Sometimes the only travel companion you need is y-o-u, but where does a woman full of wanderlust go when she’s ready to get out of town for a while? As the original travel company, offering real, unique and local global adventures exclusively for 18-to-35-year-olds, Contiki has a trip for every type of solo explorer. With the best team in the business (your Trip Manager will be with you from the start to the end of your trip), your solo escape will be planned even before you step foot on a plane—from your accommodation to included experiences, transportation and meals. All you’ll need to do is sit back and do your thing. Here are 10 good places to start your next adventure:
the netherlands. The Netherlands is one of the most progressive places around on quite a few topics, and, along with scoring well on safety lists, the locals are known for being laid back and polite. Amsterdam is easily one of the coolest cities in the world, and it’s the perfect place to wander and explore. There are few things better than biking around solo every day to tick off your bucket list in record time—and biking solo really is just the best way to do it.
thailand. Friendly, inviting and beautiful, Thailand is a place of a thousand possibilities—and a solo traveller’s dream thanks to its white-sand beaches, delicious local cuisine, buzzing nightlife and thriving backpacker culture. The people are friendly and welcoming, the weather is warm in most parts all year round and you’ll meet lots of likeminded explorers on solo vacations, so you’ll never feel alone. (If you’re worried about language barriers and getting around somewhere you’ve never been to before, why not join Contiki’s new 16-day Total Thailand adventure? Explore lush green jungles, world-famous cities, quaint villages and palm-fringed islands, without compromise or worry.)
iceland. Not only is Iceland one of the most popular places to go du jour, but doing it alone is a breeze. Reykjavik is the perfect size to get around on your own, and the locals are friendly and speak English as well. It’s also one of the safest countries in the whole world, and one of the most progressive in terms of feminism and attitudes toward women.
croatia. There are few places in the world where we’d rather get lost than in Dubrovnik (in fact, as long as you walk downwards, you’ll always find yourself in the middle of town). It’s clean and picturesque, and boasts a fascinating history, to boot. Head to Croatia on Contiki’s two-week-long Best of Balkans escape for sunshine, sunsets and sights served up left, right and centre.
switzerland. It may not be the cheapest European country, but you’re paying for quality—and treating yourself to a bit of luxury is necessary now and then. From shopping to hiking, skiing to spa-ing, super-safe Switzerland has all of the good things (including enough castles to bring out the Disney princess in us all).
japan. There are few places in the world that cater to a solo escape more than Japan. Japanese life is organized, efficient, clean and polite, which makes it so easy to comfortably slide right in and get your sushi on. Locals are kind, helpful and accustomed to doing things solo as well. Everything from travelling to eating out alone feels natural in Japan, and the sightseeing and transport are like the cherry (blossom) on top!
spain. When it comes to Europe, there are few places that offer as much diversity in one beautiful package. Spanish cities are walkable, the history is vast and fascinating and the beaches and party scene are superb (plus tapas makes for the perfect cheap meal option for one!). Practice your Español on Contiki’s two-week long Spanish Spree vacation that will see you exploring everywhere from San Sebastian to Seville, with a side trip to Ibiza in-between.
south africa. There’s a reason why it’s been called “A world in one country”—South Africa truly offers the perfect destination for those seeking spice in their solo travels. The people are friendly, the loonie goes really far and there are so many thrill-seeking fun things to do. Definitely consider Contiki’s brand-new 11-day Cape, Safari & Falls adventure, including a wine tour at the Cape Winelands, ’gramming a colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach, a thrilling cable car ride up Table Mountain and the chance to spot the Big Five in two of Africa’s top wildlife destinations!
sweden. Sweden consistently ranks close to the top of every list when it comes to women’s rights and safety, and its progressive nature falls in line with many other Nordic countries, making it an ideal area to explore solo. The epic seafood, sightseeing, adventure activities and Northern Lights make it even sweeter, and the Swedes’ love for quirky music festivals will provide the perfect soundtrack for your trip.
ireland. It’s pretty hard not to fall in love with Ireland as a whole, and for women travelling alone it’s the perfect place to start. It’s different from home without putting you too far out of your comfort zone and the people are some of the friendliest in the world. It’s also incredibly easy to get to, no matter where you are in Canada. Contiki’s eight-day Ireland trek offers the full Irish experience including visiting historical Galway, gazing out from the Cliffs of Moher, taste-testing Guinness, exploring the Jameson’s Distillery and seeing the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway. Throw in a professional Trip Manager, who knows the streets of Ireland better than you know the hairs on your toes, included luxury transportation around the Emerald Isle and the most delicious meals you’ve ever tasted, and you’re in for a craicing time.
If any of these welcoming wonders tickle your fancy, check out contiki.com and get those bags packed—solo adventures await!
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