Seeing the world solo can be really fun – but, as women travelling alone, we are often on the receiving end of more than one… let’s say uncomfortable situation.
But the experience of a life time (not to sound dramatic, but it really is something to brag about) is within reach. To get a little bit cliché, travelling solo will ‘broaden your horizons’ and ‘change your life’. But like, it actually will. Not to mention it’ll load you up with anecdotes to fill up any future awkward pauses for any situation (blind-dates, meet the parents, bad interviews – you name it!)
And really, why should you sit around waiting for friends to commit to travelling when you can pick them up on the trip (cheeky, not like that). If you honestly need any more persuasion, I’m here for you – with 5 reasons (and tips) on why to become a badass solo female traveller.
So where are the best places to go? The safest? Surely asking for the best and the safest places isn’t too much to ask? Nope, it’s not and here they are. All you need to do is go for it (and save up).
Women travelling alone in Europe
I’m guessing Europe already seems like a pretty safe set of destinations. But even in Europe, there is safe and safer. Try getting an interrailing ticket for a month, so that you can hop on and off any trains at your leisure. That’s the beauty of travelling alone after all. Alternatively, you can see the world by bike – and here are the best bicycle routes in all of Europe!
Avoid falling asleep on the train alone though – check out our TOP safety tips for women
Here are our top 2 faves:
#1 Berlin, Germany
Ja, ja – this is indeed a classic – Berlin should be on any Europe-themed travel bucket list. (Not that we’re based or anything ☺ Hello, we’re MyPostcard, we live here, nice to meet you).
Germans are famously good at English, which’ll probably make you feel more at home already. Although if you’re ready to wack out your ‘Sprechen-Sie-Deutsch’ skills, we’re behind you all the way. Way, way behind, letting you do all the talking ☺
What’s more, Berlin, as an international cultural hotspot of Europe has plenty of guided tour trips, along with tons of fellow travellers waiting to meet you. If calling the shots by travelling alone, but touring in a group is your thing, you’ll definitely pick up some friends here.
Here’s the best kept secret spots of Berlin to get you going…
#2 Ghent, Belgium
The hidden gem that is Ghent needs to be uncovered! Although Belgium in general in relatively low on serious crime, Ghent as a less commonly visited spot than, say, Brussels ranks lower on petty crime too (but we’re not suggesting you start waving your iPhone X around either!)
That being said, there are also plenty of tourists here, so the city is pretty tourist friendly. Police are friendly, and public transport is great – so ideal for women travelling alone really!
You’re going here for the all-round beauty and history. Think medieval castles and guildhalls… So romantic, there’s a knight on a white horse at every traffic light.
Out and about in The Americas
#3 Montreal, Canada
We’ve all heard rumours about Canadians being insanely friendly – and it turns out its true, hurrah!
Not only are the locals friendly, but the crime rate is relatively low.
Settled by French colonists in the 17th century, this place has got more than a touch of Parisian about it, making for a lovely walk around the Old Montreal or through the Jean-Talon Market. If I had to describe it in one word? Yum!
#4 Buenos Aires, Argentina
This is definitely one where you should take off all jewellery and keep anything precious in a locker not on you. But, as a massive tourist destination, this is one of Argentina’s safer – and incidentally, cooler – cities.
Must visit: the Recoleta Cemetery. It may sound like an odd entry for a safety-wary traveller, but this place is seriously atmospheric. Home to the rich and powerful (dead) of Argentina, there was no expense paid on these tooms. And it’s free. Hopefully poltergeist free too.
For all the coffee lovers: In Buenos Aires, you can find one of the most exciting TOP Cafe Spots worldwide.. the Fiii Fun House.
Women travelling alone hints for Asia
#5, Hong Kong, China
Hong-Kong just so happens to be one of the safest destinations in the world, with very low violent-crime rates. Just avoid typhoon season and beware of people selling you fake ‘brand’ products as the real thing.
If you would like to avoid avid male attention in China, then research any night clubs you would like to go to carefully. As a tourist city however, most clubs in Hong Kong will cater to you and your safety as a tourist.
While you’re here: shop ‘till you drop. Then get up and do it again. Underneath that jaw-dropping skyline are some amazing shopping opportunities. Temple Street Night market is a very good shout – keep your valuables close!
#6 Kep, Cambodia
After all your travelling through cities, you might be needing a rest by now? Head to Kep in Cambodia, a seaside resort which used to be exclusively for the star-studded rich and now opens its arms to the star-studded you.
Kep is all about the sunsets and the sea, so expect to be hiking, relaxing or drinking in the view (or a cocktail).
It’s a pretty quiet area and tends to be very safe for travellers – but look out for medical issues. Health care here is in the way of basic, so you’ll need to head back into Phnom Penh for anything that looks serious. And while you’re there, make sure to avoid Phnom Penh’s isolated areas, particularly at night.
Solo female travel in Africa
#7 Marrakech, Morocco
Oh, Marrakech – I can’t imagine a bucket list without it. Bright colours and busy vibes to wow you and an amazing culture to match. Remember to respect that culture though – I’m all for a mini skirt, but for this trip it’d be wise to leave it at home. Avoiding male attention means covering up legs, arms and chest.
Like many places in Morocco, there are however some things to keep in mind while
You’re still not 100% convinced? Then it’s time to read these 10 magical reasons to visit Marrakech!
Oceania as a perfect place for women travelling alone
#8 Port Douglas, Australia
Port Douglas is a gorgeous little coastal town with the added bonus of being bang on the Great Barrier Reef. If the fact that it is situated on “Coral Sea” doesn’t do it for you, I don’t know what will.
There’s an enclosed area for swimming at the beach to keep you safe in the water, while conditions out of the water become unsafe during the marine stinger season – so stay away between November and May. Other than that, this town is one of the safest travel destinations that Australia has to offer. And one of the coolest!
Under blue skies and surrounded by turquoise seas there are opportunities abound. I’d start with a guided trip into the rainforest…
For some more great travel tips on Australia, click here!
Can’t get enough of having an absolute ball and feeling safe while you’re at it? The top three countries in the world for safety are Iceland, New Zealand and Austria – so make sure to fit them on your list!
In the meantime, dive into these 10 budget-friendly beauties in Europe and our travel safety tips that womxn travelling alone can’t afford to ignore.
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