Celebrate Being Single with a Sensational Solo Adventure
Every year on November 11, Chinese singles celebrate being young and unattached during the annual Singles Day - consider it almost an anti-Valentine’s Day. And with 28% of global travelers indicating that they are likely to travel solo in 2018*, we present seven destinations that are perfect for embracing your independence and exploring as a solo traveler. Bring a book, some good music, and an open mind. After all, traveling solo is a great opportunity to boost your confidence and discover some amazing places along the way.
City Trip: Portland, USA
Known for its quirky food trucks, delicious doughnuts, unbeatable craft beer scene and stunning natural beauty, the bike-friendly city of Portland, Oregon is full of friendly people and interesting activities - perfect for solo travelers. Portland is also highly endorsed by our travelers for food, shopping and friendly people.
Where to stay: Offering a unique stay experience in a former elementary school, McMenamins Kennedy School is anything but basic. Whether you spend your time relaxing in the heated saltwater soaking pool, watching a movie in the on-site movie theater or just making some new friends in one of the property’s bars or restaurants, you'll feel like the head of the class.
Sightseeing: Rome, Italy
History, ancient monuments, architecture and delicious, authentic food are some of the main reasons to visit the Eternal City this Singles Day (or any day for that matter). Steeped in history, Rome is an inspiring destination for those who want to discover some of the Western world’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll around a charming piazza or two, take a selfie in front of the iconic Trevi Fountain or sample every flavor of ice cream in one of the city’s world famous Gelaterias. All roads lead to Rome!
Where to stay: After enjoying your breakfast on the colorful terrace at Free Hostels Roma, you can set out to explore the city on your own. After a busy day soaking up all that Rome has to offer, you can swap stories with other enterprising travelers over a relaxing drink in the bar.
Street Food: Hanoi, Vietnam
Highly endorsed by our travelers for street food, culture and friendly locals, the vibrant city of Hanoi will impress even the most discerning solo traveler with its unique history and architecture. Although this culinary paradise has a distinct French influence, it's also a great place to try delicious traditional Vietnamese delicacies, like a steaming hot bowl of ‘Pho’.
Where to stay: Located near the Old City Gate and the Dong Xuan Market, the Old Quarter View Hanoi Hostel is a perfect homebase for discovering all of the city's most enticing street cuisine.
Socializing with Locals: Berlin, Germany
If a fulfilling trip means immersing yourself in the local scene, then the German capital is the place to be. Highly endorsed for history, culture and city walks, Berlin boasts multiple trendy neighborhoods, each filled with its own unique character. From hipster cafes and gourmet restaurants to dive bars and underground clubs, Berlin has it all!
Where to stay: Located in the popular Prenzlauer Berg district of Berlin, with easy access to Berlin's main sights, including the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz, Vienna House Easy Berlin offers modern accommodation with a coworking space in case you would like to work remotely while staying in Berlin. The hotel also offers free high-speed WiFi, so you can share your Instagram stories with your single friends back home.
Island Hopping: Yaeyama Islands, Japan
For many people, visiting one island is an adventure in and of itself. But if you're looking for a chance to discover multiple cultures, traditions and cuisines, then hopping from island to island is a great way to make the most of a solo journey. If that prospect sparks your wanderlust, then check out the remote Japanese Yaeyama Islands, a hidden paradise southwest of Okinawa. From the beautiful Kohama Island, you can enjoy day multiple day trips to explore the nearby Taketomi and Ishigaki islands.
Where to stay: Haimarubushi is the southernmost resort in Japan, set on the remote island of Kohama. Overlooking the ocean, this beautiful resort is a great place to simply relax and unwind by the pool, but also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including diving, snorkeling and windsurfing.
Yoga Retreat: Ubud, Indonesia
With about 30% of global travelers indicating that they are likely to take a wellness break in 2018*, finding a restful retreat for both your mind and body is a great way to celebrate your single status. Highly endorsed by our customers for nature and relaxation, Ubud is a world-renowned getaway for travelers looking to enhance their yoga practice in idyllic surroundings.
Where to stay: Set among lush greenery, The Udaya Resorts and Spa offers a tropical retreat with a spa center and various on-site activities including biking and trekking tours. You can take advantage of the property’s yoga classes to find inner peace before enjoying a complementary afternoon tea by the pool.
Snorkeling: Ko Ngai, Thailand
With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and picture-perfect palm trees, Ko Ngai is an alluring destination for relaxation, sunbathing and above all, snorkeling! The coral reefs along the island’s coastline are a perfect place to discover a bustling underwater world and interact with a diverse array of marine wildlife firsthand.
Where to stay: The stylish wooden bungalows at Thanya Beach Resort are scattered along a peaceful beach on Koh Ngai. After a day spent exploring the island both above and below the surface of the water, you can treat your tastebuds to some traditional Thai cuisine at the resort's restaurant.
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*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of adults who have taken a trip in the last 12 months/plan to take a trip in the next 12 months. In total 56,727 respondents were surveyed (2,000+ from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Germany, Spain, France, Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Malaysia, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and the US, and 1,000+ each from Denmark, Croatia, Sweden, and New Zealand). Respondents completed an online survey in October 2017.