A significant shift in holiday habits is underway, as a growing number of Britons are embracing the freedom of travelling alone. New research has pinpointed the globe's premier destinations for these independent explorers, with Southeast Asian gems dominating the list.
The World's Best Places for Solo Adventure
Travelbag, a specialist in long-haul journeys, conducted an in-depth study to identify the top locations for solo travellers. The analysis carefully weighed crucial factors including daytime safety, cost of living, local weather, visitor acceptance, and language to compile its definitive ranking.
Claiming the number one position is Hanoi, Vietnam. The capital city impressed with a remarkable daytime safety score of 82 out of 100. For budget-conscious travellers, Hanoi is a dream, with a one-way ticket on public transport costing a mere 25p. A local beer will set you back just 71p, and peak season offers balmy average temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius. According to SkyScanner, a hotel room can be secured for as little as £5 per night in December.
Asian Gems Offer Unbeatable Value
Securing the second spot is Colombo, Sri Lanka, where the climate is even warmer, hovering around 29 degrees. It also proves to be the second most affordable destination in the top ten for getting around, with public transport costing just 14p for a one-way journey. Once named a 'must-photograph' destination, Colombo also boasts a solid safety rating of 76.
Sri Lanka makes another appearance on the list, with Kandy taking third place. This charming city, known for its serene tea plantations and tranquil lakes, is the absolute cheapest for transport, costing travellers only 12p per trip.
In fourth place is Siem Reap, Cambodia, a hub for exploring ancient temples. Here, a beer and a public transport ticket are equally priced at 74p, with peak season temperatures a pleasant 26 degrees.
Expert Insight for the Solo Traveller
Grand Bay, Mauritius followed in fifth, praised for its high safety score of 85 and affordable 76p transport. Chiang Mai, Thailand, placed sixth and achieved the highest safety score of all at an impressive 93 out of 100.
The list is rounded out by Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in seventh, Zanzibar, Tanzania in eighth, Male, Maldives in ninth, and Phuket, Thailand in tenth position.
Helen Wheat, Travelbag's Southeast Asia destination expert, commented on the region's appeal. 'Southeast Asia is ideal for solo travellers, offering affordability, ease of navigation, and a welcoming atmosphere year-round,' she said.
Wheat also offered a savvy travel tip: 'Visiting outside of peak tourist months, typically between June and August and then between December and February, means fewer crowds and better value for accommodation and activities.' She highlighted the region's tropical climate and established infrastructure, which makes independent travel remarkably straightforward, while still offering luxury options for those seeking indulgence.
