Believe us when we say solo travel can absolutely change your life. You call all the shots from destinations, to activities, to timeline, to what you’re going to eat tonight. But it can be scary too, especially when you factor in safety considerations. To help make your decision easier, we asked one of our fav content creators (and solo travelers), Ayana, for five destinations that she felt were safe, accessible, and fun to visit for black women. But why should these countries be at the top of every solo black female traveler’s list?
- The locals are friendly and welcoming
- There’s a local appreciation for black culture
- The country’s population is diverse
- Overall safety in the country, including low crime and easy transportation
- The culture is friendly of solo travel
Ayana’s top 5 destinations for black female solo travelers:
1. Canada
Canada is on so many lists of safest countries. The people are friendly and welcoming. The country is clean and beautiful. One of the top spots for experiencing the country’s love for African culture is Montreal where you can see the Pan-Africa International film festival in April each year. Another great city to visit is Quebec, which is considered to be one of the safest and friendliest places you can visit in the world. Solo travelers will find the country accessible as there are lots of things to see and do on your own, or meet up with groups to make some new friends!
Book your flight: from $28* one way
Get a hotel: from $57**/night
2. Thailand
Thailand is famous for its warm weather, cheap accommodations, the friendliness of the locals, and the sheer number of backpackers there. That friendliness really helps make this a great destination for first time solo travelers. And you won’t have to worry about solitude as the locals are happy to talk with you, or you can find any number of other backpackers to meet. Because of the warmth and hospitality of the people there, black women can easily and safely travel the country. One more bonus? There’s lots of English signage in the country making it pretty easy to navigate.
Book your flight: from $503* one way
Get a hotel: from $10**/night
3. US Virgin Islands
Consisting of the islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the US Virgin Islands are a fantastic destination for anyone looking to soak in some sun and relax. And this definitely includes any solo travelers. No one will look at you or treat you differently for getting in some much needed “me time.” On St. Croix, the biggest of the islands, over 75% of the population identifies as black. One other positive to a solo trip to the Islands: you’re still in the US, so you won’t need a passport and your phone carrier should still provide coverage meaning no extra costs or lost connection (unless you’re going for that unplugged vibe on purpose).
Book your flight: from $118* one way
Get a hotel: from $101**/night
4. Portugal
Portugal is considered a super progressive and diverse country. There’s very little crime and you basically won’t encounter any catcalling or harassment. The main crime travelers should be aware of is pickpocketing, but if you pay attention to your surroundings and you’re smart about how you pack and carry your belongings, you shouldn’t have to worry about this. From Lisbon to Porto to Lagos, you’re sure to find a good, and safe, time full of adventure, or relaxation. It’s your pick, this is solo travel afterall.
Book your flight: from $283* one way
Get a hotel: from $44**/night
5. Japan
Japanese culture is characterized by politeness and consideration. As such, all travelers, including solo travelers, will see that the country is incredibly safe to travel through. The Annual Global Peace Index 2022 named Japan one of the top ten safest countries in the world. One of the positives the country offers for female travelers is that the subway systems throughout the country have women-only subway cars available. Maybe the best reason to put Japan on the solo travel yes list? Dining is a breeze as solo eaters generally eat at the bar and just about every food option has a bar: sushi, ramen, tempura, you name it.
Book your flight: from $371* one way
Get a hotel: from $19**/night
*Flight prices were accurate at the time of posting, but are subject to change at any time and can’t be guaranteed until ticketed. Prices are shown for tickets between February 2023 – June 2023.
**Hotel prices were current at the time of posting, but are subject to availability and subject to change without notice. Prices shown for nights between March 2023 – May 2023.