10 Coolest Vacation Spots to Travel Solo
New Year’s Resolution check-in time: How many of us resolved to travel more often as part of our 2016 plans? And how many of us still have their overnight bags collecting dust on their closet floors? “Travel more” is one of the most popular resolutions to make and one of the easiest to let fall by the wayside (hey, we’re all busy!). Here’s the thing: You don’t have to wait for your partner or BFF’s schedule to match your own to get out of town.
Traveling solo has become the new norm for women looking to expand their horizons on their own terms and time. These solo destinations are sure to satisfy your wanderlust, whether you’re a fearless flyer with a few weeks vacation or a nervous novice looking for a quick weekend away. We’ve done the planning for you; now all you’ve got to do is figure out the perfect hashtag for Instagram and you’re good to go!
1. Costa Rica: Not only is Costa Rica a safe place to visit, it’s also an affordable one! There are so many great hostels where you can sleep, play and make new friends. The country is basically one giant national park, so you can spend your days alternating between laying on the beach and zip lining through the trees.
2. Bali, Indonesia: Elizabeth Gilbert found herself a new husband when she took a solo trip to Bali, so we’re definitely into the idea of Eat, Pray, Love-ing it and heading to the Indonesian paradise for a solo getaway. You won’t need to plan much in the way of entertainment — swimming, yoga, snorkeling and relaxing are the only four things you’ll need to remember to do every day.
3. New Zealand: The entire country came in at the number one spot on Travel and Leisure’s list of Best Countries to Travel Solo. It’s an adrenaline junkie’s dream with a laundry list of outdoor activities at your finger tips.
4. Montreal, Quebec: If you’re looking for that old world European feel but are stuck stateside, hop the New York border and get your cobblestone street fill in Montreal, Quebec. It’s a foodie city with the Anthony Bourdain stamp of approval and hosts some pretty major musicfestivals every year.
5. Chicago, Illinois: Chicago is one of the easiest cities to navigate in the US (their subway system rocks!). Wander the stalls at Eataly, catch a show at Second City (who knows, maybe you’ll run into Stephen Colbert making a surprise return visit) or check out one of the city’s many festivals and fairs over a long weekend alone.
6. Palm Springs, California: Palm Springs is a hipster oasis in the middle of the California desert and an ideal spot to recharge on a solo weekend trip. Get a room at the Parker and while away the daylight hours under a striped umbrella by the pool with a glass of rose and a stack of independent magazines.
7. Paris, France: Use your time in the City of Lights to live life like a true Parisian. Linger over an au lait in a café, pick up some vintage Chanel baubles at a fabulously out-of-the-way consignment shop and indulge in red wine and fresh fish at a neighborhood brasserie. It’s the perfect city to live out your most romantic expat dreams — just don’t forget your copy of A Moveable Feast for the plane ride over!
8. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Rent a bike and be on your merry way to exploring one of the most charming, cultural and cool cities in all of Europe. Make the Pinterest-worthy Morgan and Mees hotel your home base. The attached cafe is both cozy and vibrant — the perfect cure for a bout of homesickness.
9. Dublin, Ireland: The Irish are a notoriously friendly lot, so be sure to visit a neighborhood pub soon after setting your bags down at the super hip Generator Hostel. You’ll be warmly welcomed with a Guinness and lots of suggestions on where to head next.
10. Tokyo, Japan: For a truly transformative solo trip, book a flight to Tokyo. The bustling city has so much food, culture, fashion and history to offer, you’re sure to keep busy and stay inspired. If you don’t speak Japanese, the language barrier can be a bit tough, but websites like Japan Guide and hostels like Asakusa Smile can connect you with the large English-speaking expat contingent to make you feel right at home.
Have you ever traveled anywhere fun on your own? Tweet us @BritandCo and let us know where you’ve been!
Photos via Getty