travel Insuranc e

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flight s

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations .

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .

Ladies, let’s talk about solo travel – everyone seems to have a love-hate relationship with it. There’s something liberating about exploring the world on your own, but there’s always that pesky fear of safety. I’ve been there, but after traveling solo quite a bit, I can confidently say that the fear is often overrated. There are countless safe and beautiful places to explore, even here in the US. So, if you’re a single woman seeking a new adventure without the pressures of navigating a group, keep reading! Let’s dive into some of the best places for women to travel alone […]

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Jetec Sublimation Blanks Pocket Mirror Sublimation Travel Makeup Mirror Dye Thermal Transfer Mirror Folding Makeup Compact Mirrors for Women, Men DIY (Stylish,12 Pcs)

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Jetec Sublimation Blanks Pocket Mirror Sublimation Travel Makeup Mirror Dye Thermal Transfer Mirror Folding Makeup Compact Mirrors for Women, Men DIY (Stylish,12 Pcs)

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About this item.

Package Contents: you will receive 12 pieces of sublimation travel makeup mirrors, they have square and round shape, each shape has 6 pieces, sufficient quantity can meet your daily use and replacement need, you also can share with your family members and friends
Serviceable Material: the heat dye thermal transfer mirrors are made of aluminum, stainless steel metal and glass, these materials are durable, so you can use the mirrors for a long time; The smooth surface will not hurt your hand
Can Heat Transfer: each sublimation blanks pocket mirror has an aluminum sheet on the surface, which can support you to heat transfer different patterns and pictures on it; You can print the pattern you like, then sublimate the pattern on the surface of the aluminum plate, you can get colorful and delicate crafts
Suitable Size: the folding makeup compact mirrors have 2 shapes, round shape is approx. 2 x 2 x 0.32 inches/ 5 x 5 x 0.8 cm and square shape is approx. 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.32 inches/ 5.5 x 5.5 x 0.8 cm, they are fit for you to put in your pocket, cosmetic cases, bags, suitcases, they will not occupy too much space
Extensive Usage: due to the light weight and heat transfer design of the engraving DIY mirrors, they are widely applied at home, traveling, hair salons and powder rooms; Whether you are attending meetings or holiday parties, you can use them to touch up makeup or look your own outfits

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Can heat transfer:

each sublimation blanks pocket mirror has an aluminum sheet on the surface, which can support you to heat transfer different patterns and pictures on it; You can print the pattern you like, then sublimate the pattern on the surface of the aluminum plate, you can get colorful and delicate crafts

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Can I travel to Dubai right now? Travel safety and consumer rights explained

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Passengers wait for their flight after a rainstorm hit Dubai, causing delays at the Dubai International Airport

Holidaymakers have been warned of travel chaos in Dubai , with heavy downpours causing delays and cancellations throughout United Arab Emirates airports.

The UK Foreign Office has told tourists heading to Dubai to be aware of ‘severe disruption’ due to the extreme weather, which saw the country battered by the most rain it has recorded in 75 years.

Over 142mm of rain fell on Dubai International Airport – the second busiest in the world – over the last 24 hours, more than the average annual amount of 94.7mm – and flooding in the transport have left thousands of Brits struggling to get home .

Some airlines have diverted flights or cancelled them altogether, while authorities have urged anyone planning to travel to Dubai to exercise caution.

If you’re heading to the UAE destination, here’s what you need to know.

Can I travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice after airport floods

People wade through submerged streets at flooded area as heavy rains negatively affect daily life in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Whether you can get to Dubai at the moment will depend on your airline, but even if your flight is still running, it’s likely your travel plans will face disruption.

In a statement, Dubai Airports explained: ‘It’s challenging for departing guests to reach the airport and arrival guests to leave the terminals due to the significant flooding and road blockages, resulting in limited available transport options.

The authority claims recovery will ‘take some time’ but urges guests to check the status of their flight directly with the airline before heading to the airport, and to allow ‘significant extra travel time’.

A further announcement on X made last night (April 17) read: ‘We advise you not to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary. Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline.

Passengers crowd at the Dubai International Airport due to flight cancellations and delays in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

‘We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions.’

This morning, check-in for Emirates and flydubai has reopened at Terminal 3, and Terminal 1 arrivals have restarted. However, it’s still being stressed that only those with confirmed bookings or departure confirmations from their airline should go to the airport.

â ï¸We advise you NOT to come to the airport, unless absolutely necessary. Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline. We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions. — DXB (@DXB) April 17, 2024

Access roads around the airport are still being cleared too, so although availability of taxis is improving, it’s likely it’ll take longer than usual to get to and from the airport.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advised British travellers: ‘Check with your airline before traveling. Contact FCDO if you are in the UAE and in need of emergency support.’

Your rights if Dubai flights are cancelled or changed

If you’re already at the airport, restaurants are open and accepting meal vouchers (which will be issued to those experiencing delays of more than four hours). You may also be provided with accommodation or transport if you’re re-routed to the next day.

People wait for transportation amidst floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates,

Due to the major disruption, this may not have been possible, so the CAA recommends passengers keep the receipt for ‘reasonable’ costs (like food and accommodation) they pay for themselves and claim for reimbursement later.

If you have been delayed for more than five hours and no longer wish to travel then you’re entitled to a refund from the airline, and if you missed your connection flight because your first flight was delayed, you are also entitled to a flight back to your original departure point.

However, once you take a refund or choose to travel later than the first available flight, the airline no longer has any obligation to provide you with food, drink or accommodation.

Under UK law, airlines sometimes have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late, but this depends on what caused the delay. Since these disruptions aren’t the airline’s fault, they fall under ‘extraordinary circumstances’, meaning you aren’t eligible for compensation.

Your Daily Horoscope

Your star sign’s tarot horoscope for the month of May 2024

Check your travel insurance policy, though, as some insurers offer cover in the form of a fixed cash sum if your flight is delayed or cancelled due to bad weather.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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Woman wins $1M in Oregon lottery raffle, finds forgotten ticket in Tupperware container

A forgotten lottery ticket stuffed in a Tupperware container made an Oregon woman a millionaire.

Leslie Carr, 52, a Portland resident, bought the $1 million lucky Raffle ticket for the March 15 drawing at a Fred Meyer in Happy Valley, the Oregon Lottery said .

“I had no idea I was the winner,” Carr told lottery officials. “If it weren’t for the billion-dollar Powerball winner making news, I would have forgot. We don’t check our tickets.”

After learning about the $1.326 billion Powerball win in her state, Carr took a trip to the grocery store where she purchased the tickets to check them. After checking almost all the tickets within her stash Carr checked the last one that gave her the message to visit the Oregon Lottery Headquarters. In disbelief she asked a Fred Meyer staff member to check her lucky ticket, the lottery said.

“I can’t cash this because your prize is worth over $1,000," the staff member told her.

The thought of winning cash from the lottery brought excitement to Carr.

“That’s when I started getting butterflies,” Carr told lottery officials.

Michigan woman wins: $2M lottery jackpot after buying ticket on the way to pick up pizza

'A dream come true': $1 million lottery win will help Oregon woman pay bills and travel

Claiming her $1million prize on Monday Carr, a medical receptionist, plans to take care of some bills before enjoying the rest of her money.

Starting with her mortgage Carr plans to pay off the home that she lives in with her husband. A nice gift to herself is buying a new truck. Carr told Oregon Lottery officials that the one she currently owns has a broken windshield.

After getting those tasks done Carr said she’d love to take a vacation in Hawaii.

Carr told lottery officials that the lottery win was, “a dream come true.”

What are the odds of winning the Raffle?

The odds of winning the $1 million top prize for the Raffle is 1 in 250,000 , the Oregon Lottery said .

The overall odds of winning the Raffle are 1 in 138.8 , the lottery said.

Where can you buy lottery tickets?

In order to purchase a ticket, you'll have to visit your local convenience store, gas station or grocery store - and in a handful of states, you can get tickets online.

You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network , in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C. and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any State Lottery. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms.

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COMMENTS

bienvenue
Fondée en 2022 à Bali, en Indonésie, Women Can Travel est une communauté dédiée à la Photographie, au Voyage et aux Activités Outdoor pour les Femmes. autour du Monde entier. Souhaitant démocratiser le Voyage d'aventure, la communauté se veut inclusive.
20 Safest Countries for Solo Female Travelers (+ 5 Worst!)
3. Iceland. Iceland has some of the lowest crime rates and it's ranked number one as the most peaceful country in the world on the Global Peace Index! The country is also one of the best destinations for solo female travelers in search of an ultimate female adventure journey (or a road trip at that!).
30 of the Best Places for Women's Solo Travel in 2024
The 30 Best Places for Women's Solo Travel in 2024 include North America: Four Canadian destinations made the list, including the Arctic*, Banff, Alberta; Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Abitibi-Temiscaming, Quebec/Ontario. In the US, there are three destinations, including: Cedar City, Utah; Finger Lakes, New York, Maui, Hawaii and Mexico, Oaxaca.
JourneyWoman
Welcome to JourneyWoman, the world's largest and most trusted travel resource for women over 50. Founded in 1994, we celebrate women's wisdom and the joy of discovery that purposeful travel brings. Together, we are inspired to make our world a better place. Click here to Join our Mailing List - We reach over 115,000 women every month.
The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel • The Blonde Abroad
Solo travel gives as much as you put into it. Be confident, smart, and informed—you'll find the destination blooms right before you. Be safe—use your basic street smarts, be assertive, and keep your valuables close and hidden. But don't forget to enjoy yourself. Open up, be warm and friendly, and get to know the locals.
How Women 50+ Can Get Started in Solo Travel
Recommendation 1: Travel with a women-friendly group - 51%. Women recommended group travel as the best way to get started in solo travel, particularly if you're feeling anxious or aren't sure where to start. There are many women-owned and women-led group tours that create safe travel experiences for women and create environments that push ...
Solo Female Travel in Europe: Best Destinations + Tips
Welcome to Be My Travel Muse, one of the top female travel blogs in the world, welcoming over 5 million readers annually. I'm Kristin, and my vision of a better world is one where more women are empowered and living out their dreams. Solo traveling is the best method I've found to become the best, bravest version of me.
The Power of Women in Travel
The Power of Women in Travel. Women make up a majority of travelers and the lion's share of the tourism workforce. As the travel industry rebuilds, it is time to put the so-called second sex first. Women hold a majority of the travel market shares across a number of categories. The word "crisis" first gained popularity after floating from ...
Women in Travel
WomenInTravelcelebrates the adventurous spirit of women who roam, explore, and inspire, highlighting every facet of women's travel experiences. Dive into the world of solo sojourners, women-led group adventures, trailblazing female travel entrepreneurs, and mothers finding balance on the road. In bustling cities and quaint towns, the essence of ...
Information for Women Travelers
GBV can take many forms, like sexual or physical assault, domestic violence, forced marriage, female infanticide, sex and human trafficking, and other violent acts. Women travelers can be targeted for these crimes. If you are a victim of GBV, please contact the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747.
15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Travel for Women
11. Stockholm, Sweden. Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure. Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home ...
Solo Travel for Women: The 18 Best Destinations (Plus Tips)
Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like ...
10 Solo Travel Tips And 10 Best Destinations For Women In 2023
It's "the best time to travel to get thinner crowds, good weather, and cheaper prices," says Black. 6. Get travel insurance. The prospect of getting sick—alone—in a foreign place is daunting ...
Women Who Travel
For all self-identifying women who want to see the world and chat about their experiences through a female's point-of-view As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel ...
Air travel during pregnancy: Is it safe?
Air travel can raise the risk for blood clots in the legs, a condition called venous thrombosis. The risk is higher for pregnant people. Moving your legs may help prevent this problem. Take a walk up and down the aisle every hour during the flight. If you must remain seated, flex and extend your ankles from time to time.
50 Best Trips For Solo Female Travel (And Why Now Is The Time ...
New York City made it the top spot in the U.S. for women traveling solo, followed by Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Chicago. Globally, London was the most popular destination. Read on ...
Travel During Pregnancy
In most cases, pregnant women can travel safely until close to their due dates. But travel may not be recommended if you have pregnancy complications.If you are planning a trip, talk with your obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn).And no matter how you choose to travel, think ahead about your comfort and safety.
The 9 Best Places For Solo Female Travel In 2022
Best Places for Solo Female Travel: Singapore. Singapore is imbued with both a fascinating history and the pixie dust of shining, glittering modernity. It is a breeze to navigate, safely, through ...
WSL Book now: Free coach travel for LFC Women's away fixture at
Tickets and free coach travel can now be booked for Liverpool FC Women's season finale away at Leicester City on Saturday May 18 (3pm BST kick-off). The Reds complete the 2023-24 campaign with an encounter against the Foxes at King Power Stadium.
The future of travel is female. Here's why.
The future of travel is female. Here's why. Women-focused tours are changing the world one trip at a time. By Katie Knorovsky. March 05, 2020. • 8 min read. Four years ago, Shelly Kacergis ...
Tips for Traveling Alone as a Woman in 2021
Use Early 2021 to Work Your Travel Muscle. Even if you're an experienced solo traveler, there's nothing like a year of non-travel to throw you off your game. Lucky for you, traveling alone is ...
The 20 safest countries for women to travel alone
A recent study from travel company Bounce ranked Ireland as the safest country for female travellers, which is good news for any woman who has dreamed of breathtaking cliff sides and S t. Patrick ...
More foreign tourists are visiting Afghanistan each year, and the
The restrictions on Afghan women and girls weigh on overseas travel companies, who say they try to focus on the positive aspect of cultural interactions by making donations, supporting local ...
36 Tips for Traveling Alone as a Woman
Solo female travel is becoming increasingly popular—and for good reason. Traveling alone is a rewarding experience that can provide unique opportunities for personal growth. However, the idea of traveling alone as a woman can be intimidating.
Experts Share Seven Ways Women Can Travel More Sustainably
2. Pressure the travel industry to create sustainable change. Pollock thinks we need to increase the pressure on the industry and tell them what we want. "Traditionally we have a tourism industry that has said, 'we will create sustainable practices if we're convinced that the market wants it," Pollock says.
For Black women in the U.S., the odds of surviving breast ...
As a Black woman, I know the importance of advocating for my own health to get the care I deserve — and I encourage every woman over the age of 40 or younger: If you have risk factors such as a ...
14 Best Places for Women to Travel Alone in the United States
Let's dive into some of the best places for women to travel alone in the United States. A Gal's Best Solo Escapades in the USA. ... Solo traveling as a woman can indeed be daunting, but these ...
Amazon.com: Jetec Sublimation Blanks Pocket Mirror Sublimation Travel
About this item . Package Contents: you will receive 12 pieces of sublimation travel makeup mirrors, they have square and round shape, each shape has 6 pieces, sufficient quantity can meet your daily use and replacement need, you also can share with your family members and friends
Can I travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice after airport floods
The region recorded the heaviest rainfall in 75 years (Picture: Stringer/Anadolu via Getty Images) Whether you can get to Dubai at the moment will depend on your airline, but even if your flight ...
Woman wins $1M in Oregon lottery raffle, finds forgotten ticket in
Michigan woman wins:$2M lottery jackpot after buying ticket on the way to pick up pizza 'A dream come true': $1 million lottery win will help Oregon woman pay bills and travel

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Solo Female Travel in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

11 Best European Countries for Solo Female Travelers

France

Finland

Switzerland

Spain

How to Get Around Europe

Budget Airlines

How to Meet Other Solo Female Travelers in Europe

What to pack

Where to Find the Best Food in Europe

Is Europe safe for solo female travelers?

Long-term living and working abroad in Europe

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The Power of Women in Travel

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III. Mmamoloko, Elisabeth, Natalie, Katie

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Empowering Women, Inspiring Travel.

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15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

2. Barcelona, Spain

3. Seattle, Washington, United States

4. Munich, Germany

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

6. Austin, Texas, United States

7. Salzburg, Austria

8. Taipei, Taiwan

9. Copenhagen, Denmark

10. Melbourne, Australia

11. Stockholm, Sweden

12. Okinawa, Japan

13. Norway’s Fjords

14. Washington, D.C., United States

15. London, England

Protect Your Trip »

Barcelona, Spain

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

New Zealand

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Svalbard, Norway

Netherlands

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Bali, Indonesia

New York City

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