While travelling alone doesn't appeal to everyone, a solo trip can be incredibly memorable and rewarding if you do it right. We've rounded up some of the best places for solo travel, which are fun, friendly, and most importantly - safe.
Inter-railing across Europe:
Explore Europe at your own pace and with your own itinerary by Inter-railing. Book a global pass and you can travel anywhere from Austria to Turkey and everywhere between, for as little as £192 for five-days of travel within 15 days. An easy and affordable way to make your foray into solo travel, you'll get a real feel for each country travelling by train, and are bound to meet fellow travellers having a similar adventure of their own on your trip.
Barcelona, Spain:
Barcelona is an ideal place for a solo city break, with so much to keep you entertained during your visit that you won't miss out on any company. Tour La Sagrada Familia and the city sights and spend an afternoon relaxing on the beach before heading to a bar for tapas, sangria and people watching after dark.
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Safari in Kenya:
You're sure to meet new people and have an experience to remember on safari. Whether you decide to join a group tour or hire a guide to take you out on a solo adventure, make sure you take your camera to impress your friends and family back home with your photos of the 'Big Five'.
Thailand:
A favourite among backpackers, and for good reason, Thailand is a friendly and welcoming place for people travelling alone. Head down to the southern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao or Koh Phagnan and you're bound to find interesting people to talk to over a pint of Singha should you wish. There's loads to keep you entertained aside from hitting the beautiful beaches too; explore historic temples, discover incredible waterfalls or learn to dive for a travel experience you'll never forget.
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Lombok and the Gili Islands, Indonesia:
For an active solo travel adventure head to Lombok and the Gili Islands, where you'll have fun trying your hand at surfing, snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters. Bali's neighbour has become increasingly popular with solo travellers; if you want to make new friends and let your hair down head to Trawangan, the Gili Island known for its party culture.
Ireland:
There are few places more welcoming than Ireland for a solo traveller. Hire a car and explore the beautiful countryside and scenery this charming country has to offer, and be sure to visit the traditional Irish pubs during your stay. As well as being treated to live music and a fun, carefree environment, you're likely to make some new friends while you're there, too.
New York:
You can do exactly what you want on a solo visit to New York, whether it's checking out that new exhibition at the Met that your partner wouldn't be interested in or just wandering the streets checking out the iconic landmarks as you go. Nobody would bat an eyelid if you visited a restaurant or bar in this bustling city alone, but you could also grab a bite to eat from one of the food stalls or markets, before exploring Central Park, Brooklyn or the Financial District.
Copenhagen, Denmark:
For a short weekend break head to Copenhagen, a laidback capital city that is small enough that you can see the best it has to offer in just a couple of days. The city is easy to explore on foot, but make like a local and hire a bike - the city has more bicycles than people, and has plenty of cycle routes to take you around the major landmarks.
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The East Coast, Australia:
Another well-known backpacking trail, travel between Melbourne and Cairns and you'll be treated to some incredible experiences every stop of the way. It's easy to meet new people here, just head to any one of the surf towns or hostels and you're sure to find a fellow solo traveller willing to chat, or join a sailing trip to the Whitsunday Islands for a fun bonding experience.
Japan:
Step out of your comfort zone and venture to the futuristic capital of Japan, Tokyo. While it may be a little overwhelming, Tokyo has lots to offer solo travellers, and is easy to get around. Alternatively, head out of town to see Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, which you can also climb up if you travel during July and August.
Queenstown, New Zealand:
For a far-flung adventure head to New Zealand, and the picturesque lakeside town of Queenstown on the South Island. Take a daytrip tour of Milford Sound and you'll be treated to seeing penguins, seals and dolphins swimming alongside the boat, or spend a few hours of peaceful reflection sat on the edge of Lake Wakatipu.
Reykjavik, Iceland:
Considered the safest destination for solo travel, Reykjavik should be high on your list for your next trip. The city has beautiful architecture and scenery to explore, and if you're lucky you might catch a glimpse at the Northern Lights should you visit between October and March.