The Joy of Solo Travel: Find Your Perfect Destination

Mi casa es tu casa: feel right at home in Madrid

As its many happily assimilated expats will tell you, Madrid is a city that embraces everyone with open arms. But for those travelling alone, its warmth feels particularly magical. Once you’ve found your ideal hotel in Madrid, take a stroll through the cobblestoned streets of La Latina, explore the masterpieces at the Prado Museum, then make your way to the Reina Sofia Museum to admire modern art gems, including Picasso’s famed Guernica. 

Wander through Retiro Park, a green oasis where you can row across the tranquil lake, visit the Crystal Palace, one of the finest examples of cast-iron architecture in Madrid, or simply relax in the shade of its ancient trees. For a dose of grandeur, step into the Royal Palace, a marvel of opulence and history, and don’t miss the stunning Almudena Cathedral nearby. 

Dive into the city’s bustling energy by shopping at local markets such as the daily Mercado de San Miguel, where fresh produce is displayed alongside ready-to-eat gourmet delights, or El Rastro, Madrid’s famous flea market held every Sunday and on public holidays. 

For those concerned that their high school Spanish might hold them back from making connections, we have good news – food is the ultimate icebreaker here. Don’t shy away from a seat at the bar in a local tapas joint. Start with gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns) and a glass of vermouth, and you’ll soon find yourself in a conversation about football, art or the meaning of life.

Walk with giants in Chiang Rai

For many first-time solo travellers, the greatest challenge isn’t the logistics or safety, but the uncharted territory of spending so much time in one’s own company. When moments of solitude feel overwhelming and lively bars aren’t your preferred retreat, few things are as comforting – or as transformative – as connecting with animals.

When considering hotels in Chiang Rai, one of your options is staying in an ethical sanctuary for rescue elephants that roam freely under the devoted care of their mahouts. Here, at Anantara Golden Triangle, you can immerse yourself in in-nature experiences – from peaceful sunrise walks to hands-on moments like bathing and feeding these gentle giants. Any trace of loneliness will quickly give way to a profound sense of connection, awe and wonder.

Plus, Chiang Rai’s slower pace is perfect for reflecting on your travels while experiencing the generosity of Thai hospitality. Solo traveller and travel creator Guy Ratchanont says this slower rhythm is also what makes Chiang Rai especially rewarding for those exploring alone. “For a solo traveller, Chiang Rai is never lonely”, he explains, noting that simple interactions such as talking with coffee farmers in the highlands, learning about tea-making from villagers, or spending time in hill tribe communities like Phahae Village often become the most meaningful parts of the journey.

Visit the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) for a surreal and thought-provoking experience steeped in deep Buddhist symbolism, and another modern masterpiece – the striking Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), known for its vibrant colours and intricate designs. 

Finally, stroll through the bustling night bazaar, where you can shop for handmade crafts, sample local delicacies such as khao soi and sai oua at very reasonable prices, and enjoy cultural performances.  

Portugal: a compact gem

Thailand is often considered a starter destination in Asia, thanks to its excellent public transport system and robust hospitality sector. In Europe, Portugal offers a similarly efficient and solo-travel-friendly experience, with the added benefit of its compact size making exploration a breeze.

Begin your journey in Lisbon, where the soulful strains of fado music drift through the Alfama district’s narrow alleys. These atmospheric streets are lined with colourful granite houses, dazzling azulejos (hand-painted tiles) and elegant wrought iron balconies that make every corner feel like a postcard come to life. Many hotels in Lisbon retain these traditional architectural elements, infusing your stay with inimitable local character. 

Great solo travel destinations: urban exploits in Melbourne

Melbourne’s effortlessly cool confidence greets you the moment you step into your first laneway café or world-class art gallery. The city’s extensive public transport network is wonderfully easy to navigate. A tram pass is the perfect way to explore Melbourne’s eclectic neighborhoods, from Fitzroy’s indie boutiques and bohemian vibe to St Kilda’s laid-back coastal charm.

For first-time visitors, staying in one of the CBD hotels in Melbourne is a smart choice to take full advantage of the Free Tram Zone that covers the area. However, if you’re a returning traveller or seeking a change of pace, consider staying in the trendy districts of Fitzroy or South Melbourne, home to stylish cafés and low-rise buildings adorned with vibrant murals. Alternatively, South Yarra and Prahran, often celebrated as Melbourne’s most liveable suburbs, offer another great option with their mix of sophistication, local charm and dining hotspots.

For art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Victoria showcases a rich collection of international and Australian works, while Melbourne Museum offers engaging exhibits about the city’s history and culture. The iconic State Library of Victoria is perfect for quiet exploration, from its stunning La Trobe Reading Room to its engaging exhibitions. 

With an abundance of festivals, food markets and local meet-ups regularly advertised on social media and in local publications like Time Out, you’re never far from like-minded adventurers. This vibrant connectivity makes Melbourne one of the best travel destinations for solo travellers.

Go with the flow in Hoi An

Charming, atmospheric, and endlessly photogenic, Vietnam’s Hoi An is the kind of place that makes visitors feel like they’ve stepped back in time. The ancient town, with its UNESCO-protected architecture, is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Spend your days exploring bustling markets, taking a lantern-making workshop or sipping Vietnamese drip coffee by the Thu Bồn River.

In the evenings, the glow of hundreds of lanterns released into the river and hung on buildings in the Old Town creates a magical backdrop for street food feasts.

During the rainy months from September to January, the town takes on a quieter charm, with fewer tourists allowing you to enjoy the characterful coffee shops in heritage buildings and along the riverfront at Anantara Hoi An Resort all to yourself – a perfect setting to start that novel or travel blog.

Even the occasional flood becomes part of the experience, as locals gracefully adapt, swapping bicycles and motorbikes for boats and transforming the town into a "Venice of the East." Embrace the community spirit by joining in the clean-up efforts to remove mud from the streets, creating lasting connections and memories along the way.

All that glitters: your solo Dubai escape

Safe, futuristic and almost universally English-speaking, Dubai is a great solo travel destination. Beyond its awe-inspiring skyline and larger-than-life retail emporiums, numerous Bedouin-inspired desert camps offer a taste of tradition through henna hand painting, camel rides and dining beneath the stars.

Start with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, where the observation decks offer panoramic views of the city’s dazzling architecture, VIP tours and VR experiences. Next, visit Dubai Mall, a sprawling complex filled with luxury stores, an indoor aquarium, an ice rink and countless other attractions to explore. Step away from modernity with a leisurely stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where traditional wind towers and captivating museums provide excellent photo opportunities.

In cooler months, the city’s beach clubs come alive, offering idyllic spots to unwind by turquoise waters to mellow DJ beats. Adventurers visiting between October and April can take to the waves at Surf House Dubai, the UAE’s original surf and stand-up paddle school. Located in the affluent residential area of Umm Suqeim, this stretch of pristine shoreline is also great for swimming, kitesurfing and kite flying with unbeatable Burj Al Arab views.

Ultimately, whether you choose to stay in one of the towering downtown hotels in Dubai or a serene beachfront retreat, as a solo traveler, you'll find that connecting with fellow wanderers here comes effortlessly.

Rich culture and quiet adventure in Cambodia

For those who seek a blend of history, culture and soul-stirring landscapes, Cambodia offers a profoundly rewarding experience. 

The country’s highlight is undoubtedly the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, a bucket-list-worthy destination where solo adventurers can wander among awe-inspiring ruins steeped in history. You can also explore lush forests and waterfalls on serene hikes, tour the Tonle Sap Lake by boat as you visit floating villages like Kampong Phluk, or spend whole afternoons at The Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre or Angkor Botanical Garden. The friendly and welcoming nature of Cambodian people ensures that you’ll never feel alone, returning to the comforts of your hotels in Cambodia with a big smile on your face.