Solo travel has become a rising trend in the travel industry. According to Travel Daily Media, 16 percent of Americans took a solo trip in 2022 and 25 percent are considering taking a solo trip in 2023. With growing accessibility to information and the safety of solo travel, it’s no wonder so many are ditching group trips for the freedom of lone exploration.
For a traveler who has never gone abroad alone, it can be quite a nerve-racking experience. Don’t fret! Get your feet wet with an exciting destination right here in the US. When you’re ready to go alone, these 5 destinations are best to take the leap:
1. San Francisco, CA
The San Francisco Bay is a fine blend of metropolitan, hipster, and natural wonders. Picnic at Baker Beach or Chrissy Field, wind down Lombard Road or relax in Alamo Square in front of the Painted Ladies to get a unique view of some of the most famous landmarks in San Francisco.
Skip the tour bus and let the local transportation get you to where you need to go—opt for a cable car to get to the city’s hidden gems. The restaurant scene does not disappoint on any front.
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If Caribbean, African, or Southern flair is more your taste, take the BART to Oakland for some outstanding grub. Round off the trip with a hike through the Muir Woods or to the highest points of the city for a spectacular skyline view.
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2. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
If you are looking for paradise, Hawaii is the place. Each shore of the island offers a little something different to add life to your trip. There’s endless hiking, hidden waterfalls, and unbelievable ocean waves.
Even the spirit and kindness of the locals will leave you in awe. Take some time to delve into Hawaiian history at the Polynesian Cultural Center—and enjoy the scenic drive there. If nothing else, hang loose on the beach with a staple Mai Tai.
3. U.S. Virgin Islands
Eeny, meeny, miny, moe is how you’ll have to choose between islands if you don’t visit them all. St. Croix is best for culture and food. St. Thomas is best for lively nightlife. St. John is best for a secluded escape. There is no shortage of mesmerizing beaches and crystal-clear waters. You truly can’t go wrong with a trip to VI.
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4. New Orleans, LA
Who doesn’t love New Orleans? This city is lively year around. With some of the best cuisine worldwide, unique culture, and unforgettable people, New Orleans is an American city that is unmatched. It’s great with a group, but twice as fun solo.
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5. Puerto Rico
The locals are like family, so you will never feel far from home. Puerto Rico’s Spanish and African roots infiltrate every part of the culture. Drive to the nearby beaches, make stops at family-owned restaurants, and let the inviting atmosphere pull you in.
Schedule a day to spend at Flamenco Beach, the beautiful crescent of Isla Culebra. If that isn’t enough adventure, visit El Yunque Rain Forest. The food and sangria, music and late-night dancing, make a solo trip to Puerto the best of island life with a heavy dose of hearty fun.
Dr. Traiana Mangum, PharmD, RPh is a Community Pharmacist, Missionary, and Louisiana-based Travel Influencer. Traiana is the creator of Trai Travels, a YouTube channel and growing travel community for the young, black, and bright. She inspires her followers, The TraiTribe, to travel with purpose and to tell the story. Connect with Traiana on YouTube and Instagram @TraiTravels and via her website TraiTravels.com.
