Ever thought about dropping everything and trying solo travel, but worried it might get boring? Don’t worry—when you travel alone, you actually become more mindful of the people and things around you, discovering some of the everyday beauty you usually miss, while also making new friends. Plus, when you're traveling solo, the journey is all about you, so you can arrange everything entirely based on your own preferences. Travel experts have compiled a list of simple, beginner-friendly countries to ensure your first solo trip is just as enjoyable.
Japan
Japan was the most visited country by our readers last year TOP.1, not only offering endless food and an unlimited selection of cosmetics, electronics, but also a wide variety of attractions—from natural scenery and temples to shopping malls—everything you could want is here. Moreover, Japan has embraced the single economy trend in recent years, with solo-friendly restaurants, hot spring hotels, and even Universal Studios Osaka introducing single-friendly facilities.
Tokyo
As Japan’s capital, Tokyo is often the top choice for many travelers. Its dense subway system is a blessing for tourists, and if you’re spontaneous (or prone to changing your mind), Tokyo’s metro can definitely keep up—no matter where you suddenly decide to go within the city, the subway will get you there. Also, many local signs include Chinese characters, so language barriers won’t be an issue even if you don’t speak Japanese.
★ Recommended Attractions:Senso-ji Temple (Thunder Gate),Tokyo Skytree,Tokyo Skytree Town shopping complex,Tokyo Disneyland
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Okinawa
Okinawa is not only one of the top road-trip destinations for travelers, but it's also great for solo trips, thanks to its super relaxed pace that perfectly fits the saying “ no plan is the best plan(no plan is the best plan) .” Sleep in, decide your itinerary after waking up, visit a massive aquarium or the Okinawa Shrine, or simply spend the day staring out at the ocean—it’s all good. If your trip coincides with the annual Shurijo Castle Festival, you might even catch a dazzling royal parade., if you happen to visit during the annual Shurijo Castle Festival, you can even witness an incredibly luxurious royal parade.
★ Recommended Attractions:Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium,Shuri Castle,Oki Shrine
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Hokkaido
Hokkaido boasts a variety of stunning scenery throughout the year. In spring and summer, visit the Furano Gardens to admire fields of sunflowers, lilies, cosmos, and lavender. In autumn, enjoy the vibrant red foliage, and in winter, experience breathtaking snowy landscapes paired with the snow lantern festival at Otaru Canal. No matter when you go, you can witness the most beautiful natural scenery and find healing for your weary mind and body. Moreover, Hokkaido is home to one of the world’s top-tier million-star night views, illuminating your nights and ensuring you never feel alone, even when traveling solo.
★ Recommended Attractions:Furano Gardens,Otaru Canal,Mount Hakodate Million-Dollar Night View
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South Korea
In this era when Korean dramas are all the rage, many people can probably rattle off some simple Korean phrases or even songs. But even if you don’t speak Korean, it’s not a problem—many places in South Korea have Chinese signage, and popular tourist spots often have staff who speak Chinese. The subway and bus systems in major cities are also very convenient, so solo travelers can get around easily. Additionally, the single culture has also become a trend in South Korea, with more and more “solo” products such as food, drinks, and movies tailored for individual enjoyment.
Seoul
Like Tokyo, Seoul has a very convenient transportation system, and with the increasing number of travelers from China and Taiwan in recent years, almost all shops in Seoul have staff who speak Chinese, making communication much easier. Solo travel is never boring—during the day you can explore attractions, then enjoy a peaceful afternoon at a specialty café, and head to a nightclub for a drink in the evening (maybe even spark a little romance), ensuring you’re too busy to even remember you’re traveling alone.
★ Recommended Attractions:Samcheong-dong (specialty cafés),EastDaMen,Cheonggyecheon
BusanBusan
Although not as bustling as Seoul, Busan, as the second-largest city, is also very well developed. Whether it’s transportation or language, you don’t need to worry too much. And without the hustle and bustle of Seoul, solo travel in Busan is even more relaxing. The locals are less distant than in big cities, feeling friendlier and making it easier to make new friends. Moreover, Busan is located by the sea and boasts many beautiful seascapes. In particular, you could easily spend an entire day enjoying Haeundae.
★ Recommended Attractions:Gamcheon Culture Village,Haeundae,Songdo Skywalk
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Hong Kong
Hong Kong is the second most popular travel destination for our citizens, ranking only after Japan and surpassing Korea. Not only is there little language barrier, but the food habits and culture are also more familiar. If you want to meet new people through solo travel, Hong Kong would be an excellent choice. Hong Kong becomes even more enchanting after sunset, and watching the romantic night view dotted with twinkling lights makes all worries disappear instantly. Just relax and enjoy the serenity of being alone.
★ Recommended Attractions:Hong Kong Disneyland,Ocean Park,Star Ferry
Macau
Traveling to Macau also means no worries about language barriers—basic Chinese communication is no problem. Moreover, due to rule by different cultures, the area retains many unique features such as the famous Ruins of St. Paul's, the colorfully vibrant St. Dominic’s Church, or the Taipa Village filled with various delicacies (like pork chop buns and almond cookies), all of which are popular spots to visit. After sightseeing, you can also catch a thrilling performance at The House of Dancing Water. If you’d rather not run around, head to the ultra-luxurious The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, which has everything—shopping malls, shows, canal cruises—you name it. You can fulfill all your desires indoors.
★ Recommended Attractions:Ruins of St. Paul's (Facade of the Church of St. Paul),Church of St. Dominic,The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel,Taipa Village,The House of Dancing Water
Singapore
According CNN 2018to the report, Singapore was ranked the safest travel destination in the world, making it your top choice if you’re concerned about safety while traveling alone. Additionally, Singapore is less than a five-hour flight from Taiwan. Though small in size, it offers numerous attractions and little surprises waiting to be discovered—such as Gardens by the Bay, one of the world’s top ten indoor gardens; the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, which houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha; or the Singapore River Wonders. All are highly recommended for solo travelers.
★Recommended Attractions:Singapore River Wonders,Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum,Gardens by the Bay,Universal Studios Singapore
Finally, here’s some advice: there’s no need to worry too much about traveling abroad alone. There are many benefits to solo travel—it can help you learn to be alone, overcome fears, and more. After the trip, you’ll also feel more confident in yourself. So go ahead, travel the world bravely on your own!
By Kayline | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team
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