Written by Tom Hooker

The end of the year is always a nostalgic time, but it’s also the beginning of an exciting new year. Single travelers ought to know that getting away, unplugging from reality, and jumping into a world of adventure is the best way to rejuvenate the spirit! With that said, life as a single traveler may not be what you expect if you end up in a love nest for couples or family destinations. In this article, we’ve put together a list of six great destinations that singles should put at the top of their list. 

#1. Koh Phangan, Thailand

Phangan Island, known to Thais as Koh Phangan, is one of the best places for solo travelers in Thailand because it offers a perfect balance between fun nature activities and world-class parties. Koh Phangan is home to the Full Moon Party, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world for a once-a-month bash like no other. However, if you prefer a smaller event with an electronic festival feel, you may want to time your trip to catch two of the monthly Half Moon Parties. 

#2. San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua

San Juan del Sur has quickly become one of the world’s surf meccas and has therefore become one of the top places for single travelers of all ages. Whether you want to pick up surfing tips, learn how to catch bigger waves, or simply sit in the sun and mingle with other singles, SJDS is bound to be a great stop in your trip. You have the option of staying in homestays, party hostels, and more traditional beachside hotels. If your budget allows, you can also opt for one of the most luxurious villas located on the hills overlooking one of the country’s most picturesque towns. 

#3. Bordeaux, France

While not as tropical as the first two locations, Bordeaux may just have the best wine in France—a big claim to fame that may just be well-founded. But it’s not the vin rouge that makes Bordeaux a superb destination for single travelers. Multiple renowned international universities, a booming expat community, hundreds of bars with live music on a nightly basis, and a culture that revolves heavily around aperitifs and socializing make a great destination for any solo traveler!

#4. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town may just be the perfect combination of an innovative city with super-chill surfer vibes. With Table Mountain towering behind it, Cape Town gives you the option to enjoy world-class beaches, treks that give you some of the best views on the continent, and a vibrant nightlife with people in a relaxed and fun-loving wavelength. 

#5. Hanoi, Vietnam

Walking through the streets of Hanoi feels like a surreal story where everyone wants to welcome you and show you something cool. What more can a solo traveler ask for? Delicious food, great accommodation options for singles, and nightly social events? Well, luckily for you, Hanoi has all of these and much more. Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, but unlike most industrialized cities it still gives you the opportunity to visit amazing natural destinations like Halong Bay and even iconic mountain villages in the north like Sappa and Xom. 

#6. Buenos Aires, Argentina

South America is a land of deep emotions. From the Latin languages spoken to the European-derived traditions and millenary rituals being revived by newer generations, traveling around this part of the world is an experience unlike any other. Then there is Buenos Aires, the City of Fury, a nickname awarded to this amazing metropolis because of the constant hustle and bustle that has allowed it to expand beyond its residents’ wildest dreams. What’s in it for single travelers? The birthplace of tango dancing has a gallery of amazing things to see, foods to eat, and historic sights to visit, all while draped in the welcoming embrace of Argentinian culture. 

Whether you choose to explore the Mediterranean islands of Greece, the ancient capital of Vietnam, the biggest city in South America, the heart of France’s wine country, or any of the fabulous places we listed above, you’ll have a blast exploring solo. And, you can always rely on travel plans created by knowledgeable locals — or even have them show you around in person. You can use ALLMYNE to contact local guides in advance and plan your trip to every one of these amazing destinations. You can even have your guide join you in your travels so you can always have a travel mate who knows the way!