As enjoyable as family vacations and getaways with friends can be, there’s something to be said for going solo. On a solo trip, you aren’t tied to anyone else’s schedule or tastes. You can change plans on a whim, and let the day take you wherever it may. As a result, solo travelers often discover hidden gems and have experiences that fly far under the radar of those with travel companions and set itineraries.
If your idea of adventure involves traveling abroad solo in 2023, be sure to check out one of the following five best solo travel destinations:
1. The Netherlands
The Netherlands has long been a beacon for travelers of all stripes, and it remains one of the best choices for those just getting their start in venturing abroad solo. You can experience the old-world elegance of Amsterdam, or the distinctly modern Rotterdam, and the famous windmills of the Dutch countryside. Plus, the country is remarkably safe, as well as friendly towards pedestrians and cyclists. This means you’re far more likely to make new friends at the many cafes and attractions that line the city streets.
2. Costa Rica
Did you know that Costa Rica is considered the happiest country on earth? With just one visit, it’s easy to see why. The country is tailor-made for adventure and leisure. One minute, you can be zip-lining through the jungle or catching a wave on a surfboard, and the next you can be relaxing – drink in hand – on the beaches of Playa Langosta. With fantastic nightlife, incredible wildlife, and endless activities, Costa Rica should be on your list of solo travel destinations for 2023.
3. Albania
If this country in the Balkan peninsula isn’t already on your solo travel list, it really should be. Often overlooked in lieu of more popular destinations, Albania has a museum-like quality to its cities, mountains, beaches, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. Challenge yourself on a hike through the Albanian Alps. Soak in the tranquility at Gijipe Beach, or take a dip on some of coldest, clearest water on earth in the natural springs of Sarande. Albania is bound to become a top tourist destination soon. Wouldn’t you like to experience it before the masses do?
4. Colorado
Is your trip taking you to (or keeping you in) the USA? If so, Colorado is ideal for solo travelers. Base yourself out of a mountainside city like Boulder and spend your days hiking, climbing, or whitewater rafting throughout the Rocky Mountains. Explore smaller mountain towns like Leadville or Cripple Creek. Finally, cap the night off at a brewery, making new friends and experiencing the state’s booming craft beer scene.
5. Vietnam
If you consider yourself an adventurer, Vietnam may just be paradise for you. From kayaking, biking, and climbing tours to exploring ancient temples, or scoring the perfect deal at the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam is a solo backpacker’s dream. You can even visit a closed-down waterpark in Hue for a truly otherworldly experience, or test your mettle in the traffic of Ho Chi Minh City on a rented motor scooter.
Travel Insurance for Solo Trips
One of the challenges of traveling abroad by yourself is the need to be self-reliant. You won’t have a friend or loved one to help you out if something goes awry half a world away from home. However, even solo vacationers don’t have to travel alone. With the right insurance by your side, you can enjoy an extra measure of protection.
For trips to international destinations outside the USA, solo travelers should purchase travel medical insurance. A travel medical insurance plan is specifically designed to help you pay for necessary medical treatment during a trip outside your home country. It allows you to access the best medical care available for a predictable price, meaning treatment won’t potentially bankrupt you. Plus, benefits like coverage for emergency medical evacuation are absolutely essential for adventurers.
If your trip is taking you abroad to the USA, get visitors medical insurance. While the US has some of the best medical care available anywhere in the world, it is also among the most expensive. You don’t want to get stuck with a hospital bill you cannot possibly afford to pay if you get seriously sick or injured. Visitors insurance can help prevent this from happening, and is a must-have for everyone visiting the USA.
If you’re a US resident and your solo trip is taking you abroad or staying in the US, you may want to take advantage of the benefits offered by travel insurance. A travel insurance plan, also known as a trip cancellation insurance plan, is primarily focused on protecting your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs in the event of an unavoidable cancellation, interruption, or delay of your trip. But most plans can offer emergency medical coverage as well.
No matter what insurance you choose, be sure that it covers the activities you plan to take part in. If you plan to go rock-climbing on your trip to Albania, be sure the activity isn’t excluded from coverage by the plan you want to purchase. If it is, you should consider hazardous sports travel insurance to make sure you’re protected.
Regardless, do be sure to read the terms and conditions of any insurance plan prior to purchase, as they can differ. This way, there will be no question about what is included or excluded from coverage should you need to file a claim.