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It can be downright depressing when you have some time off, some money in your pocket, and you want to go on vacation but everyone around you seems to be either broke or busy. That’s alright. Despite what the media is always preaching, even female travelers can go to most places on their own without coming to grief. Of course, there are some destinations that any smart traveler will want to cross off their list due to safety issues, but there are a lot of places remaining that are well worth a look when one is considering a solo vacation.
Ireland
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Many experienced travelers agree that Ireland is excellent stop for both solo female travelers and North Americans making their first trip abroad. After all, the Irish are widely considered to be among the friendliest people in the world and the country is beautiful when the sun is shining. English speaking travelers will be able to communicate easily, except for the occasional odd word, and plane tickets from North America are reasonably priced.
Iceland
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Scandinavia, particularly Iceland, is another popular stop for female travelers. English is is a common second language here and that makes it easier for people traveling on their own to communicate with the locals. Crime is also less prevalent than it is in other places. Those who can handle the cold weather will definitely be rewarded with beautiful scenery. As an added bonus, Iceland has more affordable transatlantic flights than many other destinations in Europe.
Australia
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Although plane tickets from the North America to Australia and New Zealand can be incredible expensive, both countries are considered to be great destinations for those that can afford the trip. Each place offers travelers a wide selection of outdoor activities to match the varied terrain. The landscape in Australia ranges from the arid Outback desert and the stark outcropping of Ayer’s Rock to the surfing paradise of the Gold Coast and the beautiful beaches of the Great Barrier Reef. Meanwhile, New Zealand scenes were beautifully showcased by the Lord of the Rings films. Travelers visiting here can easily check out bucolic scenes reminiscent of those found in the Shire or take their chances on the slopes of Mount Doom.
Japan
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For those that don’t mind a language barrier, more ‘exotic’ destinations like Thailand and Japan are generally considered to be excellent choices. Both places are highly regarded for their tasty cuisine. Thailand boasts year round warm weather, scenic beaches, and a thriving budget travel scene. As for Japan, Tokyo and Osaka recently made Business Insider’s list of the world’s safest cities and, if that isn’t an incentive to visit, then what is?
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Travelers that are still wary of venturing out on their own may find cruise ships, retreats with scheduled activities, and organized travel excursions a good solution to being by themselves. Even travelers that are largely spending time on their own can easily combine their solo travelers with a group tour or cooking course. Just make sure to cross-reference your chosen destination using a variety of sources such as guidebooks and Trip Advisor before making your way there in order to avoid scams.
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Of course, just because you’re visiting places that are deemed relatively safe doesn’t mean that you can disregard common sense and disobey the safety precautions that would typically apply in your home country. You’ll want to continue to avoid sketchy, darkened alleyways and first dates in secluded locations.
There are also a few special considerations that ladies need to keep in mind when traveling on their own. You’ll definitely want to avoid having too much to drink because a clear head is always best in unfamiliar places. It’s also a good idea to blend and dress more conservatively than you would at home. Keep in mind the local customs and plan accordingly. For instance, in places where staring at men is seen as being a ‘come on’, you may want to put on a pair of dark sunglasses and a fake wedding ring to keep from unwanted suitors at bay.
Finally, have fun! It is, after all, why you’re on vacation.
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Sources: The Blonde Abroad; Rick Steves; Adventurous Kate; personal experience
