Solo Travel Isn’t Selfish — It’s Soul Work
What if I told you I’ve been solo traveling as a woman for over a decade?
From the neon nights of Shanghai to the sun-soaked beaches of Brazil, from the spice markets of Dubai to the floating villages of Thailand, I’ve explored over 40 countries with little more than a carry-on, a passport, and my intuition. And here’s the truth: I’ve never once regretted choosing myself.
Take São Paulo, for example. No itinerary. No travel buddy. Just vibes. One dinner with a woman I’d met in a Facebook group turned into an introduction to an expat who had called the city home for 10+ years… which somehow led to a conversation, in Mandarin, with a Brazilian local over strong coffee and belly laughs. That one spontaneous connection unlocked a side of São Paulo I never would’ve found on a packaged tour. Hidden gems. Private tours. Conversations that felt like stepping through a secret doorway into the soul of the city.
Five days later, I flew home different. Alive. Expanded. Steadier in my confidence. That’s the magic of solo travel, it meets you exactly where you are and sends you home a little more you than before.
People will try to scare you out of it:
“It’s not safe.”
“Wait until your friends are ready.”
“Isn’t that… selfish?”
But here’s the thing: Who has time to wait for someone else to co-sign your dreams?
Solo travel isn’t running away. It’s coming home, to yourself. It’s not just a trip; it’s a transformation. It’s sacred soul work. And when you do it with intention, it will shift something in you forever.
So no, sis! Solo travel isn’t selfish.
It’s brave. It’s beautiful. It’s yours.
Why Women Hesitate to Travel Solo (And How to Move Past It)
Let’s be real, solo travel isn’t all sunsets and sangria. The fears are real. The what-ifs can get loud. And if you’ve ever hesitated to book that ticket, it doesn’t mean you’re weak: it means you’re human.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be fearless to be a solo traveler. You just have to be ready. Ready to prepare. Ready to trust yourself. Ready to remember that you’ve handled hard things before, and you can do it again.
Because solo travel isn’t about proving you’re invincible. It’s about gathering your tools, tuning into your intuition, and knowing you’re capable of navigating whatever unfolds.
So, let’s talk about the biggest fears holding women back, and exactly how to flip them into fuel for your next adventure.
1. Safety Concerns
Let’s be real, this is the number one hesitation for most women, and it’s valid. Feeling safe isn’t just about protecting your body; it’s about protecting your peace. That’s why I always say: preparation is power.
Here’s how I protect both:
Book like a pro. Choose accommodations with glowing reviews from other women on Booking.com, Airbnb, or Hostelworld.
Loop in your people. Share your itinerary and live location with a trusted friend or family member, it’s peace of mind for everyone.
Ride smart. Stick to licensed transportation like Uber, Bolt, or Grab.
Know your streets. Avoid walking alone at night unless it’s well-lit, busy, and feels right.
Keep tech on your side. Download Noonlight (for emergencies) and SmartTraveler (for embassy info and safety updates).
Trust your gut. If something feels off, that’s your cue. No apology or explanation required.
✨ Story Time: In Morocco, I once booked a cute little riad online, but when I arrived, my intuition whispered, “nah.” I switched accommodations that same day. It wasn’t part of the plan, but neither is ignoring my safety.
2. Fear of Loneliness
Here’s the thing about traveling alone: the idea of it can feel way scarier than the reality. Eating by yourself? Exploring solo? It can feel awkward… until it doesn’t.
Solo doesn’t mean isolated; it means in control of your own company. And when you’re intentional, your “alone time” can be the most connected you’ve ever felt.
Ways to keep your world feeling full:
Find your people before you go. Join Facebook groups like Girls LOVE Travel, Black Women Travel, or Solo Female Travelers to connect with women who get it.
Make friends on the fly. Use apps like Tourlina (for meeting other solo female travelers) or Hey! VINA (like Bumble BFF, but for women).
Book experiences, not just accommodations. Cooking classes, walking tours, craft workshops, they’re natural conversation starters.
Stay present with yourself. Journal, vlog, or voice note your reflections. You might be surprised how full your solo time feels when you’re actually listening to yourself.
💡 Mindset shift: Loneliness is a feeling, not a fact. You’re not “by yourself”, you’re with yourself. And that relationship? It’s the most important one you’ll ever have.
3. Language Barriers
Worried about not speaking the language? Don’t be. You don’t have to be fluent in the words to be fluent in connection.
Here’s how to navigate with ease (and maybe even have fun with it):
Make Google Translate your travel BFF. The conversation feature is pure magic; it can bridge gaps in real time.
Learn the magic three: hello, thank you, and excuse me. Apps like Duolingo or Pimsleur make it easy.
Save yourself the scramble. Keep screenshots of important phrases and addresses in both English and the local language.
Let visuals do the talking. Menus, maps, hand gestures, even lil’ doodles, they work.
Wear your kindness. A warm smile is understood everywhere.
✨ Story Time: In Cambodia, I spent a few days touring with a local guide who spoke limited English. One night, he noticed I’d been eating nothing but French fries and plain rice, so I tried to explain I only eat fish, even miming a little “swimming” motion with my hand. The next day, he proudly announced he had fish for me… and placed a grilled snake on the table. My face said it all, but I smiled, said thank you, and tried my first (and last) bite of snake. Moral of the story? Words and hand motions can be hilariously misunderstood.
One More Thing:
It’s Okay to Be Nervous, Just Don’t Let It Stop You
You don’t have to wait until you feel fearless to start. Confidence isn’t something you pack before the trip; it’s something you collect along the way.
Fear doesn’t disappear; it just learns to ride in the backseat when you decide to drive. And every time you move with it, instead of away from it, you get stronger, braver, and more sure of yourself.
Every solo trip you take is a love letter to your courage. Every hesitation you move through is proof that you can trust yourself. And that trust? It will follow you home and spill into every part of your life.
“Fear doesn’t mean stop. It means prepare.”
Solo travel is less about being fearless and more about being free, on your own terms.
Best Solo Travel Destinations for Late Summer & Fall 2025
These spots are solo traveler–approved places where you can feel safe, inspired, and completely in your element. Late summer and fall are seasons of transition, making them perfect for pressing pause, resetting your energy, and stepping into something new.
Whether you’re craving a soulful retreat, a cultural deep-dive, or the freedom to explore at your own pace, these destinations are the perfect starting point for your next chapter.
Sedona, Arizona
Vibe: Spiritual reset, desert hikes, energy vortex magic
Why solo travelers love it:
Known for its grounding energy and breathtaking red rock views.
Safe, spacious, and ideal for reflection or a full digital detox.
Wellness is woven into the culture. Book a healing massage, sound bath, or chakra alignment session.
Even a solo hike here feels sacred, like the canyon walls are speaking directly to you.
✨ Solo Tip: Stay at a boutique inn or wellness retreat. Catch a sunrise meditation at Airport Mesa, the glow over the red rocks is pure magic.
Savannah, Georgia
Vibe: Southern charm, cobblestone strolls, haunted history
Why go solo:
Easy to explore on foot, with art galleries, cozy cafés, and friendly locals around every corner.
Indulge in soulful Southern dishes without judgment; solo dining here feels completely natural.
Spend a slow afternoon journaling under Spanish moss-draped oak trees or wandering along the riverfront.
✨ Solo Tip: Treat yourself to a ghost tour or rooftop dinner. Savannah has a romance to it that feels just as special when you’re your own date.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Vibe: Earthy elegance, healing arts, adobe dreamscape
Why it’s perfect:
A creative haven for artists, healers, and soulful solo seekers.
Stroll through adobe-lined streets filled with galleries, sip herbal teas in shaded courtyards, or browse local markets.
Just outside the city, you’ll find hot springs and mountain trails perfect for quiet reflection.
✨ Solo Tip: Spend a half-day at Ojo Caliente Spa for private soaking tubs and outdoor mineral pools under the open sky
International Solo Journeys
Lisbon, Portugal
Vibe: Colorful, coastal, soulful yet laid-back
Why solo travelers flock here:
Easy to navigate, budget-friendly, and English is widely spoken.
Hop on the iconic Tram 28, take a breezy day trip to Cascais, or taste-test your way through pastel de nata cafés.
Bursting with history, art, and sunshine, vibrant without being overwhelming.
✨ Solo Tip: Book a fado music night. The hauntingly beautiful vocals will give you goosebumps and maybe even bring a tear to your eye.
Bali, Indonesia
Vibe: Sacred healing, jungle retreats, spiritual rituals
Why it’s the ultimate solo escape:
A global hub for women traveling alone and those seeking soul-deep healing.
In Ubud, find jungle temples, rice terraces, and wellness retreats; in Canggu, enjoy beaches, co-working cafés, and smoothie bowls.
Your days can flow between yoga, waterfall hikes, and Balinese ceremonies.
✨ Solo Tip: Resist the urge to cram your schedule. Bali reveals its magic in unplanned, quiet moments.
Mexico City, Mexico
Vibe: Art, flavor, and vibrant street life
Why it works solo:
Walkable, stylish neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa are full of art, boutiques, and café culture.
Museums, rooftop mezcal bars, and world-class street food keep your itinerary exciting.
The energy is warm, welcoming, and impossible to feel lonely in.
✨ Solo Tip: Take a cooking class or a Frida Kahlo museum tour to meet locals and fellow travelers.
Tokyo, Japan
Vibe: Tradition meets the future, solo-friendly by design
Why it’s great for introverts and adventurers alike:
One of the safest, cleanest, and most organized cities in the world, solo navigation is a breeze.
Solo dining is celebrated here, from cozy ramen counters to high-end sushi bars.
Offers a beautiful balance of buzzing cityscapes and serene gardens for quiet reflection.
✨ Solo Tip: Visit an onsen (Japanese bathhouse) for the ultimate grounding experience. If you’re shy, many offer private soaking options.
How to Choose the Right Destination For You
Forget the “Top 10 Places to Visit” lists for a second; where you should go isn’t about trends, it’s about your vibe. Do you want a sun-soaked beach that melts your stress away… or a bustling city that wakes up your adventurous side? Are you craving cultural deep-dives or quiet mornings with nothing but your journal and a cup of tea?
Think of it like dating: the destination you choose should feel like a yes in your soul, not just a swipe-right because it’s popular. These questions will help you match with a place that meets your mood, and maybe even changes your life.
Instead of asking “Where should I go?” ask:
What kind of healing or growth am I craving?
Do I need stillness… or stimulation?
What climate, culture, or rhythm feels right for me right now?
Am I longing to be surrounded by nature, architecture, or art?
Do I want to feel anonymous in a crowd… or connected to a small community?
Is my body asking for movement and adventure, or rest and rejuvenation?
What stories do I want to tell about this trip when it’s over?
Do I want to be somewhere familiar that feels safe, or somewhere completely new that stretches me?
Will I thrive in a place with a buzzing social scene, or somewhere where silence speaks louder?
What kind of food, music, or daily rituals do I want to be immersed in?
This way, you don’t just choose a destination; you choose alignment.
Solo Travel Prep: Smart Packing Meets Soulful Intention
Going solo isn’t just about where you go, it’s about how you arrive. The way you pack can set the tone for your entire trip, blending peace of mind with a little priestess-level intention.
Pack Like a Pro, and a Goddess
Because safety and softness can absolutely travel together.
Anti-theft crossbody bag – RFID-blocking, lightweight, and stylish enough for temple visits and café hangs.
Reusable water bottle with built-in filter – Whether you’re hiking in Bali or wandering a Moroccan medina, clean water is non-negotiable (GRAYL or LARQ are great picks).
Portable door lock or security wedge – Small but mighty for solo stays, so you can sleep like a queen.
Mini wellness pouch – First-aid basics, lavender and peppermint essential oils, and immune support tablets. A little self-care pharmacy for the road.
Neutral capsule wardrobe – Pieces that mix, match, and move with you. Think “chic yet comfy,” perfect for sunrise meditations and impromptu rooftop dinners.
2025 Smart Tip: Slip a smart tag (AirTag or Tile) in your luggage so you always know where your belongings are, no matter where life takes you.
Extra Tip:
Tuck a small object that grounds you; a crystal, journal, or travel charm, into your carry-on. It’s a reminder that no matter how far you wander, you always carry home within you.
Cultivate a Soulful Travel Mindset
You’re not just packing clothes, you’re packing intentions. Here’s how to ground yourself before and during the journey:
Journal before your trip:
➤ Why am I taking this trip?
➤ What do I want to release, receive, or remember?Mirror affirmations while getting ready:
“I am capable. I am safe. I trust my journey.”
“I deserve to experience joy, freedom, and expansion.”Daily reminders: Use the I Am or Superhuman app for gentle affirmations, perfect for calming pre-flight jitters or winding down in a quiet hotel room.
Mini Ritual: Write a letter to your future self the night before you leave. Read it on your final day to reflect on how the journey changed you.
Safety Tools That Travel With You
Preparation = empowerment. These tools let you move smart and confidently:
Offline maps: Download city sections in Google Maps or use Maps.me for hiking trails and less common destinations.
Share your itinerary: Send it to one trusted contact, including check-in dates/times.
Back up important documents: Keep digital and paper copies of your passport, ID, and bookings.
Top Travel Safety Apps (Updated for 2025):
TripWhistle: Emergency numbers by country
GeoSure: Neighborhood safety ratings by gender identity
Mayday: Alerts your emergency contacts with your location when shaken
SmartTraveler: U.S. State Department app with embassy info, alerts, and local laws
Where to Book With Confidence (and Curiosity)
Your solo trip starts long before your suitcase is zipped; it starts with where you’ll call home. Booking smart means finding spaces that feel safe, inspiring, and perfectly matched to your travel style.
Here’s your cheat sheet for stress-free, soul-aligned stays:
Booking.com – Use the “solo traveler rating” filter to see reviews from fellow adventurers.
TrustedHousesitters – Care for pets or homes in exchange for accommodation, perfect for slow travel and deeper connections.
Airbnb Experiences – Not just for stays! Meet locals through cooking classes, artisan workshops, or cultural tours.
Hostelworld – Filter for female-only dorms or social hostels to instantly plug into a community.
✨2025 Trend: Explore co-living spaces like Selina, Outsite, or Roam — part home, part community hub, designed for creatives, remote workers, and curious souls who crave both privacy and connection.
✨Pro Tip: Before booking, read reviews from solo travelers, check the neighborhood’s walkability, and see if your accommodation hosts any group events; your next friend might be staying in the room next door.
Final Thoughts: This Is Your Soul Season
Solo travel isn’t selfish.
It’s sacred.
It’s the art of choosing you, without apology, without waiting for anyone to validate your joy.
Every woman deserves to know what it feels like to walk through a foreign city with her shoulders back, her head high, and her intuition leading the way.
This isn’t just a trip.
It’s a homecoming to the version of you that’s been quietly waiting beneath the noise of everyday life.
It’s an awakening.
It’s a reclamation of your freedom, your confidence, your magic.
Let the world be your mirror.
Let it show you how radiant, resilient, and ready you truly are.
You don’t need permission.
You don’t need a plus-one.
You only need to remember this truth: You are the main character.
Pack your courage.
Book the flight.
Answer the whisper that says, “There’s more for me.”
Because there is.
And I promise, it’s waiting for you.
Wherever you go, go fully. And remember the journey isn’t out there, it’s already within you.
