George
England has finally been gifted with the year's first (and potentially only) rays of sunshine. Just basking in the golden beacons of the light fills me with joy, as I begin to dream about all of my summer travel adventures. And who might these be with? I know you are wondering. That would be with myself of course. Solo travel is truly one of the most magical experiences I think you can have. I know it sounds cliche but honestly, you learn so much about yourself, the world and the many diverse cultures within it. Also if you are a type A girlie, like me, you learn how to chill out a bit more and adapt to situations instead of planning everything perfectly to the minute. The only issue with beginning to solo travel is knowing where to start. Luckily for you, I got you. In this article, I am going to give you the lowdown on my top five solo girlie travel destinations.
Krakow, Poland
Starting off strong, with a destination that is great to use to dip your toe in the water as a first-time solo traveller, we have Krakow. This is perfect for first-timers as the people are friendly, the flight is short, and you only have to commit to a weekend break. The cost of living is also really good, so if you like your morning coffee and a nice meal out on holiday then this could be the place for you. Krakow is very historic in the centre too, with many old monuments to look at. However, if you are feeling adventurous there are many trips which allow you to explore further than just the city. For example, there are the famous salt mines, which are breathtaking, to say the least. Alternatively, if you are a history buff, there is the option to visit the famous Auschwitz. Be warned though tissues will be needed, and I recommend booking a light-hearted activity afterwards, as it was one of the most humbling experiences of my life.
Rome, Italy
Pizza, pasta and Colosseums, need I say more? Of course, I'm going too. Again, as a lover of history, there is something historical to do around every corner in Rome, from a Colosseum tour to Palatine Hill. You could walk around the old Roman forum of Palatine Hill for hours alone just soaking up what once stood there. As well as history and culture you can normally soak up a good bit of sun in Rome too, for those of you that like the heat. Make sure to wear airy fabrics though, as the historical sites are expansive; so great for hitting that step count, but not so great for staying cool. With all of the sweating and exercise, you will probably build up an appetite, which is no problem as Rome is truly a foodie's dream. With wineries and pizzerias on every corner, there is always something to enjoy. Or if you have more for a sweet tooth, this is also the place for the best gelato. Personally, I booked a food and wine tour so I could try all of the best wine and authentic Italian food that Rome had to offer, so I would definitely recommend that as a foodie highlights tour.
Algarve, Portugal
For those of you who aren't so keen on history, but still have a sense of adventure for your solo travelling I would recommend the Algarve in Portugal. This is one of those destinations where it really is what you make it. The Algarve allows you to have the classic beach and pool holiday, with the incredible sun during the summer months, and marshmallow sand beaches. You can also go on a variety of boat trips if you want to visit some nearby islands, or simply catch the rays from a different angle. There are also a good few shops to look at, restaurants to try and even a couple nightclubs for those of you that like to dance.
Perth, Australia
For sun worshippers, like myself, Australia is fantastic as when it is cold in England it will be hot over there, as their seasons are flipped the other way around to ours, meaning their summer is roughly December to February. If you want to have a hot girl summer in the UK and then go sun searching when our summer finishes, then Australia could be perfect for you. In October you have beautiful hot twenty-degree days as it starts to ease into summer. Perth is located in Western Australia and is less well-known than some of the other places, so I consider it a hidden gem. With Perth, you have the best of all worlds, as you can get to a beach in thirty minutes (I recommend Cottesloe), you have city life and nightlife in the centre (where you are likely to stay), there is a beautiful running route around the harbour, you have a massive botanical garden to explore and many trips. Trips can include a variety of things too, like wine tours, bridge climbs, zoo visits and natural wonders (I recommend Wave Rock). It really is the gift that keeps on giving! So if you don't want your summer to end, I recommend extending it in Perth.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Last, but by no means least, we have the beautiful Queenstown New Zealand. This is probably the chilliest destination on the list as the climate is most similar to England. It is also a bit of a rogue entry as unlike my other suggestions Queenstown is more of a nature lover and adrenaline junkie's dream. With that being said, if your solo travel summer looks like you posting yacht pictures in a bikini then Queenstown is probably not for you. However, if your summer looks like nature walks, bungee jumps and jet boat rides then it could be the one. Home of a luge, world-famous bungee and the Remarkables Mountains, there is so much to explore and get your pulse racing with. There are also many happy hours, so you will always have a nice chilled end to the day.
I hope that one of the destinations above has inspired you to have a solo travelling summer or an extended summer to solo travel. Whatever your vibe, I'm sure there is a pick above that would suit you, and if there isn't simply explore the world and find out what does suit you. Stay safe and enjoy the solo travel summer.
