While women’s travel has historically been centered around honeymoons, girls trips, bachelorettes, and family reunions—we’ve witnessed a boom in solo trips for women recently. Here’s why: Solo travel pushes you out of your comfort zone, enables you to do what you want to do, and helps you gain a renewed sense of self and the world around you. To help you find your next destination, we did the research for you and found 25 places in the U.S. and around the world to book. So, whether you’re seeking an American weekend getaway that’s cheap and cheerful, a city in Europe with luxurious hotels and dependable public transportation, or a Caribbean all-inclusive catering to every whim, these are the spots to keep on your radar.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is small in size, but big on appeal for solo female travelers. It’s incredibly safe; the locals are beyond warm—the mantra “pura vida” embodies their laid-back outlook on life—and thanks to its incredible biodiversity, the landscape is spectacular. Locals here enjoy long, productive lives—so much so that the Pacific-facing Nicoya Peninsula is a designated blue zone. To unlock the secrets to Costa Rican health and happiness, book yourself at Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. The beloved resort unveiled a chic lifestyle makeover last year, including the new Mirador Beach Club and wellness shala, and offers a once-in-a-lifetime excursion called A Journey To The Costa Rican Blue Zone. The daylong road trip guides you through villages to meet farmers and artisans like mask makers. You’ll even be welcomed into a family’s home for a traditional, made-from-scratch lunch.
Charlotte, North Carolina
As North Carolina’s biggest city, Charlotte has recently morphed from a stodgy financial hub to a buzzy destination for beauty and wellness. Whether you’re going for a totally new look or a subtle update, trust your tresses to hair stylist Dhiran Mistry, whose chill demeanor and intuitive approach to cutting makes visiting his impossibly chic salon The Carriage House a dream. Reveal your best skin ever with a super-lifting facial from Toska Husted, an in-demand celebrity aesthetician trusted by Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians. For a workout that’s equal parts fun and challenging, book a lesson at Rally Pickleball founded by partners in work and life Barrett Worthington and Meg Charity, then decompress with a deep tissue massage at Poseidon Spa and restorative night’s sleep in your glamorous room at Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection.
Seoul, South Korea
Whether you’re into cutting-edge beauty treatments or craving food and drink you can’t find anywhere else, the captivating city of Seoul has everything you need for an unforgettable solo vacation. To nourish your hair and boost growth, try Lee Won Moon Korean Medicine Clinic’s viral (and sleep-inducing) 15-step scalp treatment. Shop for a new perfume (and gifts your gal pals) at Seoul’s coolest new fragrance boutique Written on Water. Sample Korean knife noodles and mung bean pancakes at one of South Korea’s oldest markets Gwangjang. Rent a hanbok and stroll around Bukchon Hanok Village and Gyeongbok Palace. Following a jam-packed day, check into the flawless Four Seasons Hotel Seoul in historic Gwanghwamun, where sophisticated accommodations with pillow menus, The Market Kitchen’s bountiful breakfast buffet, a modern Korean sauna, and Korean-influenced cocktails (try the Kimchi Highball) by Head Bartender Ike Ryu at OUL await.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City has staged a remarkable comeback in recent years, making it a desirable travel destination for everyone. Located within Caesars Atlantic City, the years-in-the-making Nobu Hotel opened its doors earlier this year. In addition to 85 stylish rooms and suites with Japanese design flourishes, the boutique property is home to a buzzy outpost of the famed Nobu restaurants. Qua Baths & Spa also recently introduced a 110-minute Nobu Nagomi Ritual combining a foot bath, body exfoliation, and massage with essential oils. For a rollicking good time, snag tickets to The Hook, a 75-minute adults-only live show by Spiegelworld. Another terrific stay in town is Ocean Casino Resort, where airy Contemporary Blu rooms and breathtaking coastal views are just the beginning of a fun-filled escape.
Iceland
With a bewilderingly beautiful landscape and gender-equal mindset, Iceland is a quintessential first-time solo female travel destination. One of the best ways to get up close to the country’s culture, wildlife, and natural scenery—while unpacking your suitcase just once—is aboard Viking’s eight-day Iceland’s Natural Beauty cruise. The award-winning cruise line founded by Torstein Hagen is renowned for its elevated adults-only experience blending curated culinary offerings, exceptional excursions, and highly personalized service. Once you’ve sailed to your final port of call Reykjavik, check into Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton. Located in the heart of Iceland’s capital city near the waterfront, the 163-key hotel sports a crisp design, serene spa, and hip restaurant Hjá Jóni. Consider it the perfect jumping-off point to see Hallgrimskirkja Church and go on a whale- and puffin-watching boat tour.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Are you a woman who travels with eating well in mind? Search for Indianapolis on Google Flights stat. Though Indiana’s capital city has long been associated with the Indianapolis 500 and other major sporting events, recently it’s blossomed into a bonafide culinary destination with hip options for every craving. In the mood for raw oysters, rum drinks, and fresh ramen? Snag a bar seat at Strangebird. Fancy a posh lunch in a sprawling mansion kitted out with luxury furnishings you can purchase? Request a table for one at RH Indianapolis. Three generations of Thai women run the front and back of the house at Bodhi—where spicy drunk noodles arrive piping hot and garnished with fresh flowers—while Cafe Babette turns out whimsical baked treats, like its best-selling pistachio-raspberry-white chocolate croissant. When you can’t manage another bite, collapse into your sleek bed at Bottleworks Hotel.
Riviera Maya, Mexico
While hostels and all-inclusives abound in Riviera Maya, a destination adored for its powdery sands, stunning cenotes, and vibrant cuisine, why not treat yourself with a luxurious stay at Rosewood Mayakoba? The iconic resort stretched across 620 scenic acres of winding lagoons and twisting mangroves features just suites—which are chicly done up in natural materials and locally-sourced furnishings—to ensure total privacy, and on-site activities galore, from El Camaleón, an 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman, to the spa’s purifying Temazcal ritual. Though the resort’s entire lineup of food and beverage outlets celebrate the region’s colorful culinary and Mayan heritage, it’s impossible not to fall hard for Zapote Bar. Led by Joshua Monaghan, this award-winning cocktail destination is famed for its imaginative recipes, entertaining presentations, and come-as-you-are vibes. (No wonder every night turns into an impromptu dance party.)
Washington D.C.
First, drop off your bags at the venerable Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, where gorgeous new suites and spa await. Then, tour the Folger Shakespeare Library. Fresh off a comprehensive renovation, the world’s largest Shakespeare collection now also includes fascinating exhibitions and interactive experiences to inspire people from all walks of life. Home to moving works by female creatives such as Judy Chicago and Cindy Sherman, the National Museum of Women in the Arts is worth scoping out as well. For dinner, standouts include Laotian Thip Khao, Afghan bistro Lapis, Italian Cucina Morini, and hot spot Pasqual, where culinary star Isabel Coss sends out creative Mexican small plates and wood-fired entrees.
Osaka, Japan
Typically overshadowed by touristy Tokyo and Kyoto, Osaka is ready to step into the limelight as a worthy destination in its own right. And the just-opened Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is helping that shift happen. Conveniently located in the Dojima neighborhood, the 175-key property boasts six food and beverage concepts, a bevy of wellness rituals including private ofuro (Japanese soaking tubs), and Gensui, an entire floor dedicated to a modern ryokan experience. From the hotel, it’s a breeze to get to the best of Japan’s third-biggest city. Take in bird’s-eye views from Umeda Sky Building’s observation deck. Visit The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s biggest aquariums, to see whale sharks, sea lions, and many more marine life species. Savor street food staples such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, which originated here.
Miami, Florida
Few U.S. vacation destinations can rival Miami. It’s sunny nearly every day of the year, and there’s something in this energetic metropolis for every kind of traveler: food, culture, and of course, sizzling entertainment. Plus, most major cities have direct flights to Florida’s second-largest city. But what if you’re a solo female traveler who wants easy access to the best of Miami, and prefers a more tranquil setting as your home base? Enter The Setai Miami Beach. The iconic property gracing South Beach has long served as a discreet hideaway for the world’s most high-profile figures (Madonna, Drake, Kim Kardashian), and takes on a refreshingly hushed feel with Asian-inspired design, enticing restaurants like the upcoming Japanese eatery Japón, Valmont for The Spa, and attentive service.
Florence, Italy
As the capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region, Florence resembles a dreamy, open-air museum. It’s impossible to stroll its cobbled walkways without spotting striking architecture that beckons you to pause. Iconic art, too, is a big draw, with Palazzo Vecchio and Accademia Gallery topping our list. Despite the crowds, taking in a sunset at Ponte Vecchio Bridge is essential, as is sampling classic Tuscan cuisine (pappa al pomodoro, bistecca alla fiorentina) at the swanky Cantinetta Antinori. After a day of exploration, unwind at NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa. Situated in the heart of Florence and believed to be Italy’s oldest hotel, the boutique property has 70 spacious rooms—request room 121, which is embellished with original 18th-century frescos—marrying historic touches with modern-day comforts including Porta Rossa Bistrot, the signature Tuscan restaurant helmed by female chef Viviana Costa.
Columbus, Ohio
Here’s a fun fact: Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, is now the fastest-growing metropolis in the USA. Everything that makes it such a wonderful place to live also makes it an equally wonderful destination for your first solo trip. The historic neighborhood of German Village is where you’ll stumble upon some of the city’s coolest restaurants like Cobra and Agni and one of the country’s oldest bookstores The Book Loft of German Village, while Franklinton Arts District serves as a lively hub for independent creatives. Need a reboot of body and mind? Retreat to Paloma, a positively pretty wellness oasis for CBD massages and purifying Hydrafacials. While in town, consider The Junto your home away from home. Want something more quirky and retro? Check into South Wind Motel.
New Zealand
Approximately 2,500 miles east of Australia is the island country of New Zealand, one of the world’s most popular bucket-list travel destinations Let’s cut to the chase: you make the long-haul journey to New Zealand to immerse yourself in the staggeringly gorgeous and diverse landscape of snow-tipped mountains, stirring fjords, powdery beaches, and tumbling waterfalls as much as possible. Though there’s ample ground, including 13 National Parks, to explore between the two islands, we recommend making pitstops in Queenstown, Wanaka, Nelson Tasman, and Central North Island. Other things to bear in mind for your solo trips for women checklist: the crime rates are incredibly low; the locals are super friendly; and the climate is generally temperate year-round. Since you won’t find a lot of big-brand corporate or chain hotels here, book yourself at one of New Zealand’s many reputable and affordable hostels.
Portland
If you’re planning a West Coast vacation, but want to avoid touristy spots like California’s wine country, Los Angeles, and San Diego, consider Portland. Not only is Oregon’s biggest city easy to get around—it’s especially ideal for biking—there’s so much to do. Get in a fix of zen at the Portland Japanese Garden. Hike around the stunning Multnomah Falls. Dig into affordable food cart eats from Kim Jong Grillin and Desi PDX. Sip craft beers at Breakside Brewery. Perk up with a cup of joe from Stumptown Coffee Roasters. Browse the country’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books, for your next must-read. When you’re ready to turn in for the night, the 67–room boutique hotel Jupiter Next has you covered—and don’t forget to swing by the hotel’s award-winning bar Hey Love for a nightcap.
Puebla, Mexico
When it comes to food-focused travel in Mexico, most minds default to Oaxaca and Mexico City. However, we highly recommend visit Puebla, the impossibly charming city just over 60 miles southeast of Mexico City that’s home to eye-catching Baroque architecture and a rich culinary landscape. In fact, Puebla is the birthplace of mole poblano: the earthy and ingredient-heavy sauce whose recipes vary from household to household. Taste one of the best versions at Augurio by beloved local chef Ángel Vázquez, and don’t forget to buy a few packets for souvenirs. Want to learn the secrets to making it from scratch? Then sign up for a Mole Sauce Class—it’s a great opportunity to meet other hungry travelers—at Puebla’s most elegant accommodations, Banyan Tree Puebla, which is where you’ll want to sleep as well.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the Tennessee River, Chattanooga brims with appeal for outdoorsy types, from biking down Chattanooga’s Riverwalk to hiking Edwards Point Trail on Signal Mountain. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, explore the city’s flourishing food and drink scene. For easy-drinking cocktails and easygoing conversation, nab a stool at The Rosecomb, a charming watering hole taking up residence in a 1920’s cottage. Attack of the Tatsu doles out slurp-able bowls of ramen, while Little Coyote by beloved area chef Erik Niel pairs smoked tri-tip and handmade tortillas with a special mezcal service to showcase the agave spirit’s rich legacy. Before retiring for the night in your restored Pullman train carriage at The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo, throw back a proper nightcap at the hotel’s lively restaurant and bar Elsie’s Daughter.
Helsinki, Finland
Despite winter being their longest season, Finns embrace nature, instead of bemoaning it. On top of that, the Nordic nation champions gender equality, progressive values, and environmental causes. No wonder Finland has been named the happiest in the country in the world for the seventh year in a row. We recommend starting your adventure in the capital city of Helsinki, an urban hub melding striking architecture, communal sauna culture, and diverse restaurants (dinner at Savoy is a must). In terms of where to stay, it’s tough to top the new Hotel NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa with a plum downtown address that’s walkable to the city’s top attractions, posh accommodations, Usva by Terhen Spa—try the signature two-hour, self-guided ritual—and Kupoli, a chic rooftop bar where mixologist Mika Koivula whips up magic in a glass.
Naples, Florida
Naples is the solution if you’re craving the Sunshine State’s good weather, but want to steer clear of Orlando and Miami. With nearly nine miles of pristine sugar-white beaches and tropical year-round temps, the coastal city gracing the Gulf of Mexico is well-suited for single women seeking a more relaxed, yet elevated vibe. Speaking of which, you’ll want to reserve a room at the newly-renovated Ritz-Carlton, Naples. Though it’s been open for almost four decades, the property feels more alluring than ever. The new Vanderbilt tower boasts Marriott’s biggest club lounge in North America—proper Champagne flows freely at the glitzy U-shaped bar—while the accommodations now feature sleek furnishings and soft tones of sand and grey-blue. Tennis fans will flip for the brand new Mouratoglou Tennis Center at its sister property The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.
Bangkok, Thailand
It should come as no surprise that Thailand is ranked one of Asia’s top travel destinations year after year: it’s fun, scenic, inclusive, and affordable. Kick off your trip in the capital of Bangkok, where you have easy access to everything you’d want in a solo adventure, from spirited nightlife to historic group tours to tantalizing street food. It’s also more than easy to meet fellow travelers here via mobile apps, in case you want company for a stretch. Since you’ll probably be saving some of your hard-earned dollars while visiting, why not splurge on a luxurious hotel? With ten distinct food and beverage outlets including the sky-high rooftop lounge Vertigo, the 61-floor Banyan Tree Bangkok is our pick.
Oahu, Hawaii
Of Hawaii’s eight major islands, Oahu stands out as it’s the only one that couples exciting urban energy—which you’ll find in the capital city of Honolulu—with exhilarating natural beauty. In short? It’s the ideal travel destination for the solo female traveler who wants to experience it all. Since Oahu has over 100 beaches, you’ll have no problem pinpointing one to suit your mood. However, we’re partial to Makapu’u Beach, where you can snorkel and bodysurf all day long in relative solitude. Food wise, you have culture-blending options galore like Koko Head Cafe and MW Restaurant (save room for one of Michelle Karr-Ueoka’s whimsical desserts). When it’s time to chill out, you’ll relish the residential-like and whisper-quiet accommodations at the new Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts.
Montreal, Canada
Where old-world European charm meets cosmopolitan energy, Quebec’s largest city is a sensible choice for vacation. Stunning hotels abound, but we’re especially partial to Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton with its sophisticated design, convenient address, and Pan-Asian eatery Yama by chef Antonio Park. No visit to Montreal, however, would be complete without digging into iconic bites such as Chez Claudette’s poutine, St-Viateur’s chewy-sweet sesame bagels, and Schwartz’s Deli’s smoked meat sandwiches. Need a culture fix in between all that eating? Check out the exhibits at Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and McCord Stewart Museum. Don’t forget to set aside time to shop the glamorous new mega-mall at Royalmount, a mixed-used development that’s among North America’s largest and is completely carbon neutral.
Phoenix, Arizona
Cradled by mountains and blessed with sunny days three seasons out of the year, Phoenix is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers. Reward yourself after a long day on your feet at the serene Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, where one of the region’s most beloved spas—the CBD Rejuvenating Massage relieves fatigued muscles—and plush, light-filled rooms await. Seeking more urban vibes? The Global Ambassador is a smart choice; plus, famed local chef Sam Fox developed all the dining concepts, including Arizona’s biggest rooftop restaurant. Other dependable dinner options include Uchi, a contemporary Japanese eatery by James Beard Award‑winning Chef Tyson Cole and Fat Ox‘s mouthwatering house made pastas.
Paris
It might be tough to push past public image of France’s capital as a romantic destination for couples, but trust us: it’s an unforgettable place for solo women as well. Public transportation (Métro) is economical and easy to use, and there is seriously something for every interest. Surround yourself with a mind-boggling collection of art at the tiny but mighty (and free) Petit Palais. Scoop up designer duds (hello, tax-free shopping) from Hermès and Dior in the Golden Triangle. Nab a coveted bar seat at the always-busy but well-loved La Coupole for a proper French supper of Champagne and fresh seafood. When it’s time to rest, slip into your awe-inspiring room overlooking the Seine at LVMH’s 72-key Cheval Blanc Paris.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Comprised of the Caribbean islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands transports you to a tropical paradise of turquoise waters, sugary sands, and warm sunshine without a passport. If you just want to focus on relaxing—and not deal with the hassle of planning meals and excursions—then check into an all-inclusive resort. St. Croix’s Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino was recently renovated, and is an adults-only affair with unlimited food and beverages in a refreshingly tranquil setting. In St. Thomas, Bolongo Bay Beach Resort specializes in a more intimate, family-run operation specializing in enticing, a la carte menus at every meal with no buffets.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
One of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, Dubrovnik’s claim to fame is its captivating history and architecture. Walking the thick walls dating back to medieval times that enclose the city is the first thing you’ll want to do after unpacking and settling into Hotel Excelsior, complete with stunning views of the Adriatic sea and a tranquil spa. Other activities you shouldn’t miss include taking the cable car to Mount Srđ for sweeping views, exploring Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sea kayaking. When your appetite kicks in, Beach Bar Dodo, D’Vino Wine Bar, and Barba are solid picks.
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