The time has come – you’ve officially decided you’re ready to wander the world nomad-style… All that’s left to do is figure out exactly where you want to go.
More: Most Romantic Holiday Destinations
The number one thing to look for as a sole traveller is somewhere you can meet people. Best tip: Start off somewhere big with an array of hostels where you can meet like-minded people then weave your way through the off-the-beaten track destinations that only the most intrepid explorers discover.
Here are our top 5 destinations for the solo traveller:
New Zealand
New Zealand is a perfect destination if you’re looking to take the leap into independent travelling. There’s no language barrier and you’ll find plenty of friendly Australians, just like yourself with the same goals as you. Not to mention New Zealanders are known for their friendliness and the country just happens to be the adventure capital of the world. From picturesque Queenstown, with its towering mountains, stunning Lake Wakatipu, bungee jumping and brilliant ski fields in the winter, to Auckland and its city atmosphere, to Hobbiton and all things Lord of the Rings. New Zealand has something for every taste.
Cambodia
Once again, this is a popular destination for backpackers and the perfect place to delve into new cultural experiences with people seeking the same thrill and enlightenment that accompanies solo travel. Cambodia is a memorable and affordable destination. You can visit the magnificent temple of Angkor, immersing yourself in its architectural prowess and home of spiritual devotion or cycle through rural jungle villages and everything in between.
Thailand
Every youth favours Thailand as an idyllic travel destination and it’s easy to understand why. Long days sprawled on a beach chair followed by hours of kayaking and maybe even a trip to a lady-boy show, it’s a diverse peace of heaven nestled amongst the wonders of South East Asia. Phuket and Bangkok are the obvious picks but, if you’re after something less touristy, Koh Samui should be high on your to-do list. It’s a small island spanning only 25km off the east coast, offering many of the same luxuries of Phuket – just in a more semi-secluded setting. If you want a Thailand-type holiday, also check out Bali as a popular holiday hot spot. See Style Hotspot: Bali
Brazil
Now admittedly for Aussie travellers, anywhere in South America is pretty pricey. The airfares alone can potentially blow your budget, but did Captain Cook care about the cost of his trip when he set out to discover new lands? Probably, but that doesn’t mean you should. Travel is an experience that makes you richer so don’t let the cost scare you away. South America, home to Rio de Janeiro, offers a brilliant cultural expanse in a city entirely different to our own.
Mexico
You’re only young once and Mexico is somewhere best discovered in your youth. But don’t let the lure of the party life stop you from discovering the Meso-American cultures and modern Indigenous tribes. The Aztecs and Mayans offer valuable cultural and learning experiences that shouldn’t be missed. Luckily days are with exploring in the sunlight and party it up with your new travel comrades by night. It’s a win-win.
Image via elitedaily.com
