Chapter 2: Choosing Your First Solo Travel Destination
Choosing your first solo travel destination? This chapter helps you pick a place that’s safe, exciting, and beginner-friendly — with tips, recommendations, and top cities for first-timers.
One of the biggest questions new solo travelers ask is: “Where should I go first?”
This chapter helps you choose a destination that’s exciting, manageable, and solo-travel friendly — so you can build confidence and enjoy your journey from day one.
✅ What Makes a Great First Solo Destination?
Look for places that are:
- Safe and welcoming to solo travelers
- Walkable and well-connected by transit
- Tourist-friendly, with good infrastructure and English signage (if needed)
- Budget-aligned with your comfort level
- Full of things to do at your own pace (culture, nature, cafés, tours)
🧠 Questions to Help You Choose
- Do you want nature, cities, or both?
- Do you feel comfortable somewhere far from home, or closer for now?
- Do you want ease (no culture shock) or challenge (growth)?
- Would you prefer to meet other travelers or be more off the grid?
There’s no one-size-fits-all — your ideal first destination should align with your comfort zone + a little push beyond it.
🌍 Top First-Time Solo Travel Destinations
Here are popular and proven choices for first-timers — based on safety, ease of travel, and solo-friendliness:
| Region | Destinations | Why They're Great |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | Portugal, Ireland, Netherlands, Slovenia | Safe, English-friendly, easy to navigate |
| Asia | Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia | Welcoming, great value, strong infrastructure |
| Americas | Canada, Costa Rica, Peru, Mexico City | Solo traveler hotspots, affordable options |
| Oceania | New Zealand, Australia | English-speaking, scenic, active lifestyle |
💡 Tip: Start in a region where the culture is different but not overwhelming. For example, Thailand is exotic but tourist-savvy. Ireland is familiar but full of adventure.
📌 Destination Types for Different Travel Styles
| Travel Style | Best Destination Types |
|---|---|
| Culture & history | Lisbon, Kyoto, Athens, Oaxaca |
| Nature & hiking | New Zealand, Patagonia, Banff, Madeira |
| Beach & chill | Bali, Costa Rica, Tulum, Portugal’s Algarve |
| Food & cities | Tokyo, Montreal, Ho Chi Minh City, Istanbul |
| Digital nomad vibe | Chiang Mai, Mexico City, Medellín, Split |
🗓 When to Go
- Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) offer cheaper prices and fewer crowds
- Avoid peak holidays unless you're okay with higher costs and full bookings
- Check weather and visa requirements before committing
Summary
Your first solo trip should feel exciting, safe, and manageable. Choose a destination that aligns with your interests, budget, and comfort level — and remember, there’s no “wrong” choice if it gets you traveling.