Even to another town or state, traveling is a great way to learn and experience some personal development. Seeing things you don’t see every day will create new neural pathways in your mind, broadening your outlook on life. To make the trip more exciting or memorable, you might even reach out to a like-minded friend or drag them along.
On the face of it, solo travel may initially seem intimidating or a recipe for boredom. However, if you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone, you’ll open yourself up to the experience of a lifetime. Without a handy friend or relation as a social crutch, you will be forced to bed in with the locals and assimilate their culture more intimately.
Adventurous as solo travel may be, it does come with a few risks, at times even to your safety. You, therefore, need to select your destination with your safety and the safety of your belongings in mind. Here are some destinations that offer a safe haven to the solo traveler:
- San Francisco
San Francisco is a great place to visit for the sheer diversity of attractions it offers. It is home to the architectural wonder that is the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the world’s most Instagrammable spots. You can marvel at the unique inhabitants of the aquarium of the bay or take a quick cruise around the bay from the Pier 39 Marina.
Getting to those attractions will be a breeze and pocket-friendly using San Francisco’s efficient public transport. Most districts are safe to tour at any time of day or night. However, you will want to avoid Tenderloin after dark, exciting as its nightlife may be.
- Salt Lake City
Few cities in the U.S. are more ideal for the solo traveler than Utah’s capital. The abundant entertainment options include gripping live musical productions at Hale Theatre. And when you want to get away and bond with nature, the lush poppy fields of the Alpine Canton beckon you. If you’re into pasta, the dining options are plentiful, highlighted by the quaint Sicilia Mia.
Another bonus for the unaccompanied adventurer is Salt Lake City’s rating as one of the safest cities in America, large and culturally diverse as it is. The risk of even being pickpocketed here is next to nil.
- Honolulu
Honolulu should top your list of potential destinations if your solo excursion is a quest for sun and sand. It is the home of the world-famous Waikiki Beach, a haven for sunbathers and surfers alike. Serious surfers, including the pros, will want to head over to Oahu, though.
This spot also offers a memorable snorkeling experience. Nature lovers or anyone who wants lush green fodder for their camera phone should dedicate a few hours to Manoa Falls.
Solo vacationers will be happy to hear that Honolulu recently ranked as one of the safest cities in the U.S. But you will want to take the usual safety precautions anyway.
- Vancouver
This Canadian coastal gem is considered one of the best places to visit and live in. It offers both locals and tourists a high level of safety though there are still areas you don’t want to be left isolated in at night.
It offers the twin attractions of majestic mountainscapes and a gorgeous coastline to the discerning traveler. Vancouver is known for hosting an international jazz festival and a vibrant nightlife that is surprisingly underrated.
It wouldn’t be surprising if you’re charmed enough to stay more permanently, and if that’s the case – check out the Vancouver: best places to live quick guide.
- Portland
If you’re looking for a large city with a laid-back, small-town vibe, the City of Roses is the place to be. It is the outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering scenic trails for hiking and biking. You can pack your fishing gear too if you wish to test your angling skills in Portland’s bountiful lakes.
Portland has long held a reputation as one of the safest major cities in the U.S. and is considered safe even for solo female travelers.
- Denver
Denver is considered one of the best-kept secrets, offering travelers a well-rounded experience when it comes to tourist destinations in the States. If you’re looking for an exciting urban tourist experience, there are incredible neighborhoods for you to tour. And locals in the Colorado capital will tell you there is no shortage of outdoor activities there regardless of the time of year.
You won’t have to take extra precautions for your personal safety; Denver is considered very safe. But you will want to be careful in the inner-city areas.
Minimum Precaution
As you select your preferred solo travel destination, you can use these pointers as a guide. However, no matter how safe a location is said to be, you need to exercise a certain amount of caution. Avoid going to isolated, dingy places, especially past sundown.
