The Best Locations For Solo Feminine Travel, In accordance To The Specialists

Solo journey is among the greatest forces shaping the journey business, and ladies are main the cost. Interest in solo journey has surged lately. Searches for “solo travel for women” have elevated 30% worldwide over the previous 5 years, in accordance with data cited by the BBC. Meanwhile, a 2025 survey discovered that just about 40% of female travelers had been concerned with touring solo, up 8% from the earlier 12 months.

But right now’s solo journey motion is not nearly touring alone. Many ladies are in search of experiences that mix independence with group, whether or not that’s becoming a member of a small-group journey, signing up for a wellness retreat or just having the boldness to discover a vacation spot on their very own.

To discover out the place ladies ought to go subsequent, I tapped six ladies who’ve constructed careers round journey, together with CEOs, luxurious journey advisors, retreat founders and journey creators. Here, they share the locations they advocate most, together with the recommendation they offer ladies taking the leap into solo journey.

Maria Gregoriou: Founder, Exclusolo

After almost 25 years within the software program business, Maria Gregoriou left the company world to observe one other ardour: serving to ladies uncover the world on their very own phrases. The Greece-based founding father of the posh journey firm Exclusolo designs bespoke journeys for girls navigating every little thing from divorce and widowhood to retirement and empty nesting. She additionally runs Kudos, which focuses on inbound journey to Greece.

An authorized journey advisor who has visited greater than 60 nations, Gregoriou focuses on serving to ladies navigate main life transitions by way of thoughtfully designed journey experiences, from personal cooking courses with a Moroccan chef to dawn meditation with a Buddhist monk in Kyoto.

Gregoriou believes that the great thing about solo journey is that it permits you to shed your on a regular basis persona. “At home, we are so defined by our roles as colleagues, mothers, partners and friends that we can forget to ask who we are when none of those labels apply,” she informed me in an interview. “When you travel alone you might be traveling first to lose yourself, but in the end you end up finding yourself.”

Tip: “Say yes to the table for one,” says Gregoriou. “Solo dining intimidates a lot of women before their first trip, and it becomes one of their favorite parts by the end. Bring a book, sit at the bar or just people-watch. Some of the best conversations I’ve ever had began when a local noticed I was eating alone and decided to say hello.”

Maria Gregoriou’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Japan

Gregoriou recommends Japan for its mixture of security, custom and quiet hospitality. She particularly loves Kyoto, the place she suggests staying on the legendary Tawaraya ryokan and reserving a personal tea ceremony by way of Urasenke. “The combination of ancient temples, ryokan hospitality, and a culture of quiet respect makes it ideal for women traveling alone.”

Portugal

Portugal is certainly one of Gregoriou’s prime suggestions as a result of it’s walkable, welcoming and comparatively reasonably priced in contrast with many different Western European locations. She recommends exploring Bairro Alto and LX Factory and staying at Vila Foz.

Italy

For an indulgent solo getaway, Gregoriou recommends the Amalfi Coast, particularly Ravello. Stay on the Belmond Hotel Caruso and e-book a personal boat tour to discover sea caves and hidden grottos.

Peru

Peru rewards curious vacationers with spectacular surroundings and wealthy historical past. Gregoriou recommends utilizing Cusco as a base for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu and staying at Sol y Luna, whose basis helps academic applications for native youngsters.

Morocco

Gregoriou suggests staying in a conventional riad in Marrakech’s medina, taking a personal cooking class with a neighborhood chef and venturing farther afield to Dar Ahlam.

Erika Brechtel: Founder, Élanoura

One spontaneous solo journey modified the course of Erika Brechtel’s life. Born and raised in Hawaii, Brechtel grew up with a love of historical past and tradition, however her ardour for solo journey started in 2015 with a 48-hour journey from London, the place she was dwelling on the time, to Marrakech. She based Élanoura on a easy conviction: that the ladies who give a lot to everybody round them deserve journeys that give one thing again. Her retreats pair far-reaching locations with objective, bringing small circles of girls collectively to discover the world whereas supporting women and girls in native communities by way of volunteering and donations to nonprofit companions.

Brechtel believes journey ought to depart each vacationers and the locations they go to higher than earlier than. “That is what I love most about traveling alone: It connects you back to a new version of yourself,” she informed me in an interview.

Tip: “Plan the edges, then let the middle breathe,” says Brechtel. “Lock in the things that protect you—your arrival, your first night, a way to be reached and then leave real room for the unplanned. Pre-book a few activities you are excited about so each day has an anchor, and keep the rest open for last-minute impulses.”

Erika Brechtel’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Marrakech, Morocco

“Marrakech is a feast for every sense, and because the people love their city, it is remarkably clean and well cared for,” says Brechtel. “There is so much to do in the Medina and just beyond it, and your hotel can arrange day trips to a desert camp for a camel ride or out to the Atlas Mountains.” She recommends staying at Peacock Pavilions, a give-back resort that funds Project Soar, a nonprofit empowering native ladies. “They take wonderful care of you and can help plan your transportation and activities.”

Mallorca, Spain

“People expect a party island and find something far more peaceful and soulful, all stone villages, terraced mountains and hidden coves,” says Brechtel. “Palma is a charming, walkable little European city, a kind of mini Paris. The island is safe, easy and made for sunny slow mornings and long swims, which is exactly why we have brought women here. Stay at Fontsanta Thermal Spa and Wellness Hotel, home to the only natural thermal waters on the island, with a five-star restaurant on the property.”

Athens, Greece

“Beyond the postcard islands is a culture built on warmth and welcome, where a woman dining alone is treated like family. I love to start in Athens, where the pace of real life is laid over all that rich ancient history,” says Brechtel. “Drive to Sounion for the Temple of Poseidon at sunset, and stop for fresh fish at a seaside taverna on the way back.”

Oahu, Hawaii

“This one is home for me where I grew up, so I am a little biased. Beyond the resorts is a deep culture of aloha and a respect for the land that puts you right back into yourself, and few places feel safer or more restoring for a woman traveling on her own. Plus, with the recent fires in Lahaina and floods on Oahu, choosing to travel there is a nice way to give back to the local businesses and residents,” says Brechtel. “I am from the North Shore of Oahu, the home of big wave surfing. If you go to Oahu, skip Waikiki and stay up north at Turtle Bay. On your way up, stop in the little town of Haleiwa and shop local businesses. A little local knowledge: for one of the best views of the big waves in winter, as kids we used to watch the surf from the heiau, a Hawaiian historical site, above Waimea Bay.”

Maui, Hawaii

Brechtel has quite a few recs for the island of Maui. “Skip the sunrise but do catch the sunset from Haleakalā. Sunrise is usually overbooked and means a 3 A.M. start, while sunset is a more leisurely climb with views just as fantastic,” she says. Another tip: “You’ll be told to take the road to Hana. Let me save you three hours and tell you, you can drive the winding, green road for an hour and turn back around, still taking in sweeping coastal views and hopping out of the car for secret waterfall spots along the way.”

Japan

Élanoura’s October 2026 retreat strikes by way of Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto. “Japan is safe and welcoming, and the culture of respect means a woman traveling solo is met with care rather than attention,” says Brechtel. “While the language barrier can be intimidating, hiring a guide or joining a small group will quickly put your mind and nervous system at ease.”

Victoria Vesce: Founder, The VYB

Travel creator Victoria Vesce has constructed her profession round exploring the world, however her relationship with journey is deeply private. After surviving a mind tumor and later dropping her mom to COVID-19, she turned to journey as a solution to heal, rebuild her confidence and embrace life extra totally. Now, by way of her wellness group, The VYB, she hosts occasions designed to deliver ladies collectively whereas encouraging them to step outdoors their consolation zones.

Vesce believes solo journey affords one thing distinctive. “It forces you to rely on yourself in the best way,” she informed me in an interview. Traveling alone additionally creates house to attach with a spot, its individuals and your self. “That’s when travel becomes more than just a trip and actually starts to shift your perspective.”

Tip: “Stay open but trust your instincts,” says Vesce, who believes that girls ought to analysis locations totally earlier than they go. But as soon as they’re on the bottom, if one thing doesn’t really feel proper, don’t second-guess your self. “Be open to meeting people and trying new things, but always trust your intuition.”

Victoria Vesce’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Granada, Spain

“Granada has this intimate, almost cinematic feel that makes it perfect for solo travel,” says Vesce. “It’s walkable, safe and full of history, but still relaxed and approachable. It’s one of those places where being alone actually feels romantic, not lonely.” She recommends staying at Hotel Alhambra Palace and spending time exploring the Alhambra, watching the sundown from Albaicín and wandering town’s outdated streets.

Bali

“Bali is one of the easiest places to travel solo because it’s built for connection,” says Vesce. “Whether you’re into wellness, fitness or just meeting like-minded people, it naturally creates community while still giving you space to be on your own.” Stay in a boutique villa like Villa Cella Bella (her favourite) and fill your days with yoga, Pilates, seashore golf equipment and walks by way of the rice terraces.

St. Lucia

“St. Lucia is perfect for a solo reset. It’s peaceful, safe and elevated, with a mix of luxury and nature that makes it easy to fully relax while still feeling taken care of,” says Vesce. She recommends mountaineering the Pitons, taking boat excursions and having fun with spa days.

Sri Lanka

“Sri Lanka is ideal if you want something more adventurous but still manageable solo,” says Vesce. “It offers beaches, culture and wildlife all in one, and it feels like multiple trips in one destination.” Highlights include the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella, surfing and wildlife safaris.

Singapore

“Singapore is incredibly safe, clean and efficient, which removes a lot of the stress that can come with solo travel,” says Vesce. She recommends staying at Marina Bay Sands or a boutique hotel in Chinatown and exploring Gardens by the Bay, rooftop restaurants and hawker markets.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

“Vietnam is vibrant and full of energy, but Ha Long Bay is where it slows down and becomes something truly special,” says Vesce. “It’s one of those places that feels surreal.” Stay overnight on a cruise through Ha Long Bay and combine it with time in Hanoi for an unforgettable introduction to Vietnam.

Galway, Ireland

“Galway has such a warm, welcoming energy that makes solo travel feel effortless. It’s smaller, very social and full of charm,” says Vesce. Check out the Hardiman hotel and take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher.

Sydney, Australia

“Sydney offers the perfect mix of city and beach,” says Vesce. “It’s active, outdoorsy and social, so you can explore solo while still feeling connected.” Stay close to Bondi Beach and spend your days on coastal walks, taking Pilates courses and having fun with the seashore.

Diamond Spratling: Founder, Girl Plus Environment

Diamond Spratling is the founding father of Girl Plus Environment, a nationwide environmental justice nonprofit that empowers younger Black and Brown ladies and femmes to guide the local weather motion. She can also be the creator of Sage Sails the World, a youngsters’s e-book sequence that helps younger readers perceive the significance of defending the planet by way of journey, exploration and environmental stewardship. Spratling has traveled to 18 nations throughout six continents and has been touring solo since age 20, when she first traveled alone to South Africa for a service-learning journey. “What I love most about solo travel is the opportunity to spend time with myself,” she informed me in an interview. “I love being able to experience a destination entirely on my own terms. I can follow my curiosity, change plans on a whim and immerse myself in the culture without worrying about anyone else’s expectations or preferences.”

Tip: Spratling has three prime suggestions for girls touring overseas. “Download offline maps through GoogleMaps before you arrive—they can be a lifesaver when you’re navigating a new destination without service. Get an eSIM so you’re always connected. And enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. Department of State, so the government knows where you are in case of an emergency,” she says.

Diamond Spratling’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Xàbia, Spain

Spratling calls Xàbia her favourite vacation spot for girls in search of “a slower, more intentional solo travel experience.” She beloved staying at Sun & Co., a co-living house full of digital nomads that made it simple to construct friendships whereas nonetheless having fun with solo time. “It’s the perfect place to slow down, spend time by the Mediterranean and reconnect with yourself.”

Nairobi, Kenya

“As a Black woman, there was something deeply meaningful about visiting Kenya and experiencing the beauty of the continent firsthand,” says Spratling. She recommends taking a safari within the Maasai Mara, eating at Cultiva Farm, visiting Kiambethu Tea Farm and staying at Mövenpick Hotel. She beloved the vacation spot a lot that she returned for her honeymoon.

Sydney, Australia

“Sydney is one of the easiest cities in the world to explore solo,” says Spratling. “It’s diverse, welcoming and offers the perfect mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure.” She recommends staying at Ace Hotel Sydney and venturing into Australia’s wine nation.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Spratling spent almost three months dwelling and dealing in Phnom Penh throughout graduate faculty. She says town affords “something for every type of traveler,” from cafés and rooftop bars to avenue meals and wealthy historical past, whereas additionally serving as a gateway to Angkor Wat.

Durban, South Africa

South Africa was the vacation spot of Spratling’s first solo worldwide journey. “That trip not only introduced me to an incredible country, but it also showed me what I was capable of as a solo traveler,” she says. She recommends wildlife recreation drives together with exploring Durban’s eating places and nightlife.

Charlotte Lilley: Founder, The Retreat Co.

Charlotte Lilley based The Retreat Co. after spending greater than 15 years constructing buyer communities within the tech world. What began in 2018 as a facet hustle organizing ski journeys for associates has grown right into a enterprise internet hosting ski, camp and company retreats throughout North America for adventurous ladies. Over the previous eight years, Lilley has hosted greater than 1,000 ladies, and she or he says about 99% arrive on their very own in search of group. “What I love most is the openness that comes with solo travel,” she informed me in an interview. “You don’t have anyone else to lean on, so you lean into the experience. You end up doing things you might feel uncomfortable doing in your normal life, because nobody knows you. They don’t know your story and they don’t know what defines you whether self imposed or otherwise.”

Tip: “The 48 hours before the trip are usually the hardest emotionally, and is often when people start questioning their decision to go,” says Lilley. “If this happens, just focus on getting to the airport, arriving at the house or hotel, meeting one person, eating a meal. Remember that you do not need this trip to change your life, fix anything or make you a different person. You only need to arrive open enough to experience it.”

Charlotte Lilley’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe tops Lilley’s checklist as a result of it is easy to achieve and affords year-round outside journey, from mountaineering and tenting to snowboarding and snow sports activities. She recommends Sierra Surf Club and Palisades Yoga.

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole blends mountain journey with a welcoming downtown. Lilley recommends Mountain Modern Hotel, Persephone Bakery and the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar.

Sun Valley

Lilley calls Sun Valley a hidden gem that is supreme for first-time solo vacationers because of its relaxed environment. Don’t miss the Sun Valley Lodge and lunch at The Roundhouse.

Jaclyn Leibl-Cote: President & CEO, Collette

As president and CEO of Collette, Jaclyn Leibl-Cote oversees one of many world’s oldest guided journey firms, giving her a front-row seat to the altering methods ladies are exploring the world. A 3rd-generation chief of the 108-year-old household enterprise, she has watched growing numbers of girls select to journey independently, typically looking for experiences that stability private freedom with the reassurance of professional planning and native perception. Her recommendation is to decide on the fashion of journey that matches your character. “Solo doesn’t have to mean entirely independent,” she informed me in an interview. “Small-group travel can offer both freedom and support.”

Tip: “Focus on pace,” says Leibl-Cote. “Giving yourself time to experience a destination often leads to more meaningful travel.”

Jaclyn Leibl-Cote’s Favorite Solo Travel Destinations

Japan

Leibl-Cote calls Japan “one of the most seamless destinations for solo travelers.” She says it is “incredibly safe, well-organized and rich in cultural depth,” including that guided experiences assist vacationers higher perceive native traditions whereas nonetheless leaving room to discover independently.

Africa

“An African safari is one of those experiences that’s both deeply personal and best shared,” says Leibl-Cote. She believes small-group safaris present each safety and connection whereas permitting vacationers to expertise unforgettable wildlife encounters collectively.

Italy

“Italy naturally invites connection through its food, culture and the way everyday life is lived,” says Leibl-Cote. She recommends it as a result of it balances independence with alternatives to interact by way of shared meals and guided native experiences.

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