Today is Women’s Month and it’s always a good time to travel. Although traveling alone may sound intimidating at first, exploring alone can refresh and rejuvenate the soul.
When it comes to where to go and which destinations to explore, the world is your oyster, so don’t hesitate.
Traveling or exploring on your own gives you the chance to learn about a region and its culture at your own pace. An added bonus is that you can create global connections with like-minded female travelers, fostering a solo female traveler sisterhood.
Six of the best travel destinations for solo women to consider this Women’s Month.
croatia
The rise of tourism in Croatia has improved the ease of travel, and the country’s low crime rate has boosted its appeal to solo travelers, including women, according to Travel + Leisure.
The seaside medieval city of Dubrovnik offers history, culture and beautiful beaches all in one destination. The city’s cobbled streets lead visitors to artisanal shops and restaurants.
Solo travelers can also stroll along the city walls for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning Adriatic coastline. Plenty of kayaking and snorkelling opportunities are available on the beach just minutes from Old Town, with tours and rentals available.
You might consider staying at The Pucic Palace in the Old Town, from R11 764 per person per night.
Thailand
Thailand has long been an affordable destination, and it’s also growing in popularity with solo travelers thanks to its safe, convenient vibe. Bangkok is perfect for the young female traveler, with great food, exciting nightlife and tranquil spas.
This tropical paradise also has beautiful beaches in Phuket, Krabi and Phi Phi, allowing you to spend blissful moments in the Andaman Sea.
Public transport is readily available, from trains, subways, buses, taxis to longtail boats and tuk-tuks.
If you go in mid-April, you can also experience the Songkran Songkran Festival, which celebrates the Buddhist New Year with parades, street parties and performances.
Consider staying at the five-star Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel from R222 per night.
Egypt
Egypt is becoming the ideal destination for solo travel in Africa. Explorers can sail along the Nile, the safest and easiest way to explore the country on their own.
With an adventurous itinerary, solo travelers can sample delicious falafel in Cairo, or explore the Great Pyramids of Giza, and discover ancient temples and tombs.
The ancient destination also has new or updated attractions to visit, including the Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor, which reopens in 2022 after years of renovations, and the Great Egyptian Museum in Giza, which will open this year .
Consider the Oberoi Beach Resort by Sahl Hasheesh from R426 per night.
Vietnam
For the solo female traveler, endless adventures await in Vietnam. Board a cruise ship from Ha Long and visit Bai Tu Long Bay, home to some of the most striking blue waters and natural landscapes in the world.
You can also take a guided tour of Hang Sơn Đoòng, the largest natural cave in the world, or visit Hoi An during a full moon and see the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of lanterns floating down the Thu Bồn River. The city holds a monthly full moon festival.
In Ho Chi Minh City, indulge in street food at Bến Thành Market, one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings, and visit the War Remnants Museum and Củ Chi Tunnels Time to relive the history of the Vietnam War.
Head to Hanoi to explore the capital’s impressive historical and cultural attractions, and take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Consider staying at Anantara Hoi An Resort from R420 per night.
Japan
For the solo female traveler exploring Tokyo, whether you’re shopping in the posh Ginza neighborhood, cycling to one of the world’s tallest towers, visiting Sensoji Temple, enjoying ramen at Shibuya Ichiran, or in traditional traditional architecture Leisurely strolls, Japanese gardens, you’ll never be left without something to do in this bustling city.
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, take the bullet train to Kyoto, where you’ll find numerous shrines, gardens and temples.
Since tea ceremony originated in Kyoto, you may wish to experience this tradition in Kyoto. Be sure to visit in spring to see the gorgeous cherry blossoms in full bloom.
You might consider staying at Kyokoyado Muromachi Yutone, which starts at R380 per night.
Norway
Solo travelers can visit Norway in the summer to enjoy the warm weather and the many outdoor attractions and activities. In Oslo, you can explore the capital’s many museums, restaurants and parks on foot, by bike or by public transport.
Book a seat on a Hurtigruten coastal steamer and cruise the country’s famous fjords on a multi-day adventure, stopping at numerous ports of call along the stunning coastline for hiking, kayaking, hunting and more.
On the other hand, if viewing the Northern Lights is your top priority, a trip to Norway between November and March will get you there during peak Northern Lights season. For the best view of the natural phenomenon, head to the city of Tromsø, the heart of the Aurora Zone.
Consider the Grand Hotel Oslo, from R962 per night.
This list is sourced from Travel+Leisure.
