The Best Places to Travel Solo, According to a Traveler Who Visited 65 Countries Alone

Lewis may have needed Clark, but for most trips I think it's good to be alone. In fact, my favorite style of travel, #solo travel, is now trending on TikTok and in real life. But if there's anything I've learned from venturing alone across 65 countries, it's this: Some countries cater to lone wolves better than others. Whether you're looking to lay on the beach, climb a volcano, or explore the big city, here are my top five destinations for flying solo.

Portugal

The most affordable country in Western Europe, Portugal has been my second home since 2016. Whether in the Alentejo or the Algarve, I can always find a €2 glass of wine and five-star hotels, including IHG's new Vignette Collection properties at Port And Lisbon, for less than €200 per night. It is the fifth safest country in Europe, according to the Institute for Economics & Peace Global Peace Index 2023 (for comparison, Spain is ranked 23rd and France 34th) and is home to the largest standing wave in the world. As surfing solo is dangerous, I go with Onda Pura. In Lisbonvisit the Oceanariovote the best aquarium in the world. Alone, you can linger at the exhibitions for as long as you want. I've traveled the country by train and bus, but I recommend renting a car for just €25 per day. Pro Tip: Learn to drive manually First of all.

South Africa

Although it is not the safest country on the mother continent, it ranks 32nd in sub-Saharan Africa in the global rankings. Global Peace Index, South Africa is the easiest region for Americans to visit. United Airlines offers nonstop service from several U.S. cities to Cape Town, English is widely spoken, and there are restaurants to suit all diets. I use Facebook to join group hikes and dinners and Airbnb to book guided local experiences. I recommend taking the “From Prisoner to President” tour organized by former prison guard and friend of Nelson Mandela, Christo Marque. To visit the wine estates, take the Franschhoek Tram. I also enjoyed the solo safaris. Only you can choose your departure time (I hate waking up at 5:30 a.m. for safaris), and you always have the best seat. In low season, some lodges offer the single supplement. All year round, the new Loapi Tented Camp charges single travelers only 62% of what it would charge a couple. To travel within the country, book a package through a company like Kensington Tours; it includes all transfers.

Costa Rica

Since living in Nicaragua, I have an impressive collection of passport stamps from Costa Rica. It's the the safest place in Central America, and it offers everything from volcano hiking to beachcombing on two incredible coastlines. I want to discover the new SP Corcovado Wilderness Lodgewho hosts wellness retreats and is part of the Red Sofia Program (designed to make travel safer for single women). Meanwhile, in Monteverde, solo travelers can't go wrong with Hotel Belmar where you don't need to venture off-site for the adventure (book the canopy immersion and coffee tasting). For an all-inclusive, I recommend Papagayo Secrets. This isn't the place to stay if you don't want to be a couple, but it is adults-only and has themed parties, beach games, and cocktails where singles can mingle.

Maldives

Good news! You don't need to be with a romantic partner to visit the Maldives. I spent the moon there solo and had a great time falling in love with myself again, with myself and with me. Highlights include the tour Coco Palm Dhuni Kohlu Turtle Rescue Center, reading by my pool (“Eat, Pray, Love” is a must for solo travelers), and when I needed company, having barbecues on the beach. You don't have to be a millionaire either. Maafushi Island caters to backpackers, and even at a resort I stayed for less than $350 per day. Do you have a bigger budget? Consider booking the Gili Solo Experience. Boasting an underwater suite and a restaurant, Conrad Maldives is also on my list. For flights, try Emirates; JFK round-trip fares from New York to Male start at $1,265.

WE

With no one to share expenses with, domestic travel is the cheapest. I explore my garden in Montana where I stay Lonely Mountain Ranch. With its queen bed, the Meadowlark Chalet is ideal for one person and group activities provide opportunities to socialize. For an urban getaway, I prefer New York Citywhere I reside NH Collection New York Madison Avenue. Its lobby has a community table, fireplaces, and live jazz music most nights. As there is no shame in doing the Great White Way without an appointment, I went to see “Notebook” in April. Finding a place for a central orchestra is easier than finding places together. To get around, use the MTA new OMNY credit/debit card redemption program; It’s the best value for money.