famous solo travellers

Flying Solo: 12 Women Who Made Travel History

By Betsy Blumenthal

Jeanne Baret

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Jeanne Baret wasn’t a shy flower. Born in France’s Loire Valley in 1740, she roamed the fields looking for herbs to serve as medicine—she had been taught to be an “herb woman” by her family. Another lucky discovery in the valley? A naturalist and nobleman named Philibert Commerson, who shared a passion for botany and collecting plants (ah, true love). He hired her as a teacher, assistant, and aide; colleagues soon became lovers, and in 1766, Commerson was invited on a French expedition to discover new worlds as the mission’s naturalist-in-residence. Not one to be left behind, Baret came on board as his assistant —but as Jean, not Jeanne. She wrapped her chest in linen every day; never relieved herself in front of the crew; and carried around pistols for her safety. Eventually she was outed—but by the time she returned to France in 1775, she had already cemented her legacy by becoming the first woman to circumnavigate the globe. Biographers say she discovered a red flowering plant in Brazil, though it would be named after her ship captain, Louis-Antoine de Bougainville. She finally got her due in 2012, when a few gracious biologists named a new species of plant —the fittingly colorful Solanum baretiae—for her.

Annie "Londonderry"

They said she couldn’t do it, but... If you happened to be living in Boston in 1894, you might have caught an odd sight one late June day: Annie Cohen Kopchovsky, a Latvian immigrant in her early 20s, swinging her leg over the frame of a 42-pound Columbia bicycle and preparing to make her maiden voyage around the world. Before an audience of 500 spectators, the young wife and mother of three set off on a journey through such far-flung locales as Marseilles, Jerusalem, Nagasaki, and Yemen. But why? According to one newspaper, it reportedly began with a bet “by two wealthy clubmen of Boston”: If Londonderry successfully circled the globe in 15 months, accruing proof of signature from various American consuls—and earning $5,000 (roughly $135,922 today)—along the way, she’d win $10,000. But, in the midst of the Women’s Suffrage movement, it was also an opportunity to quash Victorian assumptions that the ‘fairer sex’ lacked the physical and mental stamina for such a challenge—and the bike, a relatively new phenomenon that promised both physical and mental freedom for women, was just the way to do it. Londonderry completed her journey in Chicago on September 12, 1895—two whole weeks before the 15-month deadline—having made herself an international celebrity in the process. She also became an early pioneer of sports-related marketing, acting as a human billboard throughout her travels by sporting a slew of advertising slogans and placards for everything from perfume to milk. Even her name was a spot of savvy branding: ‘Londonderry’ was actually the result of a deal with her first sponsor, the Londonderry Lithia Spring Water Company of Nashua, New Hampshire, which she’d struck the day she kicked her foot off the Boston pavement.

Raymonde de Laroche

They said she couldn’t do it, but... It was thanks to aviation pioneer Charles Voisin, who co-developed the 1907 pusher biplane, that Baroness Raymonde de Laroche first set her sights on flight: Over dinner in 1909, Voisin suggested the aspiring actress learn to fly an airplane herself. Born Elise Raymonde Deroche to a plumber and his wife ( Flight magazine had cheekily bestowed on her the title of “baroness,” which she then kept along with her adapted stage name), de Laroche soon began cutting her teeth at the French airfield at Camp de Châlons, about 90 miles east of Paris. Her wheels left the ground for the first time on October 22, 1909, and less than a year later, on March 8, 1910—now, fittingly, known as International Women’s Day—she became the first woman to receive a pilot’s license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. Whether she was winning the Coupe Femina (a women’s-only aviation competition) in 1913 for a successful flight of more than four hours; participating as the sole woman in the 1910 Reims Air Meet (the second year of the world’s first air race ); or setting the women’s altitude record in 1919 by ascending to 15,700 feet, de Laroche could always be found in her trademark flying attire —“a short skirt, long leather boots, a dark jersey, big leather gloves, a round cap and goggles.” Occasionally, de Laroche took her act around the world, performing for Czar Nicholas II of Russia, and competing in Budapest as crowds no doubt ogled her airborne exploits with wonder. De Laroche was killed at age 36 in July 1919, when the aircraft she was piloting went into a dive upon landing at a French airfield—and though a statue commemorates her at Paris—Le Bourget Airport in France, her legacy persists in the female pilots she’s inspired ever since.

Bessie Coleman

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Bessie Coleman persisted. Born to sharecropper parents in 1893, in Atlanta, Texas, she was raised by a mother who urged Coleman and her 12 siblings to strive for more. And strive, she did, walking several miles to attend school in a one-room shack, and saving up money working in cotton fields to attend college at the Oklahoma Colored Agricultural and Normal University, now known as Langston Industrial College. The money dried up after just a year in school. She tried again a few years later, enrolling in beauty school in Chicago in 1915—but her lifelong admiration for the Wright brothers, compounded by the exciting stories of World World I pilots, would push her to quit. She wanted to fly. Yet despite her determination, both racial and gender bias kept her from enrolling in aviation school in the United States. She remained undeterred: Armed with the sage advice—and funding—of Chicago Defender owner Robert Abbott, who underwrote the cost of her trip with the money he made selling stories about her to his primarily black readership, she set her eyes on France. Coleman took French lessons at the Berlitz school in the Chicago loop, and decamped for Paris in 1920 at the age of 21, where she spent seven months learning to fly. She was awarded a pilot’s license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale—the first African American woman, and woman of Native American descent to do so—on June 15, 1921, and returned to the United States where her race and sex still blocked her from finding gainful employment. Instead, she made her living performing such outrageous aerial stunts as barrel rolls and loop-de-loops—“barnstorming,” as it was called—in air shows, earning her the moniker “Queen Bess.” Coleman died on April 20, 1926 at the age of 34 while on a practice run for an upcoming performance—but not before making her mark on history.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Amelia Earhart

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Arguably one of the most famous women—and undoubtedly the most famous female pilot—in history, Amelia Earhart’s achievements are now familiar territory. In May 1932, she became the first woman (and the second person ever, after Charles Lindbergh) to fly nonstop solo across the Atlantic Ocean, turning her into an overnight international sensation. And she didn’t just revel in her 15 minutes of fame: Later that year, she made the first solo, nonstop flight by a woman across the United States, from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey, setting both time and distance records for women, and in 1935, became the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to the continental United States. When she wasn’t tirelessly lobbying Congress for aviation legislation or writing about women’s issues for Cosmopolitan , Earhart somehow found time to design her own line of women’s clothing (which she initially produced with her own sewing machine) and a line of lightweight luggage for Orenstein Trunk, the proceeds of which she used to help fund her travels. But really, would we expect any less from the same woman who kept a scrapbook on women she admired, and bought her first airplane, a Kinner Airster, at the tender age of 25? Sadly, equal interest surrounds Earhart’s life and death: During an attempted circumnavigation of the globe in 1937 that required several long overwater journeys, Earhart and her companion went missing en route to Howland Island, a tiny drop in the Pacific Ocean where they were meant to refuel. Despite a massive search for the pair, no evidence of the disappearance was ever found, and they were declared lost at sea on July 19, 1937. An event that remains shrouded in mystery, for decades the prevailing theory was that her plane, having run out of fuel, crashed into the ocean; but since 1985, the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery has been conducting research expeditions to solve the mystery, and in 1998, floated the theory that Earhart may have actually died a castaway .

Ellen Church

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Ellen Church had great ambitions—she was both a licensed pilot and a registered nurse—but none of this helped at a time when airlines weren’t keen on hiring female pilots (the numbers are still stubbornly out of whack ). So she did what most women have done at some point: she thought of a work-around. Church, then 26, approached officials at Boeing Air Transport (an early incarnation of United Airlines), and made the case for having women—nurses, specifically—up in the sky. Her argument? Women could ease passengers’ nerves and calm their fears (up to that point, most people had never been on an airplane ). Perhaps in a genius use of reverse psychology, she famously said , “Don’t you think that it would be good psychology to have women up in the air? How is a man going to say he is afraid to fly when a woman is working on the plane?” The airline relented and Church was hired as chief stewardess, along with seven other women, on a three-month trial basis in 1930, when four women made the inaugural trip from San Francisco to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and the remaining four, from Cheyenne to Chicago. And despite the overtly sexist mandates on their appearance—candidates had to be under 25 years old, no taller than 5 feet 4 inches, under 120 pounds, and most importantly, “pretty”—Church and her colleagues became more than just armchair psychologists: They took over many of the copilots’ tasks, including schlepping luggage, cleaning plane cabins, and helping to fuel the plane. While flight attendants may no longer be charged with bolting down seats (though diffusing air rage takes some heavy lifting) they remain an essential part of air travel to this day.

Freya Stark

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Born in Paris in 1893, at the tail end of the Victorian era, Freya Stark led a singularly extraordinary life. Though she moved about England and Italy with her artist parents throughout her childhood, and never received a formal schooling, she was already a polyglot, fluent in French, German, and Italian, by the time she entered college. After working as a nurse during World War I, she returned to London to take courses at the School of Oriental Studies, and her unquenchable curiosity swept her to Lebanon in 1927—kicking off a life-long love affair with the then-mysterious Middle East. But it wasn’t until 1930 that Stark, by that point fluent in Persian (Farsi), would set out for Persia (modern-day Iran) with just a local guide and a mule, and come upon the fabled and remote Valley of the Assassins, making her the first Westerner to identify it on a map. According to Alexander Maitland, the authorized biographer of Middle East explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger (both a contemporary and a friend of Stark’s), Stark was “an immensely significant figure” and “one of the relatively rare women explorers” who had the “advantage over the men of being able to get very close terms with the women in Muslim societies,” in turn granting her a much more intimate understanding of the role of women. Stark continued on her travels, despite bouts of the measles and a history of heart trouble; and during World War II, was employed by the British Ministry of Information in Aden, Baghdad, Iraq, and Cairo, where she used her knowledge of the region and its people to counteract Nazi propaganda, meanwhile spearheading the anti-fascist Brotherhood of Freedom movement. Yet her greatest gift, perhaps, was the knowledge she left behind: A prodigious author, Stark wrote a whopping 24 travel books and autobiographies, along with eight volumes of letters, leaving a trail of fascinating information about her adventures in Syria, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, and Yemen—places which are now difficult to experience firsthand.

Valentina Tereshkova

They said she couldn’t do it, but... It was clear from early on that Valentina Tereshkova was destined for the skies. Born in 1937 in Bolshoye Maslennikovo, a small Russian village about 170 miles northeast of Moscow, she made her first parachute jump at just 22 with the help of a local aviation club. When she wasn’t working at a nearby textile factory, Tereshkova got her kicks skydiving, and it didn’t take her long to become a pro. Then considered a key skill for astronauts (who were ejected from their capsules upon reentry to the atmosphere, at around 20,000 feet), she was selected for the Soviet space program in 1962 during a time when the Soviet Union remained in a fierce space race with the U.S. (and desperately wanted to send a woman up first), and she was promptly added to the roster . Later that year, Tereshkova, along with three other women (two parachutists and one pilot), was cherry-picked to begin intensive cosmonaut (the Russian term for ‘astronaut’) training—but she was the only woman on board Vostok 6, (the second part of a dual-flight mission) when it was launched into space on June 16 of that year. She reentered the atmosphere on June 19, a little less than three days after her departure (48 orbits, to be precise), and entered history as the first woman in space.

Junko Tabei

They said she couldn’t do it, but... No mountain was too high for Junko Tabei. The pint-sized Japanese mountaineer—all of five feet tall, and weighing in at 92 pounds—became the first woman to scale Mount Everest in May 1975, and later, to ascend the Seven Summits (the highest on every continent). She was also the first woman to reach the highest peaks in more than 70 countries, including Aconcagua in Argentina, and Vinson Massif in Antarctica. Financing three years of training, plus the climb—all 29,029 feet of it—was no picnic. Tabei, then a mother of a young daughter, worked as an editor at a science magazine and taught English and piano lessons in her spare time, ultimately receiving a small amount of funding from the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper and Nippon Television to help fund her travels. She also faced the challenge of planning an all-women expedition (six sherpas, not included)—unthinkable when, “back in 1970s Japan, it was still widely considered that men were the ones to work outside and women would stay at home,” Tabei told the Japan Times in 2012. There were sharper snags still: During the ascent on Everest, an avalanche buried her team’s camp about 9,000 feet from the summit, briefly knocking Taibei unconscious . But she came to and finished the climb regardless—pretty badass for a woman who started a climbing club for women after college, and was told she should be “raising children instead.” Tabei learned she had cancer in 2012, but kept at climbing anyway, leading high schoolers up the 12,388-foot Mount Fuji each summer—she even managed to make it halfway up in 2016, the year of her death, at age 77.

Asnath Mahapa

They said she couldn’t do it, but... Asnath Mahapa always knew she wanted to fly. But growing up in post-apartheid South Africa, a country that was legally segregated until 1994 (and with a father who vehemently disapproved), it often seemed impossible. Mahapa dabbled in other pursuits, taking an electrical engineering course at the University of Cape Town, but it just didn’t stick. So she signed up for flight school at the Progress Flight Academy in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and by 1998 she had received her private pilot’s license qualification. Did we mention she was just 22 years old? She earned her commercial pilot’s license in 1999, officially becoming the first black female pilot in the country. In a 2016 interview with CNN , Mahapa recalled that she was, “[t]he only woman in my class the whole time. I had to work very, very hard. I had to probably work ten times harder than the men that I was with in the classroom.” To help pave the way for other aspiring female pilots, Mahapa (who now flies for South African Airways) founded the African College of Aviation in 2012, offering training programs in night-rated training, as well as qualifications for both private and commercial pilot licenses. Despite the challenges, Mahapa has no regrets: “Ask any pilot, they’ll tell you, our view from our office is the best in the world, so why would you get bored doing a job like that?”

They said she couldn’t do it, but... When a 12-year-old Kate McCue boarded a cruise ship with her parents for the first time in 1990, she wasn’t on the lookout for chocolate buffets and larger-than-life waterslides. In fact, she spent her time aboard envisioning what she might do as the ship’s social director—that is, until her father reportedly told her, “You can do anything you want, [...] including drive the thing.” Shoot to 25 years later, in 2015, and the 37-year-old San Francisco native was living out her childhood fantasies as the first American woman to take the helm of a mega-cruise ship. She now uses her office aboard the 965-foot-long Celebrity Summit, a whopper of a cruise ship with capacity for 2,158 passengers and roughly 1,000 crew members that sails to Bermuda, New England, Canada and the Southern Caribbean , to test the cutting-edge programming she’d always dreamed of. She may not be the first-ever woman to command a mega-cruise ship—that would be Karin Stahre-Janson of Sweden, who was hired by Royal Caribbean in 2007—but there aren’t many American captains in the cruise industry at all, endowing the accomplishment with special significance. It’s little wonder McCue was the first to break the mold: In a 2016 interview with Traveler , the energetic captain said that, “I don’t like the stereotypes, but I love smashing them. People expect me to be a Goliath of a person. I love to show that you don't have to squeeze into a mold to meet people’s expectations.”

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14 Life-Changing Solo Trips We’ve Taken

Afar staffers wax poetic about their most significant solo adventures..

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Solo travel comes in many different varieties: the rite of passage, the ancestral connection, the search for growth and introspection, a completely unintentional journey. There is nothing quite as daunting or exhilarating as setting foot all alone in a place you’ve never been before. For many of us here at AFAR, those first solo trips are cherished memories. Whether they marked the moment we were bitten by the travel bug or came years after the fact, those trips are the ones that changed our perspective on travel.

From the roots connection…

“It can be difficult to connect to your Chinese roots when you live in white suburban St. Louis, Missouri. When I was 21, I decided that the best way to do so was to embark on a whirlwind tour of China . I saved money from a summer job and booked a tour that included Beijing, Chongqing, Three Gorges Dam/Yangtze River, Xi’an, and Shanghai. It wasn’t the first time I’d been to China, but it was the first time I saw so many different sides of the country without the influence of parents or relatives. China was and is a fascinating country full of history, great food, and contradictions—some of which are more stark in relation to the experience of an immigrant. The icing on the cake, however, had to be the discovery that I was most likely not Han Chinese, but rather Manchurian.” — Sherry Jin, Lead Engineer

“ The first trip that I took by myself was to Israel . As part of the Birthright Initiative, I was able to experience a trip to Israel for free— every 22-year-olds’ favorite word! I chose Mayanot—the “Young Professionals” trip. My parents were very concerned as this was during the Gaza Strip bombings; but I wasn’t. We embarked on December 31st, 2008 and rang in the New Year 30,000 feet in the air. When we got to Israel, I was floored by how much there was packed into such a small space—metropolis, desert, suburbia. It was 10 short days but I experienced so much: “swimming” in the Dead Sea , volunteering on a Kibbut, riding a camel in the desert, having a traditional Bedouin experience, Climbing Mt. Masada, and Shabbat in Jerusalem. However, the most special moment for me was a long-overdue Bat Mitzvah at the Western Wall. The memories of these life-changing experiences are precious to me because not only did I get to travel to a place I had never been to before, but I had a spiritual and emotional connection with everything I did.” — Lauren Sonnenberg, Integrated Sales Director

… to finding a global community:

“My first solo trip took me to four countries in South America. I had been to the continent with friends before, but I wanted this trip to be different, more immersive and meaningful. I sat down in my living room with a map of South America and began to jot down all the locations I wanted to visit. That notepad was the beginning of my adventure to Bolivia, Argentina, Chile and Brazil . I can’t recall a sense of fear, but there was definitely more of an excitement to see the places I had only dreamed of seeing prior. The most significant moment occurred when I departed Buenos Aires for El Calafate in the country’s Patagonia region. I was going to the wilderness, and I was going by myself. Did I realize exactly what I was getting myself into? Probably not, but it was by far my favorite part of the trip. I ended up meeting three other New Yorkers who (in a twist of fate) had my exact same self-made itinerary. We ended up hiking to see Mount Fitz Roy together and enjoyed a Christmas dinner of lamb and Argentinean wine.” — Michaela Trimble , Brand Manager

“My first significant solo trip was to Australia . The lack of a language barrier made me feel comfortable taking that on as my first solo experience to get my feet wet. I made my way from Brisbane to Melbourne over the course of three weeks, making stops in the Gold Coast, Byron Bay, and Sydney . The most surprising part of traveling solo was how much I accomplished each day. I had never realized how much time I spent discussing what to do next, waiting for travel companions to get dressed, and sitting around restaurants eating and drinking coffee when I travel with others. What I love most about solo travel is how much it pushes me out of my shy comfort zone and forces me to talk to locals and fellow travelers. I’ve met the most amazing people sitting in pubs alone—people I probably wouldn’t have met if I was caught up in conversation with travel companions. I’ve met lifelong friends on these solo trips.” — Maggie Gould, Executive Director, Marketing

From complete immersion…

“ My first solo trip was to Paris , which is the ideal first solo trip in my opinion. It is part of the Parisian culture to observe, and observe I did—from cafés, park benches, and on long strolls (some of which put me right in the middle of the red light district, oops). I relished eating dinner alone with a book and maybe a little too much wine. That feeling of anonymity was intense, no doubt, but after a couple days it almost became a high. Of course, that might have also been all the Gauloises I was chain smoking while idling over coffees and pastries.” — Danielle Walsh, Associate Editor, Social Media and Newsletters

“The first overseas trip was to Japan during Christmas when I was 19. I joined a tour group that went to Osaka, Kyoto, Mt. Fuji and then Tokyo . Christmas in Japan was a strange experience because Japan does not really celebrate the holiday, so it was just a normal week for the locals; but it was my first white Christmas, so to me it was quite special. We stayed in a small town near Mt. Fuji called Lake Kawaguchi which was eerily quiet. The people in Japan were so polite—if you’re lost and ask for directions, people are nice enough to walk you all the way to where you need to go. Traveling alone really allowed me to explore deeper and gave me a chance to make more friends.” — Denise Hoo, Digital Ad Operations Manager

… to terribly off-track:

“I had been in Phuket, Koh Samui, and Ko Phi Phi traveling on my own for several weeks post-college, and had met an amazing group of new friends from around the globe. We rode motorcycles, went scuba diving, and of course, danced most nights away. But en route to Chiang Mai, the jungle, and elephant rides—memories for a lifetime—things got scary for me. It wasn’t just that the bus ride was bumpy, this was something worse. The fever and chills were coming on strong and I couldn’t think straight. As we were passing through Bangkok , I made what turned out to be a wise decision and used the bulk of my money to check into a nice hotel, several classes up from the cheap hostel I had budgeted. I couldn’t afford the house doctor so, after devouring every non-alcoholic beverage in the mini bar, I made my way to a local clinic down the street where I was quickly informed that I had Malaria despite having taken Malaria pills. At this point, I had to make the call: trust the local shaman or scramble to get on a plane to an English-speaking hospital in Hong Kong and hope that I didn’t get quarantined! Luck prevailed and I not only made it to Hong Kong, but ended up reconnecting with a childhood friend, recovering in a lovely home, and ultimately spending a month exploring Hong Kong—a side trip that ended up being absolutely incredible. Traveling solo taught me to rely on my instincts and inner strength, and to perhaps read the instructions on the Malaria pills label correctly next time.” — Onnalee MacDonald, West Coast Sales Director

“One of my first solo travel experiences didn’t pan out as intended. I planned a two-week road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver , where I was to stay for the summer working with a family and their child with autism. I was going to take the scenic route, over to Arizona to backpack Havasupai, around the Grand Canyon and through Utah and Wyoming before cutting over to a more direct route. Three days into my trip, and after viewing the Grand Canyon, I called the family to check in only to find that they had decided to cancel their summer plans. I was devastated and had a long and disappointing trip back to Los Angeles. It was a solo road trip, but not the trip I had planned on taking.” — Kevin Favro, Senior Manager Mobile Engineering and Product

From momentous moments…

“ My first big solo trip was actually domestic—but it still ranks as one of my peak travel experiences. I took the Amtrak train from Seattle to L.A. to visit some friends, then rented a car and took a solo road trip up the coast. I camped frequently, survived on milkshakes and tacos, and stumbled upon an amazing hostel right on the beach in Santa Barbara (now gone, sadly). One of my favorite moments was when I was driving up Highway 1 near Big Sur and it was so foggy I couldn’t see more than 15 feet in front of me. I saw a dirt road leading up the hillside to my right and decided to go explore. Turned out it led to the New Camaldoli Hermitage, a Benedictine monastery perched so high above the road that I could see the fog bank and the Pacific below.” — Aislyn Greene, Associate Editor

“ I quit my first proper job and went traveling around India on my own at the age of 22. I don’t remember if it was my first time abroad alone, but it was certainly my first time visiting a ‘challenging’ country on my own. I was woefully unprepared for, well, everything. I did some of the dumbest things I’ve ever done, but also some of the most incredible; saw some of the most amazing sights I’ve ever seen, and also some of the most disturbing. And these peaks and troughs were often rolled into the same experience—which will come as no surprise to anyone who has ever visited the country. I don’t know if I took any discrete lessons from the trip—in some ways I was too young and it was just too formative to break down—but I did learn to embrace both paradox and chaos. I also totally get, with the benefit of hindsight, where Alabama 3 are coming from in their classic send-up, ‘ Ain’t Going to Goa .’” — Nick Rowlands, Guides Editor

“ My first solo trip was to Guatemala, after my sophomore year of college. I wanted to see if all that Spanish I’d taken in school would work when speaking to actual Spanish speakers. But just in case, I took three weeks of language classes in Quetzaltenango and lived with a family who sent me off with lunches of black beans, hard boiled eggs, and the best tortillas I’ve ever had. I shocked myself on the electric water heater showerhead in my little bathroom, read books about the country’s bloody history, hitched rides in pickup trucks after hikes in the mountains, and wrote a poem about wandering in the town cemetery. Then I spent a week traveling to Antigua and the ruins of Tikal. I spent an afternoon sitting on a temple by myself just watching toucans fly back and forth, and that’s when I realized I might be a birder, an important moment in any young person’s life.” — Jeremy Saum, Executive Editor

… to almost unintentional:

“I was 17 and, after having traveled through Europe with my best friend for two weeks, we both needed a break. A forgotten notebook in a Dublin train station gave us a thinly veiled excuse for some time apart and a few hours later I found myself eating dinner alone at a Chinese restaurant in Cork City. For the first time in my life, I was completely cut off from everyone and everything I’d ever known (except for mediocre Chinese food). It was a thrilling feeling that I’ve chased ever since.” —Maggie Fuller, Digital Intern

“When I was 16 years old, my parents allowed me to board a plane to attend a youth conference in Biloxi, Mississippi. The conference was boring, and the city wasn’t particularly exciting. Still, the feeling of traveling alone in a new place expanded my worldview and bolstered my confidence. I truly believe the experience started me on a path toward becoming a world traveler.” — Lou LaGrange, Business Development Director, Content Licensing

“I was a Tom Waits fan and back in ‘99 he did a limited tour after the release of Mule Variations. Tickets sold out very quickly but I was scouting both Oakland and LA shows. I was able to get one ticket for the June show at the Wiltern Theater in LA, which left me with the realization that I would need to actually travel to LA to attend (something I guess hadn’t crossed my mind). I flew in the afternoon of the show, stayed at a friend’s house (who was out of town), borrowed the same friend’s car to get to the show, and flew out the next morning. The show was amazing, if slightly awkward sitting by myself as seemingly the only person not wearing a pork-pie hat, and built my confidence for future travel and off-the-wall excursions.” — Laura Simkins, COO

>>Next: Why Solo Female Travel Is Important (and Where to Go)

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The Top 10 Inspiring Solo Travellers of 2017

Jan 2, 2018

From first solo trips to seasoned travellers, we are constantly inspired by the men and women who take on the world and adventure solo! Whether they’re crossing the globe or discovering delights closer to home, read on for our most inspiring solo travel stories of 2017.

Melany in Amsterdam, Netherlands Flytographer Silvia

“My husband died 5 years ago. I’m 57 and all my friends have partners. I was tired of waiting for someone to be free or interested in traveling with me. I decided to go alone! I went to Amsterdam to see tulips and windmills. I had the best holiday of my life. I couldn’t stop smiling! To paraphrase Alain de Botton ” Being closely observed by a companion can inhibit our observations of other people. We have to make ourselves seem more normal to fit in and it stifles our curiosity ” Every single day I went where my curiosity led me. I saw centuries old churches, famous paintings, and, yes, tulips and windmills! I was filled with joy and Silvia at Flytographer captured it perfectly. When I’m an old woman in a nursing home, I will look at these photos and remember my bliss.”

Anand in Venice, Italy Flytographer Marta

“It was Shakespeare’ famous play “Merchant of Venice” which had introduced Venice to me. And then the Hollywood movies of Casanova created that interest where I really wanted to see Venice. I wanted to confirm if it is as unique as depicted. Trust me, this ancient medieval dreamy city of Venice took my heart away.”

Bianca in Dublin, Ireland Flytographer Vanessa

Kathleen in Barcelona, Spain Flytographer Natalia

Tianna in Brussels, Belgium Flytographer Elke

“I am a professional athlete, a two-time Olympian 3 time gold medalist and 3 time world champion. I was in town for a competitive event. But we rarely get to see the towns we are in, and we are usually solo travelers. I started to use the service in order to capture memories outside of the stadium. This time I would be spending my birthday overseas and so my Flytographer photographer and I decided to have a birthday shoot! It turned into one of my best birthdays ever!”

Jana in Maui, USA Flytographer Marie

Lanna in Santorini, Greece Flytographer Ioannis

“My friends were planning the trip to Greece for almost an year. I said I wouldn’t come since the beginning but I had my heart broken and decided to tag along two weeks before we took off. It’s been wonderful and I don’t regret coming. Being in Greece is a dream come true! It’s been renovating my energies.”

Phil in Buenos Aires, Argentina Flytographer: Amelia

Louisa in Lisbon, Portugal Flytographer Claudia

“For the first time, I was traveling to Europe alone. I had some time off and wanted to take full advantage. My favorite memory from the trip was the amazing people I met while eating dinner with a local family and taking a Portuguese cooking class. I had so much fun discussing so many different topics and bonding with people around the world. Though I was traveling solo, I hardly felt alone.”

Chelsea in Bali, Indonesia Flytographer Gusmank

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Top Female Solo Travel Influencers

Whether you want to travel more or are ready to exit corporate life and live as a traveling nomad, you can get inspired by these 16 female travel influencers providing all of the tips. These influencers predominantly travel alone and live to collect stamps in their tattered passports.

Go on an adventure with these female solo travel influencers

Pip and the city.

Pip is a U.K.-based world traveler who shares all kinds of tips with those who have the travel itch. She runs several blogs, does a regular podcast, and writes for several media outlets. Her Instagram is full of fun adventures, like an underground mine tour in Wales , a trip to Machu Picchu , and a sunset at Pen and Fan .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pip Jones - Travel Journalist (@pipsays)

With 128K Instagram followers and 59.3K TikTok followers , Ciara is one of the most popular travel creators online. She is a huge advocate of solo traveling and uses her platform to share her destinations and tips to stay safe while alone abroad . Her travel blog, Hey Ciara , also has posts on topics like budget travel and female travel .

@hey_ciara Heyciara(d0t)com for all my solo travel tips! Everything you NEED to know | #solotravel #travelsolo #traveltiktok #traveltok #blacktravel #solofemaletraveler ♬ original sound - Ciara J | Solo Travel Queen

Liz Carlson

Liz is the traveler behind the blog Young Adventuress, a site she started in 2010 when she moved to Spain to teach English and “procrastinate in life.” More than a decade later she has traveled to 60 countries and shares fascinating snaps of the Fiordlands in New Zealand and the rugged, lush cliffs in Ireland .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Liz Carlson☀️Young Adventuress (@youngadventuress)

This travel influencer has visited the most photographable apartment in Budapest , floral-infused eateries in London , and wandered along the quaint streets in Mykonos, Greece . Her photography is just as amazing as the dazzling destinations that she visits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emily | London Travel Blogger (@emilyyreeve)

Collab with Emily

Kate McCulley

With a blog aptly named Adventurous Kate this adventure seeker quit her job in Boston 12 years ago to travel and has been doing it ever since. Even with 83 countries under her belt and vibrant pictures of Guanajuato and the snowy vistas of Mont Blanc on her Instagram, she has no plans of unpacking her bags.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kate McCulley (@adventurouskate)

The woman behind Girl vs. Globe, Sabina started traveling and blogging full time after she finished college in 2015. Her Instagram offers tips on finding cheap flights , a look inside a seven-star hotel in Abu Dhabi , and the best destinations for women to travel to alone .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sabina Trojanova 🌍 (@girlvsglobe)

Nadine Skyora

A travel vlogger since 2010, Nadine has a passport with more than 55 stamps. She’s the mind behind the Hey Nadine website, which has a wildly popular YouTube channel with almost 500K subscribers. Her channel has rookie travel mistakes , the best toiletries to pack , and location-specific guides like this one from Ottawa .

Based in Australia, Michela focuses on solo travel tips for women over 50. Her site, Rocky Travel , offers tips on traveling through Europe, Southeast Asia, and of course, Australia. Her Instagram is a collection of stunning photos like a quaint Australian city and colorful lavender fields .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Solo Travel & Life Over 50 (@rockytravel)

Kiersten Rich

Known as Kiki to her travel fans, this California native runs a travel blog, the Blonde Abroad . Her Instagram has amassed 521K followers who tune in for snaps on NYC during Christmas time , cute historic inns in South Carolina , and vistas in Greece .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kiki | The Blonde Abroad (@theblondeabroad)

Annette White

Bucket List Journey, a blog run by solo traveler Annette White, aims to give followers the tools to live out their travel bucket list. She’s gone piranha fishing, walked with moose in Alaska , went on an African safari, and wandered through rice terraces in Bali . 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annette White (@bucketlistjourney)

Amanda Williams

A journalist turned travel blogger, Amanda helps you add more travel to your current lifestyle. She started her blogging journey back in 2010 and shares snaps of national travel like Death Valley National Park and the Finger Lakes Region in NY and international landscapes like the jagged peaks of Faroe Islands in Denmark.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amanda Williams 🌎 (@dangerousbiz)

Juno’s travels are chronicled on her blog, Runaway Juno. A native of Seoul, Juno says traveling reminds her that the world is a better place than what you see on the news. It’s easy to see the beauty of the world when you check out pictures of moose in Alaska , the ragged rocks in Zion National Park , or an adorable otter .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Runaway Juno Media (@runawayjuno)

One of the minds behind the travel blog Globetrotter Girls, Jess left her job for a one-year trip. That was 12 years ago. She has traveled the world ever since and shares her trip pictures — like one from the Pyramid of Djoser in Egypt and an immersive Van Gogh exhibit in LA —  on Instagram along with tips to make travel easier and more affordable.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by GlobetrotterGirls (@globetrottergirls)

A native of Albany, NY, Alex left her wintery home to explore and manage her ‘incurable case of wanderlust.” The result is a travel blog aptly named Alex in Wanderland. She offers travel tips and hosts retreats all while sharing updates with 80K followers on Instagram. Her most recent travels include trips to Saint Martin and Tulum, Mexico .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alexandra Baackes (@alexinwanderland)

A corporate cube dweller turned world traveler, Sherry creates a playlist for each destination that she visits on her YouTube Channel, Otts World. Her recent trips include jaunts to Alberta, Canada and Antarctica .

When you visit Vicki Flip Flop, an upbeat blog about traveling on your own, you’ll see Vicki’s journalism skills and her love of travel all at once. She recently welcomed a son, Reggie , who will no doubt get to enjoy some great trips. Vicki’s passport includes stamps from Canada , England , and South Korea .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Travel & Festival Blogger (@vickyflipflop)

A travel influencer who shares TikToks of beach destinations and hikes through Texas , Jess informs and entertains her 86K followers. She’s also an  influencer and a self-care advocate who uses travel to clear her mind and continue on her 10-year journey of sobriety .

@jess_wanders I see you. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters #healing #healingtiktok #keepgoing #dontquit #fighter #fyp #quotes #RufflesOwnYourRidges #trendy #cali ♬ original sound - Jesse J. 🅿️edigo

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The 15 best places to travel alone

There’s nothing like gallivanting around the globe on your own. These are the best solo travel destinations in the world

Nothing sounds quite as liberating as upping sticks and going to see the world, at whatever pace, and for however long you want. The freedom of only being tied to your own schedule is the beauty of travelling solo, and it seems like lots of us are catching on. 

Travelling the world alone has only grown in popularity since we came out of pandemic restrictions, with many of us adopting the ‘life’s too short’ mindset, and working up the courage to just book that damn flight. And why shouldn’t we? There’s such an abundance of places to travel solo, some so glorious that you won’t even notice you don’t have company. 

Of course, there are some things to consider if you’re jetting off solo. Safety, especially for women travellers , is an important element to factor into your planning, among plenty of other aspects that need weighing up. We’ve done our research: here is our list of the best solo travel destinations in the world. 

RECOMMENDED:  🧗‍♀️ The best destinations for solo female travel ☀️ The prettiest islands in the world 🌆 The  best cities in the world  🖼️ The most beautiful places in the world

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The best places to travel alone

1.  Iceland

The aptly-named ‘land of fire and ice’ is a magnet for nature fanatics, and perfect for those travelling solo. An abundance of caves, caverns, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and geysers should be plenty to keep you occupied, as the landscape and scope of this Nordic island is second to none. The country’s charming capital, Reykjavik , is jam-packed with activity – why not add the Blue Lagoon or the Laugarvatn Fontana to your to-do list for some solo relaxation? And the best thing about Iceland for solo travellers is the safety. The country is named time and time again named  one of the safest places for travellers , thanks to low crime rates and a generally accepting society. It’s definitely one for the bucket list.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Iceland

2.  East Coast Australia

It goes without saying that Australia is absolutely massive. Mahoosive. Ginormous. And while that fact might make it seem daunting, particularly for those of us travelling solo, most of the action is concentrated on the East Coast. There are plenty of classic routes that run from Adelaide to Brisbane and beyond, allowing intrepid explorers to visit a variety of exciting towns that each seem to have their own magnificent ocean view. Australians are famously sociable, too, so meeting new people will never be an issue in this isolated corner of our beautiful planet.

📍 Discover the best places to visit in Australia

3.  Botswana

For those keen to explore the wonders of Africa, Botswana is likely your best bet. The country has a wealth of wildlife to appreciate and observe, with nearly 40 percent of its land area being devoted to national parks. The Okavango Delta, Kalahari Desert and Chobe National Park are world-renowned safari spots, home to everything from giraffes to rhinos. Botswana is also a politically and economically steady nation, and ranks highly on safety indexes for African countries. This, plus the fact that many Botswanans speak excellent English, makes it a great destination to navigate on your solo travels.

4.  Canada

Canada ’s name is one thrown around most often when it comes to solo travel. The population has a worldwide reputation for their friendliness, and the country has everything you could want from a travel destination. Incredible off-the-grid adventure opportunities like visiting the Rockies, Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offer up plenty to see for intrepid globetrotters. However, Toronto is considered one of the world’s most multicultural cities, and Vancouver is famed for its unique urban design, stunning surroundings and the fact it's on the doorstep to some incredible nature. The weather? Not so great, but the people? Incredible.

5.  Vietnam

Vietnam ’s unique beauty and complicated history make it a compelling travel destination, particularly for those doing so alone. The country has grown into a popular travelling hotspot, and that’s led to a thriving social scene – the well-established tourist route means it should be really easy to meet like-minded travellers to journey alongside. Ha Long Bay, Hanoi and the Ha Giang Loop are three of the nation’s tourist highlights. There are also great transport networks, it’s budget-friendly and full of hostels. What more could you ask for when you’re travelling alone?

📍 Discover the  best things to do in Vietnam

6.  Portugal

Portugal’s most popular spots frequently pick up travel awards and plaudits alike, and the hype is not without good reason. Lisbon is a backpacker’s dream, while the dreamlike beauty of Porto attracts wide-eyed adventurers from all over the world.  The Algarve is much more than its budget holiday destination suggests, and the rest of the country is packed with stunning sights and spots. This European treasure boasts 800km of coastline, and it’s a particularly surfer-friendly paradise, thanks to the fact it’s perched on the edge of the Atlantic.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Portugal

7.  Chile

In South America, Chile leads the way in terms of quality of life, and unsurprisingly, lowest crime rate. It’s the perfect destination for people travelling alone thanks to its tight-knit community of backpackers, and, of course, abundance of sights to see. Atacama, the driest desert in the world, is located in the north, while there’s plenty to see in Santiago, the nation’s capital. You won’t go thirsty either, thanks to the fantastic Chilean repertoire of beer and wine. It’s also considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing, thanks to its high altitude.

8.  Slovenia

Small but perfectly formed, Slovenia is a tremendous destination for solo travellers. The old ‘four seasons in a day’ adage is very much alive and well in a place where you can spend the morning skiing in the Alps before heading for a romantic solo sunset on the Adriatic at Piran. The capital, Ljubljana, is the perfect base for exploration, a city of friendly people and social spots an easy bus or train from Slovenia’s famous lakes and less-famous postcard villages. Pro tip: pick up a €15 IZLETka train ticket and get unlimited travel on the weekends.

📍 Discover four Slovenian getaways that are good for the planet

9.  New Zealand

New Zealand is a country that just gets things right. For one, it takes its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world very seriously, meaning travellers can explore in total security. But it isn’t usually safety that brings individual adventurers to New Zealand ; instead, it’s the dazzling landscapes, buzzing towns and cities and convivial people that make NZ the place it is. All of the bigger towns are backpacker paradises filled with history, culture and booze (the great trifecta of backpacking), and the scenery in between is staggering.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Zealand

10.  Ireland

Irish storytelling is world-famous, immortalised in the novels of Joyce, Stoker, Wilde and the rest. Spend an evening in any Dublin pub and you will almost certainly hear a tale for the ages, as locals spin yarns and transport listeners to a world within a world, one pint at a time. The friendly hospitality of the Irish guarantees good conversation, while the stunning breadth of nature here allows for tranquil walks and plenty of room to think, ideal for solo travel. Getting around also couldn’t be easier, as it looks like Irish railway services are about to be amped up .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Ireland

11.  Japan

It can often feel as though Japan has been organised with solo travellers in mind. The efficiency of its transport links is as legendary as such things can be, allowing vagabonds all the time in the world to hit up the gripping cities and out-of-this-world scenery. (Check out our Japan rail itinerary if you’re planning to see the place by train.) The Japanese are among the friendliest in the world, the food is incredible and the whole experience is exactly that: an experience. It’s also another country that is consistently ranked the safest destination in the world for solo travellers .

📍 Discover the best things to do in Japan

12.  Greek Islands

No matter your preferred form of travel, a spot of island-hopping in Greece is almost a rite of passage for any traveller. That’s why you’ll meet everyone from excitable backpackers to considered veterans of the road here, each with a different story to tell. The Greek Islands are gorgeous and lush, not to mention packed with excellent food. Each one seems ready to capture your heart and convince you to stay forever and ever. Kefalonia and Corfu are the most popular and thus offer endless social opportunities, while the serenity of Naxos and Icaria will appeal to more introverted explorers.

📍 Discover the best Greek islands

13.  Bhutan

What could be safer than a culture so infused with Buddhism? Bhutan is definitely a place to include on your list should safety be one of your top priorities. The Trans Bhutan Trail reopened in 2022 , meaning travellers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks who trod the 400km route. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the tiny country is of course perched on the very edge of the Himalayas, meaning the views are truly unmatched. There’s also tranquil lakes, luscious green valleys and dazzling glaciers to admire. Take heed: you will need some extra cash to splash in Bhutan, as the country has a pretty steep tourist tax .

14.  Croatia

Another super-safe solo-friendly destination is this jewel of the Adriatic. Boundless glorious beaches, fascinating mediaeval towns and relatively low prices are what Croatia has become so popular for. The nightlife is another perk of this place – the festival calendar is absolutely jam-packed, and Croatian cities are known for their cheap drinks and plethora of party spots. Eight national parks are also dotted around the country. Like waterfalls? There’s a whopping 90 of them at Plitvice Lakes,  though if you want a dip, head to the smaller falls at Krka National Park instead. Croatia is also an underrated wine producer and, of course, a hotspot for  Game of Thrones  fans.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Croatia

15.  Singapore

The phrase ‘melting pot’ is ridiculously overused, but one place that’s truly worthy of the label is Singapore . The island nation is a glorious meeting of different cuisines and cultures, with a landscape characterised by ancient temples and towering glass skyscrapers. Singapore is also incredibly safe, according to 96 percent of locals who we surveyed last year for our annual list of the world’s best cities . There are plenty of hostels if you’re wanting to meet other travellers. Spend your time soaking up the year-round tropical climate, and make sure to go on a food tour through Singapore’s  markets . 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

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Travel through time with 21 women explorers who changed the world

By Katie Knorovsky Illustrations by Bijou Karman

4th Century

Pioneering pilgrim

In the fourth century, a Christian pilgrim by the name of Egeria set off from the Mediterranean to reach the Holy Land, using the Bible as her guidebook. “These mountains are ascended with infinite toil,” she writes about her intrepid climb up Mount Sinai, in detailed letters sometimes called history’s first travel memoir. Her insights reveal a cultural sensitivity that transcends time: At each stop she took care to inquire about local customs and traditions.

Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir

CA 985–1050

Viking “far traveler”

Icelandic sagas immortalize the Viking wife and mother Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir as “a woman of striking appearance and wise as well, who knew how to behave among strangers.” By many accounts the most traveled woman of the Middle Ages, the hardy “far traveler” is said to have crisscrossed the North Atlantic several times between Greenland and Iceland. She also sailed to North America—five centuries before Christopher Columbus—and to Rome on a religious pilgrimage.

Jeanne Baret

1740–1807

First female circumnavigator

Two centuries after Ferdinand Magellan sailed around the world, a French “herb woman” disguised as a man became the first female to circumnavigate the globe. With her chest wrapped in bandages, Jeanne Baret conspired with her lover—a renowned botanist—to earn a spot on a 1766 expedition. The ruse was up two years later (the couple remained in Mauritius when the boat sailed), but Baret’s feat came full circle upon her eventual return to France in the early 1770s.

Mary Seacole

1805–1881

Groundbreaking global healer

Although Mary Seacole earned fame as a “black Florence Nightingale,” the British-Jamaican nurse considered travel the ultimate antidote for the limiting Victorian era. Her witty autobiography, Wonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands , recounts her exploits tending to cholera victims in Panama and at the front lines ofthe Crimean War. “As I grew into womanhood,&dquo; she writes, “I began to indulge that longing to travel which will never leave me while I have health and vigour.”

Although Mary Seacole earned fame as a “black Florence Nightingale,” the British-Jamaican nurse considered travel the ultimate antidote for the limiting Victorian era. Her witty autobiography, Wonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands , recounts her exploits tending to cholera victims in Panama and at the front lines ofthe Crimean War. “As I grew into womanhood,” she writes, “I began to indulge that longing to travel which will never leave me while I have health and vigour.”

Isabella Bird

1831–1904

First female fellow of Royal Geographical Society

Some people live to travel; Isabella Bird traveled to live. On doctor’s orders, the chronically ill Englishwoman set off for North America on her debut adventure in 1854. The open air suited her well-being as much as travel stirred her soul. The first woman elected to be a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, she went on to climb volcanoes, ride horseback through the wilderness, and commune with locals, chronicling her voyages in books about Hawaii, Tibet, Colorado’s Estes Park, Korea, Morocco, Vietnam, and beyond.

Eliza Scidmore

1856–1928

First woman on National Geographic’s board

The first woman elected to the National Geographic board (and to have a photo published in the magazine), Eliza Scidmore likened her travel appetite to “original sin.” Among the pioneering tourists to cruise through Glacier Bay, she penned Alaska’s first guidebook, in 1885. Yet the renowned “lady writer” did more than plant the seeds of wanderlust in her readers: Her idea to bring cherry trees to Washington, D.C., blossomed into a rite of passage for spring travelers the world over.

1864–1922

Around the world in 72 days

In the action movie that was her life, Nellie Bly always did her own stunts—none more spectacular than her breathless voyage around the world in 1889. Moving by train, steamship, horse, donkey, and rickshaw, the 25-year-old journalist traversed 24,899 miles in 72 days. She detoured in France to meet her muse Jules Verne, visited a Chinese leper colony, and acquired a pet monkey in Singapore—all with only a small satchel and a single dress.

Gertrude Bell

1868–1926

Arabia’s “uncrowned queen”

Englishwoman Gertrude Bell traded upper-class comfort for desert forays by camel. A cohort of T. E. Lawrence—but with a better mastery of the Arabic language—she embedded herself in local life as she roved the sands of the Middle East, from Persia to Syria. Arabia’s “uncrowned queen” helped draw the borders of modern Iraq, advised on the writing of its constitution, and established the Iraq National Museum. Bell also scaled the Alps and preserved antiquities on archaeological digs.

Harriet Chalmers Adams

1875–1937

Founded the Society of Women Geographers

Neither vampire bats nor avalanches could stop Harriet Chalmers Adams from venturing deep into South America in 1904. She and her husband covered some 40,000 miles in three years, crossing the Andes by horseback, wandering the Amazon alongside jaguars, and canoeing in snake-tangled waters. Exclusion from the men-only Explorers Club did not faze her; in 1925 Adams became the inaugural president of the Society of Woman Geographers.

Augusta Van Buren

1884–1959

Motorcycle maverick

Before Thelma and Louise took to the open road, there was Gussie and Addie, aka Augusta Van Buren and her sister, Adeline. In 1916 the socialites with a rebellious streak crossed the continental United States on motorcycles—roaring across dirt trails, cow passes, and roads pocked with mud holes as they traversed some 5,500 miles in 60 long days of heat and rain. Augusta went on to join Amelia Earhart’s Ninety-Nines group of women pilots.

Louise Arner Boyd

1887–1972

Arctic explorer

Louise Boyd took her vast inheritance from the California gold rush and put it on ice. The heroine of the high seas led and financed several scientific expeditions into the Arctic wilds, helped document Greenland’s fjords and glaciers, completed covert missions for the U.S. government, and was one of the first women to soar over the North Pole in an airplane. “Far north, hidden behind grim barriers of pack ice, are lands that hold one spell-bound,” she wrote in 1935.

Emma Gatewood

1887–1973

Trailblazing grandma

In 1955, 67-year-old Emma Gatewood emerged from the Appalachian Trail as the first woman to hike all 2,050 miles in one season by herself. Emboldened by an article in National Geographic , she was nicknamed the “hiking grandma”—in fact, the mother of 11 was a great-grandma—and went on to conquer the trail two more times as well as the 2,000-mile Oregon Trail. Her marching orders to “pick up your feet” have motivated countless walkers since.

Bessie Coleman

1892–1926

First African-American woman pilot

Bessie Coleman rose above the prejudices of her era. In 1921 she soared into history as the world’s first African-American woman pilot. Born the daughter of a maid and a sharecropper, the manicurist turned aviatrix learned to fly in France after being rejected by American flight schools. For five years she traveled the U.S., performing heart-stopping stunts in the sky—at her insistence, only at venues with desegregated crowds—until a fatal plane crash.

Freya Stark

1893–1993

Desert chronicler

Perusing a map was said to fill Freya Stark with “a certain madness,” which provoked fearless explorations of the remote deserts of the Middle East, chronicled in more than 20 books beginning with 1932’s Baghdad Sketches . Her preferred mode of transport was on the back of a donkey or camel, and although measles, dysentery, dengue fever, and other illnesses took their toll, her boundless spirit of adventure—and ready smile—always persevered. “Curiosity,” Stark writes, “is the one thing invincible in nature.”

Aloha Wanderwell

1906–1996

“World’s most widely traveled girl”

In 1922, 16-year-old Idris Galcia Hall pursued her fantasies to “sleep with the winds of heaven blowing round her head” when she answered an ad to join a world tour. She became known as Aloha Wanderwell and was promoted as the “world’s most widely traveled girl,” eventually driving across six continents in a Ford Model T.

Martha Gellhorn

1908–1998

Globe-trotting correspondent

Pursuing a life “almost explosive in its excitement,” journalist Martha Gellhorn took in the “view from the ground” in 53 countries—Barcelona during the Spanish Civil War, China by sampan and horse, and the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. Describing herself as “permanently dislocated,” the glam vagabond based herself for a stint in Cuba as the third wife of Ernest Hemingway, who appears in her 1978 book, Travels With Myself and Another .

Daring documentarian

Prolific Welsh writer Jan Morris lived the first half of her life as James Morris, posted to Palestine in 1946 as an intelligence officer and scrambling down Mount Everest to break the news of its first successful summit in 1953. After transitioning to female in 1972 (a different kind of journey), Morris began writing about places in earnest, revealing an unparalleled knack for evocative city portraits. Her 40-plus books span Venice to Hong Kong, the U.S. to the Arab world.

Welsh author Jan Morris lived the first half of her life as James Morris, posted to Palestine in 1946 as an intelligence officer and scrambling down Mount Everest to break the news of its first successful summit in 1953. After transitioning to female in 1972 (a different kind of journey), Morris began writing about places in earnest, revealing an unparalleled knack for evocative city portraits. Her 40-plus books span Venice to Hong Kong, the U.S. to the Arab world.

Dervla Murphy

Full-tilt adventurer

Dervla Murphy wrote the book on traveling at full tilt—literally. The Irishwoman’s 1965 memoir, Full Tilt , chronicled her solo bicycle trip from her home to India, by way of Yugoslavia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Subsequent books revolve around similarly voracious voyages through challenging landscapes, including a three-month slog with a mule in the Ethiopian highlands and a 1,300-mile trek through the high Peruvian Andes with her nine-year-old daughter. The familiar thread in all her exploits: Embrace the unpredictable.

1943–1991

Taiwan’s “wandering writer”

San Mao, whose real name was Chen Mao Ping, launched her bold career as Taiwan’s “wandering writer” and translator with her 1976 travelogue Stories of the Sahara . (An example of her lyrical prose: “Every time I thought of you, a grain of sand fell from the sky. Thus the Sahara Desert formed.”) The polyglot bohemian flitted among Germany, Spain, northwest Africa, Central and South America, and the Canary Islands, spending much of her life as an expat and inspiring generations of devoted readers and travelers.

Evita Robinson

Breaking travel barriers

No traveler is an island—at least not if globetrotter Evita Robinson gets her way. The three-time expat founded Nomadness Travel Tribe , an online community designed for millennial travelers of color. Whether shark diving in Cape Town or teaching English in Japan, the 20,000-plus members of Nomadness—mostly African-American women—have emerged as a force in the not-always-inclusive travel industry. “We are here, and we are relevant,” said Robinson in her 2017 TED Talk about Black travel.

Erika S. Bergman

National Geographic Young Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer Erika S. Bergman brings unprecedented depth to her travels—whether she’s scaling the hazy rainforest canopy in Costa Rica or deploying underwater robots in the icy Arctic. The deep-sea submarine pilot is most at home probing uncharted waters. “Anyone can be an adventurer,” she writes. Her network of engineering camps and girls’ mentorship programs, Global Engineering & Exploration Counselors , puts that mantra into action.

Erika S. Bergman brings unprecedented depth to her National Geographic travels—whether she’s scaling the hazy rainforest canopy in Costa Rica or deploying underwater robots in the icy Arctic. The deep-sea submarine pilot is most at home probing uncharted waters. “Anyone can be an adventurer,” she writes. Her network of engineering camps and girls’ mentorship programs, Global Engineering & Exploration Counselors , puts that mantra into action.

Love National Geographic storytelling?

10 top spots for solo travelers in winter (or any other time of year)

Dec 10, 2021 • 10 min read

Trekking to Machu Picchu is just one of many South American adventures that's perfect for solo travelers © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Andres Jacobi

The idea of traveling alone can be daunting if you've never taken a solo trip before. Checking in for your outbound flight is easy – it's only when you arrive alone in an unfamiliar destination that it all becomes real. But any initial doubts are fleeting. By the time you've checked into your hotel and hit the streets looking for your first meal, nerves will already be giving way to the thrill of being somewhere new.

A major factor in mastering the art of solo travel is selecting the right destination. Whether you're embarking on an epic multicountry trip or taking an impulsive city break, some places are more suitable for a solo travel experience than others. There are destinations that are naturally suited to solitude, and destinations where travelers are naturally thrown together, making it easy to meet new people.

Best of all, there are solo travel destinations in every corner of the globe, so you can take a solo trip in the depths of winter as easily as you can at the height of summer. Here are 10 sure-fire destinations for lone travelers, organized by interest. Whether you’re into raves, relaxation, hiking or sightseeing, these spots are certain to get your solo travel adventure off on the right foot.

South America: best for solo adventures

With mountains to climb, rivers to raft, ancient ruins to uncover and jungles to explore, South America is the ultimate adventure destination. And the northern hemisphere's winter is South America's summer – the prime time to visit Patagonia and the Andes. From well-trodden paths in Argentina , Chile and Brazil to virgin jungle trails in Ecuador and Colombia , the continent has something for every kind of adventurer. You'll certainly never struggle for company on the trek to Machu Picchu !

Don’t let the continent's size daunt you – with easy border crossings and well-established traveler hubs, South America is ideal for solo overlanding. The well-worn Gringo Trail, which takes in the continent’s most popular destinations, ensures recurring rendezvous with fellow adventurers and ample opportunities to buddy up with travelers heading in the same direction. This, paired with the general warmth of local people and the continent’s premium hostel network, makes solo travel simple.

Epic solo travel experience : Mountain biking down Bolivia ’s infamous Death Road (the name is an exaggeration, in case you were worried) and debriefing with your fellow riders over a few beers afterward.

Ubud, Indonesia: best for self-reflection

Whether you loved or loathed Elizabeth Gilbert’s seminal solo travel memoir Eat, Pray, Love , there’s no denying that Bali has a special magic. The island's artistic and spiritual center, Ubud , is where the author found love (and presumably ate and prayed) and it remains a wonderfully laid-back place for solo travelers to relax, reflect and recharge. And Bali is a year-round destination – summer is peak season, but the island has a quieter and calmer charm in winter.

Nestled among emerald rice fields ringed by mist-wrapped mountains, Ubud attracts throngs of solo travelers, meaning no probing glances if you arrive alone at a morning yoga class or ask for a table for one in one of the town’s salubrious vegetarian cafes. To really harness the healing power of Ubud (and for some serious solitude), check yourself into one of the many health retreats that dot the verdant hills around town.

Epic solo travel experience : Getting up super early before the heat climbs to join a holistic class – you find lessons in everything from yoga and meditation, and you can follow up with a massage at a tried and tested spa such as Taksu Spa .

Berlin, Germany: best for nightlife

Some say you are more likely to get into Berghain , the most famous nightclub in Berlin , if you arrive alone. Whether or not that’s the case, the rumor demonstrates the German capital’s natural affinity for solo travelers. Legions of solo citybreakers are drawn by Berlin's deserved reputation as one of the friendliest, most inclusive cities in Europe, and by its famous nightlife.

Berlin is one of the best places in Europe to party, offering a collection of colossal clubs and graffiti-spattered beer gardens, but going clubbing is just one of many things to do in Berlin. Thought-provoking history surrounds you from the moment you arrive, from the Brandenburg Gate to the Holocaust Memorial , while quirky cafes, cool boutiques, weekend flea markets and a growing food-truck scene provide more leisurely delights. Berlin is an easy place to wander alone, or join a walking tour for some company.

Epic solo travel experience : Heading out to a bar or nightclub and seeing where the night takes you. For some guided imbibing, join a beer tour with Brewer's Berlin Tours or Berlin Craft Beer Experience .

East Africa: best for a group tour

Have you always dreamed of viewing gorillas in the jungles of Rwanda , meeting a Maasai chief in Kenya  or spotting the “Big Five” in Tanzania , but were daunted by the logistics of tackling East Africa independently? A group tour can simplify the experience of visiting this stunning region of the world, and provide a buffer for the sometimes challenging experiences Africa can throw at first-timers.

East Africa’s tourism infrastructure is well developed and traveling solo in most countries here is quite achievable (particularly in Kenya and Tanzania), but joining a group tour means you can bundle together a string of big game-viewing safaris in multiple countries, without getting hit by additional lone traveler charges or facing the daunting prospect of arranging multiple tours and transport.

Best of all, tours in these bucket-list destinations attract a diverse group of travelers, meaning you’re much less likely to be the only solo traveler sandwiched between canoodling couples, or the only 20-something in a coach full of empty-nesters.

Epic solo travel experience : Catching the great migration from the Serengeti in Tanzania to the Masai Mara in Kenya – an almost Lion King -esque parade of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and predators.

Singapore: best for a solo stopover

With all manner of cultural attractions to explore, a growing collection of hostels and guesthouses, loads of free things to do , and one of the world’s best public transport systems (including excellent airport links), there are few more stress-free solo travel experiences than landing at Singapore 's award-winning Changi airport on a tropical afternoon.

Whether you choose to amble with an audio guide through the Chinatown Heritage Centre , gawp at the otherworldly Gardens by the Bay , plunge into a lavish rooftop pool, or join the hordes feasting in Singapore's hawker food courts , the city is perfectly suited to solo travel. An added bonus is the city's cosmopolitan attitude – locals don't bat an eyelid at the daily influx of international arrivals, and there are few hassles and scams to worry about.

Epic solo travel experience : Checking out the cozy cafes and quirky boutiques in the gentrified 1930s housing estate of Tiong Bahru .

Rome, Italy: best for culture

From ancient icons such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that is St Peter’s Basilica , Rome ’s cityscape is a kaleidoscopic canvas of artistic flair, architectural wonderment and historical marvels. Whether you’re visiting for two days or two months, there's so much to see that there's little risk of becoming bored.

Though English is not as widely spoken as in some European nations, it’s hard to feel lonely among the 14 million other tourists who visit this cultural hub each year. And solo dining means you only have to worry about keeping one palate happy in Rome's fabulous restaurants . But don’t pack too much into your itinerary, as Rome rewards relaxation; mingling with strangers over a glass of vino at sunset is an essential pastime in The Eternal City.

Epic solo travel experience : Visiting St Peter’s Basilica and walking the 7km (4.3 miles) of artwork-filled halls that comprise the Vatican Museums .

Portland, Oregon: best city break

One of the USA 's hippest hubs, Portland has all the cultural advantages of a major metropolis, but the down-home intimacy of a small town. This affable attitude reverberates in the town’s urban wineries, microbreweries and coffee shops, where conversation flows quicker than the drinks can be poured. And with its patchwork of small, friendly neighborhoods , it's easy to discover this easy-going city one district at a time.

There’s more to this bastion of counterculture than its love of a good chinwag, with a host of whimsical attractions highlighting its quirky streak, from a museum dedicated to vacuum cleaners to an urban herd of goats. It’s also a cinch to navigate, with good public transport and a popular bike-share scheme. And while Portland is famous for its artisan restaurants, a more sociable – and undeniably more fun – way to dine is at the city’s 500-or-so street food carts.

Epic solo travel experience : Exploring the Alberta Arts District; for the company of fellow art enthusiasts, time your visit to coincide with the Last Thursday art walk .

Chiang Mai, Thailand: best for food

It's a close-run thing, but for solo foodie travel, one destination stands above all others for travelers who view the world through the prism of a knife and fork. The capital of northern Thailand – and once the center of an independent kingdom – Chiang Mai offers the entire Thai package in one compact location: stellar food, rich culture, ancient ruins, responsible elephant encounters , relaxed nightlife and an easy-going traveler scene that's easy to plug into.

Every time of day is snack time in Chiang Mai. From the city's impressive northern Thai restaurants to its fun-filled and frenetic night markets and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving the city's famous kow soi soup, the city always has a fork or spoon in hand. What makes Chiang Mai especially suited to solo travelers is its collection of cooking schools – ideal places to meet new people and learn how to cook up a perfect bowl of phat thai , green curry or hot and sour tom yam soup.

Epic solo travel experience : Learning to cook Thai food, of course! Most courses start with a market trip so you can learn to identify local ingredients before you start pounding herbs and spices to make your own curry paste ( Small House Chiang Mai is one recommended school).

Caye Caulker, Belize: best for an island escape

Enchanting atolls aren’t reserved for honeymooners. Pastel-hued, car-free Caye Caulker has always been a great place for solo travelers thanks to its compact size and easy-going, backpacker-friendly vibe, which draws a relaxed, international crowd in search of a less commercialized slice of paradise.

It’s easy to lose days lounging at The Split , the island’s premier beach, but there are plenty of other activities on offer, from snorkeling and diving on teeming reefs to kayaking to lesser-visited parts of the island while keeping a beady eye out for crocodiles. 

Join other travelers at local reggae bars during the afternoon happy hour before sampling Creole-style street food come nightfall. What's arguably the greatest blessing of solo travel? You don’t have to share your shrimp and swordfish dinner!

Epic solo travel experience : Snorkeling or diving in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve , which teems with turtles and small sharks.

East Coast Australia: best for road-tripping

It would actually be hard to explore the East Coast of Australia alone. So many travelers follow the snaking stretch of road that runs from Sydney to Cairns that solitude is often harder to find than companionship. For travelers in search of natural wonders, excellent infrastructure, abundant tours and group activities and raucous late-night revelry, there are few places to match it.

But it’s not just the good-time vibe that makes this stretch of coastline so spectacular. The classic road trip route is studded with bucket-list attractions, from lolling on Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach to rambling through the ancient Daintree Rainforest or blowing bubbles on the Great Barrier Reef . Consider renting a car to explore – the most memorable moments will likely come from interactions with locals in coastal surf towns and one-pub villages in the Outback an hour or two inland from the coast.

Epic solo travel experience : Joining a tour with the East Coast's Indigenous people. Tours led by guides from Aboriginal communities will show you a less-seen side to this well-explored land.

You might also like: Female solo travel: what it's like to travel solo at every age How Black LGBTIQ+ travellers navigate a challenging world What it's like traveling with kids as a single parent

This article was first published November 2017 and updated December 2021

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25 Best International Destinations for Solo Travel

When you’re looking to travel alone, these are the safest, most exciting, and all-around best destinations for flying solo.

Sometimes you are your own best company. Whether you want to plan a romp around Japan on your own terms, or your friends can’t fit that Scottish sojourn into their schedule at the moment, there are a variety of reasons to travel alone.

The benefits of traveling solo range from the freedom to fully indulge your every whim to a sense of empowerment to opportunities for reflection, self-discovery, and new friendships.

Whatever your reasons, traveling solo can be one of life's most rewarding experiences. And, whether you're about to embark on your first solo trip or your 20th, tackling a trip by yourself can be incredibly nerve-wracking. 

We wouldn't want a lack of company to keep you from booking that ticket, so we've come up with a list of countries ideal for both first-time and experienced solo travelers, including safe destinations where you can expect a warm welcome. We take you through longtime favorites like Mexico, as well as destinations that are becoming increasingly popular with solo travelers like Egypt and Croatia.

From castle crawls in Germany to seeing the Northern Lights in Norway, here are the best countries for solo travel abroad.

There's a reason why Iceland has consistently ranked among the hottest destinations in recent years: The country is a haven for travelers who love the outdoors, with caverns and caves to explore, volcanoes and glaciers to hike, and geothermal spas to soak in — and since it's the most peaceful country in the world, according to a recent Global Peace Index report, solo travelers can explore the country worry-free.

If you're traveling to Reykjavík, consider taking a day trip to the ever-popular Blue Lagoon , or go whale watching in Faxaflói Bay. For those wanting to get out of the city, Thingvellir National Park  offers camping, hiking trails, horseback riding, and the freshwater Silfra fissure, considered one of the best diving spots in the world.

2. Costa Rica

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Costa Rica has long had a reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world, and it's easy to see why. In Costa Rica you'll find plenty of outdoor activities to please your adventurous side, from whitewater rafting down the Reventazón River and zip lining through gorgeous rainforests to rappelling down waterfalls and hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park .

If you need a bit of respite amidst all the activity, Arenal has hot springs perfect for relaxing, or you can enjoy the white sands and wildlife at Playa Manuel Antonio, a tropical beach in Manuel Antonio National Park .

3. New Zealand

New Zealand is a popular destination for backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts , and thrill-seekers striking out on their own — maybe because it's the second most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index .

The country is a haven for outdoorsy types and one of the best places to meet fellow travelers. You can take a cruise through the fjords, rainforests, and waterfalls of Milford Sound; heli-hike your way through Franz Josef Glacier ; trek part (or all) of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing ; explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves ; or go whale-watching in the Bay of Plenty .

If you need some down time from all your adventuring, take a day trip to Waiheke Island for wine tours or make your way to the Hobbiton Movie Set to wander the real-life version of the Shire. With so much to do, you won't miss having a travel buddy.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

With a thriving backpacker culture and accommodating resorts, Mexico is an optimal place for any type of solo trip. Locals are friendly and the country is dotted with cultural sites and a beautiful natural landscape — never mind all the tacos, empanadas, and tortas!  

There are Mayan ruins near Cancun, whale watching in Los Cabos, Instagram opportunities in Tulum, tamales and mezcal in Oaxaca, and a thriving art scene in Mexico City.  

5. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its stunning beauty and there may be no better way to see the country than by train. Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass , which gives you unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat, and journey past stunning waterfalls, forests, and lakes. Then, hop off the train to hike the Alps, visit medieval castles, and drink Swiss wine.

In the country that invented milk chocolate, indulging in the decadent, creamy treat is a no-brainer. But instead of simply picking up a bar of Toblerone or Lindt Chocolate at the nearest grocery store, take a chocolate-themed walking tour in Lucerne or Zürich, or visit one of the area's several world-famous chocolate factories.

Chile's landscape is as beautiful as it is diverse. Whether you explore Torres del Paine National Park or the San Rafael Glacier in Patagonia, climb an active volcano in the Lake District, or camp underneath the brilliant night sky in the Atacama Desert , you're sure to find an adventure that suits your fancy.

In Santiago, adventure meets culture, and the city is easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. You can hike San Cristóbal Hill or Santa Lucía Hill for panoramic views of the capital, browse the boutique shops, cafes, and cocktail bars in the Bellavista neighborhood, or explore the city's many museums and art galleries.

7. Netherlands

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

For any first-time solo travelers, the Netherlands is a great place to get your newly-independent feet wet. In Amsterdam, with its laid-back and friendly culture, do as the locals do: Get around by bike. Start in Vondelpark , a popular urban park, then bike to world-famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum , passing the city's picturesque canals and bridges along the way.

Head to the Netherlands between mid-April and the first week of May, and you'll be welcomed by a glorious array of the country's most beloved flower: the tulip. The Keukenhof , also known as the Garden of Europe, is located just outside Amsterdam and boasts over seven million bulbs and hundreds of varieties of tulips. Or, go to Noordoostpolder to see even more colorful blooms during the annual Tulip Festival .

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

Spain has a little bit of everything to please everyone: art museums, gorgeous architecture, delicious food, stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and jaw-dropping hikes.

In Barcelona, wander Park Güell , a public park that doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features modern architecture, sculptures, and mosaics designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Continue your Gaudí tour at Sagrada Família before moving onto the Picasso Museum . When you start to get hungry, make your way to Mercado de La Boqueria , the oldest market in the city.

You can also find some of the world's best beaches in Spain, such as Ocata Beach near Barcelona and Socorro Beach in Tenerife. The brave and truly adventurous can join an organized hike through Caminito del Rey in Málaga or begin their journey along the famed Camino de Santiago.

Austria is a must-see for solo travelers with a taste for fine culture. See for yourself why Vienna is known as the City of Music and attend a concert at the State Opera House or the Musikverein . The city also boasts hundreds of museums, prime for exploring in between experiencing traditional Viennese coffeehouse culture.

In Salzburg, backdrop to "The Sound of Music," fans of the musical can take themed tours of the city and round out their trip by visiting Mozart's Birthplace and climbing to the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress for unforgettable views of the city.

10. Denmark

Denmark is another easy-to-tackle country for solo travelers. Start in Copenhagen and head to the Nyhavn district to see the city's iconic wooden ships and colorful townhouses lining the canal. Afterward, take a stroll through Tivoli Gardens . While beloved for its amusement park, the popular attraction also features flower gardens, bubble fountains, and an aquarium.

Shakespeare aficionados should head to Kronborg Castle : The UNESCO World Heritage site inspired Elsinore Castle in "Hamlet." While there, take the train to nearby Hillerød, where you'll find Frederiksborg Castle, home to the Danish Museum of National History .

First stop: Tokyo. Whether you shop in the luxurious Ginza neighborhood, ride to the top of one of the world's tallest towers , tour the Sensō-ji temple , dine on ramen at Ichiran Shibuya (the famous chain serves steaming bowls of ramen at no-frills booths), or take a leisurely stroll through a traditional Japanese garden, you'll never run out of things to do in the glitzy city.

If you need some rest from the hustle and bustle, you can take a bullet train to Kyoto, where you'll find a plethora of shrines, gardens, and temples. Since the tea ceremony has its roots in Kyoto , you may wish to partake in the tradition while you're there. Be sure to visit during the springtime to see the gorgeous cherry blossoms in bloom.

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

Visit Norway during the summer for warmer weather and lots of outdoor attractions and activities. In Oslo, you can explore the capital's many museums, restaurants, and parks by walking, cycling, or taking public transportation. Or, book a spot on a Hurtigruten coastal steamer — there's no single supplement on select voyages — and cruise through the country's famous fjords on a multi-day adventure, stopping at numerous ports of call along the stunning coastline to hike, kayak, safari, and more. You'll even cross the Arctic Circle!

On the other hand, if seeing the Northern Lights tops your list, a trip to Norway between November and March will land you there during peak aurora borealis season. For optimum viewing of the natural phenomenon, head to the heart of the aurora zone: the city of Tromsø.

13. Ireland

If the idea of traveling by yourself to a country where you don't speak the language makes you nervous, then opt to visit Ireland. In Dublin, you can take a literary walking tour of the UNESCO City of Literature , browse Grafton Street's bustling shops, and cozy up in the Guinness Storehouse with a pint of the world-famous stout.

With its stunning scenery and friendly inhabitants, Galway is not to be missed, either. While you're there, stroll along the lovely Salthill Promenade, or park yourself in a traditional pub in Eyre Square to listen to live Irish folk music. If you're looking to get out of the city, hop on a ferry to the nearby Aran Islands to explore medieval ruins and forts, or take a public bus to the iconic Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views.

14. Uruguay

This South American country is perfect for those who just want to relax by the ocean and soak up the sun. Punta del Este may be best known for its gorgeous beaches, like Playa Mansa and Playa Brava. But, if you want to escape the crowds, consider visiting the more secluded beaches in Jose Ignacio and Rocha.

Montevideo isn't short on beaches, either, and for those who want to mix up sunbathing with cultural experiences, the capital also offers historical attractions, museums, and traditional Candombe music and dance performances.

15. Albania

Its friendly locals and gorgeous scenery makes Albania an up-and-coming destination for solo travelers. Journey to the Blue Eye spring near Saranda and you'll encounter some of the bluest, clearest water in the world. Since you might find the water too cold to swim in, head to the Albanian coast for fun and sun on any of the country's beautiful beaches, or soak in Përmet's Benja Thermal Baths — they're said to have healing properties.

You may also want to consider taking a day trip to Berat — nicknamed the "town of a thousand windows" — to marvel at the city's stunning architecture. From the Ottoman-era buildings and medieval castles to the mosques and Holy Trinity Church, you'll quickly see why the city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site .

16. Vietnam

Endless adventure awaits in Vietnam. Hop on a boat that departs from Hạ Long and cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, home to some of the world's most striking blue water and natural landscapes. Take a guided tour of Hang Sơn Đoòng , the largest natural cave in the world. Visit Hội An during the full moon and you'll be welcomed by the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of lanterns floating down the Thu Bồn River during the city's monthly full moon festival.

In Ho Chi Minh City, you can indulge in street food at Bến Thành Market, one of the city's earliest surviving structures, and brush up on Vietnam War history during a tour of the War Remnants Museum and the Củ Chi Tunnels. Travel to Hanoi to explore the capital's impressive historical and cultural sites, and take a leisurely stroll around Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

17. Germany

Germany has several major cities that are accessible to anyone traveling on their own. Hop on a bike in Berlin to explore the city's abundance of museums, historical sites, cafés, nightclubs, and parks. You can also visit Munich during Oktoberfest , but if you'd rather avoid the crowds, you can enjoy the city's beer gardens any time of year. And if you head to Frankfurt, you'll discover an eclectic array of museums, cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and a lush botanical garden in the increasingly popular city.

You should also consider planning side trips to see some of Germany's famous castles — there are over 20,000 of them. From the Gothic-style Liechtenstein Castle to the dramatic Neuschwanstein Castle, visiting any of Germany's magical old sites will have you feeling like you stepped straight into a fairy tale.

18. Finland

Thanks to the camaraderie of the traditional sauna experience , it's easy to meet people in Finland as a solo traveler — the country is home to over three million saunas, from Helsinki to Tampere and Savonlinna.

But there's more to Finland than saunas. In Helsinki, you'll find magnificent architecture, museums, parks, markets, and more — all easily accessible by foot or public transportation. Travel to the coasts to see a lovely array of lighthouses, or head to Rauma or Loviisa to spend a day in a wooden town. While it may be best to go to "The Land of the Midnight Sun" in the summer, visit during the winter for peak viewing of the Northern Lights.

19. Scotland

Jess Macdonald/Travel + Leisure

With extensive folklore, outdoor adventure, and stunning beauty around every corner, Scotland is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself. It’s a safe, cozy sojourn for anyone who loves postcard-perfect views. Explore Edinburgh by bike, stopping at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Holyrood Park . 

You’d be remiss not to try the country’s world-class golf while you’re there — you’ll have more than 550 courses to choose from. 

Feeling brave? Head to the Scottish Highlands to seek out the legendary underwater monster at Loch Ness, and while you're there, visit Urquhart Castle , which dates all the way back to the thirteenth century.  

20. Australia

This popular solo travel destination is considered to be an exceptionally safe place with a wide range of areas to explore. Start in Sydney, with its friendly vibe and thriving art, food, and sport scenes, where you can walk around Sydney Harbour or explore the white-sand shore at Bondi Beach. Hit the epic swells of Victoria and then ride the tram around Melbourne for a coffee shop crawl. You can also hit hiking trails in Tasmania to experience Australia's natural splendor by foot. Speaking of, the Great Barrier Reef awaits snorkelers off the coast of Far North Queensland. 

You’ll probably want to fly between destinations — this is a huge country, after all — but you can also rent a car and indulge in an Australian road trip. Or, go old-school and traverse the country by train on The Ghan , where you can experience the outback on a journey from Adelaide to Darwin.    

Getty Images/Julia Gnther/EyeEm

From the slopes of British Columbia to the cosmopolitan wonders of Toronto , Canada has tons to keep you entertained, even when you’re alone. Our neighbor to the north is a quick flight (or a reasonable drive depending on where you’re coming from and going to) and accessible in terms of language, exchange rate, and transportation.   

If you opt for Canada's largest city, explore the arts and culture of Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre , eat your way through St. Lawrence Market , or get to know the city's eclectic range of neighborhoods. Over in Vancouver, you can bike your way through the waterfront city, or cross the vertigo-inducing Capilano Suspension Bridge , a 450-foot-long, 230-foot-high bridge cutting through lush woodland. Go straight to Alberta to explore Banff National Park ’s famous glacial lakes and Rocky Mountain vistas.   

22. Thailand

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

Thailand has long been an affordable destination and, because of its safe, accessible atmosphere, it’s becoming just as popular with solo travelers. Explore the delicious food, thrilling nightlife, and tranquil spas of Bangkok. The tropical paradise also has beautiful beaches — we recommend those of Phuket, Krabi, and the Phi Phi Islands — for lounging the day away by the Andaman Sea.  

Public transportation is easy and readily available, from trains, subways, buses, and taxis to long-tail boats and tuk-tuks. Head here in mid-April for the Songkran Water Splashing Festival to celebrate the Buddhist New Year with parades, street parties, and performances. 

23. Croatia

Dreamer4787/Getty Images

If you’re feeling spontaneous, book a solo trip to Croatia, where you’ll be able to stretch your budget across spectacular beaches , rich history, and delectable cuisine. With a desirable exchange rate and friendly locals, this is perfect for any party of one. Become a beach bum on the unspoiled shores of the Dalmatian Islands. You’ll have the blue waters, white sands, and dramatic limestone cliffs to admire as you lounge by yourself. Then, eat your weight in white truffle pasta and fresh seafood before walking it off around Dubrovnik’s medieval Old Town.  

Anton Aleksenko/Getty Images

Egypt is becoming more desirable for solo travel. A cruise down the Nile might be the best (not to mention safest and most convenient) way to see the African country alone. Eat delicious falafel in Cairo, explore the Great Pyramids in Giza, and discover ancient temples and tombs. And then return to your five-star accommodations before sailing off to the next archaeological wonder.  

There are also new (or updated) sights to see in the ancient destination. In 2022, the Avenue of the Sphinxes in Luxor reopened after years of renovations. And, be on the lookout for the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which should open sometime in 2023. 

25. England

Take solitary strolls along stunning cliffs, around quaint, small towns, or down urban streets in England. London is a natural choice for any Americans traveling across the pond. Traipse around Trafalgar Square , see the Rembrandts and Cézannes at the National Gallery , or enjoy a proper afternoon tea service at The Lanesborough . 

But, of course, there are also the charming English towns that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. One of the best parts of traveling to England is the history and you’ll find plenty of that in its storybook castles and the industrial-age towns of Yorkshire.   

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The world's most influential women travellers

By Michelle Jana Chan

Vote now! To cast your vote for the female traveller you think has had the most impact, enter our online poll now – results to be revealed soon.

Angelina Jolie

During her first trip as Special Envoy for the UN, on a layover in Paris en route to Abidjan in Côte d’Ivoire, the Hollywood actress noted in her diary that ‘an African man wearing a nice blue suit and a warm smile asked me if I was a journalist. I said, “No, just an American who wants to learn more about Africa .”' That was the Jolie before her dozens of field missions, meeting refugees from Kabul and Darfur as well as the Syria-Iraq border. In Notes from My Travels , she writes: ‘I feel I was not raised to seriously think outside my own country’ and describes her epiphany through exchanges with women in camps, kids begging and market vendors. ‘It will take me a while to recover from this trip and, of course, I hope I never do,’ she remarks on leaving Pakistan. While her column inches may focus on her films, her ex-husbands and her children adopted from all over the world (she has a tattoo on her shoulder of the coordinates of each child’s birthplace), Jolie’s UN work has taken her to more than 40 countries, and she is known to cover all her costs on missions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said of her work for refugees: ‘I have seen how much they inspire her as she listens to them for hours on end. She has spent many days and nights in camps or at border crossings. I speak on behalf of the world’s refugees to say how grateful we are for her incredible dedication.’

Marie Colvin

With her signature pirate’s patch (she’d lost her eye in a grenade blast in Sri Lanka ), this frontline correspondent defied death numerous times – until she didn’t. In 2012, Colvin was killed in an airstrike while covering the siege of Homs in Syria. Tragically, Marie herself used to say, ‘No story is worth dying for, because there’s no story then'. The American journalist, who reported mostly for The Sunday Times , was known for her swearing, her smoking, her drinking, her PTSD, the La Perla bra she wore under her flak jacket, and her strong belief in the need to bear witness to the atrocities of war from Iraq to Afghanistan, East Timor to Kosovo and Chechnya to Libya. Her writing was spare, incisive, even painful to read. ‘In Basra, they say the day belongs to Iraq; the night to Iran. Iraq’s second city is under siege, and Iranian shells slammed into houses for the 70th successive day yesterday,’ she typed in 1987. Colvin didn’t deny the indecision she sometimes felt; sentiments such as ‘What am I doing?’ in emails to friends were quickly followed by ‘Story incredibly important, though’. ‘Bravery is not being afraid to be afraid,’ she once said. In the foreword to On the Front Line: The Collected Journalism of Marie Colvin , her sister wrote that she hopes ‘Marie will continue to inspire young women everywhere, as they dream of the difference just one girl can make in the world’.

Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah

‘I am an Arab through and through,’ says the queen consort of Jordan, ‘but I am also one who speaks the international language.’ Palestinian by nationality, Rania was born in Kuwait, spent her summers visiting relatives in the West Bank, spoke Arabic at home and English at school. She says she carried hummous sandwiches in her packed lunch, while a classmate brought peanut butter and jam; she imagined theirs would be ‘disgusting’, but when she tried it, she thought it was ‘heavenly’ (a story she wrote down and turned into a children’s’ book, The Sandwich Swap ). It was a small step towards fuelling a desire for east-west exchange and cross-border adventures. She went off to study at the American University in Cairo and was there when Iraq invaded Kuwait. Her family fled to Jordan , she joined them, there hobnobbed with royalty and ended up marrying the future king. In 1999, at the age of 28, she became the youngest queen in the world when her husband took the throne and became King Abdullah II. She has redefined the modern monarch during her world tours of duty — while connecting with nearly five million Instagram and 10.4 million Twitter followers (where her profile reads: ‘a mum and a wife with a really cool day job’). Her charity, the Jordan River Foundation helps rural women find a way to sell their traditional crafts: Queen Rania likes to quote the African proverb: ‘As you educate a woman, you educate the family,’ she says. ‘If you educate the girls, you educate the future.’

Amelia Earhart

It only took a single plane ride at an air show in California and Earhart was hooked: ‘By the time I had got 200 or 300 feet off the ground, I knew I had to fly,’ said the American aviation trailblazer. Working as a truck driver, photographer and stenographer to save for flying lessons, she secured her license and bought a yellow bi-plane she named The Canary , going on to break records, from highest altitude climbs to fastest flights. The gung-ho tomboy teamed up with publicist George Putnam, who she married on his seventh proposal, telling him that marriage is a partnership ‘with dual control’. Some say he turned an average pilot into a legend, but there’s no denying Earhart alone spearheaded her successful attempt to be the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1932. Her dream of circumnavigating the globe ‘as near its waistline as could be’ led to her last flight. In July 1937, she vanished over the Pacific. She wasn’t yet 40, and was never seen again.

Jane Goodall

‘How could you possibly love travelling 300 days a year,’ asks English primatologist Dame Jane Goodall, 84, ‘when it’s just hotels and meetings, all the lines at security, the terrible pat-you-downs and how they treat you like a criminal?’ Goodall details her flights for the next few months: Bangkok , Taiwan (which she loves), Beijing , Chengdu, Hong Kong , then Greece , Spain and France . She drags around a suitcase she named the Coffin, full of books, a single-cup electrical-heating element and a jar of Marmite, and always carries a stuffed toy monkey called Mr H. Yet the pioneering researcher-turned-activist doesn’t plan to change her schedule any time soon. Her lectures are near-evangelistic, often provoking tears and ovations. ‘They’ve been selling out, sometimes 5,000 seats in one day,’ she says. Goodall was 10, reading Dr Doolittle and Tarzan , when she decided ‘to live with wild animals in Africa’. After school, a friend invited her to Kenya and she worked as a waitress to save up for her boat passage to Mombasa in 1957. There she met the palaeontologist Louis Leakey who gave her the opportunity to work as a chimpanzee researcher, even fast-tracking her place at Cambridge so she would be qualified. She then spent half a century observing the chimpanzees at Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania , tearing up the book on what we thought we knew of animal behaviour and inspiring a cultish obsession with our closest relative in the animal kingdom.

Valentina Tereshkova

In 1963, this Russian cosmonaut blasted off in the Vostok 6 spacecraft from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, becoming the first woman in space at only 26. Tereshkova orbited the planet 48 times and flew 1.2 million miles (barely eating, she says, because the tube-fed food was so disgusting). During the three-day mission, she racked up more hours solo in space than all American spacemen combined at the time. Her call sign was Chaika (Russian for seagull), given to her by Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space. On her way up, she said: ‘Hey sky, take off your hat, I’m on my way!’ and was reprimanded by Gagarin, who was listening in. He hardly had cause, given that Tereshkova was game enough to continue the odd tradition he had started of peeing on the tyre of the transfer bus to the launch pad. After her landmark mission, she travelled the world before going into politics, and at 81 Tereshkova is still shaping policy as a member of the State Duma. An advocate of women’s rights, she complained that systems and spacesuits were designed by men for men. ‘A bird cannot fly with only one wing,’ she said. ‘Human space flight cannot develop any further without the active participation of women.’ She still dreams about going into space and would agree to a one-way Mars mission in a heartbeat. ‘I am ready,’ she affirms.

Martha Gellhorn

Franklin D Roosevelt’s wife Eleanor so admired the chain-smoking war correspondent’s work that she invited her to live in the White House, which Gellhorn actually did for a while. Imagine that happening in 2019. However, life in Washington DC didn’t quite give Gellhorn her fix. Born in St Louis in 1908 to publicly progressive parents, she started out covering the horrors of the Great Depression and, after bunking down in the White House in 1934, wanted to get back to the battlefields of Vietnam , Nicaragua and the Middle East. Conflict was what made this striking beauty tick. She swung between affairs, most famously with Ernest Hemingway . The pair met in a bar in Key West and did eventually marry (with roast moose for the wedding feast). The early days of their life together were spent covering the Spanish Civil War from Madrid’s frequently shelled Hotel Florida, and they tried to build a home in Cuba, listening to Chopin’s Mazurka in C Major while Gellhorn planted a garden of dahlias, petunias and morning glories. But the relationship didn’t last. Lured back to Europe, she reported on the Blitz and joined British bomber crews on raids over Germany. On D-Day, Gellhorn managed to get ashore while the rest of the press corps – including Hemingway – watched from the sea through binoculars. Her shattering writing certainly brought the wider world home in a new way. She described herself as ‘permanently dislocated – un voyageur sur la terre ’ and worked into her ninth decade, covering the American invasion of Panama in 1989.

Kris Tompkins

The extreme conservationist behind one of the greatest land legacies ever, California-born Tompkins chose to carve out her adult life thousands of miles from home, in Patagonia. ‘We would fly almost every day, in all kinds of weather, scoping out new conservation possibilities. We learned to love the landscape – even more so from above. I would attribute a lot of our understanding of the earth from our thousands of hours of flying together.’ She speaks of ‘we’ a lot, referring to her late second husband Doug Tompkins, who died in 2015. Together she and Doug (who both made their millions separately with outdoor-clothing companies – he as the co-founder of The North Face, Inc and she the ex-CEO of rival Patagonia) tirelessly worked to preserve the pristine wilderness and rainforest on both the Chilean and Argentinian sides of the border. And now she’s pushing on with their land-restoration work, recently donating more than a million acres to the Chilean government chiefly in the Patagonia and Pumalín National Parks. ‘Getting people travelling was absolutely one of our goals; we didn’t make everything private and put a lock on it; we wanted people to get out into the wild and fall in love again. If they think a place is fabulous, then they can’t sit back and do nothing to try to protect it; we need deeply rooted responsibility.’ Curiously, she feels like she came late to travelling: ‘I’m not a very good holiday person. There needs to be a reason for hitting the road, associated with work or teaching me how the earth is degrading.’ Upcoming trips include South Georgia Island, one of her favourite places, and sailing through the Northwest Passage – both cold places, but ‘I have pretty good gear,’ she says, smiling.

Freya Stark

Stark was 100 when she died and it was a life that could not have been richer or fuller. Born in 1893, she chronicled her journeys to remote regions of the Middle East in some of the world’s most poetic travel literature, first visiting French Lebanon in 1927, slipping through a military cordon surrounding the Druze, while carrying ‘a copy of Dante’s Inferno , very little money, a revolver and a fur coat.’ She went on to investigate the mysterious assassins of Persia, became the first Western woman to explore Luristan in Iran , followed the ancient frankincense route, ventured to northern Yemen in 1940 and finally settled to live in Baghdad. She was drawn to remote and risky places, choosing to go alone, and remarking that she found confronting danger a way of 'passing through fear, to the absence of fear'. Her seven languages, mostly self-taught, helped her research an impressive body of work that includes The Valley of the Assassins , The Hadhramaut , Letters from Syria , Beyond Euphrates , Riding to the Tigris and The Minaret of Djam — books that have inspired a generation of travel writers with their evocative descriptions of harems and caravans. After her death in Asolo in north-east Italy , the newspapers referred to her as ' la regina nomade '.

The South Sudanese musician is a traveller in the rawest sense, having been a refugee her entire life. Born on an unknown date around 1983, at the height of the Second Sudanese Civil War, she saw her family torn apart. Aged 10, she lost her mother; her father raped and threatened to kill her. She fled to Khartoum but was repeatedly sexually abused by her employers. When she eventually made it to a refugee camp in Kenya and managed to find her brother, Emmanuel Jal, who had become an acclaimed hip-hop artist, the pair recorded a song called ‘Gua’ (meaning peace in their native Nuer tongue); it reached number one in Kenya. Nyaruach also went public with her life story in War Child , the award-winning documentary focusing on her brother’s time as a child soldier. In 2013, she was invited to Aswan, Egypt, to take part in the Nile Project, which represented the region’s best musicians, culminating in a concert in Cairo. Now a single mother of two living in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya, Nyaruach is facing travel restrictions, but she and her brother have put out an Afrobeat album, Naath , and are aiming to tour the UK and the USA this year. The music, inspired by traditional folklore, reflects on the resilient culture of their homeland. Nyaruach says that she wants to help prevent women and children of war from losing hope. A hero for our times, surely.

Robyn Davidson

‘Perhaps all Australians have some sense of the desert buried in their psyches,’ says intrepid adventurer Davidson. Her own fascination stemmed from being raised on a cattle station – ‘those early sensual signals of dry air and the smell of arid grass’. She remembers feeling restless, wanting ‘to do something big and challenging’. She moved from Sydney to Alice Springs in 1975, got a job as a waitress and two years later, aged 26, embarked on a nine-month, 1,700-mile trek from the Northern Territory to the coast, across a ‘transcendent landscape’, with her dog and four camels. It was documented in National Geographic , then in her book Tracks (which she wrote at the London home of novelist Doris Lessing) and on the big screen, in the Golden Lion-nominated film starring Mia Wasikowska. Davidson tells of the extreme heat, poisonous snakes and lecherous men – but the journey ends in triumph, swimming with her camels in the Indian Ocean . She was occasionally joined by journalist Rick Smolan, who photographed her progress, and by Eddie, an indigenous man who walked her through the Jameson Ranges. Since Tracks , she has studied and written about nomadic people, and spends several months a year in the Himalayas . She writes hoping her readers too will consider choosing ‘an adventure of the spirit’.

Her hair may have greyed in her early thirties, but Arnold reached the grand age of 99, having spent her long life behind the lens after she was given a $40 Rolleicord camera by a boyfriend. In New York she shot ‘drunken bums sleeping in the Bowery and sun glinting off rope’ and loved it so much she abandoned a medical degree to become the first woman member of the award-winning Magnum agency, where photographers retain full copyright. Raised in Philadelphia by Ukrainian immigrants, Arnold was mostly self-taught, with a dash of guidance from Harper’s Bazaar art director Alexey Brodovitch. Her photojournalism had a critical social eye, seeking an intimacy with subjects from minority to celebrity, Malcolm X to Marilyn Monroe. When she photographed men, they became ‘flirtatious and fun’ and female subjects felt ‘less as if they’re expected to be in a relationship’. Hers was a life on the road, as seen in the portraits of Mongolian horse trainers, Chinese factory workers, Cuban prostitutes and political prisoners in Russia . When away on assignment she would queue for hours to phone her son. ‘If a photographer cares about the people before the lens and is compassionate, much is given,’ she said.

Laura Dekker

The uniquely determined Dutch-born Dekker is the youngest person to sail solo around the world – she was just 14 when she set off. The challenge to get her out on the water was astonishing in itself: social services tried to stop her because of her age. They went to court and Dekker won; she says those memories keep her up at night more than fears of pirates. The voyage went ahead in 2010, commencing in Gibraltar. What followed were 518 days alone on the 38ft, two-masted Guppy , fitting in her homework and learning to play the flute to pass the time. Every teenage schoolgirl worth her salt read Dekker’s blog, and she celebrated her feat by eating doughnuts on the Caribbean island of Sint Maarten before deciding against going home, sailing on to Whangarei, New Zealand the port where she had been born (her parents had moored here two years into a seven-year sailing trip, and she spent her first five years at sea). Dekker turned her experience into a no-gloss documentary, Maidentrip , and a book, One Girl One Dream . And she’s still living on a boat.

Bessie Coleman

Born a decade before the Wright Brothers even attempted flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Coleman became the first African-American woman to hold a pilot’s licence. The daughter of a black mother and a mixed-race father, Coleman laboured in the cotton fields of Texas with her 12 sisters and brothers as a child. But unlike most Americans of that era, she finished high school, then went on to study at Langston University, dropping out only because she could not afford the fees. Later, while working as a manicurist at the White Sox Barber Shop in Chicago , she saw pictures in the newspapers of airforce pilots and started to dream. One of her brothers teased her: ‘You ain’t never goin’ to fly. Not like those women I saw in France’ (he had served in Europe during World War I). That galvanised her completely. After all the American flying schools turned her down, Coleman signed up for French lessons and applied to France ’s most elite flight school – where she learnt to fly, as well as to master stunts such as tailspins. On returning to the USA in 1921, she was unable to become a commercial pilot because of her race and gender and worked as a stunt pilot, declining to appear at any air show that refused entry to blacks. Her motto was ‘No Uncle Tom stuff for me’. She overturned social conventions – smoking cigarettes, heading out without a chaperone – and had ‘plans to establish a flying school and teach the Negro to fly so they will able to serve their country better’, but she died before her dream could be realised. She was killed, aged just 34, during a test flight (her mechanic was piloting), when the plane went into a spin and she fell out of the open cockpit.

Hanli Prinsloo

When record-breaking South African freediver Prinsloo gives talks, she demonstrates the slowing down of her breathing, quite fascinating in itself. She also reminds everyone that every second inhalation we take comes from the ocean. ‘It’s not only the trees that supply our oxygen,’ she says. Unsurprisingly, she prefers to travel by boat than plane, but can’t avoid getting on flights given she teaches the sport all over the world — in the company of whale sharks in Madagascar , humpback whales in the South Pacific and orcas in Norway . But her favourite marine creatures are dolphins: ‘they make eye contact, twirl around you until they’re dizzy with the absolute joy of the connection,’ she says. To stay healthy — critical in this line of work — she ‘pops loads of vitamins, drinks gallons of water’ and to avoid coughs and colds uses Uber rather than public transport (regrettably, she adds). It’s been a long journey from her rural beginnings growing up on a land-locked farm, but from an early age Prinsloo had a dream to become a mermaid (she and her sister even had their own mermaid language). She couldn’t afford to attend university in South Africa, but heard you could study for free in Sweden if you spoke Swedish; she moved there, learnt the language in six months and signed up to study acting in Gothenburg. A college buddy introduced her to freediving and Prinsloo showed promise. On graduation, she moved to the Red Sea to dedicate herself to the sport. After smashing 11 world-bests and notching up a staggering breath-hold of five minutes 39 seconds, she gave up competing. Now her time is split between teaching and running her charity I Am Water, that shows underprivileged children living in coastal communities the wonder of their marine backyard, aiming to educate and rouse the next generation of conservationists. ‘I am terrified of our reckless overfishing,’ she says. ‘We run the risk of literally eating our oceans empty.’ Yet she’s always upbeat and positive: ‘It is a complex situation with many challenges, but also many solutions.’

Cheryl Strayed

Obsessed with travel since she was a ‘kid in elementary school, looking at maps on classroom walls imagining all the ways (her) life would be expanded if (she) got to Australia or New York City or South Africa ’, Strayed grew up without money for plane tickets and hotel rooms. She battled with heroin and a messy divorce. But she managed to notch up the miles on the cheap exploring the US in her 1979 Chevy LUV pickup called Myrtle, which she fitted out with a twin-sized futon. ‘I was very bold sleeping in the back… it wasn’t locked… anyone could have come in… but that helped give me the courage to be out in the wilderness.’ And Strayed (her made-up, adopted name for herself) is best known for finding her escape in the wilderness – hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail – which she wrote about in her New York Times bestseller Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found , later turned into the film starring Reese Witherspoon. Oprah Winfrey even relaunched her Book Club in part to share Strayed’s intelligently, elegantly written memoir. Yes, it is a travelogue, but it’s also an extraordinary message on how travelling, exploring, sheer physical movement can be a balm, can bring about meaningful resolution. ‘Barely a day’s passed (since publishing Wild ) that I haven’t met or received an email from someone who’s said to me, “I went and did this because of you, I hiked the PCT or another trail,”' Strayed says. ‘I’m deeply honoured that people read Wild and do that.’ Now married with two children living in a Prairie Craftsman home in Portland , Oregon, she’s trying to give her family the experiences she wished she’d had growing up. ‘I pull the kids out of school and we go travelling for a couple of months. They’ve been to 27 countries. It’s an important part of their education.’ Upcoming, she vows ‘to return to New Zealand, that’s top of my list,’ and ‘I turned 50 last month, so I’ve promised myself I’m going to get myself to Italy within the year.’

Dian Fossey

The National Geographic image of a passionate intrepid scientist ensconced among the Virunga volcanoes with a family of affectionate mountain gorillas is not the whole truth. Nor is her 1983 book, Gorillas in the Mist , later made into the film in which she was played by Sigourney Weaver. The American primatologist was also known as a bully, intimidating her staff, behaving erratically, traits further exacerbated by her hard drinking habits. Yet she had her admirers – in wonder at her total commitment, call it obsessive, to these majestic animals that were being heavily poached at the time. After travelling extensively throughout Africa , she founded the Karisoke Research Centre and based herself here in Rwanda’s cloud forest. Of her first ever encounter with the species, she was struck by ‘their individuality combined with the shyness of their behaviour’. But her extreme single-mindedness to protect the animals and her unpredictable ways isolated her. Relationships soured with the local community, with fellow researchers and conservationists. Those who cared about her begged her to leave and take up a university position back in the USA. But her calling was too strong. She remained — and was murdered two days after Christmas in 1985 at the age of 48. The exact circumstances of her death still remain unclear, but she had many enemies. Appropriately she lies in the burial ground of her research gorillas, including her favourite, Digit. On her tomb the plaque reads: ‘No one loved gorillas more.’ It might be difficult to love Fossey, but she made the world love gorillas.

Harriet Chalmers Adams

‘I’ve wondered why men have so absolutely monopolised the field of exploration,’ she told The New York Times in 1912. ‘I’ve never found my sex a hinderment; never faced a difficulty which a woman, as well as a man, could not surmount; never felt a fear of danger; never lacked courage to protect myself.’ Adams helped found the Society of Women Geographers after being refused entry to the men-only Explorers Club – despite a lifetime spent on the road. Born in California , this fearless, multilingual photo-journalist’s first forays took her to Mexico when she was 24, followed by a two-year trip from the Andes to the Amazon, and later crossing Haiti by horseback — documenting her travels in National Geographic magazine. Fascinated by tales of migration, she followed Christopher Columbus’s route through the West Indies, the Spanish conquistadores’ crusades into South America and Ferdinand Magellan’s voyage from Spain to the Philippines, as well as covering World War I from the trenches of France . All that squeezed into 61 years; she settled and died in Nice, perhaps at its Mediterranean loveliest, in 1937.

Jeanne Baret

Born in France in 1740, Baret was the first woman to circumnavigate the globe – disguised as a man, of course; at the time women were forbidden on French navy ships. She’d been working as housekeeper to, before becoming the lover of, naturalist Philibert de Commerçon, who’d been invited to join the round-the-world expedition of Commander Louis Antoine de Bougainville. Feigning to be his male valet, and dressed up in loose-fitting clothes, her chest strapped flat with strips of linen, she and De Commerçon set sail on the Étoile in December 1766. For two years they managed to maintain the fiction, no mean feat given there were 116 men on board living in close quarters. Ship journals are contradictory, but there is some suggestion she pronounced herself a eunuch when suspicions were raised about her gender; other accounts hint at violence and rape. Meanwhile, Baret pressed on with her work, particularly because De Commerçon was sickly on board; in Rio de Janeiro , it was she who ventured ashore — plucking a flower to be named after the captain, bougainvillaea. Over the course of the voyage, the pair collected more than 6,000 botanical samples from around the world, disembarking the ship in Mauritius — the circumstances unclear — to continue their botanical studies.

Junko Tabei

In spring 1975, just after the Vietnam War finally drew to a close and as Diane von Furstenberg’s wrap dresses were selling in their millions and Tammy Wynette’s 'Stand By Your Man' was blaring from Roberts Radios across the UK, a 35-year-old, five-foot-tall Japanese climber became the first woman to scale Mount Everest as part of an all-female team she had put together. Think about the more localised context and her achievements are even more brilliant. ‘Back in 1970s Japan , men were the ones to work outside and women were asked just to serve tea,’ she said. Yet against this backdrop, Tabei started the Ladies Climbing Club and worked more than one job to fund expeditions — as an editor of a scientific journal, a piano tutor and teaching English. Funding requests were blanked with responses such as ‘You should be raising children instead'. Which, by the way, she was. As she climbed Everest, back home her daughter turned three (Tabei drew a birthday cake on a postcard and sent it from High Camp). At the summit, she remembered thinking: ‘Oh, I don’t have to climb any more,’ an idea that didn’t last long. She was first woman to notch up the Seven Summits, the highest peaks on each continent. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, she continued to climb. At 76, she had scaled the highest peaks of 76 countries, while promoting sustainable mountaineering and lesser-known climbing areas. She died a year later.

Dervla Murphy

It was soon after her 10th birthday and the gift of a second-hand bicycle from her parents that Murphy resolved to cycle to India . She writes: ‘I have never forgotten the exact spot, on a steep hill near Lismore, where this decision was made. Half-way up, I rather proudly looked at my legs, slowly pushing the pedals around, and the thought came: “If I went on doing this for long enough, I could get to India.”’ That journey, 20 years later, was documented in Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle , passing through Afghanistan (where she says she became ‘Afghanatical’, describing the country as ‘a man after my own heart’) and Pakistan (where she was a guest of the last Wali of Swat Miangul Aurangzeb). Her writing has become unapologetically political: the struggles post-apartheid in South from the Limpopo: Travels Through South Africa ; The Ukimwi Road: From Kenya to Zimbabwe , exploring the impact of AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa ; and Visiting Rwanda , reflecting on the 1994 genocide. A prolific writer, at 87 she’s written 24 travel books covering 54 countries, with adventures such as meeting a tiger when cycling through the Nepalese Terai, watching the emperor of Ethiopia Haile Selassie single-handedly quell a student riot in Addis Ababa and losing her packhorse – panicked by a leopard – camping in the mountains of Cameroon.

Gertrude Bell

Often called a female Lawrence of Arabia, this Englishwoman was arguably much more. Born into wealth and privilege in 1868, Bell read Modern History at Oxford , one of the few subjects women were allowed to study at the time. She headed off on her travels: spending years moving around the Middle East – from Tehran to Jerusalem to Beirut to Damascus – and became fluent in Persian, Arabic, French and German, as well as speaking Italian and Turkish, and holding titles such as Liaison Officer, Correspondent to Cairo and Oriental Secretary for the British government. At the end of the war, Bell was pivotal in drawing up the borders of modern-day Iraq and shaping the country's politics. She has been described as ‘one of the few representatives of His Majesty’s Government remembered by the Arabs with anything resembling affection’. A mean mountaineer as well, she also spent time in the Alps , summiting both La Meije and Mont Blanc, and had one peak in the Bernese Oberland, Gertrudspitze, named after her. Praise back in the day was hardly that, such as: she has ‘masculine vigour, hard common sense and practical efficiency – all tempered by feminine charm and a most romantic spirit’. Bell lived out her last days in Baghdad, where she took up again archaeology, founding what became the National Museum of Iraq.

Maureen Wheeler

Wheeler grew up in a housing estate in Belfast , but she had dreams far beyond the borders of Northern Ireland. With her new husband Tony, they hit the hippie trail and backpacked from the UK to Australia in the early 1970s – a wholly different time when Kabul was a must-see, many of Thailand ’s beaches were still undiscovered and Bali had but a few rudimentary hostels. When the couple arrived in Australia they were flat broke with just 27 cents in their pocket, but they’d been inspired by their journey. They set about writing a guidebook, which they called Across Asia on The Cheap , sticking it together around their kitchen table with foul-smelling glue, before trying to peddle it to friends and then bookshops. The year was 1972 and Lonely Planet was born, which was set to become the world’s biggest travel guidebook outfit (35 years later BBC Worldwide bought the publishing company for tens of millions). Maureen never stopped travelling, even when she was at her busiest with the company and with her two children. In fact, she wrote Travel With Children as a shout-out to parents who were hesitant to hit the road with their families, including practical tips and, in the latest edition, travel stories written by her kids. Critically, Lonely Planet carries on the mission that independent travel is easy and doesn’t cost a fortune – and that has inspired millions to haul on a backpack and head off across the world.

Karen Blixen

‘I had a farm in Africa , at the foot of the Ngong Hills…’ is probably one of the most evocative film openings, conjuring up a dreamily romantic view of life in Africa, played out by Robert Redford and Meryl Streep. It was based, of course, on Karen Blixen’s memoir Out of Africa , published under her pen name Isak Dinesen. After an aristocratic upbringing in Denmark , schooled there and in Switzerland , Blixen and her Swedish second cousin, Baron Bror von Blixen-Finecke, moved to Kenya , marrying in Mombasa before heading to the Rift Valley to learn Swahili and set up a coffee plantation: ‘Here at long last one was in a position not to give a damn for all conventions, here was a new kind of freedom which until then one had only found in dreams!’ The dream faded, though – Blixen grew weary of her husband’s long hunting trips and affairs, perhaps contracting syphilis from him, which she suffered from throughout her life. They divorced, but she continued to run the farm, now single-handedly, fighting drought, fire and creditors. She fell in love with the English big game hunter Denys Finch Hatton, with whom she travelled all over the country, at her happiest up in the clouds in his de Havilland Gipsy Moth. When his plane crashed, his death, coupled with the failure of the farm, forced Blixen to leave Kenya for good. She was a beguiling conversationalist, husky in voice (she smoked constantly) and with a piercing gaze, and above all was a luminous and prolific writer of books that set travel hearts racing, nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature twice; when Ernest Hemingway won, he suggested it should have gone to her.

Born James in 1926, Morris started his career as a young intelligence officer in Palestine and Italy during World War II and later, as a news journalist, meeting Che Guevara, visiting Hiroshima after the nuclear bomb and reporting on the trial of Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem. Of his many scoops, his greatest was Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s Everest climb in May 1953. He received the news of their summiting when James himself was at 23,000ft, dressed in short sleeves, and he scrambled down the mountain to despatch his copy – in code to avoid competitors stealing the story. ‘Snow conditions bad stop advanced base abandoned yesterday stop awaiting improvement’ actually meant success. James married, had children, and in 1972, he became Jan, a transition from man to woman documented in Conundrum, a powerful account that sees Jan and her lifelong partner Elizabeth emerging as heroines to lead their close-knit family. Morris’s essays, biographies and novels, including intimate portraits of Trieste, Oxford , New York , Hong Kong and Venice , have shaped our idea of what it is to go abroad, and what it is to belong. The impressive collection A Writer's World: Travels 1950–2000 reflects the life of a compulsive traveller, although during the final stages of her life before she sadly passed away in November 2020, she was mostly ensconced in her converted stable home in north-west Wales , ‘tired of taking my shoes off at airports’.

Annie Smith Peck

Amelia Earhart once toasted her, saying ‘I felt an upstart compared to Miss Peck. [Her] mountain climbing résumé gives me the impression I am just a softie. However, I am somehow comforted by the fact that [she] would make almost anyone appear soft.’ Black-and-white photographs of Peck show her heading off on expeditions wearing veiled hats with a brooch at her collar, before she changes her clothes and is snapped clutching an ice axe on mountain summits and zip-lining the Iguazu River. When the American famously climbed the Matterhorn in 1895 aged 45, the headlines focused on her wearing trousers. Fifteen years later she became the first climber to summit Mount Huascarán in Peru (at the age of 58)— pledging ‘to attain some height where no man had previously stood’. The epitaph of the scholar, suffragist and political activist reads: ‘you have brought uncommon glory to women of all time.’

Sarah Marquis

The 46-year-old Swiss explorer first ran away from home aged six, heading into the woods with her backpack and her father’s dog Sultan. ‘I was always a wild kid, the weirdo of the family,’ Marquis says. ‘My mum once called the police. They found me about an hour’s walk away. I’d spent the night in a cave full of bats.’ Marquis has turned that weirdness into a career — as a speaker and writer, recently nominated as National Geographic Adventurer of the Year. She’s not a scientist but likes to have a fact-finding mission to her expeditions, because ‘we need nature today more than ever.’ Her last trip was three months solo walking the west coast of Tasmania , collecting data on plant life for the Australian government; while there, she fell down a gorge, broke a shoulder and continued to carry her 35kg backpack on it for the next three days. Next she’s off to northern Canada to train for an upcoming expedition — by contrast, this time in the desert. The common theme is that she prefers to be alone. ‘I’m not good with teams,’ she admits. ‘People ask me: are you scared? and I say ‘of what?’. When she occasionally returns home, she retreats to a small cabin in the Swiss Alps — before she hears again the call of the wild. ‘I’ve explored our darkest corners through pain and fear,’ she says, ‘and I deal with the things that we don’t want to deal with because that’s what makes you powerful.’

Cristina Mittermeier

From small-town middle-class Mexico , her only travels as a child were once a year to Disneyland in Los Angeles but she was inspired to go further after reading the novels of Emilio Salgari, who ‘painted a picture of places that struck my imagination’. Mittermeier went on to study marine biology, imagining it would be more about ‘pirate ships and swimming with dolphins’ than the realities of ‘fisheries and exploitation’, a strange start for a woman who now runs SeaLegacy, the powerful ocean conservation non-profit. It’s been a long journey. In fact, for this award-winning 52-year-old photographer, it’s extraordinary to think she didn’t pick up a camera till she was 24. Then married to the president of Conservation International whose trips took them all around the world, she borrowed his camera and took a first snap of an indigenous community in Brazil which turned out to become the outside advertising banner for an Amazonian art exhibition at the Natural History Museum of Houston. She went back to school to study fine-art photography, while following her husband with their family to more than 100 countries. Then she started her own expeditions, established the International League of Conservation Photographers and now spends only a couple of months a year at home on Vancouver Island with her partner Paul Nicklen, also a marine biologist and photographer. The rest of the time they’re on the road posting for their millions of Instagram followers . Her latest book, Amaze , is just that, a 250-page book showcasing indigenous people from Ethiopia to Papua New Guinea to Greenland .

Noo Saro-Wiwa

This 42-year-old Nigerian writer grew up in Surrey , which she describes as ‘a bountiful paradise of Twix bars and TV cartoons and leylandii trees, far removed from the heat and chaos of Nigeria’ where you see ‘machine guns, tuxedos, army fatigues and evening frocks together at an airport.’ Her book Looking for Transwonderland: Travels in Nigeria , is a brave first foray into travel literature; Noo’s father Ken Saro-Wiwa, who campaigned against government corruption, was executed by the military dictatorship of his country in 1995. Noo had spent childhood summers in Port Harcourt on the Niger Delta but after this, she didn’t return for 10 years (except for his funeral and burial), wanting nothing more to do with the country. But in time she began tackling the subject of homeland, the same way she’d approached writing guidebooks (on Ivory Coast, Guinea, Madagascar , Benin, Ghana and Togo for Lonely Planet and Rough Guides) and writes that she came ‘to love many things about Nigeria: our indigenous heritage, the dances, the masks, the music, the baobab trees and the drill monkeys’. ‘I’ve been amazed by how many people have written to me and told me they knew nothing about Nigeria and how I opened their eyes,’ she says. ‘I feel I have a responsibility there.’ She’s now penning a book about Africans who live in China , a country she’s fallen in love with (‘after China, everything feels very boring,’ she says), then plans one on the Niger Delta, followed by Switzerland , which she calls ‘the heart of darkness of Europe’.

Anisa Kamadoli Costa

A rooted New Yorker in every way, down to her immigrant parents (Costa’s mother is from Maharashtra, her father from Karnataka in India ), the Tiffany & Co Chief Sustainability Officer isn’t just sitting comfortably with her feet up on a Fifth Avenue mahogany desk. She spends at least half of the year on the road, personally overseeing her projects for the Tiffany & Co Foundation: opposing a proposed mine on Alaska’s Bristol Bay that would sit at the headwaters of one of the world’s greatest salmon fisheries and leading journalists to the Great Barrier Reef to raise awareness of ocean conservation. ‘Most people just don’t consider how important the oceans are to the world,’ Costa says. Her background includes stints at the US Mission to the United Nations and working for the Rockefeller Brothers Fund with the goal of ‘making sure Americans travel more’. She has spearheaded Tiffany’s support of the virtual-reality film Valen’s Reef about Indonesia’s Raja Ampat marine life (where 75 per cent of the planet’s coral species can be found) and champions the company’s ecological commitment, with all the profits from dedicated jewellery lines funding conservation projects. ‘When I travel I always try to think about the place as a whole, rather than just its airport code,’ she says.

Our 'Women Who Travel' Facebook Group – 120k-strong and growing fast – helped select the final line-up. Join the group and the conversation at facebook.com/groups/womenwhotraveltheworld .

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Best Travel Vloggers and YouTubers to Follow in 2024

As a travel vlogger myself, I may be biased but I think that travel vloggers provide a captivating insight into the world of travel and adventure. You can explore destinations from the comfort of your sofa and get endlessly inspired for your next trips.

The visual storytelling that video content allows for is perfect for travel. I think it’s an amazing way to discover new and unique perspectives on travel.

Travel videos resonate with aspiring adventurers in a way that can be difficult with written content.

Plus, it’s a great way of getting to know a creator and the face behind a travel blog . I love that travel vlogs provide a more personal approach that combines an informative experience with wonderful creativity.

To help you discover the best travel content out there, I have compiled a list of the top travel vloggers and YouTubers for the most engaging travel video content.

I’ve included sections on solo female travellers, family travel vloggers, British travel vloggers, and travel couples. 

From personality-led travel vlogs to stunning cinematic masterpieces, here is my pick of the best travel vloggers and YouTubers to follow in 2024.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Top travel vloggers

Fearless and far.

Mike Corey is the man behind adventure travel vlog, Fearless and Far . I love that he journeys to weird and wonderful destinations, which are far away from the mainstream.

It is a wonderfully creative vlog that encourages people to face their fears to travel the world.

Mike approaches travel and life as an extreme sport. The results are wild, unique, and downright crazy travel experiences. His travel vlogs are a rollercoaster of adventure and adrenaline-fuelled travel.

Drew Binsky

Drew Binsky is an American travel vlogger and Youtube documentary maker. His travel vlog has a heavy focus on discovering and celebrating the various cultures across the world.

Telling unique stories of the communities and culture behind every location, he brings his viewers daily travel videos.

In a refreshing approach to travel vlogging, Drew puts a spotlight on sociopolitical issues, including human rights, gay and transgender acceptance, and challenging racial and religious stereotypes.

He wants to bust the myth that the world is unsafe, inspiring other people to travel and widen their perspective of the world; which I think is an admirable goal.

As if that wasn’t enough, Drew often features amazing special guests on his channel too.

Nadine Sykora is a seasoned globetrotter who brings an impossibly fun and positive energy to her travel content.

I think her energy is genuinely infectious, adding an optimistic and lively dimension to travel and adventure.

It’s this approach that elevates her storytelling, inspiring young people to travel. Her videos are helpful and informative, from packing guides to handy travel hacks.

Hey Nadine is therefore a great resource for aspiring young adventurers.

Sam Kolder is a Canadian adventurer and creator of exceptional travel videos. As a seriously talented travel filmmaker, Kolder’s videos are nothing short of cinematic masterpieces.

Kold is a channel for high quality travel content, as well as some educational videos for aspiring filmmakers.

In his travel videos, you’ll discover engaging storytelling and the best transitions you’ve ever seen. Kolder is also known for his incredible drone shots and a habit for backflipping off tall structures.

Videos are few and far between but, trust me, they are always worth the wait. My favourite travel video of all time is Kold’s Hey Tim :

Lost LeBlanc

Christian LeBlanc is another Canadian adventurer. His unwavering passion for travel shines through his well executed videos on his YouTube channel, Lost LeBlanc .

He has created a dedicated community of like-minded travellers as a result. I love that LeBlanc encourages his viewers to step out of their comfort zones in the pursuit of adventure and global discovery.

He offers a lot of resources to other aspiring travel filmmakers and photographers, teaching both the creative and business side of the travel vlogging sphere.

Formerly known as Migrationology, Mark Wien’s travel vlog is one for the foodies. He believes that food is the reason you should travel and believe me when I say that his dribble-worthy videos strongly support this claim!

His content combines incredible food discoveries with highly watchable travel experiences.

Mark is based in Thailand with his wife, but he frequently travels all over the world trying amazing food from various different countries and cultures.

He is constantly on the hunt for local delicacies and mouth-watering meals.

Phil Good Travel

In the Phil Good Travel vlog , Phil Calvert travels across Europe sprinkling positivity everywhere he goes. His aim is to promote solidarity between all backgrounds, races, and upbringings.

Given that black travellers are frequently the minority in Europe, Phil has set out to create a community of black travellers in this part of the world.

I love that he brings open-mindedness and optimism to his travel videos, and his enthusiasm is truly infectious.

Sorelle Amore

Sorelle is a quirky bundle of energy with a huge and infectious smile.

Her YouTube channel offers more than just travel, whether it’s home updates or ‘Advanced Selfie’ photography tips. In short, she wants to inspire confidence and creativity.

Her videos feel very authentic, with none of the superficial or forced feel that you sometimes get with other vloggers. Sorelle is constantly striving to be a better human, and tries to inspire others to do the same.

She recently moved to Iceland, so if you love Iceland content (who doesn’t!) then you’ll love some of her latest videos.

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Solo female travel vloggers

Brooke saward.

A travel vlogger from Tasmania, Brooke Saward aims to inspire young people to travel more, and to feel more confident travelling solo.

Brooke documents her travels on her YouTube channel in a way that feels authentic and accessible. A popular blogger, vlogger, author, and adventurer.

Eva zu Beck

Eva zu Beck is an adventure traveller and solo female explorer. On her YouTube channel Eva explores less visited destinations which are not commonly seen in mainstream travel media.

Whether it’s visiting Aleppo and Damascus in Syria, hiking the K2 base camp in Pakistan, or trekking alone through Mongolia.

Eva aims to tell the stories of those people, communities, and cultures that you don’t normally see or have access to. She encourages people to push themselves out of their comfort zones.

A truly inspiring solo female traveller and one of my personal favourites.

I Am Aileen

Aileen Adalid is a travel vlogger from the Philippines. She did what many of us dream of doing: she quit her corporate job at 21 to travel the world.

Aileen shows her viewers how to travel the world as a digital nomad, inspiring her community of travel dreamers to do the same.

On her channel, I Am Aileen , you’ll find beautiful travel videos which are packed full of tips and tricks. I love that she also shows you how to live a sustainable travel lifestyle.

Jennelle Eliana

Known as the woman who lives in a van with her pet snake, Jennelle Eliana’s YouTube channel exploded within a matter of weeks. Her travel vlog has a light-hearted feel with a strong focus on sustainability.

All her videos are shot and edited on her iPhone. I think hte lower production values of her videos provide a more authentic portrayal of van life.

She addresses the less glamorous sides of travel and I love that it doesn’t feel as curated or manufactured.

Oneika the Traveller

A thrill-seeker and travel junkie, Oneika Raymond is dedicated to inspiring people of colour to travel the world and live outside of their comfort zone. She inspires through education and engaging storytelling.

Oneika is not just a successful travel vlogger. She is also an award-winning writer, journalist, and keynote speaker – having spoken at the Women in Travel Summit and Women’s Travel Fest. 

Pocket Wanderings

Okay this is a shameless self-promotion but it would be remiss of me not to include my own YouTube channel in this list!

I’m still relatively new to travel blogging but I’m hoping to grow my YouTube community moving forwards. On my channel you’ll find solo travel tips, luxury travel inspiration and hotel reviews.

Family travel vloggers

The bucket list family.

The Gee family started out when they sold everything and left home to travel around the world to become Family Travel Journalists.

The Bucket List Family travel vlog documents their many adventures and travels across the world.

They describe themselves as “just your ‘average’ family”, playing on the fact that most people wouldn’t consider their adventure-fuelled family life to be ‘average’ at all.

I’m sure that the Gee family will certainly make you question whether settling down is the best way to approach family life!

Hopscotch the Globe

Hopscotch the Globe is run by travel couple, Kristen and Siya. Until recently, they would have fallen into the travel couple section – but now they have a daughter and a dog, they are fully fledged family adventurers.

Their aim is to inspire couples and families to travel more. The couple share travel tips, destination guides, food adventures, and tiny home living on their channel.

I find their videos to be funny, entertaining, and genuinely helpful.

Wolter’s World

The Wolter’s World channel is a great destination for honest travel advice. It comprises a family of four who have lived, studied, worked, and travelled across the world.

Wolter addresses the best and the worst parts of travelling to help his viewers be better prepared.

In sharing honest perspectives, Wolter provides helpful insights into the culture and people of the places he visits.

He has a preference for showing this more realistic side of travel – rather than fancy drone shots and backflips of cliffs. There are new videos every Wednesday and Saturday.

The Makepeace family consists of Caz, Craig, Kalyra, and Savannah. They are on a mission to prove that travel does not have to stop after children.

They have travelled the world nomadically since 1997, so trust me when I say that these guys really know what they’re talking about.

Having travelled solo, as a couple, as expats, as digital nomads, in an RV, and as a family, they bring multiple viewpoints to the travel experience.

Their videos help fellow travel lovers unplug from the chaos, travel more, and create better memories – all with kids in tow.

British travel vloggers

Fun for louis.

Louis Cole is a popular British travel vlogger, recognised by his signature dreadlocks.

He’s also partial to a backflip in wonderful and remote locations. The Fun For Louis channel brings upbeat and charismatic video content.

Louis is a non-stop adventurer, creating daily vlogs – so there is a lot of content to get stuck into. You’ll find a whole variety of creative content and fun adventures on Louis’ travel vlog.

It’s exciting, entertaining, and engaging.

Mr Ben Brown

A talented photographer and filmmaker, Ben Brown documents his travels to far-flung destinations. As a result of his engaging content, Ben has achieved wide acclaim for his YouTube content.

Ben is also a professional athlete, as a two-time world champion kayaker. He is energetic and optimistic, which I think shines through his travel content.

Psycho Traveller

Birmingham-born Aly is a digital nomad who has built an online community of fellow travel lovers. The ‘psycho part’ of Psycho Traveller comes from the fact that Aly is a Psychology graduate. 

I love that Aly provides raw, honest commentary in her content, as well as helpful tips and tricks. She aims to inspire everyone – of all ages and backgrounds – to live the life they want to live.

She is also a best-selling author and public speaker.

Couple travel vloggers

The planet d.

An endearing adventure couple, Dave and Deb live by the motto ‘adventure is for everyone’. They are a refreshing change from the ‘perfect’ travel couples you see plastered all over Instagram.

The aim of Planet D is to inspire everyone to seek adventure – you don’t have to be young, fit and rich to travel. 

Their videos provide valuable information and unique experiences for anyone looking to live a more adventure-fuelled life.

Sailing La Vagabonde

Sailing La Vagabonde is run by Australian couple Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu. It all started with a dream of circumnavigating the globe by sailboat – with no previous sailing experience!

Riley and Elayna share video content around their seafaring experiences, including useful information for those looking to start sailing.

They inspire others to live an alternative lifestyle and also hope to raise ocean awareness. Now they have a baby in tow, so there’s a new and exciting dimension to their travels!

Kara and Nate

Kara and Nate are high school sweethearts who have been travelling the world full-time for five years. They started with a goal of travelling to 100 countries – which they have since achieved and surpassed!

The travel couple embark on all kinds of adventures – from hiking Everest Base Camp to taking the Trans-Siberian Railway.

You can also find a number of resources on travel hacking, YouTube, and entrepreneurship on their blog.

The Endless Adventure

Eric and Allison embody the classic story of leaving steady jobs to pursue a life of travel as digital nomads.

Their YouTube channel, The Endless Adventure , offers a tantalising combination of travel, food, and adventure – all of the best things in life!

I think this is a great channel for travel foodies, as they share some of the most mouth-watering food from around the world.

I have no doubt that Eric and Allison will inspire you to hit the road and pursue a life of adventure.

Flying the Nest

Stephen & Jess are an Australian couple with a passion for adventure. You’ll find a range of travel content on Flying the Nest , from daily life and food discoveries to volunteering and worldly travels.

The couple share a diverse range of travel experiences, from hiking Machu Picchu to overwater bungalows in the Maldives.

Their videos offer a unique historical insight and engaging video content. Plus, they now have a new baby to join their adventures.

I couldn’t possibly fit all of the amazing travel vloggers out there into this list. But these are some of my personal favourites and a great place to start if you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the travel content on YouTube.

As mentioned above, I do have my own YouTube channel ? It’s only in the early stages I’m already in the process of expanding it and any new subscribers honestly means the world.

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

That’s really nice post. I appreciate your skills. Thanks for sharing.

No travel beans in the list! Missing out guy’s

Why not Harold baldr ? Please try out his channel 🙂

Great list!

I follow Steve Marsh out of Scotland, Cecila Blomdahl out of Svalbard Norway, Mathers on the Map out of New Jersey, and Erik Aanderaa out of Norway. All great travel content. Thanks for these. I plan to check out a few.

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Solo vacations: the 36 best places to travel alone in 2024.

These fun destinations make traveling on your own simple and spectacular.

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From beach retreats to artsy escapes, take your next solo trip to somewhere spectacular.

Perth, Australia

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Asheville, North Carolina

Tuscany, Italy

Santa Barbara, California

New York City

Seville, Spain

Naples, Florida

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Portland, Oregon

New Zealand

Galápagos Islands

Charleston, South Carolina

Athens, Greece

New Orleans

Austin, Texas

San Francisco

Munich, Germany

Florianópolis, Brazil

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• Travel Guides

22 Of The Top Destinations For Solo Travellers

While it’s always fun to travel with friends and family, we all need some alone time once in a while. Solo trips may seem scary at first, but it can turn into an amazing eye-opening experience that builds your sense of independence (with the added bonus of not having to coordinate with others and doing only what interests you. ) There are many amazing destinations for solo travellers around the world. From beach retreats to historic cities, they will show you that solo travellers are only ever as alone as they want to be.

Also Read:  21 Tips for Solo Travelers

Easily accessible and relatively safe, here is our pick of the top 22 destinations for solo travellers:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Dublin, Ireland

Also Read:  11 Amazing Places You Must See In Dublin

Pondicherry, India

Also Read:  6 Reasons You Have To Visit Pondicherry This Year

Pacific Crest Trail, USA

South Island, New Zealand

Also Read:  The 11 Things You Cannot Miss In New Zealand

Seoul, South Korea

Also Read:  Things To Do In Seoul On Your Next Trip

Stockholm, Sweden

Cinque Terre, Italy

Also Read:  18 Underrated Towns In Italy You Have To See

Vienna, Austria

Also Read:  Amazing Winter Destinations To Celebrate Christmas   

Lombok, Indonesia

Melbourne, Australia

Also Read:  20 Awesome Things To Do In Melbourne

Also Read:  A Guide to the Top 30 Places to Visit in Singapore

Hanoi, Vietnam

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Also Read:  Experience Enchantment In Croatia

Florence, Italy

Also Read:  15 Unmissable Things to See in Florence

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Seville, Spain

Also Read:  11 Wonderful Places To See In Seville

Edinburgh, Scotland

Also See:  11 Things You Have To See in Edinburgh

Budapest, Hungary

Reykjavik, Iceland

Also Read:  Top 11 Things To Do in Iceland

Cardiff, Wales

Also Read:  11 Unique Things To Do In Cardiff, Wales

Vancouver, Canada

Of course, there are lots of other amazing destinations for solo travellers, and if we’ve missed any, be sure to share them in the comments below.

Also Read:  A Guide to Budget Solo Travel – How to Cut Costs when Travelling Solo

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

Are you ready to embark on a journey filled with adventure, culture, tradition, and exciting attractions? Let your explorer's spirit soar and make unforgettable memories as you explore the beauty of our diverse world.

17 of the best places to travel solo around the world

Travel can change our perception and expand our knowledge of the world, but sometimes it can be hard to find that perfect travel partner and going alone can be intimidating. That’s why we created our Solo Tours . They're the perfect blend of group travel benefits, with a host of solo touches (like an included private room), and they give you the freedom to explore the world. Taking off on an adventure and making lasting connections with fellow solo travelers—sounds great, right?

Plus, our Solo Tours visit some of the most recognizable places on the planet while also taking you to off-the-beaten-path locales that are sure to stick in your memory forever. If you’re ready to take the plunge and go solo, leave the planning to the experts (that’s us), and focus on what matters most: taking in the sights, sounds, flavors, and traditions of a new-to-you place.

Ready to hit the road? Keep reading to learn about 17 of our best-in-class Solo Tours .

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• 10 ideal destinations for solo travelers
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Travel inspiration

By David Szmidt and Hana Leakey November 3, 2023

By David Szmidt and Hana Leakey | November 3, 2023

November 11 is #SinglesDay, and to mark the occasion, we’ve put together a list of the 10 safest cities, curious countries, and all-around best destinations for solo travelers

Solo travel has lately emerged as an empowering trend, appealing to those seeking personal growth and adventure . It allows you to explore the world at your own pace, connect with diverse cultures, and create lifelong memories. Singles’ Day is November 11, and for all you singles out there, let these top 10 solo-travel destinations inspire you to embrace the thrill of discovery on your own terms.

@kiwi.com Replying to @pietro._.luzietti …and he went😀 #kiwicomtravelhacks #kiwicomflight #cheapflights #cheaptravel #iceland ♬ original sound – Kiwi.com

A bucket-list destination for a lot of people, Iceland is popular among solo travelers due to the very fact that it’s become such a popular destination. The rise of tourism has created companies and tour guides that specialize in grouping people together for a trek along one of the well-traveled routes, such as the Golden Circle or the Ring Road. Moreover, due to its reputation of being a very safe country, we highly recommend it to solo female travelers .

It’s a small nation, too, with most of the population living in the capital, Reykjavík. You’ll never be short of someone to chat to in one of the many bars or cafes in the city, and though it’s an expensive place, maybe someone will stand you a beer — you never know!

Finally, there are a lot of things that are — if not exclusive to, then certainly associated with — being in Iceland. Bathing in the hot springs, trekking across glaciers, heading out at two in the morning to see the northern lights ; these are all things that become shared experiences because of their personal and unusual nature. Even traveling solo, you’ll share a lot.

@kiwi.com Replying to @Georgia K Ready to travel to Slovenia in October? Follow @ad.molota ‘s tips #slovenia #sloveniatiktok #sloveniatravel #visitslovenia #exploreslovenia #feelslovenia #travelcheap #travelforfree #wehacktravel #wehackthesystem #kiwicomtravel ♬ Trap, hip hop, dark beat ♪(963369) – Ninja_Muzik_Tokyo

Small but perfectly formed, if we’re talking in cliché, Slovenia ’s size, location and natural beauty mean that it’s become a popular spot for travelers looking for somewhere cultured, friendly, rugged, but not too taxing.

The landscape is glorious, with national parks filled with crashing rivers and craggy mountains. There are lakes to swim in and caves and castles to explore, and the transport infrastructure is great, meaning you can hop on a regional bus to just about anywhere, and be there quickly and for very little money.

The capital, Ljubljana, is not big, but it’s a reflection of the rest of the country: small, amiable, walkable , relaxed. The locals, knowing that Slovenian is not widely spoken (and being bordered by two linguistic powers in German-speaking Austria to the north and Italy to the west) generally speak good English. Statistically, it’s one of the very safest countries in the whole world . And if your idea of a good time is walking, taking photos, wandering into interesting-looking places, and occasionally stopping for a drink or to read your book, Slovenia will be right up your street.

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Japan is a very popular bucket-list destination, and rightly so, but making it there requires setting aside considerable chunks of time and money (especially if you don’t live in East or Southeast Asia). Perhaps your friends can’t commit to such an investment? Never mind — just go solo.

Again, its renowned safety makes Japan an ideal destination for solo travelers. The low crime rates, the hospitable people, and a culture that values respect and politeness will quickly make you feel at ease as you explore this unique country, with its unparalleled blend of tradition and modernity. Ground yourself in the contemplative tranquility of ancient temples, serene shrines and Zen gardens, and experience the dynamic energy of futuristic cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’re spoiled for choice with the spectacular natural landscapes, from the snow-capped mountains in Hokkaido to the mangrove forests and coral reefs of Okinawa.

This diversity is partly what makes Japan such an immersive destination — it feels like you’re in a completely different world, a world that everyone should visit at least once. You’ll be able to tell your friends this when you return.

@kiwi.com 🌴 Discovering Bangkok’s Hidden Treasures! From the Serene Floating Market to the Enchanting Vat Arun Temple 🚣‍♀️✨ Here’s a message to you from our Hacker: Hey there, I’m Betty, and I’ve just had the most incredible time in Bangkok! 🇹🇭 Looking for the best places to visit? I’ve got you covered! 🤩 I went to Kiwi.com/Stories and searched Bangkok, and what did I find? A travel guide: The mesmerizing Floating Market! 😍 We hopped on a shuttle bus from the city center to get there. For just €3, we rented a boat for an entire hour! 🚤 Feeling hungry? No worries! There are plenty of fantastic restaurants to choose from. If you’re a fan of sweet treats like me, you can’t miss the delicious coconut ice cream for only €2! 🍦 Another unforgettable spot we explored, all thanks to K dot com, was the Vat Arun Temple. 🏯 It only costs €3 for the entrance; they even provide free water! A quick tip: Remember to dress modestly, covering your knees and shoulders before entering the temple. 🙏 Oh, and don’t forget to stick around until 7 p.m.! That’s when the temple comes alive with enchanting lights. ✨ These hidden gems made my Bangkok trip unforgettable! 🌟 So, book your flights with the Kiwi.com app and follow me for more amazing travel tips and adventures! #BangkokDiaries #TravelGoals #KiwiAdventures #FloatingMarket #VatArunTemple #BangkokLights #DiscoverWithKiwi #TravelInspo ♬ original sound – Kiwi.com

The classic solo traveler destination for many years now, Thailand has the image of the place people go when they want to either divest themselves of all mortal care, or simply go absolutely nuts with partying. In truth, as with almost everything, the real answer lies somewhere between these two poles.

Bangkok, the city known for its nightlife (and it has that in spades, of course) is also home to ornate temples and monasteries that give the solo traveler pause to reflect. It’s also a place where you can try some of the best food in Southeast Asia , with its famous street food stands covering parts of the city with a heady combination of spicy aromas.

Outside the cities, there are thousands of beaches to discover — so many, in fact, that you may even find one to yourself if you’re out in the countryside far enough — as well as mountain villages to visit and people to meet. Traveling solo also means you can rent a scooter to get around (be careful, though!), or if you’re craving company, the long-distance buses will allow you to meet the locals and get a true impression of everyday Thai life.

Scotland, UK

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I [David] was considering putting Ireland on this list, but the famed Irish hospitality and gift of the gab have been done to death, so let’s head to Scotland instead. The stereotype of the dour Scot may be in stark contrast to that of the happy-go-lucky Irish, but it’s a stereotype that’s far from always true.

You’ll almost certainly visit both Edinburgh and Glasgow, two fine cities with two very different personalities. Edinburgh is all sandstone and grandeur, avenues and hills; while Glasgow is gritty, exciting and artistic .

For a massive change of pace, head up the west coast and out to the islands . There are ferries from places like Oban to the islands of Mull and Islay, or onwards to the Hebrides. If you’re a fan of whisky, there are distillery tours, or you can simply head out to trek across the eerie, almost treeless expanses of the islands. Feeling even braver? From the very north, you can get a boat to Orkney or even out to the Shetland Islands, a windswept collection of rocks in the North Sea to meet the hardy but welcoming locals. You’ll have earned your dram or two of whisky by then!

The Pacific Northwest, US

Three cities within easy reach of each other, at least by US distances. From south to north we have Portland, Oregon , a city that manages to be so self-consciously both twee and cool that it spawned a mildly surreal sketch show — Portlandia — that played on the city’s hipster reputation. It’s not unfounded either, but it’s no bad thing; it is a genuinely nice city, with a lot of locally-owned businesses, breweries, coffee shops, thrift stores and the like, and it is within reach of the bleak but beautiful coast to the west and the Mount Hood National Forest to the east.

Head up the coast three hours (there are regular low-cost trains and buses taking you from door to door) and you’re in Seattle — home of technology, coffee, the Space Needle, bustling Pike’s Place Market (the location of the original Starbucks), and more of a big-city vibe than Portland. See the city from the water on one of the commuter ferries, learn about the culture of the region’s First peoples, or simply head to a park, record shop or bookshop (depending on the famously changeable weather, of course!).

Finally, after having made sure you’ve got the paperwork if you need it, skip over the border into Canada and Vancouver . A city of parks and forests, with a strong multicultural identity that manifests itself in everything from the arts to the city’s strong street food scene, it’s a lively place with a history of welcoming people from all corners of the world. If you’re traveling solo, it’s the perfect city in which to find yourself — in more ways than one.

Still one of travel’s best-kept secrets, Georgia is a fascinating country. If you like city life, great food and cool places, this is for you. If you like spectacular landscapes and untouched scenery, this is also for you. If you like combining all of that together, get yourself to Georgia.

The capital, Tbilisi, has an Old Town full of quaint shops and cafes, and a mish-mash of architecture that reflects its complicated history including being ruled by Persia and the Soviet Union. Georgian cuisine is utterly delicious, with fresh vegetables, spicy sauces, grilled meat and hearty bread-and-cheese dishes to the fore. Wash that down with a glass or two of local wine and conversation with the locals will flow.

You can get out into the wilderness and backpack through the hills and mountains as well. It’s generally pretty safe, with small mountain villages dotted here and there, many providing basic but colorful places to stay. You’ll also be almost alone in visiting some wonderful historical sites, such as the 10th-century Udabno monastery, cut into the rocky hillside centuries ago. For a solo travel experience at the true crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia is the place to be.

If you’re looking for somewhere that ticks a lot of boxes in one compact go, Singapore might be it. Sure, it’s a super-modern city-state, built on commerce and trade, so maybe not the most personal place in the world, but it’s clean, safe, easy to get around, and more varied than you’d think.

If you like shopping, there are lots of malls and shopping streets featuring big designer names, but there are also little corners of multiculturalism like Little India and Chinatown (after all, it’s a city built on a rich heritage of mixing cultures). To relax, there are welcome swathes of green space — indeed, 47% of the city is greenery — and there’s a network of walking routes and cycle paths through the city that means you’ll rarely meet a car.

There are forests to explore outside the city as well, and you can join an early-morning nature trail or take anything from an hour to a day hiking the routes through the surrounding nature reserves and rainforest. There are well-marked trails ranging from 3-kilometer lopes to 15-kilometer loops involving treetop walkways.

A South American adventure can take many forms — being a beach bum in Brazil, hacking through the jungles of the Amazon, exploring Incan ruins — but if you head to Chile, you could easily pay your own way and have a solo experience on the cheap .

Starting in Santiago de Chile, you can travel up and down the country, from the arid, mountainous landscapes of the north, to the wetlands and glaciers of Patagonia in the south. Almost all long-distance travel is done by bus, so you’ll meet plenty of locals on your overnight journeys.

There are also loads of working holiday schemes , so if you’ve ever felt like working on a farm, building an eco-community, teaching English in a mountain village or organizing events in a hostel , there’ll be something to keep you busy and give you a chance to meet fellow travelers.

To plan your South American adventure and read an interview with someone who’s done it, click here .

East Africa

If you’ve always wanted to go on safari but were worried about the logistics of it all — finding lodging, getting a guide, crossing borders between countries like Tanzania , Rwanda and Kenya, all the time wondering if you’d missed some vital bit of paperwork — there are now companies that specialize in helping solo travelers experience the natural wonders of East Africa.

As the tourism infrastructure improves, you can now avoid any (sometimes apparently random) solo traveler charges by applying as an individual to join a group safari. The beauty of this is that the other people applying will almost certainly be people like you, so you won’t be the odd one out in a group of 60-year-olds from Windsock, Nebraska , or wherever.

It’s not just wildlife-watching, either. You can opt for jungle trekking, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, a yoga retreat , or staying in groups of three or four with the Maasai people to learn about their way of life. For a truly amazing travel experience, maybe it’s best to meet other like-minded solo travelers on a trip none of you will ever forget.

Did you enjoy reading this article? Check out more travel inspiration on Kiwi.com Stories .

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75 Best Solo Travel Quotes (+ Others)

• by Jonny Duncan
• July 4, 2023 July 4, 2023

Travelling alone can be a life-changing experience and one of the best things you do. These solo travel quotes for travelling alone from famed explorers/writers/ and more will inspire you to get out and go travelling alone.

They are also very useful if you want some great solo travel quotes for Instagram or other social media channels, etc.

There are 25 specific “solo travel quotes”, some of which are very famous travel quotes and the other 50 are general travel quotes but they can be used as solo travel quotes as well.

Just a quick note before we start. I had travelled alone for 20 or so years from 1997 onwards, but I have now been with my partner and wife for 5 years and love travelling together as a couple.

Still, some solo travel quotes are good to know!

Enjoy these inspiring solo travelling quotes and other travel quotes.

25 Best Solo Travel Quotes

I’ll start with one of my favourite travel writers with one of his solo travel quotes.

• “The inner journey of travel is intensified by solitude.” – Paul Theroux

2. “There are some places in life where you can only go alone. Embrace the beauty of your solo journey.” — Mandy Hale

3. “Traveling alone makes it easier to be yourself.” – Charles Bukowski

4. “The man who follows the crowd will usually get no further than the crowd. The man who walks alone is likely to find himself in places no one has ever been before.”- Alan Ashley-Pitt

5. “The man who goes alone can start today, but he who travels with another must wait till that other is ready.” — Henry David Thoreau

6. “I wondered why it was that places are so much lovelier when one is alone.” – Daphne Du Maurier

The next one is a very true one out of all these solo travel quotes:

7. “Some journeys in life can only be travelled alone.” – Ken Poirot

8. “I think one travels more usefully when they travel alone because they reflect more.” – Thomas Jefferson

9. “When the traveller goes alone he gets acquainted with himself.” — Liberty Hyde Bailey

10. “Solo travel is an opportunity to discover parts of yourself that you never knew existed.” – Stephanie Lee

11. “To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the most pleasant sensations in the world.” – Freya Stark

12. “The solo traveller is not looking for an escape from life, but rather a way to experience it more fully.” -Shane Dallas

13. “There’s no right or wrong way to travel solo…everyone should try it at least once in their life.” — Susan Moore

14. “The treasured vistas of our solo journeys are not always about the landscape.” — Gina Greenlee

15. “When the traveller goes alone he gets acquainted with himself.” — Liberty Hyde Bailey

16. “The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.” — Albert Einstein  

17. “If companionship is a mandate for all of our experiences, then we will miss out on many of life’s blessings.” — Gina Greenlee

18. “You must go on adventures alone to find out where you belong.” – Sue Fitzmaurice

Another one of the best solo travel quotes:

19. “Don’t be scared to walk alone. Don’t be scared to like it.” — John Mayer

20. “Traveling solo does not always mean you’re alone. Most often, you meet marvellous people along the way and make connections that last a lifetime.” — Jacqueline Boone

21. “You never really travel alone. The world is full of friends waiting to know you.” — Unknown

22. “In solo travel, you are forced to face your fears, discover your strengths, and learn to trust yourself.” – Unknown

23. “Travelling alone will be the scariest, most liberating, life-changing experience of your life. Try it at least once.” – Unknown

24. “Solo travel will push you out of your comfort zone and give you a confidence boost like nothing else can.” – Unknown

25. “Traveling alone is an opportunity to discover yourself and find your own way.” – Unknown

30 Famous Travel Quotes

Many of these can also apply to solo travel quotes.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Lao Tzu

2. “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” — Mark Twain

3. “A good traveller has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.” — Lao Tzu

4. “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” — Andre Gorde

5. “There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.” — C.S. Lewis

6. One of the most famous travel quotes out there:

“Not all those who wander are lost.” J.R.R. Tolkien

7. “One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

8. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine

9. “A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” — John A. Shedd

10. “Adventure should be part of everyone’s life. It is the whole difference between being fully alive and just existing.” — Holly Morris

11. “Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

12. “Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.” – Erol Ozan

13. “One thing that I love about travelling is feeling disoriented and removed from my comfort zone.” — Sarah Glidden

14. “Not I, nor anyone else, can travel that road for you. You must travel it for yourself.” — Walt Whitman

15. “One of the great things about travel is you find out how many good, kind people there are.” – Edith Wharton

16. “I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

17. “People never learn anything by being told, they have to find out for themselves.” — Paulo Coelho

That applies to solo travel quotes as well.

BTW If you haven’t read Paulo Coelho’s book The Alchemist I highly recommend you do:

18. Another of my favourite travel writers is Bill Bryson and this is one the best Bill Bryson travel quotes:

“There is something about the momentum of travel that makes you want to just keep moving, to never stop.” Bill Bryson

19. “I see my path, but I don’t know where it leads. Not knowing where I’m going is what inspires me to travel it.” – Rosalia de Castro

20. “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” — Gustav Flaubert

21. “Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone.” — Wendell Berry

22. “Travelling’s not something you’re good at. It’s something you do. Like breathing.” – Gayle Foreman

23. “Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s OK. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” — Anthony Bourdain

24. “If you don’t get out of the box you’ve been raised in, you won’t understand how much bigger the world is.” – Angelina Jolie

25. “Take the risk, or lose the chance” – Unknown 

26. “To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.” – Bill Bryson

27. Loving life is easy when you are abroad. Where no one knows you and you hold your life in your hands all alone, you are more master of yourself than at any other time. – Hannah Arendt

28. “Adventure should be part of everyone’s life. It is the whole difference between being fully alive and just existing.” — Holly Morris

29. “I am of course lost in this journey I’m on, but I do remain confident, though I am lost it will be a great adventure, this adventure will surpass my wildest imagination. So call me a fool, but I’m happy to be lost.” — Micheline Jean Louis

30. “People never learn anything by being told, they have to find out for themselves.” — Paulo Coelho

31. “It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end.” – Ernest Hemingway

32. “Ships are my arrows, the sea my bow, the world my target.” – Robert Thier

33. “So I find words I never thought to speak. In streets, I never thought I should revisit. When I left my body on a distant shore.” – T.S. Eliot

34. “There is a kind of magicness about going far away and then coming back all changed.” – Kate Douglas Wiggin

35. “What you’ve done becomes the judge of what you’re going to do – especially in other people’s minds. When you’re travelling, you are what you are right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.” – William Least Heat Moon

36. “No one realises how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow.” – Lin Yutang

37. “Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey.” – Fitzhugh Mullan

38. “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” – Aldous Huxley

39. “Wandering re-establishes the original harmony which once existed between man and the universe.” – Anatole France

40. “Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” – Anita Desai

41. “A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.” – Tim Cahill

42. “Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” – Miriam Beard

43. “Like all great travellers, I have seen more than I remember, and remember more than I have seen.” – Benjamin Disraeli

44. “We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” – Jawaharlal Nehru

45. “Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.” – Jack Kerouac

46. “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” – Marcel Proust

47. “Travel and change of place impart new vigour to the mind.” – Seneca

48. “The journey itself is my home.” – Matsuo Basho

49. “Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle

50. “He who would travel happily must travel light.” – Antoine de St. Exupery

I’ll add one of my own quotes here at the end. It’s not just about travel, but life in general.

“The less you have, the less you have to worry about.” Jonny Duncan (me!)

That is to say, travel light and live free. Travel with as little things as possible and you will feel a freedom so strong. I normally travelled in the past with just a 30 litres carry-on backpack and lived a minimal life.

These days I do have a bigger bag but that’s because I’m married and help carry some of my wife’s things.

Solo Travelling Advice

Solo travelling is one of the most rewarding life experiences for you to have. I travelled alone (that is to say left home alone) for 20 or so years.

But you’re never really alone. You will always meet new people, whether they are fellow travellers or locals you meet, and have new experiences in new places together, with lots of memories.

The biggest advice for solo travelling, and what some of these solo travel quotes have said, is simply:

“Don’t be afraid, step out your door, and just go!” Me!

I love solo travel quotes, they just give inspiration for those planning to travel solo and see the world.

Enjoy your solo travelling adventure±

Solo Traveller Quotes

Those are the best solo travel quotes and travel quotes overall. I have used many of these over the past 25 years of travelling, and love them all.

For travel guides and advice for helping you out with your journey take a look at my destinations page.

As I mentioned in the beginning Paul Theroux and Bill Bryson are two of my favourite travel writers, with great solo travel quotes, and have books spanning all over the world, so if you want some great travel reading take a look at some of their books.

The Great Railway Bazaar is old now but a brilliant read and In a Sunburned Country is hilarious. I recommend Bookshop.org as they help support local bookstores.

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35 epic things to do alone in london: solo travel guide by a local.

Are you wondering what to do in London alone? Then you’ve come to the right place.

I am not only a Londoner, born and bred, but I have also been a passionate solo traveller for many years . As I know my hometown like the back of my hand and have first-hand experience of the challenges faced by solo travellers, I can steer you towards the very best things to do alone in London.

Whether you are a culture vulture, a fervent foodie or a seasoned shutterbug, there is something for every traveller. Many of London’s famous attractions make the cut but I have also thrown in less obvious solo activities.

At the end of the article, you’ll also find London solo travel tips, including advice on choosing accommodation and safety tips for female solo travellers.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top 10 Things to Do Alone in London

In a hurry? Let’s cut to the chase.

In no particular order of preference, here are my favourite things to do in London solo.

1. Enrich your mind at one of London’s major museums

Visiting a museum is an ideal thing to do in London by yourself. Better still, entry to the permanent exhibitions in most of London’s museums is free.

Lovers of fashion and design will adore the  Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) , and history buffs will flock to the British Museum . If you are itching to learn more about our natural world, check out the Natural History Museum .

Perhaps I’m biased because I work there as a volunteer, but I love South Kensington’s  Science Museum .

Even if you are not a museum person, the buildings that these collections are housed in are works of art and  London landmarks  in their own right.

2. Visit one of London’s free art galleries

Is art more of your thing? If so, you’ll be spoilt for choice in London. Again, permanent exhibitions are usually free.

For artistic immersion, head to  The National Gallery  on Trafalgar Square.

Or pop into one of London’s Tate Museums .

Visit Tate Britain for a walk through British art history. Or if you love modern art, there’s  Tate Modern  housed in the husk of a disused power station on London’s South Bank.

More intimate galleries that I love are the Wallace Collection, the Queen’s Gallery and the Dulwich Picture Gallery .

3. Be dazzled by the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

The Tower of London is a very popular attraction for very good reasons.

Over its colourful 1,000-year history it has been a fortress and a palace. It was used to store records of government and was the site of a royal menagerie, the Royal Mint and armouries.

READ THIS NEXT: 15 Insider Tips for Visiting the Tower of London

Today’s visitors arrive in their droves to gaze at the Crown Jewels, the gold and gem-encrusted ceremonial items worn by British kings and queens, and to revel in its sometimes gory history. It was from here that Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes were incarcerated and were led to their grisly fate.

Their stories and more are brought to life during the free 45-minute walking tour led by the famous Yeoman Warders, also known as ‘Beefeaters.’ Delivered with style and humour, this is one of the highlights of the Tower of London that can’t be missed.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR THE TOWER OF LONDON HERE . ENTRY TO THE TOWER OF LONDON IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

4. Embrace your inner classic music aficionado at St Martin in the Fields

If classical music is more to your taste,  St Martin in the Fields   holds regular free 30-minute concerts. I love the church’s inexpensive  café  in its crypt and its terrace cafe, both of which are inexpensive lunch options if you are in the Trafalgar Square area.

Another good option for free lunchtime concerts is the historic church of St. James in Picadilly .

5. See London’s highlights on a self-guided tour

Forget about those hop-on-hop-off tourist buses clogging London’s streets. The very best way to see the capital is on foot.

One of my favourite things to do in London is to seek out its familiar, and less familiar, sights by doing a walking tour. And the beauty of doing a self-guided tour is that you can go at your own pace (and skip the less interesting bits).

Insider Tip! Best London Walking Tour Books

• Time Out London Walks: 30 Walks by Writers, Comedians and Historians
• Walking London: Thirty Original Walks in and Around London (Andrew Duncan)
• London’s Hidden Walks (Andrew Duncan)

6. Or join a guided walking tour

If you don’t fancy going it alone, there is a good choice of  guided London walking tours  available to accommodate all interests. This can also be a good way to  meet people as a solo traveller .

From a food walking tour of Borough Market to immersion in Harry Potter’s Muggle land , there’s something for everyone.

Friends have highly recommended the street art tours in East London. However, armed with a little information, you can do this by yourself.

READ THIS NEXT: Street Art in Brick Lane, London: A Self-guided Walking Tour

7. Visit the Sky Garden

For the best free view in town, head to 20 Fenchurch Street, also known as the Walkie Talkie building, home to London’s Garden in the Clouds.

The  Sky Garden  offers a 360-degree panorama of London’s iconic skyline. On a clear day, the views are sensational, from the Tower of London and Canary Wharf to the east, and St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye to the west.

Advance booking  is essential.

READ THIS NEXT: Visiting The Sky Garden, London

8. Or take in the view from The Shard

If your budget can stretch that far, buy a ticket for The View from The Shard.

Soaring to a height of over 310 meters above the River Thames, The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and the highest viewing platform in London. The panorama from its viewing platforms is hard to beat.

For the best prices, buy your ticket from The Shard’s ticket office .

>>> ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

But did you know that you can visit The Shard for free ?

Aqua Shard, one of the building’s six restaurants, offers some of the best views in the building. Although you won’t reach the dizzy heights of level 68 and beyond, its double-height glass walls on floor 31 envelop you in London’s skyline.

Advance reservations are advised.

READ THIS NEXT : How to Visit The Shard for Free: A Local’s Guide

9. Take a riverboat along the Thames

Take a riverboat along the Thames for a leisurely day out and a chance to see many of London’s most famous bridges from a different perspective.

A one-day  River Roamer ticket  gives you unlimited travel on the  Thames Clippers’ service .

This will allow you to hop on and hop off between 23 piers along the river and explore some of the city’s attractions. These include Battersea Power Station to the west, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Tate Modern, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and historic Greenwich to the east.

Alternatively, why not take a traditional Thames River cruise with live commentary? Book your Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise here or your Westminster to Tower Bridge trip here .

10. Lose yourself in Kew Gardens

Strolling around the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of my favourite solo travel London activities.

Home to the world’s largest and most diverse collection of plants – over 50,000 plant species at the last count – Kew Gardens is one of the capital’s treasures.

The Temperate House  and the  Palm House  offer a warm winter refuge for plants and visitors alike and are jewels of Victorian engineering.

Embrace your inner child by walking across the  Treetop Walkway , suspended 18 metres above ground and offering a bird’s eye view of the forest. Or check out Kew Gardens’ art installation,  The Hive , an immersive sight and sound experience.

Although there’s something to see in Kew Gardens all year round, I prefer the explosion of colour in springtime and the spectacular foliage of the arboretum in autumn.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TICKET FOR THE KEW GARDENS. ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS (RESERVATION REQUIRED)

Best Things to Do in London Alone During the Day

11. explore london’s smaller museums.

By ticking off the major museums on our travel bucket lists, there’s the risk that the smaller museums are omitted. If you are in a city for a limited time, this is inevitable as priority is given to the big hitters.

London is home to some wonderful, smaller museums which are perfect for mooching around alone if time permits.

Local’s Tip! My Pick of London’s Best Small Museums

London Cinema Museum – for a journey into cinema’s past

Horniman Museum – a quirky natural history museum in a beautiful setting, famous for its giant stuffed walrus

Museum of Brands – for a surprisingly fascinating insight into marketing and brands.

12. Join a tour or talk at The British Museum

The  British Museum  is one of my favourite hangouts and it has a stimulating programme of events year-round. These range from excellent  free gallery tours , that are led by volunteers, to more in-depth explorations of cultural and historic subjects.

You can just turn up on the day for most of the free gallery tours. However, book online for the paid-for talks as these are very popular.

But if you miss out on the talks, don’t miss out on the museum. It truly has a world-beating collection, from imposing African statues to the glorious Lindisfarne Gospel from Northumbria’s  Holy Island.

13. Dive into WW2 history at the Churchill War Rooms

Step back into the dark days of the Second World War by visiting the fascinating Churchill War Rooms .

This painstakingly preserved subterranean warren was home to Churchill and other top-ranking British officials during World War II. From here, the British government directed the Second World War.

The sense of history is almost tangible.

14. Plan your next solo trip in an old-fashioned bookshop

A bookshop is a perfect refuge for the solo traveller. Sadly, in these days of Amazon – other online retailers are available –  bookshops are becoming rarer, and those with character rarer still.

Luckily for us locals, London has managed to cling onto many of its bookshops.

King amongst these is  Daunt Books  in Marylebone. Solo travellers will be bowled over by its extensive collection of travel publications, perfect for an hour’s browsing.

15. Bag a good spot for the Changing of the Guard

There are few things that Britain does better than pomp and ceremony, and the Changing of the Guard is an excellent place to experience this.

The Changing the Guard is when the King’s Guard transfers responsibility to the New Guard and spans three locations: Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and Wellington Barracks.

This 45-minute ceremony takes place on select days (typically Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) and starts at 11 a.m. Times and days do change and you should check the schedule here .

This spectacle is completely free to watch. That said, to understand what is going on and to bag the best spots, it’s worth looking at this inexpensive walking tour with a local guide.

16. Take a stroll along the Victoria Embankment

There are so many London walks from which to choose but this one takes in many of London’s top sights.

The 2km Victoria Embankment river walk from the Palace of Westminster to Blackfriars Bridge is a perfect way to spend an afternoon by yourself.

If the weather is kind to you, take a break in the  Victoria Embankment Gardens  near Charing Cross Station. A café is open in the warmer months, and there are summer concerts on the garden’s bandstand.

Alternatively, if you are seeking open spaces, walk the Pymmes Brook Trail in North London.

17. Smell the flowers in Columbia Road Market

Visiting at least one market is a good use of time during your solo trip to London. There are so many to choose from:  Portobello Market, Brick Lane Market ,  Old Spitalfields  and  Borough Market  to name but a few.

But my favourite has to be the  Columbia Road Flower Market , which is one of the best things to do in London by yourself on a Sunday.

On one day of the week, this East End road is transformed into a blooming wonderland, the air perfumed with the scent of flowers. Arrive early to get your pick of the blooms (the market opens at 8 am).

Or if you are after a bargain, arrive around 2 pm when the stallholders start to reduce their prices. The market closes at 3 pm.

This area between Shoreditch and Brick Lane is also packed with vintage shops, and fantastic cafes and delis. Perfect for Sunday brunch.

18. Borrow a four-legged friend for the day

If you are missing companionship, why not borrow a dog for the day? The innovative  Borrow My Doggy  pairs dog owners with dog sitters.

What could be better than having a canine companion to explore London with? And you get to help out dog owners.

19. Explore Maritime Greenwich

There are few better solo days out in London than taking the riverboat to Greenwich and exploring its collection of UNESCO-listed buildings. It helps that it has welcoming riverside pubs and restaurants.

Although it is most famous as the place of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian of the world, its buildings and historic landmarks showcase English artistic and scientific endeavours in the 17th and 18th centuries.

• The  Queen’s House  – first Palladian building in England.
• The  Royal Naval Hospital  – originally designed by Christopher Wren and further embellished by other architects, including Nicholas Hawksmoor.
• The  Royal Park  – expansive views over London and home to the  Royal Observatory, Maritime Museum  and Meridian Line.
• The  Royal Observatory  – the baseline for the world’s time zone system and for the measurement of longitude around the globe

20. Take a day trip from London

Thanks to extensive rail connections, it’s super easy to  take a day trip from London .

With its broad shingle beach and cool bohemian air,  Brighton  is a very popular day trip from London. The university cities of  Oxford  and  Cambridge  are also great choices for a day out.

Even Liverpool , home of The Fab Four, is reachable as a day trip from London.

For something a little different, but no less historic, try  Rochester  in Kent , which was once the home of Charles Dickens. Visit one of the  seaside towns in Kent  or walk along the dunes of  Camber Sands  and explore the neighbouring town of  Rye , West Sussex .

Finally, if you’re in the mood for a walk through ancient woodlands, I highly recommend heading to  Epping Forest   in the northeast corner of London, which is spectacular in autumn.

READ THIS NEXT: 31 Easy Day Trips from London by Train

But perhaps you want someone else to take care of all of the arrangements for you or want to benefit from the knowledge of a guide? There are some day trips from London where it makes sense to join an organised tour with a guide.

Here is my pick of the best

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour

Stonehenge is one of the most popular day trips from London but is not the easiest place to reach by public transport, requiring a train and bus/taxi journey. This half-day tour includes a return transfer and an audio guide.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

Three top destinations are bundled into one neat package here. You can choose to visit the interior of Windsor Castle and will benefit from a live guide.

Full-Day Cotswolds Tour 

Like Stonehenge, exploring the Cotswolds’ chocolate box villages can be tricky if you don’t have a car. This excursion visits four of its loveliest villages – Burford, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold – and is led by a live guide.

21. Learn a new skill

Learning a new skill as a solo traveller works well on so many levels. Apart from the potential enrichment resulting from the activity, it is a fun way to spend time in a strange city and a fantastic way to meet new people.

Check out  obby  to find classes that are available around London. There really is something for everyone, from calligraphy and cocktails (assume that the writing comes first!) to eco pouch making with sustainable designers.

22. Take a class at the School of Life.

London’s School of Life  has an extensive programme of classes and workshops, focussing on helping attendees find fulfilment in key areas of their lives.

Speakers discuss a range of subjects from how to find love, to developing your emotional intelligence.

23. Start your weekend with a Park Run

If you are in London by yourself on a Saturday and have your running gear with you, why not take part in a  Park Run ?

These organised 5K runs are great fun as well as good places to meet new people as a solo traveller. Sign up for free on their website.

24. Unleash your inner Ginger Rogers at a dance class

If running isn’t for you, consider dropping into the famous  Pineapple Studios  in Covent Garden for a dance class.

From tap to hip hop, there are classes for all levels, throughout the day and well into the evening. Prices are from £10 for an hour’s session; advance booking is required.

25. Rent a bike to enjoy London’s parks

For something a little more leisurely, rent a bike to explore one or more of London’s wonderful parks. The  Hyde Park loop  is particularly good.

You can rent one of the distinctive  Santander Cycles . Download the Santander Cycles app or go to any docking station with your bank card and touch the screen to get started.

For a fun way to explore London and to meet other solo travellers, join a guided bike tour of London that takes in the city’s highlights such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, as well as some hidden spots.

26. Treat yourself to afternoon tea

There are few more quintessentially English culinary experiences than afternoon tea.

High tea, as it is also called, is usually served between 2 pm and 4 pm and typically includes crustless finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweets and pastries. These are arranged on a tiered platter and are served with your choice of tea (or coffee).

Put aside a few hours for this experience. To make it truly special, why not add a glass of champagne?

Afternoon tea is served in a large number of venues across London (start by checking here ). But you can also combine eating and sightseeing on an afternoon tea bus or having high tea sailing along the Thames .

27. Pack a picnic for one of London’s parks

London is home to more than 3,000 parks, covering almost 18 per cent of the capital. The best known of these are its eight Royal Parks, which include Hyde Park, St. James’s Park and Regent’s Park.

These are the perfect spots for a DIY lunch or supper. Do as the locals do. Grab yourself a “meal deal” from a mini-supermarket (typically a sandwich, drink and fruit/bag of crisps for under a fiver) and pick the perfect spot in the park of your choice.

No dining companions are required.

28. Read a book over a flat white

Let’s be honest. Rain is not an impossibility in London.

Cosying up in a  café  is a good wet weather standby if you are alone in London. Order your coffee – and something decadent to go with it – open up your book or laptop or just people watch.

Solo Travel in London: What to Do at Night

29. lose yourself in a good movie.

Solo cinema-going should be the norm, not the exception.

Let’s face it; why do you need to go with someone else to watch a movie? Whilst a shared post-movie critique can be fun, it’s not as if you’re going to chat with one another during the film. Or I sincerely hope not.

I’m a total cinephile and go to the cinema on a weekly basis at the very least, often on my own. To my mind, hunkering down in a cosy cinema on a winter afternoon takes a lot of beating.

In central London, my go-to place for a dose of movie magic is  Picturehouse Central . Big screens, comfortable seats, good café and thoughtful programming.  Plus its Members’ Bar is one of the best spots in London to grab a drink!

For a boutique cinema experience, try the theatres in the  Everyman Cinema  chain.

As their screens tend to be smaller, this is not the best option for those big blockbuster movies. However, what the Everyman lacks in screen size, it gains in comfy sofas and armchairs, some with footstools, and waiter service to your seat.

For a journey into cinematic past, pick Prince Charles Cinema (off Leicester Square). This retro-styled cinema has a wonderfully eclectic programme at bargain prices for its central location, especially if you take up their cheap membership.

>>> Get inspiration to book your first solo visit to London with these dreamy quotes about singles travel or through these books by female solo travellers

30. Browse the BFI’s Archives in the Mediatheque

Another favourite place to watch a movie is the  British Film Institute (BFI)  on the South Bank, which is also home to the uber-cool Mediatheque.

The Mediatheque comprises booths with comfortable seats where you can settle down with a film or TV programme from the BFI’s extensive and diverse archive collection.

And best of all, it’s absolutely free and open until 9 p.m.

31. Attend evensong at St Paul’s Cathedral

Welcome to another of my favourite places in London, the majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral.

If you are not pushed about scaling the cathedral’s dome, why not attend one of the choral evensong services? You can check the schedule here .

Not only is this completely free, but you also have the opportunity to hear the choir in this acoustically sublime setting.

>>> BUY YOUR TICKET FOR ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL HERE . ENTRY IS INCLUDED IN THE LONDON PASS AND LONDON EXPLORER PASS .

32. Catch a play or musical

Another great thing to do in London by yourself is to go to the theatre.

London has so much going on theatrically, suiting all tastes and budgets. And as a single, it is easier to score a single ticket.

33 Experience Elizabethan London at The Globe Theatre

See Elizabethan theatre brought vividly to life in one of London’s most famous buildings,  Shakespeare’s Globe , built a few hundred meters from the original Globe, where many of Shakespeare’s plays were first performed.

I’ve seen a few productions here and it is an unforgettable experience. In an attempt to reproduce the bawdy atmosphere of 16th-century theatre-going, “groundlings” stand in the central space in front of the stage. Applauding and jeering are actively encouraged.

As much of Shakespeare’s Globe is open to the elements, the theatre operates a summer programme only. Groundling tickets sell for as little as £5.

34. Dine at a supper club

The prospect of  eating out alone  is enough to bring even the most experienced solo traveller out in a cold sweat.

If you are visiting London alone and don’t fancy a table for one, why not try one of the city’s  supper clubs ?

These imitate spaces are where aspiring chefs test their offerings before committing to the rent of a permanent home. As such, you can eat very well for a fraction of the usual price.

Plump for one that offers long sharing tables, which are good places to strike up conversations with new people.

READ THIS NEXT: Solo Dining with Style: 21 Tips To Make Eating Out Alone Fun

35. Sip a G&T in a  London pub

I’ve saved one of the best things to do alone in London until last.

Few things are as quintessentially British as a pub, and just because you are travelling alone doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on this experience.

One of my favourite central London pubs is the  Fitzroy Tavern  on Charlotte Street in Fitzrovia. This Victorian boozer oozes history and has been the haunt of many a London luminary over the years, including Dylan Thomas.

Head upstairs to bag one of the pub’s comfy armchairs. Write your journal, read a good book and order a glass or two of your favourite nectar. And you never know, you may soon make new friends.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller in London

Choosing the right place to stay as a solo traveller is an essential part of your travel planning.

London is a pricey city in which to stay, especially if you are travelling alone. You’ll pay a premium for staying within the central (transport) Zone 1; prices usually start to drop the further you venture.

Base yourself in one of these zone 1 neighbourhoods: buzzy Soho or Covent Garden , trendy Hoxton , elegant Mayfair , or Islington with its abundance of excellent bars and restaurants. All of these areas have good transport links.

Here are a few options to consider:

Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden

Centrally located on The Strand, one of London’s most historic streets , this aparthotel offers a range of rooms, including those with a kitchenette. I have used Staycity in France and was very impressed.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK

Citadines, Islington

These modern studio apartments in the heart of Islington have all you need for a successful solo trip to London, including a fully equipped kitchenette.

Covent Garden Hotel

This wonderfully located hotel in the charming Seven Dials area of London is one of the boutique Firmdale Group properties in London. It’s not cheap but it is one of the best places to treat yourself (it also has a great bar and restaurant).

9 Hertford Street

This one-bedroom apartment is a more affordable luxury choice, a stone’s throw from Green Park. Extremely elegant but also functional.

>>> None of these places takes your fancy? Check out other great accommodation choices in London here .

London Solo Travel Tips

Getting around london.

London is a surprisingly walkable city. The key is to pick a neighbourhood and stick with it.

That said, it’s very unlikely that you’ll avoid the need to use public transport in the capital .

The London Underground, or “Tube,” network is extensive and covers most areas, at least north of the river. But it’s hard to beat bagging the front seat at the top of one of the city’s red double-decker buses, which serve some of the areas the Tube doesn’t reach.

Contactless payment or pre-paid Oystercards make it easy to use the capital’s buses and trains

The London River Bus is a tourist activity in itself, providing a more leisurely way of getting from A to B. Additionally, iconic London black cabs, Uber and Bolt are readily available.

Cycling is increasingly popular, thanks to London’s growing network of bike lanes.

Solo Travel London: Safety Advice

London is one of the safest and best destinations for solo travellers in Europe , even for those who are taking their first solo trip . For English speakers, the locals talk your language. This is one of the most diverse cities on the planet and one that is tolerant of all types of people. Save the occasional wobble, London’s transport system is extensive and user-friendly. This is a very busy city at all times of the year, and this activity helps to keep things safe. As in many cities, petty crime is not unusual. I have friends who have had their bags swiped on the Tube and valuables lifted by nimble-fingered pickpockets in pubs.

Remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you, stash your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I have  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Take steps to keep safe as a female solo traveller . A little bit of common sense goes a long way. If a street or an area doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and don’t go wandering alone. Avoid walking through London’s parks after sunset.

READ THIS NEXT : 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

How to meet people in London

My Italian friends love London but cannot understand why people don’t make eye contact on the Tube, let alone talk to one another. And here’s the thing; striking up random conversations with strangers on public transport or on London’s streets is a no-no.

It’s not that the natives are inherently unfriendly or rude; it’s just not the cultural norm. But the good news is that there are a number of better ways to meet people as a solo traveller in London.

Although my days of sleeping in a dorm are behind me , I’ll be the first to admit that hostels are great places to meet other travellers.

As I’ve mentioned, joining a day tour or activity, learning a new skill or taking part in a Park Run are all ways to meet people.

Perhaps you are an avid photographer or a keen walker? Then why not indulge your passion and meet other people using Meetup . This online tool lists events that cater to a vast range of interests.

You can also make use of apps like Tourlina or Backpackr to find travel companions and locals.

The great British pub is always a good bet, especially if you prop up the bar.

READ THIS NEXT : 21 Easy Ways to Meet People While Travelling Alone

Saving money as a solo traveller in London

London has a not undeserved reputation as an expensive city. However, there are ways that you can save money when visiting London alone.

There are tons of free activities , from London’s first-class museums and galleries to its acres of parkland.

Eating out doesn’t need to cost a packet. Buy food supplies from small supermarkets dotted across London (e.g. Tesco Express) and stick to cheap and mid-range eateries.

London has two excellent sightseeing passes .

Use the London Pass for unlimited sightseeing across 90+ attractions over a set number of days. Alternatively, a London Explorer Pass allows you to decide how many attractions you would like to visit in a 60-day period.

Buy your London Pass here , and your London Explorer Pass here . To find out more, check out my London Pass review or this lowdown on the London Explorer Pass .

Thank you for reading my solo travel London guide

I hope that these ideas and tips help you have the best London solo trip. If you are looking for more information about what to do in London, take a look at some of my other articles below.

ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE? THEN READ THESE NEXT!

• 30 Famous London Landmarks
• 30 Famous Streets in London You Must Visit
• 23 Famous Bridges in London
• 32 Easy Day Trips from London by Train
• Virtual London Tours: The 10 Best Armchair Travel Experiences
• 10 Tasty Foods in London That You Must Try

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman is a Londoner who has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

15 Once-in-a-Lifetime Solo Trips for Seniors

Posted: January 20, 2024 | Last updated: January 22, 2024

Flying Solo

Don't fight the urge to travel in retirement if it means traveling alone. The best trips for solo travelers over the age of 50 provide opportunities to safely go on exciting adventures while meeting new people. Wondering what interesting destinations to add to your bucket list? We've pulled together 15 unforgettable, wallet-friendly trips, both domestic and international, that'll inspire you to hit the road or hop on a plane, train, or boat — or simply explore local attractions — to see the world in a whole new way.

1. Get Inspired in Santa Fe, New Mexico

With its warm, dry climate and copious outdoor adventures, rich cultural history, and vibrant arts and culture scene, it's no wonder Santa Fe — the oldest state capital in the U.S. — is such a hit with the 50-plus crowd. Single travelers can immerse themselves in the community by visiting the historic plaza , which dates back to the early 1600s and continues to host a wide range of events — from markets to concerts. History buffs can tour the San Miguel Mission, various museums focused on the region’s Native American traditions, and the nearby Puye Cliff Dwellings, once home to more than a thousand Pueblo people. The Spanish colonial adobe city in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is also more saturated with art galleries and museums than almost anywhere else in the world — all within walking distance or a short drive from the town square.

2. Discover Charleston, South Carolina

Deemed the region's best city , Charleston is oozing with history and hospitality — from charming buildings and walkways to friendly locals. Solo senior travelers, even those with limited mobility, will find it easy to get around and connect with others through the Southern city's varied group tours — from ghostly graveyard walks to food tours to history lessons via horse-drawn carriage, boat, or bus. For a city so closely tied to both the American Revolution and Civil War, it's also surprisingly contemporary — its restaurant and boutique hotel scene is constantly reinventing itself, making it a popular spot for weekend exploring. It's also loaded with free and cheap fun .

3. Visit the Nation's Capital

With its smorgasbord of cultural, architectural, and historical landmarks to see, every American should visit Washington at least once. Entrance to many noteworthy museums like the National Museum of Natural History and National Air and Space Museum is free, and visiting iconic memorials along the National Mall and many other free activities can give budget-conscious travelers a big bang for their buck. For an inexpensive, flexible, and relatively easy way to navigate the city's multitude of attractions, go on a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour — even a night tour of the capital city’s illuminated monuments and memorials. You might just meet a potential travel buddy or a new friend along the way.

Try Cheapism Search and Save , a new tool that lets you search the web and see the latest from Cheapism.com, all in one place.

4. Embark on an Alaskan Cruise

For a vacation within the U.S., a cruise through Alaska's extraordinarily beautiful and rugged wilderness can be as relaxing or as active as you'd like. Midsize cruises through Alaska’s Inside Passage — a coastal waterway boasting wildlife-filled fjords and lush scenery — can access ports that aren't open to larger ships. Sail through Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve for unrivaled views of Alaska's massive glaciers, fjords, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife. Adventurous types can fill their itineraries with excursions: skiing, mountain biking, ice-fishing, white water rafting, helicopter tours, and train rides through majestic mountain ranges and charming Alaskan towns.

5. Traverse California's Pacific Coast Highway,

A scenic road trip can be an excellent, budget-friendly way to explore stretches of the U.S. you've never seen before. From San Francisco to San Diego, California's Pacific Coast Highway — or California Highway 1 — provides a glimpse of some of America's most dramatic coastal vistas. Take in Bay views and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco before heading south to San Diego — winding slowly through surf towns with fresh seafood, state parks touting a range of outdoor activities, the rugged coastal mountains and cliffs of Big Sur (between San Simeon and Carmel), vineyards, kitschy roadside attractions , and more.

6. Relax in the Florida Keys

For travelers who want to relish in a slower-paced vacation, Key West is one of the best places to visit. Renowned for its laid-back attitude, pastel-colored houses, and coral reefs, the southernmost city in the continental U.S. is America's slice of the Caribbean. Because of its close proximity to Havana, it's also a tropical paradise with delicious Cuban-inspired cuisine. Be sure to sample the island's beachfront eateries and take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.

7. Explore the U.S. National Parks

From scenic drives through forests and wildflowers in the Great Smoky Mountains to ranger-led nature walks amid Yellowstone's geysers to canoeing through the Grand Canyon, the marvels of the U.S. national parks are accessible to travelers with a range of interests and physical abilities. Seniors (ages 62-plus) in the U.S. can buy a lifetime senior pass for $80 (or annual pass for $20) and visit more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, grasslands, and more. After an inspirational and wallet-friendly trip to one or many national parks across the country, you'll return home with a newfound respect for nature and the world around you.

Related:   19 Money-Saving Tips for Visiting National Parks

8. Ride a Train Through the Canadian Rockies

Admire the stunning natural landscape of the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of a train car. A rail journey from Banff to Vancouver (or vice versa) through western Canada's snow-capped mountain region via the top-of-the-line Rocky Mountaineer features gourmet meals, plush seating, and glass-domed observation cars and open-air vestibules for unobstructed views of the region's dramatic peaks and glacier-fed, turquoise lakes. Meals and overnight hotel accommodations are included, and travelers can customize their trips, which run April through October, by booking optional sightseeing tours and cruises to enjoy even more of the breathtaking scenery in and around national parks like Jasper and Banff.

Related:   40 Spectacular Train Trips Across America and Beyond

9. Enjoy a Leisurely European River Cruise

10. Witness the Northern Lights

For many travelers, witnessing the kaleidoscopic northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is an often elusive, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — considering appearances can be unpredictable, based on weather, darkness, and solar activity. But there are many exciting destinations for viewing the spectacular natural light show. From Alaska to Sweden, guided tours accommodate seekers of this remarkable natural phenomenon — and other invigorating outdoor activities like husky trekking in the Arctic wilderness and soaks in hot mineral springs.

11. Experience Machu Picchu in Peru

Retirement trips are the perfect excuse to visit some of the most amazing cultural sites around the world, and Machu Picchu — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World — should be on every adventure traveler's bucket list. Join a guided group tour for help planning the trip and a chance to meet new people while visiting the awe-inspiring, ancient Incan citadel and temple set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru. There are many ways to reach the ruins , depending on your fitness level. Active retirees can hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Alternatively, take a luxurious and scenic train ride from Cusco via a rail service like the Pullman-style train Belmond Hiram Bingham.

12. Spot Wildlife on a South African Safari

Get up close and personal with incredible wildlife on a bucket-list-worthy safari adventure in South Africa. With most days spent in all-terrain vehicles observing the " Big Five " roaming the boundless landscapes, excursions are often low impact and popular with budget-conscious boomers. Book a fully guided safari package through Kruger National Park , one of Africa’s largest game reserves, or another affordable day or multi-day Cape Town safari adventure . Other attractions include vineyard tours, beach getaways, and a tram ride up Table Mountain.

Related:   21 Places to Safely See Wild Animals Up Close

13. Find Your Bliss in Italy

Rent a villa to experience Tuscany for a month, hike through the centuries-old seaside villages of Cinque Terre, or wander Rome's world-renowned art museums and ancient ruins. People ages 50-plus traveling solo certainly have their pick of beautiful Italian cities, coastal villages, and countryside towns for their next big adventure. If going alone is overwhelming, companies specializing in international group trips and activities for singles ages 50 and over — like Singles Travel International , U.K.-based Solos Holidays , and Tauck World Discovery — can help you plan your getaway to Italy, and some offer room sharing options and trips free of the single supplement fee .

14. Kick Your Heels Up in San Antonio

For those traveling within the U.S., Texas cities are super-affordable places to explore. In particular, San Antonio — ranked No. 16 among the best cheap vacation destinations by U.S. News & World Report — is a must-visit spot in the state. San Antonio's burgeoning restaurant scene, the Alamo historic site (the five area missions are Texas' only UNESCO World Heritage site), and the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns make it a unique place to explore on a budget. With its famed River Walk, San Antonio is also very pedestrian friendly. 

15. Czech Out Prague

While there are many amazing places to visit in the Czech Republic, the capital city of Prague is the perfect, inexpensive European city for solo travelers, even for those new to going it alone, no matter the season. Excellent public transportation and Uber make getting around convenient; you can easily communicate in English in most places; and there are plenty of offbeat hostels for bumping into like-minded travelers. The beautiful, walkable city is brimming with history and art. Visit the "largest coherent castle complex in the world," the Prague Castle , and take in unique public art like these bizarre sculptures . Then fill up on cheap hearty meals and beer after all the sightseeing.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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