Many think about doing a solo-trip but never do it. Years later they regret it. Perhaps you are one of them who have been undecided for some time. Maybe you are inspired by someone who often travels by him or herself, or by photos others post on social media? Or could it be that you just simply want to try out solo-travelling? Instead of asking “How to start my solo-travelling adventures”, one should ask “where to start?“.
I have been solo-travelling extensively since my early twenties. Many ask me about a good place to start. Often it has to be safe, easy to get around, and has plenty of exciting things to offer. Obviously some countries are far more easygoing and less challenging when you go there on your own.
In general, I’d say there are four factors that can make your first solo-trip go more smoothly and with less worries. These are: entry requirements i.e. visas, safety, English proficiency, and tourism infrastructure. If there are no visa requirements or the process to obtain a visa is simple, then that is one less worry. Safety is important. You don’t want to constantly be on your guard, escpecially if the place you are visiting is known for having a higher rate of petty or violent crime. Unless you know the local language, visiting a country where a majority of people speak English as first- or second language is advantageous. Lastly, tourism infastructure encompasses everything from public transport, hotels, museums, tour agencies, cultural sites and attractions. Basically everything needed to enable tourism. The more developed, the better.
Before I present my own personal list, I want to include some benefits of solo-travelling.
Benefits of solo-travelling
Let’s say, you have few family obligations or might even be single, have the financial means, health, and free time, then travelling on your own is one of the most rewarding and exciting activites you can do in your life. You get the oppurtunity to travel anywhere on your own terms, meet new people, gain cultural reflections, and above all, have experiences and memories of a lifetime. In addition, you will also boost your confidence as well as become more comfortable on your own.
For a lot of people the thought of travelling solo can be intimidating and daunting. However, once you arrive at your desired travel destination, you have officially and literally stepped out of your comfort zone. From there on, solo-travelling becomes easier for every time. As an additional bonus, you have now unlocked the entire world for you to explore. Of course ,one destination at a time.
5. Poland
I have visited Poland many times over the years, and is easily one of my favourite countries. Whether you like spending time on the beaches and spa resorts along the tri-city of Sopot-Gdynia-Gdansk in the summer, visiting ski resorts in the mountains close to Zakopane in the winter, or just stroll around the beautiful old town of Kraków, then Poland can offer you a lot.
The reason why Poland is included in this list is because in my opinion the country scores high in terms of safety. For example, violent crime such as muggings or being victim of an unprovoked assault is extremely low. Just based on my personal experience, I’d be as bold and claim Poland to be one of the safest countries in Europe.
You can easily get around with just English, atleast in the major cities. Poland also has a well-developed tourism infrastructure since many cities and regions rely heavily upon tourism. Hotel accomodations tend to be cheaper than other countries in Europe.
If safety is your main concern, then I highly recommend Poland as a candidate for solo-travelling
4. Denmark
Of all the Scandinavian countries, why would I recommend Denmark over my own home country Norway? In terms of safety and English-proficiency, both countries rank high. However, for a first-time traveller, Denmark scores slightly better for several reasons.
Firstly, infrastructure and public transport is much better developed than in Norway. It also helps that Denmark is a smaller country making it more convenient to see other parts of the country. Secondly, I just think Danes are much more friendlier and approachable than Norwegians. Thirdly and as an added bonus, food and services are cheaper in Denmark.
In reality, any Scandinavian or Nordic country is great choice for an aspiring solo-traveller. If one has to choose one of them, then go for Denmark.
3. Singapore
The only Asian country on this list. In terms of safety, no other country apart from maybe Japan or Korea, can beat Singapore. Singapore takes security and safety very serious which are reflected on the strict penalties the country enforces. Violent crime is virtually non-excistent.
In addition, the level of trust and honesty among the population are high. One tour guide told me that one can leave your laptop at a cafe and be gone for a few hours, and your stuff will still be there when you return. Given the amount of CCTV-surveillance in the country, it’s safe to assume that he is right.
English is also among the official languages in Singapore, so communicating with the locals isn’t really a problem.
Being a city state, Singapore has practically all of the tourist attraction within walking or atleast cycling distance. Public transport in Singapore is among the best in the world. Enough said.
I often recommend Singapore for a first-time solo-traveller if you want to experience Asia, but you still want to be in a safe and comfortable location.
2. Ireland
When asked about THE country to visit first if you have never travelled solo before, my answer is always Ireland, including both the southern Republic of Ireland as well as Northern Ireland. What makes Ireland such a great choice for aspiring solo-travellers?
Firstly, Ireland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Secondly, due to Ireland’s long shared history with England and later the United Kindom, both good and bad, English is now the second official language together with Irish. Thirdly, the tourism sector is one of the largest contributor to the national economy of Ireland, generating both revenues and job opportunities. Tourism infrastructure is well-developed and there are many proffesional tour agencies based in Dublin that offer a variety of day-tours as well as cultural experiences. These include excursions to famous places such as the Cliffs of Moher to the west, Wicklow Mountains in the countryside, Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, visits to beer breweries etc.
In my opinion, the Irish are one of the friendliest and most approachable people I’ve met. Meeting the locals or fellow travellers can be as easy as visiting the nearby pub.
1. Your own country or local area
Before you consider about travelling abroad for the first time, the best place to visit first is arguably your own country. You already know the language, cultural norms, which places that are worth visiting, and you are likely familiar on how to get around. You ceirtantly don’t need a visa. So, basically, become a tourist in your own country.
The whole idea of my list is to make you comfortable on your own by building your confidence one step at a time. I recommend starting off by visiting local natural trails, museums, cultural attractions, visiting cafes or restaurants in your own city etc. These are the same activities you will do on your solo trips, but in a different country.
Only when you are 100% comfortable doing things on your own, then you are truly ready for your first solo-adventure and explore what the world has to offer.