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Introduction

G’day! I’m Mikki – your favourite solo Aussie adventurer – here to share the top 10 solo female travel destinations for 2024. Think of this as a chat over flat white about places I’ve swooned over (or survived awkward hostel dorm bunk beds). I’m all for safety, cracking good times and cultural eye candy. No hard sell here – just genuine pointers and the odd wink toward Booking.com where you can lock in comfy stays.

Whether you’re dipping your toes into solo travel or a seasoned wanderer, this list has got you. Let’s jump in – passports ready?

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo blends hyper-modern with tranquil temples. It’s buzzing yet bizarrely organised – trains run like clockwork (thanks, punctuality gods). Nightlife is varied: izakayas for sashimi newbies, karaoke bars that beg you to belt out at 2am (no one judges your falsetto).

Safety: Exceptionally low crime. Stick to well-lit areas and watch for cyclists on narrow streets.

Must-do: Visit quirky neighbourhoods like Harajuku, then recharge at Meiji Shrine. Munch on ramen at one of the many tiny noodle shops.

Stay: For budget meets privacy, check capsule hotels or grab a cosy room on Booking.com. Tip: Lockers at train stations keep luggage stashed if you’re on a day-trip jaunt.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Sun-bleached alleys, nostalgia-soaked trams and custard tarts – Lisbon is a dream for solo women. The pastel buildings feel like they’re giving you a hug as you wander. English is widely spoken, and the locals are generous with recommendations.

Safety: Moderate pickpocket risk in touristy spots. Just zip your bag and keep valuables close.

Must-do: Climb up to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for sweeping city views, then sip Ginja cherry liqueur in Rossio Square.

Stay: Boutique hostels are social gold. Or book a stylish guesthouse via Booking.com. Consider using Airalo for an eSIM so you’re online anywhere.

3. Singapore

Perfect for those who like their skyscrapers shiny and streets spotless. Singapore’s super-efficient public transport and English signage make it a breeze. Food stalls at hawker centres dish up everything from laksa to chicken rice at pocket-friendly prices.

Safety: Very safe – you could nap under a palm tree at lunch hour (but probably don’t).

Must-do: Wander Gardens by the Bay, then shop and eat in Chinatown. The multicultural mix means there’s always something new to try.

Stay: From hostel pods to five-star tower rooms, you’ll find it on Booking.com. Don’t skip the rooftop infinity pool if you can swing it.

4. Vancouver, Canada

City meets nature, and they get along famously. Hike up Grouse Mountain by morning, then hit Gastown’s hip cafes in the arvo. The locals are laid-back, so solo travellers never feel out of place.

Safety: Low crime levels, though bears can be a thing if you venture deep into the forests. Stay alert and follow park guidelines.

Must-do: Rent a bike and cycle the Seawall in Stanley Park. Afterwards, reward yourself with a bowl of sushi – Vancouver does it exceptionally well.

Stay: Book flats or hotels with harbour views on Booking.com. I promise the mountain vistas beat any Instagram grid.

5. Melbourne, Australia

Okay, shameless plug for home turf – but Melbourne’s coffee obsession, laneway street art and multicultural foodie culture make it a top solo pick. Trams weave you around, and hidden bars pop up in basements.

Safety: Very low risk. Just watch out for trams when crossing the roads.

Must-do: Join a street-art tour, then sample dumplings in Chinatown. If you dig day trips, the Great Ocean Road is an absolute treat.

Stay: I love quirky boutique hotels and cosy Airbnbs. Explore options on Booking.com.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Gaudí architecture, tapas bars on every corner and beaches within city limits – Barcelona has it all. It hums with Catalan pride and late-night vibes (don’t expect dinner before 8pm).

Safety: Watch for pickpockets in La Rambla. A money belt can be your secret weapon.

Must-do: Lose yourself in Park Güell, then devour patatas bravas in the Gothic Quarter. Catch a flamenco show for extra flair.

Stay: Charming guesthouses and modern hotels abound. Score deals at Booking.com ahead of festival seasons.

7. Bali, Indonesia

Spiritual rice terraces, yoga retreats and sunsets that look Photoshopped. Bali is wallet-friendly and solo-traveller-friendly, with affordable yoga classes and shared surfer hostels that feel like home.

Safety: General safety is good. Avoid sketchy motorbike rentals and steer clear of unregulated twilight cliff jumps.

Must-do: Sunrise at Mount Batur, chill in Ubud’s coffee cafés, and visit sea temples like Tanah Lot at golden hour.

Stay: Stretch out in a private villa or dorm in Canggu via Booking.com. Pro tip: Book early in high season.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Cobblestone streets, medieval castles and ghost tours that might actually spook you. Edinburgh’s compact size makes it ideal for solo explorers who love history with a side of whisky.

Safety: Very safe. Locals are friendly, though a wee bit cheeky after a dram or two.

Must-do: Climb Arthur’s Seat for a city panorama. Wander the Royal Mile at dusk and soak up live folk music in a cosy pub.

Stay: Choose a snug B&B or city-centre hotel on Booking.com. Bonus: Breakfast full of black pudding.

9. Costa Rica

Pura vida, baby. Jungle canopy tours, volcano hikes and wildlife encounters make Costa Rica a nature lover’s playground. English is common in tourist areas and locals are known for their Tico hospitality.

Safety: Generally safe but rural roads can be rough. Plan shared shuttles or guided tours.

Must-do: Zipline through cloud forests, soak in hot springs near Arenal Volcano, and surf at Tamarindo.

Stay: Eco-lodges and beachfront cabinas are bookable on Booking.com. Consider travel insurance with SafetyWing.

10. Queenstown & Wanaka, New Zealand

Adventure capital meets lakeside chill. You’ll meet fellow solo travellers bungee jumping one minute and sipping pinot noir the next. Road trips between these towns are cinematic.

Safety: Adventurous activities come with industry-standard safety. Check certifications before you jump out of a plane.

Must-do: Jetboat on Shotover River, hike Roy’s Peak, and sample Central Otago wines.

Stay: Book lakeside lodges or cosy backpacker hostels via Booking.com. Renting a car? Look at local options – roads are well maintained.

Conclusion

Solo travel as a woman in 2024 is about freedom, finding your tribe (even if it’s a solo one) and ticking off bucket-list moments. These destinations tick safety, culture, foodie creds and that je ne sais quoi you came for. Remember to pack light, snag travel insurance with World Nomads or SafetyWing, and book your stays early on Booking.com.

Go on then – pick your next adventure, book those flights and start that packing playlist. If you get a bit homesick, just picture me wrestling with hostel bunk beds somewhere exotic. Safe travels, you absolute legend!