Solo traveling is in, and for good reason. What better way to get in touch with yourself than by spending time in your own company? Solo traveling can be revolutionary in many ways, but two of the biggest (and only) downfalls are not having anyone to split trip costs with and ensuring safety measures. Some destinations, however, knock these two hurdles out of the park. Here are our top 10 picks for the safest and most affordable destinations for solo travel.
10/10 Cambodia
Cambodia is a small but mighty nation in Southeast Asia. For an already affordable and safe region, Cambodia somehow takes it a step further. For a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, expect to pay around $3-4, and street food is typically under $2. Hostels are as low as $3/night, and budget hotels that are still seemingly luxurious, the price is almost always under $50/night. Try The Grand Cyclo Boutique & Spa if you’ve outgrown hostels. Though Cambodia is overall safe, petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing are somewhat high, so be vigilant at all times, like you would anywhere else you go.
9/10 Malaysia
For a country in Southeast Asia that provides luxurious charm, some of the best cuisine in the region, and has both big cityscapes and tropical beach getaways, look no further than Malaysia. Malaysia is a perfect destination for solo travelers looking to be a baller on a budget. Stay in a hotel with a rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur for as low as $35/night. For those wanting to explore a beach destination, Langkawi is right off of the coast of Malaysia and is known for its clear waters and pristine diving. The food in Malaysia is enough of a reason to travel there: with street dishes like curry mee, nasi lemak, and Mee Goreng Mamak, the flavors of Malaysia will keep you coming back for more. What will also keep you coming back for more is that most street food is around $2-3 here. Note that overall, Malaysia is a safe destination, but for women, in particular, be prepared to be stared at and gawked at. While ladies don’t have to completely cover up, dressing on the conservative side will likely lessen any unwanted attention.
8/10 Peru
Do you want to travel the world safely, on a budget, to a world wonder? If so, it’s time to book a ticket to Peru! Peru is a fantastic destination for history, landscape, cuisine, and culture. Get ready to see some llamas and alpacas strolling around like they own the place. Learn the history of the Indigenous people of Peru, such as the Achuar, Aguaruna, Asháninka, Shipibo, Huambisa, Quechua, and Aymara. Enjoy the sights of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s new wonders, which can be reached through a day tour or through the infamous Inca Trail. Hike the colorful natural phenomenon, Rainbow Mountain, in Vinicunca. Solo travelers have no fear: Peru is one of the top destinations for backpackers, and though, like anywhere else, use common sense, don’t walk alone at night, don’t wear flashy jewelry, and avoid situations in which you might be more vulnerable (i.e., getting intoxicated), it is overall a great place for both budget, safety, and memorable experiences for a solo getaway.
7/10 Colombia
Some places are wildly misrepresented thanks to a few bad actors, and for the longest time, Colombia nearly topped that list. Long gone are the days that Colombia should be avoided. In 2019, before the entire world was affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, Colombia saw its highest rates of tourism to date, with a whopping 4.5 million visitors. This is largely thanks to Colombia’s vivid landscape, from the rolling hills of Medellín to the colorful streets of Cartagena, its delicious food (you’ve never had an arepa until you’ve had one out of a cart in Colombia), and its impeccable safety measures. Even solo female travelers have gone as far as to say that Colombia is one of their favorite destinations for safety.
6/10 Guatemala
Central America is an overlooked region due to the false narrative that it’s unsafe and not worth the visit. Central America is worth visiting for many reasons, and affordability is certainly one of them. In an already affordable area of the globe, the underrated nation of Guatemala manages to creep up to being one of the most affordable nations in the region. What’s great about traveling through Guatemala is that it’s a tiny nation, so the more time, the merrier; for those on a tight schedule, Guatemala can easily be explored in just a few days. Head to Antigua’s old town for a stroll through the Spanish colonial neighborhoods. Get great views of Volcan Atitlán at Lake Atitlán, a lake that frequently tops lists of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Shut down those naysayers about “dangerous” Central America by having the time of your life in beautiful Guatemala.
5/10 Mexico
Speaking of places that are falsely represented in Western media, don’t be fooled: Mexico is a beautifully affordable and, overall, safe destination to plan a solo trip to. To save money, avoid touristic Tulum and head to the western beach town of Sayulita. Looking for a city that serves arguably the best street food in the world? Mexico City has got you covered. Mexico is a popular destination, so even if traveling alone, it’s likely that solo trotters will meet other travelers along the way. If you’re feeling too weary to venture proper Mexico, stay at an affordable all-inclusive, which are also great for solo trips. Traveling alone never really means being alone, and Mexico proves this theory true.
4/10 Portugal
For those who want to explore Western Europe but can’t afford the astronomical prices of Paris or Rome, there’s a relatively small coastal nation that provides all the European charm without breaking the bank: Portugal. Now, while Portugal is not as affordable as aforementioned Malaysia or Guatemala, by Western Europe standards, the bang for the buck is plentiful. Get lost in the hilly streets of Lisbon, sip wine in Porto from the nearby Douro Valley, and head down to Lagos for an affordable picturesque beach town. The best part is Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries to travel to and live in. While that doesn’t mean your guard should be completely taken down, rest easy knowing you’re in one of the safest places on planet earth.
3/10 Bulgaria
Eastern Europe, though having gained more popularity in recent years, is filled with hidden gems and destinations waiting to be explored. Head to off-the-beaten-path Bulgaria, a country that’s easily accessible from nearby popular nations such as Hungary, Turkey, and Greece. Flixbus is a great way to travel from country to country in Eastern Europe, and busses from other nearby cities to Sofia, Bulgaria, can cost as low as $7. Meals in the capital of Sofia at a sit-down restaurant will average around $5-7 for a full plate of hearty food. Take advantage of a free walking tour in the capital and learn about Bulgaria’s communist past. Stay in a hostel for as low as $12/night to stretch your money the furthest. As for safety, Bulgaria has a low crime rate, but as mentioned, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always key.
2/10 Philippines
For a tropical getaway that won’t break the bank, the Philippines is one of the best options out there. Boasting beautiful blue waters, a wild backpacking scene, palm tree-lined roads, and fun dishes such as halo halo, kare kare, and sisig, the Philippines might be geographically far, but it is well worth the trek. Once there, expect to pay prices that are so affordable you’ll scratch your head as to why anyone pays upward of thousands of dollars for overwater bungalows in The Maldives when the Philippines offers the same picturesque beauty at a fraction of the price. For solo travelers, the Philippines is filled with friendly, social people, and it’s one of the easiest places on the planet to make friends in. It also doesn’t hurt that the Philippines is one of the most Instagrammable places on the planet.
1/10 Taiwan
For those looking for a place that’s modern but traditional, progressive yet still conservative in values, vivid and still naturally scenic, and safe yet affordable, Taiwan tops the list. The capital city, Taipei, well known for its late-night markets, is great for shopping, eating, and hanging out with locals. Taipei gives a slightly similar feel to Tokyo or Seoul at a price that won’t have you looking for a second job when you return from your holiday. Taiwan is also great for solo travel; it’s notoriously safe, and better yet, it’s safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers due to a recent movement, making it one of the most LGBTQIA+-friendly nations in all of Asia. A place that’s safe for all types of travelers is one that should be praised and, more importantly, visited.
