For many, solo travel becomes a journey of self-discovery and spiritual rejuvenation. Being in charge of your itinerary and rhythm allows you to get acquainted with the place and the people, one adventure at a time. Check out these 12 destinations if you are planning to take off on a trip on your own as soon as it is safe to travel again. By Akriti Sharma
Best destinations around the world for solo travel
Ladakh, India
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Also known as ‘the land of high passes’, Ladakh is a scenic destination that will appeal to every solo traveller. Capture the essence of raw and rugged Himalayas over a bike trip to Khardung La or enjoy the tranquillity of icy blue Pangong Tso lake on a day trip. If you love camping, then you should visit Markha valley.
Don’t forget to check out the Instagram-worthy Nubra valley to watch the white dunes and enjoy an evening safari on the double-humped Bactrian camel. The local delicacies such as Thukpa, Chhutagi, Skyu, Tingmo and Butter Tea are healthy and will keep your body warm.
When planning a trip to Ladakh, make sure to keep a minimum of two days free for acclimatisation to avoid altitude sickness.
Singapore
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A global metropolis, Singapore allures all kinds of travellers. One of the cleanest cities in the world, Singapore is a go-to place to experience a multi-cultural environment, high-end luxury shopping, fine dining and architectural eye candies. Sentosa Island, Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, Little India, Orchard Road and Singapore Zoo are noteworthy attractions not to be missed!
The country is also home to Southeast Asia’s only Universal Studios Theme Park. Pencil in a day to enjoy the many rides and shows here. Do try local favourites like Teh Tarik (pulled tea), Satay, Murtabark, Parotta and Chili Crab.
Iceland
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There are so many compelling reasons to put this Nordic Island on your bucket list – the awe-inspiring northern lights, distinctive black sand beaches, endless series of snow-covered mountains, cosy geothermal spa lakes, ice caves, majestic waterfalls and active volcanoes.
The peak viewing season for the Northern Lights or aurora borealis is from September to March when nights are longer. The best way to witness this phenomenon is to book a guided tour. A night out around the capital city Reykjavík, and snowmobiling or ice caving are some other activities you can indulge in.
If you have the time, visit Þingvellir National Park, which houses the glacial spring Silfra fissure–one of the world’s top sites for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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The capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is home to the world’s tallest twin skyscrapers — the Petronas Twin Towers. The bustling city is a confluence of old and new with carefully curated cuisines, preserved collections in polished art galleries, illustrious shopping malls and nightlife like no other.
Batu Caves is a must-visit place where 272 colourful steps will lead you to three major limestone caves on a hill and other small ones. Jalan Alor and Petaling Street are popular street food destinations with hawkers and air-conditioned restaurants serving South Asian specialities.
Koh Samui and Bangkok, Thailand
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Thailand has garnered the reputation of being one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia and Bangkok is a great place to start your trip at. Tasting street food, touring the beautiful temples, experiencing the floating markets, getting a relaxing Thai massage or just walking around Lumphini Park are a few of the many things you can do in this city.
To soak up the tropical sun on a luxury vacation – Koh Samui, the second-largest island after Phuket, is the place to be. The island exudes a glamorous castaway feel with private palm-fringed white sand beaches, high-end luxury villas, idyllic snorkelling spots, picture-perfect rainforest and gourmet cuisine spots.
Costa Rica
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The wonderland of natural attractions, endless stretches of beaches along the Pacific coast, lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, volcanoes and a real island atmosphere, Costa Rica has something for every traveller. Arenal National Volcano Park, an active volcano, is home to hanging bridges, waterfalls, hot springs, butterfly gardens, hiking trails and much more.
No matter how clear the day looks, pack some waterproof clothing or quick-drying layers whenever you are planning a trip to the rainforest.
New York City, USA
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New York City has quintessential landmarks of phenomenal beauty to tick off your bucket list – Empire State Building, Manhattan skyline, Metropolitan Museum of Art, High Line, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge among others. The city has unmatched energy, which makes for a unique experience for every traveller. Sitting in the heart of the Manhattan section of New York, Times Square is home to whimsical lights, digital screens and billboards, high-tech installations and numerous shopping options.
If you love plays, do catch a show at Broadway theatre. Who knows you may get lucky on one of your solo travel adventures and catch a Hollywood star performing.
Barcelona, Spain
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Barcelona is the epicentre of art, couture, aesthetics, jaw-dropping architecture, culinary delights, historical masterpieces and a vibrant nightlife, which makes it a must-visit city in Spain. The best way to explore Barcelona is by walking around the town squares and soaking up the city’s medieval vibe.
The city is a delight for architecture lovers. From Antoni Gaudí’s Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, whimsical Park Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà to Lluís Domènech i Montaner’s Palau de la Música and Enric Sagnier’s Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, every building is a work of art.
Some other attractions to add to your list are the Picasso Museum, Las Ramblas for anything from buying local art to trying local cuisine, Camp Nou Stadium if you are a football fan and La Barceloneta Beach.
Switzerland
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With picturesque landscapes, majestic alps, ski rides, Europe’s most scenic train rides, pristine lakes, chocolates, fondues and cheese, Switzerland is everyone’s favourite. Enjoy the restorative retreats by soaking in their natural thermal spas overlooking stunning Swiss alps.
Getting around Switzerland is easy, thanks to its seamless transport system. In cities like Bern, Zurich, Geneva, Zermatt, Interlaken and Lausanne you can explore local galleries, museums, medieval arcades and snow-cloaked mountains.
The iconic pointed peak and one of the highest mountains in the Swiss Alps, the Matterhorn stands tall at 4,478 metres in the quaint village of Zermatt. The Great Aletsch Glacier, one of the longest in Europe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are planning to visit Switzerland in the summers, do check out Glacier Skiing at St Moritz.
Japan
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The land of the Rising Sun, Japan is considered to be one of the safest places for solo travel. From history buffs to spiritual seekers and foodies, Japan has something for everyone.
The highest peak in the Fuji volcanic chain is the perfectly-shaped Mount Fuji, an active volcano, which sits in the centre of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cultural centre of the country, Kyoto has a rich ancient history with centuries-old architectural marvels and some of the oldest Buddhist temples. The cherry blossom season here hits full bloom in April and Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the ideal place to witness this spectacle.
Belfast, Ireland
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The vibrant city of Belfast feels like a quaint village in the metropolis. It is full of historical buildings, interactive exhibits and galleries, eclectic museums and fine-dining restaurants full of Victorian charm.
Titanic Belfast is a distinctive landmark that brings together many Titanic fans to experience the city’s maritime heritage.
Be sure to also visit the Botanic Gardens, Ulster Museum, St Anne’s Cathedral, Grand Opera House, Belfast City Hall and St George Market. Fans of The Chronicles of Narnia can pay homage to the book’s author at CS Lewis Square.
New Zealand
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New Zealand is renowned for its sublime landscapes, majestic glowworm caves, epic vineyards, glacial mountains, breathtaking backdrops, thermal pools, stunning coastlines and adventure activities.
Visit The Bay of Islands to explore its 144 islands with undisturbed forests and hiking trails; Rotorua for its steaming geysers and unique topography; Auckland for the city vibe; Queenstown for adventure sports; Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers for a helicopter ride over the frozen glacial river; Mountain Cook National Park for Mountain Cook peak and Tasman Glacier; and Matamata for the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, one of the major locations used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Satiate the adrenaline junkie in you as you solo travel by bungee jumping from the country’s highest jump point at Nevis Bungy, 45 minutes away from Queenstown.
Editor’s Note: Keeping the current situation of the pandemic in mind, T+L India recommends every reader to stay safe, and take all government-regulated precautions in case travel at this time is absolutely necessary. Please follow our stories on #IndiaFightsCorona for all the latest travel guidelines.
Akriti Sharma
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