What Are the Booming Solo Travel Destinations for Women and Which Ones Should Be Avoided? Discover Top Countries Like Switzerland and Iceland

Solo female travelers often find themselves searching for bucket list destinations that will offer not just adventure but also a sense of safety. Aleaya Duran, an experienced solo traveler, has shared her journey and insights into what makes certain places ideal for solo travel and which ones are better to avoid.

Destinations to Avoid: Safety Concerns

Aleaya Duran, a 22-year-old solo traveler from Oregon, expressed her concerns about traveling to certain countries, particularly the Philippines and Cambodia. Duran’s experience in Palawan, a popular spot in the Philippines, was not what she had expected. Arriving during the typhoon season, she found herself dealing with the difficulties of flight cancellations and the challenges that come with unpredictable weather. This natural obstacle was compounded by the harassment she experienced from some locals, which made her feel unsafe.

Similarly, Cambodia was another destination where Aleaya felt uneasy. She described it as a country where she felt unsafe, highlighting the challenges faced by female travelers in certain locations. These experiences have made Aleaya advise future solo travelers, especially women, to carefully consider their destination choices.

Ideal Solo Travel Destinations: Safe and Welcoming Places

Despite her concerns about certain destinations, Aleaya is passionate about solo travel and has found several countries where she felt completely at ease, and in some cases, even empowered. She names Switzerland, Iceland, Singapore, and Japan as her top recommendations for female solo travelers. These destinations, known for their safety, have allowed her to feel comfortable enough to explore freely, even venturing out at night without fear.

In addition to these places, Aleaya also suggests visiting touristy spots as a starting point for beginners. Cities like Paris, regions of Italy, and Bali are excellent entry points for women embarking on their first solo trip. These places are well-traveled and offer both security and a rich cultural experience, making them ideal for those just starting out.

Unexpected Gems: The Beauty of Laos

While Aleaya is a fan of visiting more touristy locations, she has also been surprised by how fulfilling more remote destinations can be. One such place is Laos, which is not as widely known as its neighboring countries Thailand and Vietnam, but has proven to be one of Aleaya’s favorite destinations. She spoke highly of the incredible locals, the beautiful nature, and the rich wildlife in Laos, making it a memorable experience despite not being as popular among travelers. The unexpected charm of Laos serves as an example of how venturing off the beaten path can provide enriching experiences for solo travelers.

The Motivation Behind Solo Travel: Freedom and Personal Growth

Aleaya has always had the desire to explore the world, a yearning that grew from her experiences growing up in a small town. She explained that once she began traveling, the fear she initially had dissipated, and she realized how empowering it was to explore new places on her own. The solo travel experience offered her freedom—the freedom to explore without any external influence, allowing her to fully immerse herself in the environment around her.

This sense of freedom has been one of her favorite aspects of traveling alone. As she shared, “Most of the time, it has felt like just God and I are exploring the world.” For Aleaya, solo travel provides a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the places she visits, to wander at her own pace, and to enjoy the serenity of being present in the moment.

Tips for Budget-Conscious Solo Travelers

While solo travel can be expensive, Aleaya has mastered the art of keeping costs low. She has worked various odd jobs, sold used clothes, and taken on multiple jobs to fund her travels. Social media has also helped her fund a few trips, proving that platforms like Instagram or YouTube can offer travelers the chance to share their journeys while earning money.

One of Aleaya’s key tips for reducing travel costs is to avoid booking group tours through agencies. She warns that while group tours are useful for first-time travelers or those who feel nervous, they significantly increase the cost of a trip. Instead, she recommends traveling independently and using local resources to save money.

Additionally, Aleaya travels light by sticking to carry-on luggage. She uses packing cubes to keep her items organized and ensures she always leaves space for souvenirs. Another essential tip she shares is to bring necessary medications with her, as different countries may have different brands or availability of common drugs.

The Emotional Journey: The Power of Traveling Alone

For Aleaya, solo travel is not always glamorous, but it has been incredibly rewarding. The independence, self-reliance, and personal growth that come with traveling alone are invaluable experiences that cannot be replicated. The ability to explore new places, meet people on your own terms, and fully appreciate your surroundings is what makes solo travel unique.

Aleaya concluded by emphasizing that the best part of traveling solo is the freedom it brings. Without the influence of others, she is able to carve her own path, enriching her experiences in ways that group travel simply cannot provide.

Key Takeaways:

• Avoid unsafe places: Countries like the Philippines and Cambodia might not be the best choice for solo female travelers due to safety concerns.
• Safety first: Countries like Switzerland, Iceland, Japan, and Singapore are great options for women traveling alone.
• Explore remote destinations: Consider hidden gems like Laos for a unique and rewarding solo travel experience.
• Budget travel tips: Independent travel is often more affordable than group tours, and traveling light can save money.