Combine your love of travel and cycling with a Backroads trip through Mendoza wine country (solo travelers welcome). This region is tucked along the foothills of the soaring Andes mountain range and offers some of the most exciting wines being produced right now. Pedal along vineyard-lined trails between snowy peaks stopping along the way to discover flavours from the area’s vibrant gastronomy scene. Each night, enjoy a well-earned luxurious sleep in each of the hand-selected premiere hotels, like the iconic Vines Resort & Spa.
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# The Best Places in the World to Travel Solo

February 10, 2024

The Best Places in the World for Solo Travel

Photographed by Arthur Elgort, Vogue, December 1992

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There was a time in the not-so-distant past when the phrase “solo travel” was most likely to evoke imagery of Julia Roberts cycling wistfully down a grassy path in Ubud, or of Diane Lane dragging her suitcase toward a Tuscan villa. This cinematic (and perhaps a little idealistic) depiction of what it looks like to embark on a solo adventure has begun to fizzle out, and now, the notion of taking a trip with oneself isn’t gawked at, but rather, quite common.

There’s a certain sort of freedom that comes with travelling alone; the promise of complete autonomy, a flexible itinerary (or rigid, if that’s your bag), and the very real opportunity for a revelatory experience that simply isn’t on offer if you’re trekking around with a group. Perhaps you’re honoring a life milestone such as the loss of a loved one or a divorce—solo travel is great for healing. Or maybe it’s merely a desire to reconnect with yourself in a beautiful setting. Whatever the backstory, there’s a solo journey to meet you where you’re at.

A few considerations stand out when choosing a solo travel destination, beginning with whether you choose to curate your own itinerary or to let an agency do the work for you (there are pros and cons to both). Next, you’ll want to pick somewhere that offers a strong network of guides. “They are so key in imparting their expertise but also how to respectfully follow local custom,” Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant says. “This is part and parcel to being a conscientious traveler.” Also, an easy-to-use transportation system of trains, ferries, and buses is crucial, particularly if you’re not comfortable renting a car. And lastly, countries that are regarded as being welcoming are worth prioritizing. “What unifies so many diverse cultures [that are] great for solo travel is they love to invite travelers into their world and their community and extended family,” Marchant says.

With this in mind, we rounded up some of the best places in the world to travel solo in 2024, including far-flung destinations rich in culture, sun-soaked locales fit for an outdoor excursion, and even a few retreats tailored specifically to parties of one.

## Wellness treatments in Thailand

A beach at Ang Thong National Park, Thailand.Photo: Getty Images

Escape to the Gulf of Thailand—and more specifically, to the lush island of Koh Samui. Characterized by its mountainous rainforest, hidden waterfalls, and pristine beaches, this destination is a feast for the senses. Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa recently developed a women’s health program for wellbeing throughout all stages of life, from fertility to menopause. Travelers making the long journey for this Radiant Bliss package can expect a holistic plan that’s guided by a team of naturopaths, traditional Chinese medicine doctors, massage therapists, and meditation mentors, among other experts. Spend your days alone savoring treatments like Ayurvedic massage and an acupressure facial with Edenesque scenery as your backdrop.

## Distinct food culture in Japan

An alley in Shinjuku, Tokyo.Photo: Getty Images

Well-known for its world-class cuisine, Japan is a haven for solo travelers looking to broaden their palates. “Especially in cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, it’s quite common for people to dine alone,” Indagare’s Elizabeth Harvey says, who recently took a solo trip to the country. Beyond food culture, Japan is a country that’s known for its welcoming locals, which is crucial to a positive solo travel experience. “There’s a deep sense of mutual obligation and accountability that governs the captivating dance of daily life in Japan, which means solo travelers will feel safe and taken care of,” she says. And because the country is so easy to get around (public transportation is unparalleled), Harvey encourages adding lesser-known spots to your itinerary, such as “Hokkaido, Nara, Nikko, Kobe, Kanazawa, Yamaguchi, and the southern islands.”

## Sound healing ceremonies in Mexico

A Temazcal ceremony in Mexico.Photo: Getty Images

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Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is a treasure trove of natural splendor and ancient history. The region is revered for its Mayan culture, which serves as the cornerstone of Chablé Yucatan’s Solo Retreat. The four- to six-night program takes travelers on a self-reflective journey with experiences like sound healing at a limestone cenote, a private Temazcal ceremony with a spiritual leader, and excursions to archeological ruins. The property is tucked away in the heart of the Yucatan jungle, about half an hour’s drive from Mérida, making it an ideal setting for those hoping to go off the grid sans the schlep.

## Scenic train travel through Portugal

A train in Vila Velha de Ródão in central Portugal.Photo: Getty Images

Efficient transportation helps ease potential anxieties when traveling alone, which is why Portugal—a relatively small and easy-to-navigate country—is well-suited for a solo adventure. “Portugal’s enviable train routes eliminate the need for a car,” Essentialist founder and CEO Joan Roca says, who suggests starting in Porto and training down to Lisbon before taking a ferry to Comporta for downtime on the beach. “Solo travel here is easy to do thanks to plenty of great dining options, city tours, and cultural discovery options.” The country’s primary rail provider is Combios de Portugal and the Douro Line (which runs from Porto to Pochino) is said to be the most picturesque, offering front-row views of the river and valley. (Book your train tickets via Omio: it aggregates all of your tickets in one place and is intuitive to use.)

## Learning to surf in Costa Rica

Sunset surfing in Nosara, Costa Rica.Photo: Getty Images

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Theming your solo adventure around learning a new skill is an easy way to cement a trip’s status as life-changing. If you’ve been eager to finally learn how to surf, head for some of the most prestigious waves in the world in Costa Rica—specifically, Peninsula Papagayo. The arresting beauty of this region is best savored from the water, and guests at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo can learn how to ride waves through a surfing program developed exclusively for the property through SurfX, which is taught by some of the world’s top-ranked surfers. Cap off your days with the hotel’s “wipeout massage,” designed specifically for post-surf aches.

## Spiritual introspection in Bhutan

A view of the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan.Photo: Getty Images

A common intention for planning a solo journey is the desire to turn inward. Of course, the environment plays a defining role in the trip’s potential to be transformative. “Although a harder-to-reach destination, Bhutan is widely recognized as a happy, peaceful place to retreat to on your own,” Roca says. It’s also breathtaking. Bhutan is more than 70% forested and is the first carbon-negative country in the world, making hikes and wildlife spotting a part of daily life. “Travelers looking to spend time not only discovering a destination but keen to understand themselves more and search within benefit from spending time in Bhutan,” Marchant says.

## Island hopping in the Philippines

The Calamian archipelago in Palawan, Philippines.Photo: Getty Images

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The tropical archipelago of the Philippines comprises over 7,000 islands in the Pacific Ocean. For solo travelers, an itinerary of island hopping is a breeze thanks to a network of ferries and flights that strategically connect the country. “The Philippines are safe, friendly, and it’s easy to find English speakers,” Roca says. Explore underwater caves, snorkel in turquoise-tinted reefs, hike 2,000-year-old rice terraces, hike an active volcano—if it’s not already obvious, outdoor adventure hits its stride here. And the food! The cuisine is a true cultural expression with dishes like Lumpia, Adobo, and Kare-Kare served up in convivial settings.

## Biking through Argentina wine country

A Malbec vineyard in Mendoza Wine Country, Argentina.Photo: Getty Images

Combine your love of travel and cycling with a Backroads trip through Mendoza wine country (solo travelers welcome). This region is tucked along the foothills of the soaring Andes mountain range and offers some of the most exciting wines being produced right now. Pedal along vineyard-lined trails between snowy peaks stopping along the way to discover flavours from the area’s vibrant gastronomy scene. Each night, enjoy a well-earned luxurious sleep in each of the hand-selected premiere hotels, like the iconic Vines Resort & Spa.

## Community building in Morocco

The Atlas Mountains in Morocco.Photo: Getty Images

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Morocco is a landscape where culture runs deep and community is strong. The diverse country is easy to navigate, from remote areas to bustling medinas. “One day you could be in the Agafay desert hiking your way to a Berber village and the next you could be kitesurfing and taking lessons with locals in Essaouira with that famed Atlantic breeze. What’s key is the community feel,” Marchant says, who recently hosted a company retreat in the country. “We spent a day volunteering in the Atlas Mountains supporting a charity called Al Foulki pour les Femmes, who help in recovery efforts from the earthquake in remote communities,” he says, pointing to these types of experiences as being suited to solo travelers who wish to connect to a destination’s culture.

## Ancient wisdom in Greece

Courtesy of Euphoria Retreat

Greece’s islands lure in travelers for the sun-baked landscapes and turquoise waters, but if you’re not up for long ferry rides and droves of tourists, head for the Peloponnese peninsula instead. This lesser-known region is abundant in natural beauty and is home to Euphoria Retreat, a luxury wellness resort that’s located within the Unesco World Heritage site of Mystras. Solo travelers who are looking to work through a recent trauma or transition to a new stage of life can take part in the Inner Emotional Harmony program. Expect everything from sound healing and chakra balancing treatments to massages and transformation consultations.

## Scuba diving in the Bahamas

A scuba diver with a dolphin in the Bahamas.Photo: Getty Images

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Coveted for its pink sand beaches and picturesque seaside villages, Harbour Island is a tranquil enclave in the Bahamas where roosters roam freely and pigs splash around on the shore. Solo travelers can enjoy the island's renowned beauty with a stay at Bahama House, a property under the Eleven umbrella (a luxury adventure company). The team will curate a custom itinerary of adventures by the sea, including scuba diving. Beginners can take a PADI instructional resort course and learn to dive in just one day.

## White water rafting in Canada

Whitewater rafting on Nahatlatch River, Canada.Photo: Getty Images

Journey to Canada’s remarkable landscapes with Flash Pack, an agency that focuses on group tours for solo travelers. This journey to western Canada takes you to some of the most magnificent corners of the country, like Banff National Park, where you’ll go hiking and caving, and Canadian Rockies’s highlights such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. There’s a twilight canoe outing on Bow River for a quintessential Canadian moment, white water rafting that ends with a night in Anishinaabe-style tepees, excursions on float planes, and even a day of wine tasting in the Okanagan valley.

## Adventure lodges in New Zealand

A shelter on the Hooker Valley Trail at the foot of Mount Cook, New Zealand.Photo: Getty Images

Otherworldly landscapes mixed with laidback locals make New Zealand a magnetic choice for solo travelers in search of a life-changing journey. “The country has some of the world’s most memorable adventure lodges,” Harvey says, adding that they offer “a nice balance between spending time on your own and forging connections with your fellow guests and the lodge staff.” If you’re keen to experience the South Island’s renowned adventure scene, consider a stay at Blanket Bay, a lodge tucked on the shores of the remote Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown where jet boat safaris, backcountry hiking, and horseback riding are everyday affairs.

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Nicole Kliest is a contributing writer for Vogue, where she covers fashion, travel, design, and wine (she is WSET certified in Level 3 wines). Nicole has written for Conde Nast Traveler, Domino, Harper’s Bazaar, and Elle, among other titles, and enjoys crafting stories where several pockets of culture intersect. Originally... Read more

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