I’ll just go ahead and admit it. Travelling alone is hard sometimes. It’s not for everyone. At times, you’ll be lonely, you’ll think solo travel is overrated and you might even feel unsafe. These are the downsides of solo travel.
Okay, it’s time to come clean about something.
Remember when I went on my first solo trip to Dublin in 2017?
It wasn’t as much fun as I made it out to be.
Sure, I experienced some great things. I talked to people I had never met while I was having dinner in the pub, I got to discover what would become one of my favourite solo travel destinations in Europe. I got a tattoo, for God’s sake.
And, while it was nice to do things I had never done before, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
In the interest of full transparency on this blog, I’m going to tell you why my trip to Dublin in particular and solo travel in general isn’t always amazing.
The main downsides of solo travel stem from the prejudices that often still exist about being on the road alone.
People say solo travel is hard, overrated and lonely. They say it’s too expensive, it’s unsafe and it’s not for introverts. They might have had a bad experience with solo travel and write it off forever.
And, the thing is, I can’t blame them for thinking that.
Because solo travel can be all of those things.
Here’s how.
Why is solo travel so expensive, you ask?
There are a few ways in which the travel industry puts solo travellers at a disadvantage by making them pay more for essentially the same thing.
Think about accommodation. Hotels and cruise ships often have a single supplement (i.e. a way to compensate for the profit they won’t make off two people staying in the same room).
And even if there’s no solo supplement, you still have to pay for everything yourself instead of splitting the cost with your travel companion.
Similarly, you might end up paying more for transport than non-solo travellers. Sure, things like airplane tickets and bus fares are just as expensive. But hiring a rental car or scooter will definitely take a bigger bite out of your budget if you’re travelling alone.
Related: How to find cheap transport as a solo traveller
Lastly, when you’re eating out at a restaurant, it tends to be a disadvantage to be alone. You’re unable to share plates or drinks with your buddies, so if you want to try something, you’ll have to pay the full price.
Related: How to find cheap food and drinks as a solo traveller
In the end, everything comes down to your personal travel style. If you’re a shoestring-type solo traveller, chances are that your trip won’t be much more expensive than a trip with your friends. Hell, it might even be a bit cheaper. But if you’re not on a tight budget, you should keep an eye on your bank account anyway.
In general, it makes sense that travelling alone is less safe than travelling with other people.
However, that’s not necessarily a reason to write it off altogether.
As a solo traveller, you need to take some extra precautions. After all, you’re the only one who can prevent problems from arising and decide how to handle those problems when they do arise.
One of my favourite travel blogs, Solo Traveler World, wrote an article about solo travel safety. It’s more eloquent than anything I could write on the subject, so I’ll just link you to what Janice wrote about it.
You know, I get it.
You are out there by yourself.
So I get why you would think that solo travel is lonely. And, if you’ve never done it before, it could be a bit lonely. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
When I visited Dublin by myself in 2017, it was my first time travelling alone. And I really got to see the downsides of solo travel.
I felt lonely sometimes. I second-guessed my decision to travel alone.
But that only motivated me more to make my next solo travel experience even more memorable.
And, sure enough, when I travelled to Malta six months later, I talked to more people. I went for dinner with my Airbnb host (who now runs a successful coliving and coworking community called CoCoHub).
After all, it’s not as difficult to make friends as a solo traveller as you might think.
I didn’t feel lonely anymore, even though I still did many things by myself.
When you start being content by yourself without feeling lonely, that’s when you’ll realise that solo travel is a great option.
You might have made the decision to take the leap, but you’re still worried about the downsides of solo travel.
Here are a few tips to help you deal with the things that may go wrong.
Not everything will go according to plan.
And that’s okay. If you’re prepared to improvise, adapt and overcome (like Bear Grylls), you’ll be fine when you’re out there on your big adventure.
Come to terms with this fact and chances are that you can handle whatever the world throws your way.
Stay in touch with friends and family.
This helps if you’re afraid you’re going to feel homesick when travelling.
It also helps keep you grounded and remember that people are waiting for you at home – whether it be to listen to your adventurous stories or to tell you it’s all going to be okay if it didn’t go the way you wanted it to.
Book accommodation suited for solo travellers.
This one goes without saying. As a solo traveller, you probably don’t want to be stuck in a big, quiet hotel room.
Instead, opt for hostels, Couchsurfing, housesitting, river cruises, or any other solo travel-proof option.
Pro tip: you can also find great options for solo travellers on Airbnb. (Get €41 off your first booking by signing up through this link!)
Take a book.
A book (or digital alternative) can make any plain coffee shop interesting. Besides, if you don’t feel like going out exploring, you can just stay in and delve into your book.
The best part? Nobody’s there to judge you for it.
Walk and take public transport.
One of the best ways to get an accurate feel of your destination is to walk around and take public transport as locals would.
Furthermore, taking a taxi, Uber or Lyft is usually much more expensive for solo travellers.
Drink responsibly.
I’ve personally never gone out on a solo trip, but if you do, consider refraining from alcoholic drinks. They cloud your judgment, and that’s something you want to be clear when you’re alone.
If you do drink, please do it responsibly.
Don’t overplan.
One of my biggest mistakes on my first solo trip to Dublin was planning too much.
I figured I was only there for a few days, so I had to make the most of that.
But in reality, you can travel at whichever pace you prefer. Again, there’s nobody there to slow you down or to rush you.
All I’m saying is: leave some room for unexpected activities, like going for a drink with one of your hostel roommates.
Disclaimer: I personally do not suffer from anxiety or panic attacks when I travel solo.
However, I have noticed that social anxiety is a big barrier for people who are considering solo travel. For people who suffer from them, panic or anxiety attacks are a big downside of solo travel.
Since I have no personal experience with this, I’ll let other people do the talking.
In the following video, Alanna from Adventures and Naps explains how to deal with anxiety when travelling.
If you haven’t quite made the decision to travel solo yet because you’re afraid it won’t be what you expect, watch this video. Nadine from Hey Nadine gives tips on how to get over this fear.
Okay, I’ll admit that this article is a bit more pessimistic than what I usually write about.
But that’s just because I want to be as real as possible with you.
I’ll be the first to say that solo travel is not for everyone. It sucks sometimes.
But if you can look beyond those disadvantages, you’ll open yourself up to one of the biggest adventures of your life.
You can thank me later.
PIN IT!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: solo travel is amazing. But if it’s your first time, or even if you’re a seasoned solo traveller, it could be difficult to figure out where you should go.
That’s why I asked some of my fellow travel bloggers what the best solo travel destinations are, according to them.
This is what they came up with.
This is going to be a long post, so feel free to use the links above to skip to the sections you’re most interested in.
Let’s go!
Read more: The Best Solo Travel Destinations in Europe
By Bridget at The Flashpacker
Kraków ticks all the boxes as a perfect solo travel destination.
Thanks to its compact size Kraków is easy to explore. But if you need to reach places further afield, its efficient modern tram network allows you to navigate your way with ease. Aside from pickpocketing that blights most large cities, Kraków’s old city is safe.
Kraków is also relatively cheap, with its large student population keeping things real. Away from the more touristy bars and restaurants, you can dine like a king for peanuts. Don’t leave town without tucking into a steaming plate of pierogi.
The city’s range of accommodation options, from hostels to more upmarket establishments, will suit all budgets. I stayed in a centrally-located modern 4-star hotel for £60 per night.
To best explore Kraków’s well- preserved historic centre, a walking tour city operated by Free Walkative! should be central to your Kraków itinerary. As a solo traveller, one of these walking tours is also a fantastic way to meet people!
Day trips are another way to make friends on the road. If time permits, take an excursion to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or to the former concentration camp of Auschwitz. I guarantee that a visit to Auschwitz will linger long in your memory.
By Marta and Milosz at BackpackersWro
Nuremberg is the second-largest city of the German state of Bavaria and the unofficial capital of Franconia. You can get to Nuremberg by air – the airport is located 7 km from the city or by train, e.g., from Munich.
In our opinion, Nuremberg is a very safe city with many attractions. The accommodation offer is at a high level and affordable prices. In Nuremberg, you can relax in hotels, apartments or hostels.
Even for one day in Nuremberg, it is an ideal place for long walks, tasting local cuisine, and visiting museums.
If history peaks your interest – in particular, World War II – you like trains and historic architecture, you will love the local museums! Once there, don’t miss Imperial Castle, Tiergärtnertorplatz, Old Town and the Beautiful Fountain, and Nuremberg Transport Museum.
Most attractions in Nuremberg are located within the city center, which can be easily reached on foot.
If you like to try real Bavarian cuisine, “Drei im Weggla,” “Bretzel” and “Schaufele” are a must! If you are planning a visit to Nuremberg in winter, try to visit the Christmas Market. It is one of the best-known and most beautiful markets in the region.
By Stella Jane at Around The World in 24 Hours
There are many reasons why North Macedonia is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe. It’s full of stunning natural beauty, the capital city of Skopje makes a great homebase for short day trips around the country, and it’s off the beaten track, so you won’t be surrounded by other tourists.
But the best reason to visit North Macedonia is the people. Macedonians are so excited to see tourists visiting their tiny country that they will give you the warmest of welcomes.
Sometimes the life of a solo traveller can be lonely, but there’s no way anyone could feel lonely in North Macedonia.
Skopje has more than enough activities to entertain solo travellers. Everyone will want to see the famous giant white statue of a soldier on a horse in the center of town. (Because of a dispute with Greece, North Macedonia is not allowed to call the statue Alexander the Great.)
Macedonian food is not famous, but it is delicious. Don’t miss local cheeses, burek pies, and the famous pepper spread ajvar. Skopje has several craft breweries as well where you can go meet locals.
The most beautiful place for a solo traveller to visit in North Macedonia is Lake Ohrid. Whether you get out on the water or go shopping for the famous Lake Ohrid pearls, you’ll never forget your time in such a gorgeous place.
By Ann at The Road Is Life
Tallinn, Estonia isn’t Europe’s most well-known travel destination, but over the years its increasing popularity continues to draw many tourists and solo travellers alike.
The infrastructure, reasonable prices, friendly locals and all-around good vibes is what makes Tallinn the perfect town for any solo traveller. It’s still relatively undiscovered yet touristy enough that you’ll have no trouble meeting other travellers.
There are a few experiences you cannot miss out on when visiting Tallinn. Start off by exploring the charming streets of the UNESCO listed Old Town. Whether you take the free walking tour or navigate the cobblestone alleys on your own, you’re bound to fall in love with the beautifully preserved medieval architecture.
The Old Town is packed full of stunning historic buildings, impressive cathedrals, and is surrounded by 14th century city walls and towers.
Tallinn’s vibrant and quirky bar scene is the perfect way to meet other travellers. You might want to join one of the many fun pub crawls that operate regularly. Or, alternatively, you can venture out on your own, which is sure to be just as fun.
Tallinn is a safe, fascinating and diverse city to visit. It’s an excellent solo travel destination seeking old-town European vibes without the mass tourism attached.
Having visited some of the best places in the world affected by over-tourism such as Machu Picchu, I cannot emphasize how much over-tourism can affect your travel experience. Selfie sticks smacking you in the face, losing your friends in the stampedes of tourists, over-tourism is not fun for anybody.
For that reason, I suggest visiting Romania. An affordable Eastern European country, Romania is a beautiful place filled with history and nature. For example, the colonial city of Sibiu is filled with medieval architecture and an existing outside wall that was used for defense. In fact, there is so much culture and history in that city it became the European cultural capital in 2017!
Related: Studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain (European Capital of Culture in 2002)
The most famous place in Romania must be Bran Castle, the alleged birthplace of the famous legend, Dracula. However, Bran Castle is a place that is quickly becoming the target of over-tourism. Many travellers are coming from all over the world to see the legend with their own eyes.
But luckily, Bran Castle isn’t the only castle in Romania, nor is it the best one. Visitors can go to Peles Castle or Corvin Castle, both of which are ridiculously beautiful and full of history.
By Kamila at Kami and The Rest of the World
Ukraine isn’t very often on the radar for tourists, but this country has so much to offer and is a great destination for solo travellers.
You can find everything here: beautiful cities with Central European heritage (like Lviv or Chernivtsi), mountains, Black Sea resorts (Odessa), impressive cities with the Soviet past and the picturesque golden domed churches – there are just so many places to visit in Ukraine!
Getting around is super easy when you use the trains. It gets a bit more challenging with local minibuses, but friendly locals will definitely look after you. Yes, even if you don’t know the local language.
Ukraine uses the Cyrillic alphabet and I would recommend learning at least the letters to be able to read the signs or names of the places. Even if the situation in the eastern part of the country is still unstable due to the conflict with Russia, the rest of Ukraine is safer than you might think, although petty crime still happens. Just don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do at home and you will be fine!
One more reason to visit Ukraine is the prices – the country is very affordable, one of the cheapest in Europe. You will get a really good standard and some great experiences that won’t drain your wallet!
By Delahaye of Hues of Delahaye
Porto is an excellent solo travel destination, and here’s why.
Even though Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, it has small-town charm and a laid-back atmosphere.
Hilly streets, picturesque viewpoints, undeniably stunning architecture, delicious fresh food, and welcoming locals are ever-present. You’ll never feel like you’re in a major city.
There is no language barrier as most people in Porto speak English. However, the basic olá (hello) and obrigada (thank you) in Portuguese is always great to know.
The city is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. This makes Porto a great city to explore by foot on your own.
According to World Peace Index (2018), Portugal is the 4th most peaceful country in the world and the 3rd safest country in Europe.
These are just a few things that make Porto a great city for solo travellers.
But that’s not all, there are so many things to do in Porto. From strolling around the charming Old Town and Ribeira district. Visit the São Bento railway station or go Port tasting. Cruise along the Douro River for spectacular views of Porto and the famous six bridges that cross over it.
You can even walk across the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge. A majestic Porto landmark that connects the Ribeira area to Vila Nova de Gaia. And don’t forget to look out for the mesmerising azulejos tiles seen throughout the city.
If you are looking for a vibrant and fun place to travel solo, visit Porto. It is one of the best destinations for solo travellers!
By Chrysoula at Travel Passionate
If you’re looking for somewhere both safe and fascinating for your next solo travel destination, look no further than the Scandinavian city of Helsinki. The Finnish capital has become a popular destination for all travellers thanks to its varied attractions, delicious dining options, and decent travel connections to the rest of Europe and beyond.
English is widely spoken throughout the whole of Finland, so you won’t have to look far to find someone who can speak your language and help you get around. Not that you will need much help, mind you, as the public transport systems are great and pretty self-explanatory!
Helsinki is a laid-back, welcoming city that has a whole host of attractions to keep even the most discerning traveller entertained. Whether you want to explore museums, art galleries, cathedrals or theme parks, Helsinki has you covered.
The Uspenski Cathedral, Temppeliaukio Church, Sibelius Monument, and Helsinki Senate Square are all must-sees, and when you’re not sight-seeing you can simply relax and enjoy the vibrant bar and café culture on offer throughout the city.
Helsinki has some wonderful hostels and guest houses that cater to solo travellers and there are some great tours you can join if you’d like to meet other people while learning about the city.
By Linn at Brainy Backpackers
With more than 7000 islands, super-friendly people and a lot of sun and outdoors activities, the Philippines makes an incredible destination for solo travellers.
Whether you want to experience the Philippines off the beaten track, go on an organized tour, climb active volcanoes, go scuba diving with Thresher sharks or chill with a book in a hammock, the Philippines has it all.
The country is not yet as exploited by tourism as Thailand, except from maybe Palawan and El Nido, but the locals are just as friendly. Go to the eastern Visayas and there are fewer tourists around.
You can experience some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in southern Leyte, incredible rock formations at Biri Island, caves and kayaking in Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park or chase waterfalls in Biliran.
You can also see one of the smallest primates on earth, the Philippine Tarsier, in the Philippines. These animals are nocturnal and while you can see them in certain sanctuaries in Bohol, you should be skeptical about visiting them. The tiny primates commit suicide when kept in captivity and handled by humans. Therefore, you should never pay to see them in captivity or being held by staff and never take selfies with them or hold them.
By Shalini at Eager2Travel
Jaipur is one of the popular places to visit in Rajasthan. It is one of the best solo travel destinations in India due to its connectivity with the rest of the country. You can find a direct train and buses or just fly into Jaipur International Airport.
Jaipur is known as the Pink City of India, due to its beautiful palaces, colourful streets and warm people. The handloom and crafts market of Jaipur is world-famous. You can buy colourful Kurtis, Jutis and jewellery.
The traditional Rajasthani meal is a must-try. The sunrise at Nahargarh fort is definitely worth waking up for. You can also find many walking, cultural and wildlife tours on Airbnb.
If you have time you can visit the only Bramha Temple in the world in Pushkar, pay respects at Dargah Sharif in Ajmer and go for jungle safari in Ranthambore.
The people of Jaipur are very warm and welcoming. Ola and Uber work well so you should have no problem with finding cabs too. Overall the place is best suited for first-timers going for solo travel.
By Ming Lee at Flyerism
Southeast Asia is one of the most diverse regions in the world. This is one of the reasons why it has always been a top choice for solo travellers. A few areas in South East Asia can get really touristy during high season, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam.
So, instead of the obvious choices, Laos should definitely be on your bucket list, especially if you travel alone. Here’s why:
#1. Laos is less touristy as compared to its neighbors. You won’t see loud and noisy tourists swarming to the heritages sites. That said, Laos is moderately popular among backpackers. It’s still easy to meet people, especially in Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.
#2. Laos is inexpensive. A double room in a mid-range hotel is typically priced at USD 25-50 per night. A meal at a restaurant should cost you from USD 2 – 5. As Laos used to be a member of Indochina, you will come across surprisingly good French restaurants, coffee, and baguette at the fraction of what you would pay in first world countries.
#3. The major cities are well connected by charter van and tourist buses. As well, there are frequent (and cheap) flights connecting the cities (Luang Prabang and Vientiane) to other major cities in Cambodia, China, Korea, Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam and Singapore.
#4. Laos is very safe. Most of the locals are welcoming and accommodating.
#5. Laos has some of the best waterfalls in Southeast Asia, i.e. Kuang Si (Luang Prabang) and Khone Phapheng Falls near Four Thousand Islands.
By Max at Dame Cacao
Seoul is one of the largest cities in the world, yet it remains relatively untouched by its booming tourism sector. This is in part because the Korean tourism board has masterfully planned its fame around the things which its citizens are already interested in and doing.
Seoul is not only a point of sales for cosmetics and K-pop; Seoulites themselves actually shop in Hongdae and Gangnam, picnic on the Han River, and drink soju in barbecue spots across the city. Despite a steady increase in visitors from around the world, Seoul manages to retain its cultural grounding through its temples, night markets, and blended fashion.
Korean cuisine is also hotter than ever, with traditional Korean eateries seamlessly connected to western cafes & international restaurants in every neighborhood. Plus, deciding where to stay in Seoul as a solo traveller is never an issue, as there are hundreds of youth hostels, guest houses, and business hotels scattered across the city.
Visitors from all over will be thrilled with the well-connected metro & bus system, copious & affordable street food, and endless free sites to explore both inside and just outside of Seoul.
By Stephanie at The Africa Cookbook
A great, slightly off-beat, solo travel destination for you to consider in 2020 is the country of Tunisia.
Because the major cities are connected by a system of inexpensive and reliable louages, or minivans, most of the country is accessible to a solo traveller who’s not looking to spend a fortune on transportation but wants to cover a lot of ground.
Some of my favorite places in Tunisia include Tunis, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, Bizerte, and Kairouan. In a week, you can easily see two to three cities, but if you have two weeks you can see most of the country’s important sites, including all eight of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In Tunisia, you explore a balance of ancient Roman history, Carthaginian history, Ottoman and Islamic history, and Berber history. However, if you come during the warm months, you can also relax at one of the country’s fabulous Mediterranean beaches. While here, make sure to see some of the cities’s amazing medinas, or historic marketplaces. Several of these are designated UNESCO sites and Tentative UNESCO sites, and each has its own unique vibe.
The personal highlight, for me, though, was eating my way through Tunisia. Tunisian food is rich in flavor, with delightful tagines and couscous dishes.
By Coni at Experiencing the Globe
South America as a solo traveller, especially if you don’t speak Spanish, might sound intimidating – even more so if you’re a woman! But fear not, I have the answer. Go to Chile!
The news nowadays is focused on the riots and the protests going on in the country, but let me assure you (since I’m Chilean) that it is still the safest country in Latin America, and all the tourist sites are open, ready to welcome you.
Chile is a great solo travel destination because of its people. They will try to make you feel at home, helping you in whichever way they can. It has become more and more know over the years, so you will also get to meet other travellers (a lot of fellow solo adventurers, in my experience).
But the best part is the country’s diversity. Within its borders you can go from the desert to the glaciers, and from the sea to the mountains, having plenty to see in between: the famous Easter Island with its stone faces, the full of street art hills of Valparaíso, the beautiful wine country, the stunning Lake District, home of Chile’s capital of adventure: Pucón, where you can even climb an active volcano, and the unique architecture of Chiloé.
Need I say more?
By Daniel at Layer Culture
When doing solo travel and looking for the best places to visit, Medellin in Colombia is a superb option.
Located within a valley, Medellin is Colombia’s second-largest city and has something for everybody. If you like the idea of connecting with local culture and engaging in local experiences when you travel solo, Medellin is a great place to be.
Many solo travellers to Colombia pass through the city at some point so you can meet likened travelers if you desire. A popular neighborhood for both locals and tourists is El Poblado which is located in the north of the city and where you can find cultural tours and even learn Spanish without breaking the bank.
The best time to visit Medellin is during the winter months and from October to March the climate is very pleasant. If you want to venture out of the hustle and bustle of the city, you can go to one of the many pueblos within the Antioquia region and learn about coffee or go for a hike.
Medellin and surrounding areas are relatively safe when you stick to the recommended towns, and the people are very welcoming when it comes to receiving new visitors. The local culture in the region is very unique to Colombia and many people find themselves not wanting to leave.
By Derek at Robe Trotting
A fantastic destination for solo travellers is the vibrant American city of Philadelphia. It’s full of American history, friendly locals, a fantastic food scene and world-class museums.
There are so many things to do in Philadelphia, but it’s frequently overlooked for more famous nearby American cities like New York City and Washington DC. It’s larger and more fun than Washington and easier to navigate than New York City without the high prices.
The fact that tourists often skip Philadelphia makes it a perfect destination to visit on a trip to America. With a decent public transportation network and cheap ridesharing apps like Lyft and Uber, it’s easy to get around for anyone travelling alone. Philly is also safe and walkable because it’s mostly flat and it’s designed in a grid system of blocks. You can walk from one end to the other in about 40 minutes.
Solo travellers will love Philadelphia’s museums, like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Franklin Institute of Science and The Mütter Museum of Medical Oddities.
Philadelphia was also the birthplace of The United States. Independence Hall, the building where America’s founders signed The Declaration of Independence is open daily for free tours. In that neighborhood, you can tour many other relics of American history.
There’s also a great food scene in Philadelphia. There are fine dining options, especially in The Rittenhouse neighborhood and along the 13th Street Corridor. Check out El Vez or Jamonera for a great meal. Solo travellers should also check out local favorites like a cheesesteak, soft pretzel, and Italian water ice.
Museums, food, history, and friendly locals make Philly a great stop for any travelers who want a more intimate, less-touristy American city break.
By Jordan at Georgia Girl Meets World
A surprising solo travel destination is Las Vegas. Although it’s known for gambling and groups visiting to party, Vegas has much more to offer. From concerts and shows to shopping to even hiking and outdoor activities close by, solo travellers won’t run out of things to do, even if gambling isn’t of interest.
A popular activity that is enjoyable for any type of traveller is to see a show. Whether interested in a Cirque du Soleil show, a concert, or a magic show, Vegas has it all.
Another non-gambling solo activity is to visit the Neon Museum. This outdoor museum offers day and night tours of historic signs from the Vegas strip. With knowledgeable guides to inform visitors of the intriguing history of Sin City and some pretty awesome photo opportunities, the Neon Museum is a can’t-miss while visiting Las Vegas.
With so many things to do, including many solo activities, Las Vegas is a great destination for those looking for a unique solo trip in 2020.
By Pari at Traveling Pari
Year after year, Toronto gets voted one of the best cities to live in. In fact, most Canadian cities make this list. However, what’s special about Toronto is that it’s also been voted the sixth safest city in the world by the Economist. This is great news for solo travellers who list safety as their number one concern.
In addition to being a safe place, Toronto is also a welcoming place for people from different parts of the world. One wouldn’t expect, but when you visit the city, you’ll see that it’s a melting pot of different cultures. This can be seen clearly in its diverse neighborhoods. Solo travellers, especially people who travel for long periods of time, sometimes, may feel lonely and homesick. In Toronto, since it has so many diverse neighborhoods, it’s easy for a solo traveller to find a place that feels familiar and a bit like home. If you need a guide on the best place to stay in Toronto, please see the linked article.
Of course, as a tourist destination, there’s also plenty to see. The famous Niagara Falls is just two hours away and if you are looking for a nature escape, you can visit the nearby Algonquin Provincial Park. All in all, Toronto is a perfect solo travel destination.
By Josh at The Lost Passport
Vanuatu is a quiet chain of 83 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. Although it lies just over 2,000 kilometers north east of Australia, and accessible by direct flight, it is still largely untapped by tourism.
Vanuatu’s island of Ambrym is even more remote. Ambrym is packed with opportunities for the intrepid traveller, including the live volcanoes of Mount Benbow and Mount Marum, natural geothermal hot springs, intensive multiple day hiking trails, and untainted cultural villages.
Don’t expect to find too many pre-organised tours out here though, this is about getting on the ground and figuring some things out for yourself. A good starting point for these activities is chatting with Sam at Sam’s Bungalows at Craig’s Cove.
Getting to Ambrym is quite easy, with multiple flights per week from Port Villa and the surrounding islands like Santo and Malekula. The truly intrepid might even consider reaching this remote island by a small cargo boat, though I warn, they are highly unreliable.
If you are planning to travel Vanuatu, then Ambrym must be on your list!
Are there any great solo travel destinations I missed? Let me know in a comment!
Last summer, my mom and me spent just over two days in Lyon. And, since we both enjoy taking pictures and sharing them with anyone who cares, we wanted to show the city’s best side to our followers.
Let me tell you: while you could easily spend weeks, months or even years in this city and still not see it all, you’ll need no more than a weekend break in Lyon to get to all these Instagram spots.
This is the definitive guide to an Instagrammer’s Lyon weekend break.
Let’s start off with some good news: most Lyon Instagram spots are free to visit.
Yay!
During your 48 hours in Lyon, you’ll probably pass this bridge a few times. So why not take advantage of this and take some gorgeous scenery pictures for the gram?
The beating heart of the Presqu’île region of Lyon is called Place Bellecour. Although it might not seem very Insta-worthy at first, you’ll quickly find out that many events that might give you some new photo ideas are hosted on this square.
This is probably the first entry in this list that could be classified as ‘off-the-beaten-track’, for the simple fact that most travellers don’t go here. All the more reason to check it out, if you ask me.
Europe’s largest mural is located in Lyon, and it’s a great spot for your next Instagram post.
One of the most Instagrammable places in Lyon is Place des Jacobins, and you’ll soon find out why that is.
Besides being a popular theatre and concert hall, Lyon’s National Opera is a beautiful building in the city centre. Bonus: it’s right across City Hall (Hôtel du Ville).
At first glance, this might not seem like a very picture-worthy location. However, should you make it here during the weekend, you’ll find a very quaint book market that will look great on your Instagram story.
Admittedly, Vieux Lyon is one of Lyon’s main tourist areas, but there’s a good reason for that. The whole area is so picturesque and authentic that you might forget you’re in the twenty-first century and not in the middle ages.
This cathedral is one of Lyon’s main religious buildings and also one of the most popular Lyon Instagram spots. And, although the inside is nothing special – aside from its astronomical clock – the building itself and the square at its foot are worth a visit.
Other names: Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Primatiale Saint-Jean de Lyon
Granted, this tower might not look like a very Insta-worthy building at first glance. But wait until you see the view from up above.
Place des Célestins, which is home to Théâtre des Célestins, hasn’t changed its appearance since the eighteenth century. In case that’s not enough to convince you to stroll through, this square is also home to an outdoor food market every morning.
This square is home to one of Lyon’s most famous fountains: Fontaine Bartholdi. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to enter Place des Terreaux because scaffolding was set up all around.
That’s completely fine.
Not everyone travels for the Instagram stories. Some people would rather take in their destination instead of hopping from one picture spot to the next.
Don’t get me wrong: I don’t think one style of travelling is better or worse than the others. Imagine how boring life would be if we all lived and travelled the same way.
If you’re one of the people who would rather soak it all in, check out this article: How to be a traveller, not a tourist.
Falling asleep in the desert after a camel safari while admiring the stars in Jaisalmer is one of the most surreal experiences I’ve ever had.
This is the story of how I ended up there.
Note: at the end of this post, I’ll link a Spotify playlist of songs you can listen to when you’re stargazing yourself or when you want to feel blissful when looking at a sunset.
I included a bit of this experience in my travel videos. Here’s one of them:
About a year ago, I was trying to figure out where my big summer holiday was going to take me in 2019.
It didn’t take me long to realise that I wanted to go on a group tour, so I started looking into Belgian travel agents that offer group tours to far-away countries. After all, I believe most countries in Europe can be visited as a solo traveller relatively safely.
I wanted an adventure that only a group tour would be able to give me.
I quickly came across Joker, a Belgian tour operator that specialises in sustainable small-group tours. One of their concepts is a trip where everyone is older than 18 and younger than 26. And that immediately spoke to me.
Related: 10 things to know before booking your first group tour
And so, after a while, I ended up with a short list of potential candidates for my summer trip with Joker.
After finding out that the tours to Sri Lanka and Borneo were already fully booked, I was left with three options.
India, Norway or Costa Rica/Nicaragua.
Some further research told me that the Costa Rica/Nicaragua pairing was a bit above budget and the Norway tour was going to be too challenging physically.
So, I ended up booking a 3-week road trip through Rajasthan.
I started counting down the days until I left for India. As time passed, months turned to weeks, weeks turned to days, and days turned to “I’m leaving tomorrow”.
We first spent some time exploring all the glory of Rajasthan’s capital city, Jaipur. As I describe our entire itinerary in this post, I won’t go into much detail about what we did.
However, after an unusual journey with the sleeper train, we arrived in Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer is one of the main cities in the Great Indian Desert and is known as the Golden City.
See also: How to study abroad in Salamanca (Spain’s Golden City)
The fourteen of us visited the Jaisalmer Fort and spent some time having a drink by the lake before heading out to the desert for our safari.
Quick disclaimer: I had my doubts about the ethical implications of a desert safari that included a camel ride. However, I was assured that the animals were treated very fairly and, as I noticed, they were.
We opted for Renuka Camel Safari to host this endeavour for us, and I’m very happy that we did. They provided us with a truly magical experience, and I’m not just saying that.
If you’re considering going on a camel safari in India yourself, there are a few things you should know beforehand.
How to get to your sleeping spot
If you’re starting your camel safari in Jaisalmer, you’ll probably have to take a jeep to get to the camels.
The jeep drivers will come pick you up at your hostel and they’ll know exactly where to go, so you don’t need to worry about that.
For us, the jeep ride took a little over an hour.
After we got to the camels, we still got to ride them for another hour or so.
Riding a camel is uncomfortable
Don’t expect this to be the best hour of your life.
Yes, it’s a great experience and you may never get to stroll through the desert on a camel ever again.
But don’t let the cushions on the saddle fool you: you will more than likely be uncomfortable throughout the whole ride.
In fact, even though it’s such a special experience, you’ll probably be happy that it’s over.
Things to bring on a camel safari
Every camel safari is different, but here are a few essential things you may or may not need to bring on yours.
Some of these may be supplied by the company that organised your camel safari, but just check with them beforehand what you do and don’t need to bring.
The food in the desert
If your safari is like ours, you’ll ride your camel to a base camp where locals are already preparing your dinner.
And if you’re from the west, like me, you probably don’t want to see how they do it.
Although it actually tasted great, something told me that the preparation methods weren’t squeaky clean (nor should you expect them to be — you’re in the desert, for God’s sake).
Dung beetles are all around you
Yep.
You’ll see hundreds of dung beetles during your camel ride to base camp and you’ll see dozens more once you’re there.
My most – ahem – interesting encounter with dung beetles was when we woke up around 7:30 am. I had the beetles coming at me WHILE I was in the middle of a number two.
You’d better believe that was the fastest deuce I had ever dropped.
Photography in the desert
Before the sun goes down, it’s easy to take photos in the desert. The scenery around you is gorgeous enough as it is, and if you’re able to get some of that golden light (just before sunset or just after sunrise) in there, you’ll be great.
However, you should know that it’s very difficult to take decent pictures of the starry sky if you don’t know what you’re doing.
After the sun goes down, you’ll just have to live in the moment and enjoy the night sky without light pollution, coming to peace with the fact that you won’t have a good picture of it.
When I tell you that the most memorable part of our desert safari wasn’t the camel ride, sleeping in the desert or eating food that was prepared by locals, you wouldn’t believe me, right?
Well, it’s true.
The best part of going on a camel safari in India is stargazing.
Imagine this.
You’ve just had a typical Indian dinner of naan and dal while talking to the people who prepared it. Afterwards, you climb one of the sandy hills with your group – laughing, talking and drinking.
With time, more and more of your friends start to go to bed, but you’re not tired. And you find out that two other people aren’t tired either.
So you stay on the hill.
You look at the stars, listening to relaxing music and talking about love, happiness, friendship, sex, depression and fate.
Every few minutes, a shooting star passes by and you all make a wish.
That’s what it was like.
And all of a sudden, it was 3 am and we saw someone walk from the camp beds to our spot in the hills. Our group leader – who couldn’t fall asleep – lay down next to us and joined the conversation.
Just like that, we lost track of time and we were stargazing at 4 am.
Now, we knew that we had to wake up around 7 am to take the camels back to the jeep, which would take us back to the city.
But it was so worth it.
If I could do it all again, I would not hesitate one moment.
As a little bonus, here’s a Spotify playlist of songs we listened to while admiring the starry, starry night (yes, that’s a reference to Don McLean’s song).
Big thanks to Laura J. and Wannes V. for letting me use the great pictures they took during our camel safari! <3
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I recently came home from one of the best trips of my life. There. I said it. And all you’ll need to follow along is this 3-week Rajasthan itinerary.
I went on a group tour to India with Joker, a Belgian travel agency (website only available in Dutch and French).
Related: 10 tips for your first group tour
The tour comprised just over three weeks travelling around India’s most popular region among travellers: Rajasthan.
And now, I’m here to share the joy and give you the information you need for a kick-ass road trip through this region. Ladies, gentlemen and non-binary folk: this is the perfect 3-week Rajasthan itinerary.
Note: I won’t tell you exactly when to go where on your Rajasthan road trip. It’s very difficult – if not impossible – to completely plan a trip to India beforehand.
What I will do in this post, however, is this:
Skip ahead if you want to:
Before we get started, take a look at this video I made to get a feel of what India is actually like.
There are many reasons why you should consider a trip to India’s crown jewel region. Here are just a few of them.
Thanks to Rajasthan’s fascinating history of wealthy royals and architectural legacy, impressive palaces, forts and temples are spread throughout the region, each one more breathtaking than the last.
Among the Indian population, Rajasthan is known as one of the most traditional and religious areas of the country. That explains the many energetic festivals that occur throughout the year. Diwali, Holi, Teej … The list goes on and on.
And while Rajasthan is frequented by travellers for its history and culture, an afternoon strolling through the big city bazaars can’t be missing from your Rajasthan itinerary. Pottery, clothing, souvenirs, jewellery or spices: whatever it is you’re looking for, you can find it in the bazaars.
Last, but definitely not least: the state of Rajasthan is often remembered for its exciting wildlife encounters. National parks, which were originally used as hunting grounds for the state’s rulers, are sprinkled through Rajasthan and now serve and wildlife sanctuaries.
The perfect Rajasthan road trip starts in Jaipur, the state’s mighty capital city.
Also known as the Pink City for the many shades of pink, red and amber that are present in the fortified city centre, Jaipur was declared an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.
What to do in Jaipur:
How long to stay in Jaipur: Four days in the capital of Rajasthan is an absolute minimum to see everything the city has to offer.
How to get from Jaipur to Jaisalmer: Take the night train from Jaipur Railway Station to Jaisalmer Railway Station. Book tickets on the Indian Railway’s official website.
After catching the sleeper train from Jaipur, you’ll arrive at Rajasthan’s Golden City, Jaisalmer.
This city is located at the heart of the Thar Desert and is known for the yellow sandstone that is used in many of its buildings, including the impressive Jaisalmer Fort.
What to do in Jaisalmer:
How long to stay in Jaisalmer: Three days and three nights, including one night in the desert, is plenty to discover Jaisalmer in all of its glory.
How to get from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur: Take a regular, direct train from Jaisalmer Railway Station to Jodhpur Junction. Book tickets on the Indian Railway’s official website.
After your adventurous desert safari in Jaisalmer, it’s time to head back to big city life.
Jodhpur is Rajasthan’s second biggest city. It’s known among travellers as the Blue City and among Indian residents as the Sun City. Must be worth a visit, right?
What to do in Jodhpur:
How long to stay in Jodhpur: Anywhere between two and four days should suffice, counting on a full day to explore the Fort and everything around it.
How to get from Jodhpur to Udaipur: Take an early bus to Udaipur, preferably one that leaves Jodhpur before 6 am. The journey to Udaipur should take 4 to 5 hours.
With nicknames such as ‘the City of Lakes’ and ‘the Venice of the East’, it’s no wonder that British explorer James Tod called Udaipur ‘the most romantic spot on the continent of India‘.
You’ll soon find out for yourself why Udaipur has such a strong reputation among travellers.
What to do in Udaipur:
How long to stay in Udaipur: Including the night at Krishna Ranch, you should stay in Udaipur anywhere from three to five days.
How to get from Udaipur to Agra: Take the sleeper train from Udaipur City to Agra Cannt. Book tickets on the Indian Railway’s official website.
I know, I know. Agra is not located in Rajasthan. So, technically, I lied by calling this a Rajasthan itinerary.
You’ll forgive me once you feast your eyes on the Taj Mahal. Trust me.
What to do in Agra:
How long to stay in Agra: No longer than two days. Preferably, you’ll visit Agra Fort and the Baby Taj in the afternoon, then spend the night in Agra and visit the Taj early the following morning.
How to get from Agra to Delhi: Take a regular train from Agra Cantt to one of the many train stations in Delhi. This is a short trip that should only take about two hours. Book tickets on the Indian Railway’s official website.
I’m not going to lie to you: you’re only spending one night here to avoid having to take the dreadful journey from Agra to Rishikesh.
But don’t worry: you’ll come back to Delhi in a few days and your Rajasthan road trip will end there.
So find a nice place to stay the night and wake up refreshed for an early train to Haridwar. (Ask your hostel to arrange a taxi from Haridwar to Rishikesh, because most trains don’t stop at Rishikesh)
Again: Rishikesh is not located in Rajasthan, but since you’ve already gone to Agra, you might as well pass by Rishikesh.
Don’t worry, it’ll be our little secret.
Yoga Capital of the World, Gateway to the Himalayas, …
Cool nicknames, so it’s got to be worth exploring. You get it.
What to do in Rishikesh:
How long to stay in Rishikesh: Assuming you want to unwind and relax after two weeks of non-stop exploring, three to four days in Rishikesh is ideal to do everything listed above at a calm pace.
How to get from Rishikesh to Delhi: Take a regular train from Haridwar Junction to one of Delhi’s train stations. Book tickets on the Indian Railway’s official website.
Since it’s quite likely that your flight will depart from Indira Gandhi International Airport, it makes sense for the last stop on your Rajasthan road trip to be Delhi. (Although, again, Delhi is technically not a part of Rajasthan)
What to do in Delhi:
How long to stay in Delhi: In a city that over 15 million people call home, you could spend a lifetime and still not see it all. However, for the purposes of this road trip, two to three days should suffice.
Now that you have the perfect Rajasthan itinerary at your feet, there’s nothing stopping you from the trip of a lifetime.
Plan your Rajasthan road trip:
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