Solo Travel Guide: Destinations and Tips
It must be a great feeling to get yourself into personal exploration and independence while setting off on a journey alone. Our guide aims to provide some key notes for your solo explorations across the globe. It’s more than exciting to learn new cultures solo, and we’re one supporter here for your trip.
Let’s see the essential tips and discover potential destinations that might excite you for your solo travel, celebrating the freedom of making impromptu choices and forming new friendships.
Where are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Every year, more properties are added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In 2023, 42 new properties are on the list of 1,199 heritage sites worldwide. The determination is based on the representation of these properties’ cultural or natural value for humanity.
The properties date way back to medieval walled cities in Europe or the Incan ruins in South America. Ancient temples in Asia are also tempting, and the African savannas were teeming with wildlife as well.
We can say that there are World Heritage sites on each continent except for Antarctica or some of the remote areas like some isolated islands. If you have a plan to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites as a solo traveler, you can definitely get inspired by the list we provide below.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu’s natural setting makes it alluring. The stone ruins of Machu Picchu come from the 15th-century Incra rulers. It’s the ancient Wonder of The World, and it benefits from the backdrop of Huayna Picchu.
The inscription date of Machu Picchu: 1983
Works of Antoni Gaudí, Spain
Antoni Gaudí is not from Barcelona by birth. He’s from Reus, just about an hour and a half away from Barcelona. His buildings amaze you by putting the city on the map. You can discover the towers of La Sagrada Familia or the mosaics of Park Güell.
The inscription date of Works of Antoni Gaudí: 1984
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
The National Park is a great place to spend time with trekking lovers since it’s one of the world’s best places especially when it comes to gorilla trekking. It’s 124 square miles in southwestern Uganda. It’s for sure going to be an adventurous day through the park’s tangled undergrowth and thick tree canopy. If you’re ready to enjoy your solo trip like you’re alone in the jungle, it’s time to travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The inscription date of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: 1983
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, Canada
When in Canada, don’t miss out on the chance to discover the beautiful mountain parks that’ll show you the country’s scenic charm. In addition, you’ll surely be amazed by the ecological importance of Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. There are some important fossil sites waiting for you to discover. Moreover, you’ll find yourself surrounded by mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, canyons, and caves.
The inscription date of Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks: 1984
Old City of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Do you remember the King’s Landing from Game of Thrones? The old city of Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. You can get on top of the surrounding walls, which stretch around the Old Town. You can walk around or complete the entire 1.2-mile length.
The inscription date of Old City of Dubrovnik: 1979
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The wonders of the pyramids of Giza travel all around the world with mystic stories. The Great Pyramid is ranked as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And it dates back 4,500 years. UNESCO recognizes the political and architectural significance of the pyramid. It’s also interesting to know that monuments are part of the pyramid fields of Memphis.
The inscription date of the Pyramids of Giza: 1979
Iguazu National Park, Argentina
The national park is on the Argentina-Brazil border. Iguazú Falls is one of the most stunning sites in the world, consisting of 200 falls and reaching heights of 200 feet.
The inscription date of Iguazu National Park: 1984
Historic Center of Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland’s one of the most visited cities, is full of history that makes you feel the soul of the old times. The central square almost looks like a movie scene but full of life. Krakow’s Rynek Glówny adds to the beauty of the city center. The most stunning look you’ll have is definitely the 15th-century town hall tower, and you can climb it! Then you’ll discover the UNESCO-listed Wawel Castle, just a short walk away.
The inscription date of the Historic Center of Krakow: 1978
Meteora, Greece
Meteora’s structures are notable for their location atop nearly impassable sandstone hills in central Greece. It’s a 140-step stairway built into the cliffside that leads to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity. In addition, it’s one of six remaining monasteries.
The inscription date of Meteora: 1988
Historic Centre of Porto, Portugal
The panorama of cascading dwellings pouring down to Ribeira along the River Douro, as well as the waterfront area in Vila Nova de Gaia, illustrate the city’s past as a marine hub since Roman times. The Cathedral and Clérigos Tower are Porto’s icons. The luxury of the structures, the Baroque churches, and the Neoclassic Stock Exchange contribute to an urban setting with a thousand-year history.
The inscription date of the Historic Centre of Porto: 1996
Best Places to Travel Solo
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have adopted the ‘life’s too short’ perspective. We can observe that it leads to an increase in solo travel. There are countless places to visit alone. Some of these places are so gorgeous that you will fully focus on the moment.
The advantages of traveling alone include independence, empowerment, introspection, self-discovery, and new connections. To help you plan your journey, we’ve produced a list of countries that are suitable for both first-time and experienced solo travelers.
Here are the top solo travel destinations for 2024.
Ireland
Irish storytelling is a world-famous tradition influenced by the works of Joyce, Stoker, and Wilde. In Dublin, locals tell tales that transport listeners to a world within a world. The friendly hospitality ensures good conversation, and the stunning nature allows for tranquil walks and ample room for thought. Irish railway services are expected to improve, making travel easier. If traveling alone isn’t possible, consider visiting Ireland.
Dublin offers a literary walking tour, shopping on Grafton Street, and the Guinness Storehouse. Galway is enjoyable to walk around with the Salthill Promenade and traditional pubs offering live Irish folk music. Moreover, you can explore the nearby Aran Islands or the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views.
Denmark
Denmark offers a variety of attractions for solo travelers. You can visit Copenhagen’s Nyhavn district, Tivoli Gardens, and Shakespeare’s inspired Elsinore Castle. You can also explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Kronborg Castle and nearby Hillerød, home to Frederiksborg Castle, which houses the Danish Museum of National History.
South Korea
There are few things more satisfying than a solo shopping journey. So we would like to ask, what better place to begin a sartorial adventure than Asia’s most fashionable city? Seoul is regarded as having some of the world’s best-dressed people, and the city’s recent pop culture explosion has helped to accentuate this fact.
Behind the glitz and glamour of Seoul’s skyscrapers, explore the neighborhoods that support the city’s fashion-forward reputation. You’ll find shops dedicated to the ancient technique of ceramics to all-natural cosmetics firms that combine centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge research.
Germany
Germany offers numerous accessible cities for travelers, including Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Bavaria. Berlin is a city that offers many activities and experiences for various tastes. You can explore many museums, historical sites, cafés, nightclubs, and parks, while Munich offers Oktoberfest and beer gardens.
Western Australia
Australia’s appeal is ageless and enduring. The good news is that there is no language barrier for English speakers. Its vast open road and impressive landscape make it ideal for travel by road and also rail. Driving provides freedom and control. Furthermore, train travel takes the stress out of solo trips. The Ghan is an iconic train and is the transcontinental route from Sydney to Perth on the Indian Pacific. It may be a fun way to meet locals.
Portugal
Portugal is a popular destination for travelers. Some popular spots like Lisbon and Porto attract backpackers and adventurers. The country boasts 800km of coastline and is particularly surfer-friendly due to its Atlantic-edge location. It’s a unique vibe for solo travelers. As solo travelers, you can hike the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês and explore traditional villages in Beiras. What’s more, Lisbon and Porto are known for their unconventional and informal cities. The festivals dominate the calendar as well.
Thailand
Thailand is gaining popularity as an affordable and accessible destination for solo travelers. Some options support the idea of visiting Thailand as soon as possible. For instance, the discovery of delicious food, nightlife, and beautiful beaches. Public transportation is easy and accessible, and the Songkran Water Splashing Festival in mid-April is a must-see.
Hungary
Budapest is a top European city for solo travel. The city offers a safe, vibrant, and affordable experience. Its famous thermal baths, St. Stephen’s Basilica, river cruise down the Danube, and Jewish Quarter are also worth visiting. In addition, Budapest has nightlife with top bars, clubs, and social party hostels. If you’re looking for exploring the city’s history and party culture, Budapest is a must-visit destination.
Canada
Canada is a popular solo travel destination with a friendly population. It has diverse attractions like the Rockies, Niagara Falls, and Banff National Park.
Toronto is a multicultural city, while Vancouver is known for its unique urban design. Canada lets travelers explore the arts and culture of Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, biking through Vancouver’s waterfront, and crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Iceland
Iceland is known as the ‘land of fire and ice’. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and solo travelers due to its vast landscape and low crime rates. The country’s capital, Reykjavik, offers activities like the Blue Lagoon and Laugarvatn Fontana. The peaceful society and low crime rates are also some valuable reasons. You explore the country’s attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Faxaflói Bay whale watching, and Thingvellir National Park for camping, hiking, horseback riding, and the Silfra fissure. To ensure safety, you can rent a car and explore the country on the Ring Road or the Golden Circle route.
How to Plan Your Solo Travel
Let’s make a plan first, and live your solo travel experience, which might in the end become a habitual activity for you.
Choose a Solo-Friendly Destination
One of the best ideas for traveling alone for the first time is to find a solo-friendly destination that you can easily explore on your own. Some nations are far easier to traverse as a solitary tourist than others.
Popular tourist destinations also provide excursions, hostels, and a large number of other tourists, which is ideal for meeting new people.
Plan Ahead and Make a Backup Plan
Start planning your travels early by comparing flight prices, preparing travel documents, navigating airport security, and figuring out transportation options.
For international travelers, plan to arrive before dark and have a good understanding of transportation options. Remember that things can change, and keep your plan handy. Make a backup plan, such as public transportation or extra clothing, and stay calm in case of delays or cancellations.
Check Your Passport’s Eligibility and Get Your Visa
Visa requirements vary by country and are also affected by your nationality.
Some countries do not require a visa; others allow you to obtain one upon arrival. On the other hand, others have requirements for an application for a visa in advance and wait for a lengthy processing time. Do your research to verify you have a valid visa that will cover the duration of your trip. Also, it’s more convenient to apply in advance to avoid immigration issues before flying.
Buy Travel Insurance
If you’re traveling internationally alone for the first time, you should be aware that your home country’s insurance does not cover you abroad. If you are injured, become ill, require hospitalization, or suffer loss or theft while overseas, you should have travel insurance in place.
It’s always a good idea to prepare for the worst-case situation so you can rest easy.
Book Your Hostels in Advance
Hostels are ideal for solo travelers since they’re affordable, have a central location, and have a friendly environment. Book in advance for stress relief, read reviews, and consider flexible cancellation policies for extended stays. For extended travel, consider booking with friends who can take you to unexpected places.
Solo Adventure Tips for Travelers
Set Your Budget: Determine what you can realistically afford to avoid post-trip financial stress.
Create a Destination Shortlist: Compare costs across potential destinations using hotel rates as a guide to find budget-friendly options.
Choose Your Destination and Research Thoroughly: Consider travel advisories, what you wish to experience, and detailed planning for activities.
Check Your Country’s Travel Advisories: Important for safety, insurance validity, and making informed destination choices.
Research Travel Options: Decide between organized tours or independent travel based on your trip goals.
Book Your Flights or Tour: Aim for minimal booking parties to simplify dealing with potential issues. Pay close attention to cancellation and change terms.
Book Your Accommodation: Prioritize safety by reading reviews, checking locations on maps, and planning to arrive during daylight.
Book Excursions and Restaurants: Schedule activities to enrich your solo travel experience and foster connections.
Buy Travel Insurance: Essential for protecting your trip investment and ensuring you’re covered for medical and other unexpected events.
Plan for Money and Personal Information Safety: Use a VPN for secure online banking, carry two credit cards (including a Visa), and use some American currency as a backup.
Start Your Personal Departure Checklist: Organize vaccinations, required documentation, and logistics for getting to your departure point well in advance to minimize last-minute stress.
Solo Travelers: Freelancers on the Move
Living as a digital nomad is a rewarding combination of work and travel. Why work in an office when all you need is a laptop and an internet connection? Regardless of how beautiful this sounds, work is still working.
So we’ve compiled a few handy tips:
- Try to stay motivated
- Remember to organize your finances
- Work somewhere in between
- You are traveling too, so it is also a holiday sometimes
Best Places to Work Remotely While Traveling Solo
Here are some of the best cities and places to work remotely:
Brooklyn, New York, USA
Brooklyn is more of a ‘town,’ with distinct neighborhoods and fewer buildings. There are neighborhoods with small-town feel and indie boutique shops, mom-and-pop eateries, and cafes to work from while sitting on a peaceful street.
Boston, USA
Boston has a lot to offer, from its Bostonian urban culture and emerging cuisine scene to shopping, culture, history, and architecture.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a peaceful corner of Thailand. It offers a unique blend of culture, affordability, and digital infrastructure, making it a popular digital nomad hub.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, with its unique blend of culture, affordability, and digital infrastructure, is a popular digital nomad destination.
Conclusion
For us, solo travel adventure is about the journey and growth you experience along the way. Solo travel tours present unique opportunities to connect with fellow solo travelers as well. Whether you’re drawn to the natural beauty or understanding what’s around you when you’re alone, we hope this guide helped you with indispensable solo travel tips to enhance your experience.
It’s important to experience stepping out of your comfort zone and also spending time with yourself. In a way, group or sightseeing tours with a travel partner cannot offer these. During your solo travel, you’ll find a unique opportunity to connect with other travelers as well and enrich your journey with shared experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of visa do I need to work in the EU as a solo traveler?
To work in the EU as a solo traveler, you need a National D-type Work visa issued by the country you plan to work in. This visa doesn’t allow you to work in other Schengen nations. For short stays (not more than 90 days), you submit your application for a short-stay Schengen work visa.
What type of visa do I need to work in Canada as a solo traveler?
To work in Canada as a solo traveler, you need a Canadian work permit. There are different types of work permits, including an employer-specific work permit and an open work permit. The type of permit you need depends on your specific circumstances.
What type of visa do I need to work in the US as a solo traveler?
To work in the US as a solo traveler, you need a work visa. The type of visa depends on the nature of the work. Some visas, like the H-1B, are for specialty occupations. Others, like the O-1 visa, are for individuals with extraordinary abilities.
Is it cheaper to travel in a group?
Group travel can be more expensive than solo travel. This is because group bookings often have higher airfare per flight compared to individual bookings.
Is it normal to travel solo?
Traveling solo is normal and can be a powerful means of personal growth and self-discovery. If you don’t enjoy the group tours and the chaos the crowd brings, then let’s go on solo like most of the other solo travelers.
What is the best age to start solo travel?
It can vary, but some suggest the ideal age is between 9-12 years old. However, many also advocate for starting in your 20s.
How long should a solo trip last?
The duration of a solo trip can vary based on personal preference. However, a minimum of two to three weeks is often recommended to fully embrace the solo travel experience.
Is solo travel good for mental health?
Solo travel can have numerous positive impacts on mental health, providing an opportunity for self-discovery and personal reflection.
Is solo travel good for introverts?
Solo travel can be beneficial for introverts. You may even sharpen your problem-solving skills, think on your feet, and adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
