Getaways

Planning a solo trip? Try these 10 destinations.

BY NATALIE B. COMPTON

The Washington Post

Traveling alone is one of life’s most rewarding — and sometimes embarrassing — experiences, whether you’re fresh out of high school or married with kids. If you’re new to solo travel, it can feel overwhelming to pick a place to go, let alone plan the whole trip. I’ve had the best time where there’s accessible public transportation and plentiful Ubers or taxis. My favorite places feel vibrant and safe beyond hotels and resorts. Where should you go? Start with these 10 places.

1. SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LAS CASAS, MEXICO

After traveling more than 20,000 miles across Mexico — passing through 32 states and 156 cities — cookbook author Rick Martinez has many recommendations for solo trips. San Cristóbal de las Casas, a town in the Chiapas highlands, makes his shortlist for its Spanish colonial architecture, textile artisans and outdoor markets.

The cafe culture reminds Martinez of Paris. “You can people-watch and relax,” he said, “and the food is really amazing.”

Don’t leave without trying the city’s tamales, roasted plantains and other fruits — from guava to apples to passion fruit — preserved in syrups and alcohol. Fair warning: you’ll have to fly to the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez and take a bus.

2. DENVER

According to findings from a VacationRenter analysis on “The Best (And Worst) Travel Destinations for Introverts,” Denver is the top pick based on factors like population density, walkability and the range of activities. That makes sense; Denver has a laid-back style and is easy to get around, offering something for every kind of solo traveler (extroverts, too).

Once you get off the Denver airport Kappabashi Street in Tokyo.

Irwin Wong

rail at Union Station, the world is your oyster. Visit distilleries and breweries, hike close to the city or take a walking tour to see the city like a local, appreciating the murals along Cherry Creek trail.

3. JAPAN

After five experiences traveling alone in Japan, I fully endorse a solo trip to the country whether you want excitement, peace and quiet or something in between. I’m not alone.

“I loved traveling Japan solo because it is safe, clean, and people are so respectful, kind, and helpful,” Annie Cheng, founder of the group tour company The Table Less Traveled, said in an email.

The obvious place to go — particularly for travelers who may feel self-conscious being on their own — is Tokyo, where restaurants, bars and public baths cater to the solo customer. You could spend your entire trip in Japan’s capital, or venture out by train to see more of the country’s special pockets, from mountainous Sapporo to the beaches of Okinawa to bustling Osaka.

Don’t feel intimidated to plan a trip if you don’t speak Japanese. “Despite the language barrier, I’ve had some of my best meals in Japan traveling solo,” Cheng said. Her advice for travelers is to get outside of their comfort zone, try to talk to anyone you can.

“You may feel awkward, stupid, or embarrassed if it doesn’t go as you planned, but in the best-case scenario you make a new friend and local connection,” Cheng said.

4. TANZANIA

Chanice “Queenie” Williams, founder of the blog and travel planning site

(See DESTINATIONS 18)