travel

In this post-pandemic world, we’ve seen a rapid rise of female travelers embarking on solo trips around the world. Indeed, solo traveling is the epitome of self-indulgence, and one may feel spontaneous and joyous. However, while traveling solo, a woman must take necessary precautions as some countries still don’t have the environment to welcome solo female travelers. It typically takes a lot of research and planning before heading off to a new destination. To determine the best and worst places for solo female travelers, journalists Asher and Lyric Fergusson have created the Women’s Danger Index, which reveals the world’s most dangerous to the least dangerous countries for solo travel. 

Here’s a list of the top 5 safe places for solo female travelers:

1. Zürich, Switzerland 

The Women Peace Security Index (WPSI) has ranked Switzerland the second most peaceful country in its 2019/20 study. Zürich, one of the world’s principal financial centers, as well as the largest city in Switzerland, is located in an Alpine setting at the northwestern end of Lake Zürich. Therefore, one has the option to do loads of nature-based activities; whether it’s breathing in the mountain air during a hike from Felsenegg to Uetliberg, or spending a tranquil afternoon at the banks of Lake Zürich. Besides, from high-end to underground, the city doesn’t fail to offer a happening and diverse nightlife. 

Peak Season: Summer, between June and August 

2. Madrid, Spain 

Madrid AKA Villa y Corte is known for its historical buildings, renaissance and contemporary art galleries, unique neighborhoods, and bustling nightlife. Located in central Spain, Madrid is also extremely safe for female travelers as Spain is one of the most open-minded countries in the world. From strolling through Museo Nacional Del Prado to witnessing a historical match between Real Madrid and Barcelona at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid is a paradise for art lovers and football fans. 

Peak Season: Fall (September to November), Spring (March to May) 

3. Victoria, Canada 

According to Asher and Lyric’s Women’s Danger Index, Canada is one of the top 10 safest countries to visit as a solo female traveler. Situated on the Southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is ready to offer you postcard-perfect scenery, the glimmering water of the Salish Sea, and rare marine wildlife among others. A quiet saunter down the Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown, kayaking on the Salish Sea, and whale watching are some of the things you can do on this island adorned with flowers and architecture.

Peak Season: Fall (September to November), Spring (March to May)

4. Kyoto, Japan

Japan in general, and Kyoto in particular, is considered to be one of the safest places for female travelers. There you’ll find women-only accommodation as well as women-only public transport so that you’re able to enjoy a hike through Torii Gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine or a stroll through the divine paths of The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. 

Peak Season: Spring (March to May), Fall (October to November) 

5. Pondicherry, India 

An amalgamation of French and Indian culture; where history meets modernity, gives rise to this Union Territory bounded by Tamil Nadu. The blissful city of Pondicherry is considered to be the most peaceful place in India, where being a solo female traveler, you won’t need to worry while cycling around the French neighborhoods or relaxing at the serene sea beaches.

Peak Season: October to March 

Although solo traveling can be intimidating, there’s a feeling of exhilaration that will keep pushing you out of your comfort zone to explore the unexplored world. However, being a woman it can be difficult at times to travel alone and choose the right destination, hence the above list is to help all the women travelers out there until the day when women don’t need to search for safe places and travel wherever they want.

Mohor Bhattacharjee
has a passion for writing and in her leisure time, she likes to read Classic English Novels.