The Best Places for Solo Travel

International travel can be a daunting task. While travel is one of the most exciting experiences life can offer, it’s frightening to be immersed in a culture completely different from your own. What’s even scarier is doing it on your own. We, as humans, have a tendency to cling to other people like us and most of us never like to be alone for too long. So, what about those who want to experience what the world has to offer all by ourselves? Where can we go to get out of our comfort zone and explore the world in a way that is safe for solo travelers? Don’t worry; Classy Destinations has you covered. Here are some of the places that make solo traveling an absolute pleasure:

• New York:
  • For a solo vacation here in the States, New York is an obvious choice. The Big Apple is full of activities that will keep you busy. Wander through the Met at your own pace, take a stroll through Central Park, and window shop down Fifth Avenue without having to wonder if you’re taking too long. You can keep your nights busy as well by getting solo tickets to Broadway shows. You can see the musicals you want to see and stage-door after the show with other fans who will make pleasant conversation about their favorite parts and actors. You’ll never feel lost in the City That Never Sleeps.
• London:
  • London is one of the best cities for first-time solo travelers and those traveling internationally for the first time as well. There’s no language barrier (unless you want to count iconic British slang) and you can get around using just a credit card if you don’t want to convert any currency. There is no shortage of things to see and explore. Wander underground through the Churchill War Rooms, see the city from above on the London Eye, and chat with the locals at authentic pubs. The Tube is easy to navigate and train travel isn’t expensive if you want to get out of the city. There’s an abundance of rooftop bars to keep your nights occupied as you take in the views or see a show on the West End to be blown away by the talent.
• Paris:
  • The City of Lights is perfect for solo travelers, especially those who have a love of the arts. No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Louvre and, the best part is, you can explore it to your heart’s content. You don’t have to worry about taking too long or trying to see as much as you can in the least amount of time. Wander the halls at your own pace and take in every brushstroke and detail. Get Paris’ Museum Pass and get 6 days of entrance to 50 different sites! Forget about the present and revel in the past without having to worry about other people rushing you on to the next exhibit or site.
• Barcelona:
  • Barcelona is an extremely walkable city and perfect for those going solo. The cafe-lined streets are perfect for people watching and tapas bars are guaranteed to make you feel like a local. Wander to architectural sites and take in famous works by Gaudi, like La Sagrada Familia. Shop down Las Ramblas and find your favorite brands right next to local artisans. If you want to get out of the city, you can easily use public transportation to make your way to the beach. Spain is also known for hospitality that makes travellers feel right at home so don’t worry about ever feeling lost or alone.
• Iceland:
  • Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world (and has topped the Global Peace Index since 2008) which means that it is perfect for solo travel. Stay in Reykjavik for access to all the top spots. The Perlan provides sweeping views of the city with a real indoor ice cave. The concrete Hallgrímskirkja church and sanctuary is one of the most visited places in Reykjavik and is an ode to Icelandic landscape. Experience the real Icelandic landscape by leaving town for the day. Tours to the Golden Circle (and famous Blue Lagoon) start with pick-up in Reykjavik, making it easy to see absolutely everything you want.
• Japan
  • Japan is known for its cultural emphasis on respect and kindness. Travelers to Japan will feel welcomed and safe as soon as you enter the country. Staying in one of the famous capsule hotels in Tokyo is perfect for parties of one and will provide a truly unforgettable experience. Restaurants in the city are known for being kind to solo diners and some have individual dining cubicles for those who truly want to be alone. Restaurants in Japan have even gone viral for putting giant teddy bears at tables with solo diners so you feel less alone. Take a bullet train and experience traditional Japanese tea in Kyoto, relax in some hot springs, or pay respects at temples. Japan is perfect for those who truly want to experience a completely different culture in a way that’s safe.
• New Zealand:
  • New Zealand is often called the most beautiful country in the world and it’s also one of the safest. Taking the number 2 spot on the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is another destination that’s perfect for those traveling solo. Again, there is no language barrier, so there is no added anxiety, either. The country is easy to get around and New Zealand is perfect for movie buffs who want to explore the natural wonders of the country while roaming where the Hobbits did. Lord of the Rings tours are extremely popular with travelers of all ages. Outside of movie tours, New Zealand has it all. Volcanoes, wineries, art galleries, hiking, and more are right at your fingertips and you’re sure to make friends with some locals along the way. ​