In 2010, fresh out of college and just shy of my 22nd birthday, I embarked on a solo adventure that would shape my love for independent travel. Flying to San Diego, I rented a car and set off on a journey northward, all the way to Seattle. It was my first time venturing out without a set plan or companionship, and it turned out to be a transformative experience.
Prior to that trip, my solo travels had often been to destinations where I knew I would meet people, such as study abroad programs or organized trips. However, this journey marked a significant milestone as I embraced the freedom and spontaneity of traveling solo. Along the way, I discovered the joy of my own company and forged a lasting friendship with myself.
Since then, I have explored Southeast Asia, backpacked through Mexico, traversed Europe, and ventured into pockets of South America—all on my own. Solo travel, especially as a woman, has been an invaluable source of learning and personal growth for me. It has provided me with unparalleled experiences and insights, shaping my worldview in profound ways.
In today’s world dominated by screens and influencer culture, traditional solo travel destinations have become overrun with commercialization. As a result, solo female travelers are seeking new destinations that offer authentic adventures and meaningful experiences. Here are eight emerging destinations that solo women travelers should consider exploring in 2024.
Bacalar, Mexico
For the past decade, travelers have been drawn to Tulum, considering it the ultimate destination on the Yucatán Peninsula. However, there’s more to discover beyond Tulum.
Just a few hours south of Tulum, following the same highway, lies one of Mexico’s hidden gems: Laguna de Bacalar. This picturesque lake, Mexico’s second-largest, gleams like a turquoise jewel, nestled close to the Belizean border.
Known as the “lake of seven colors” due to its mesmerizing color variations throughout the day, Bacalar was once a well-kept secret until its recent recognition by the New York Times as the “next Tulum.”
Stretching nearly 40 miles in length, this freshwater lake is dotted with boutique eco-resorts. Solo travelers will find Bacalar appealing for its authentic off-the-beaten-path atmosphere, affordability, and breathtaking natural scenery.
Getting there: There are regular buses to Bacalar from Playa del Carmen with ADO. Bus travel in Mexico is safe, comfortable, and cheap. The other option is to rent a car and drive from Cancun or Playa del Carmen. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Playa del Carmen and is a direct trip down Highway 307.
Santiago, Chile
Santiago, one of the liveliest and most dynamic capital cities in Latin America, offers an explosion of experiences for solo travelers. With a myriad of activities both within the city and its surroundings, Santiago truly captivates.
Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Santiago, from the vibrant and colorful Bellavista to the quaint cafe culture of Barrio Italia, all against the backdrop of the majestic Andes. For food enthusiasts, Santiago is a culinary paradise, boasting a gastronomic scene that has evolved significantly in recent years. Don’t miss Boragó, recognized as one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Moreover, Santiago is remarkably green, ideal for biking or jogging. Discover lush parks like Metropolitan Park, Araucano Park, Bicentenario Park, and Forestal Park. Connect with fellow travelers through La Bicicleta Verda, offering local city bike tours.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find Chile’s renowned wine regions such as Maipo Valley, Casablanca Valley, and Aconcagua Valley. Additionally, Santiago abounds in cultural attractions, including the Cultural Center of La Moneda and the Museum of Memory and Human Rights.
Getting there: There are many nonstop flights from the U.S. to Santiago, with departures from New York, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, and Houston.
Tallinn, Estonia
Embarking on a backpacking journey through Europe has long been a quintessential experience for aspiring globetrotters. However, as Western Europe becomes increasingly bustling, Eastern Europe emerges as the new frontier for solo adventurers.
Tallinn, the enchanting capital of Estonia, beckons with its fairy-tale spires and medieval allure. Shaped by a millennium of diverse cultural influences spanning from Denmark and Sweden to Poland, Germany, and Russia, Tallinn stands as a testament to its rich history.
While steeped in tradition, Tallinn is also a vibrant modern metropolis. Solo travelers will be enchanted by its blend of old-world charm and contemporary amenities, where ancient cobblestone streets seamlessly intertwine with trendy pubs and eateries.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn’s medieval fortress exudes an undeniable allure, yet its evolving skyline reflects the city’s forward-looking spirit. Venture beyond the historic center to explore Telliskivi Creative City, a dynamic hub pulsating with street art, artisanal breweries, and eclectic boutiques.
Getting there: While there are no direct flights to Tallinn from the U.S. just yet (a good indication of a rising destination), most of the major European carriers fly there with connections, like Lufthansa, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Air France, Norwegian, and more.
Hanoi, Vietnam
During my solo journey across Southeast Asia, I ventured to Hanoi, a destination that diverged from the typical path of many young nomads. While others reveled under the Thai moon or indulged in Siem Reap’s libations, I found myself drawn to North Vietnam, a region once off-limits to Americans until the embargo lifted in 1994.
Today, Hanoi captivates the senses with its vibrant energy—a symphony of sizzling street food, cacophonous motorbikes, and historic landmarks steeped in cultural significance.
Immerse yourself in the culinary tapestry of the city by perching on a plastic stool at a local noodle joint, savoring aromatic soups that tantalize the taste buds. Wander through the remnants of French and Chinese colonial architecture, each edifice narrating a chapter of Hanoi’s complex history.
For a quintessential Hanoi experience, join fellow travelers at Beer Corner, an iconic institution nestled in the heart of the Old Quarter. Here, for a mere 25 cents, indulge in Bia Hoi, a refreshing local brew, while soaking in the lively ambiance of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen intersection.
Getting there: There are no direct flights to Hanoi from the U.S., but there are many one-stop options, with connections in Tokyo, Taipei, Hong Kong, or Seoul, among others.
Guyana
If Guyana isn’t on your radar yet, it soon will be, thanks to JetBlue’s upcoming nonstop flights from JFK to its capital, Georgetown.
Guyana, often overlooked in the Caribbean, is a hidden gem with a unique blend of South American and Caribbean influences. Its location on the Caribbean Sea infuses it with an islander vibe, while traces of Nepal, India, China, and Africa add to its cultural richness. Despite past political instability, Guyana is now considered safe for solo travelers, especially those seeking adventure.
Venture beyond the bustling capital city to discover awe-inspiring wildlife, dense Amazonian jungles, cascading waterfalls, and delectable cuisine. With English widely spoken, thanks to its British colonial history, navigating the country is a breeze for travelers.
Getting there: There are direct flights from Miami and New York.
Medellín, Colombia
A few years back, Cartagena stole the spotlight, gracing the covers of travel magazines across the globe. However, today, the focus is shifting towards Medellín, a city nestled amidst the mountains, with a turbulent history.
Once notorious for being one of the world’s most violent cities, courtesy of Pablo Escobar and his cartel, Medellín has undergone a remarkable transformation. It now exudes vitality, peace, and newfound freedom, making it one of the safest travel destinations in Colombia.
Thanks to various revitalization efforts, the city has emerged as a hub for art, gastronomy, and vibrant communities. Additionally, Medellín is rapidly gaining popularity among digital nomads, boasting robust Wi-Fi connectivity and attracting young individuals from around the globe.
Getting there: There are several nonstop flights to Medellín from the United States, with options from Miami, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Boston.
Sumatra, Indonesia
Bali is no longer the hidden gem it once was, but fear not—Indonesia boasts over 17,000 islands, offering countless undiscovered treasures. If you’re in search of an authentic and less touristy experience, look no further than Sumatra.
Located in North Sumatra, Lake Toba is a breathtaking destination waiting to be explored. This volcanic crater lake is the largest of its kind globally, encircled by verdant, towering peaks. Within the lake lies Samosir, an island nearly the size of Singapore. Its main village, Tuk Tuk, has recently undergone renovations to accommodate the increasing number of travelers flocking to this idyllic spot.
Getting there: There are many one-stop flight options from the U.S., with origins in New York, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Washington, and San Francisco. Fly into Kualanamu International Airport, where there are numerous bus or taxi options to Lake Toba, which is about a 4-hour drive away.
Bucharest, Romania
Not long ago, Bucharest emerged from the shadows of its tragic past. Following the Romanian Revolution in 1989, the city saw a remarkable transformation, becoming a beacon of opportunity and hope for the nation.
Today, Bucharest stands as a vibrant cultural hub, teeming with nightlife and artistic expression. Its rich history, tracing back to the Byzantine Empire, is palpable throughout the city, particularly in its revitalized Old Town adorned with bars and restaurants. Solo travelers are drawn to Bucharest for its safety, affordability, and widespread English proficiency.
Exploring Bucharest on foot is a delight for solo adventurers, offering a maze of cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and captivating architecture. The city’s culinary scene is also flourishing, with young chefs returning home to innovate Romanian cuisine.
Be sure to unwind at one of the many outdoor garden bars—a cherished pastime among locals—while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Getting there: There are no direct flights to Bucharest from the United States, however there are numerous connections from all over the rest of Europe, including flights on British Airways, Ryanair, KLM, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, and more.