Discover unique solo travel accommodation that transforms your trip. Read my tips for finding places with character, community, and safety.
Stepping out of the small Siem Reap airport, the humidity enveloped me like a cozy blanket. My heart pounded in my chest – a mix of excitement and those familiar nerves. I had always traveled with friends or family, but Cambodia had a unique charm that encouraged me to go solo.
Even though it wasn’t luxurious, my first solo accommodation altered everything. Instead of a sterile hotel, I chose a small guesthouse operated by a local family. My room was modest, yet the communal courtyard was alive with the sound of laughter from other travelers. During breakfast and while enjoying sticky rice, I shared stories with a Dutch artist, received temple recommendations from an experienced Aussie backpacker, and even tried learning Khmer from the owner’s grandmother.
Initially, the solitary meals and visits to temples seemed a little overwhelming. Returning to my guesthouse each evening felt just like coming home. I would share my experiences with the friendly staff, write in my journal on the balcony, and drift off to sleep to the soothing sounds of crickets.
That journey showed me the enchantment of one-of-a-kind accommodations. It was more than just a bed, it was about connection, camaraderie, and feeling a little less alone in a beautiful, unfamiliar world. It was a pivotal moment that encouraged me to fully embrace traveling alone and served as a reminder that the most impactful experiences often occur when we step outside our comfort zones.
If the thought of traveling alone gets you excited, you’re not the only one! That thrilling combination of anticipation and a touch of anxiety is completely natural, especially when embarking on a new experience. But here’s the deal: selecting the perfect solo travel accommodation can turn those nerves into a thrilling adventure.
Choose accommodations that enhance your travel experience – from charming guesthouses to one-of-a-kind retreats, or even a houseboat! Staying in unique accommodations can provide a feeling of safety, a sense of belonging, and a peaceful environment for planning your solo adventures. Are you prepared to leave behind the mundane and welcome the extraordinary? Let’s discover the secrets to uncovering those hidden treasures!
Unique Solo Travel Accommodation Choices for Female Travellers
Leave behind those generic hotels! When it comes to accommodation for solo travel, it’s important to get creative. Here are a few unusual choices that provide much more than just a place to sleep:
Houseboats and Tiny Homes
Embrace cozy, nature-focused escapes! Picture waking up to the soothing sway of waves and the melody of birds instead of a blaring alarm. Living on houseboats and tiny homes provides a feeling of close-knit exploration. Located beside picturesque rivers, surrounded by lush forests, or situated in bustling city centers, they offer a comfortable home base for discovering the area. Embracing a leisurely lifestyle – savoring coffee on a small deck, appreciating the beauty of minimalist living, and fostering a strong bond with nature.
Unique Boutique Hotels
If you’re tired of staying at ordinary chain hotels, consider booking a boutique property. These hotels prioritize art and unique design, and are often housed in historic buildings or smaller establishments that support local craftsmanship. Not only are these hotels visually attractive, but they also tend to attract travelers with similar interests. Take advantage of the opportunity to engage in conversation with fellow travelers at the chic hotel bar, seek advice from the knowledgeable staff for hidden gems, or simply enjoy the exceptional ambiance.
Retreat Centers
If you’re looking for a way to recharge during your solo trip, a retreat center could be the perfect sanctuary for you. This environment is crafted to promote wellness, offering daily yoga classes, guided meditation, healthy cuisine, and workshops centered on creativity or personal growth. Choose facilities situated in beautiful natural surroundings, where peaceful strolls in the outdoors are just as important as planned events. This is an opportunity to detach from the mundane and rediscover your true self.
Homestays
Nothing quite compares to the profound impact of a homestay for a truly enriching experience. Staying with a local family, enjoying meals together, and gaining insights into their daily routines provides a unique cultural experience that goes beyond what a typical hotel stay can offer. Opt for homestays that cater to particular interests such as cooking classes in Italy, language exchange in Spain, or immersing in rural life in lesser-known destinations. Anticipate moments of joy, struggles with language, and unforgettable experiences.
Rare Airbnb Gems
Airbnb has completely transformed the way we travel, and the possibilities for unique accommodations are endless! Have you ever imagined staying in a converted lighthouse, a treehouse, or a Mongolian yurt? Airbnb is where these hidden gems appear. Perhaps you might even come across something truly remarkable, such as the hidden library in St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Tips for Booking a Unique Solo Travel Accomodation
Ensuring safety is crucial when traveling alone, especially for the first time. Opting for the perfect solo travel accommodation can greatly contribute to a worry-free experience. Here’s a guide on how to make safety a top priority while also enjoying a one-of-a-kind stay:
- Make sure to research thoroughly. It’s more than just about star ratings! Delve into a property’s reputation on the internet by checking for references to safety, the overall atmosphere, and the surrounding area. It might be a good idea to reach out to them directly to inquire about the security measures they have in place.
- Seek out the solo traveller perspective. Look for reviews from other solo women travelers to get a unique perspective. They will highlight important details for your comfort, such as accessibility and staff friendliness.
- Location, Location, Location. Choose well-lit areas with good transportation links, even if they are a bit more expensive. This makes returning to your accommodation after sunset less intimidating.
- Emphasizing social connections. Seek out locations with shared spaces, opportunities for mingling with others, and possibly scheduled events. This doesn’t imply frequent socializing, but offers an opportunity to connect without experiencing isolation.
- Listen to your gut. If a location doesn’t sit right with you, regardless of positive feedback, pay attention to that feeling. You have a strong intuition, and there are many other fantastic choices available. Being secure and self-assured enables you to make the most of your solo journey!
Making the Most of Your Solo Adventure
Let’s discuss how to make the most of your solo journey by exploring more than just the usual tourist spots. Solo travel accommodation is essential, but the real adventure happens beyond those comfortable walls!
Imagine participating in a guided walking tour with a dedicated local, gaining insights into the city’s history and discovering its hidden treasures. Enrolling in a cooking class and connecting with other travelers while preparing food and enjoying each other’s company. These organized opportunities provide a way to bond without constantly being the one to start conversations. Read my guide on Where To See Geisha In Gion if you’re planning to go to Japan and discover surprising Kyoto secrets.
Never overlook the influence of a food spot that’s perfect for solo diners. Look for vibrant cafes perfect for enjoying a good book by the window, or lively bars with communal tables that make it simple to start a conversation. Food is a great way to connect, whether it’s with a talkative bartender or other people on the road.
Finally, appreciate the allure of ‘slow travel’ as a lone traveler. No need to feel obligated to visit every single attraction. Instead, spend more time in a neighborhood that captivates you, revisit your favorite temple at various times of day, or engage in conversations in local shops. Bonds are formed when you take your time and just exist in a space.
This method may seem unfamiliar initially, but believe me, the results are highly gratifying. Transitioning from a mere visitor to experiencing a sense of connection, even briefly, in a completely unfamiliar place. Start by considering the Best Quiet Sunny Holiday Destinations.
Conclusion
Traveling alone also provides you with valuable opportunities for self-reflection. It’s important to take the time to reflect on your own thoughts, understand your experiences, and find what makes you happy. Moreover, chance meetings can often be the most unforgettable – such as a delightful moment shared with a stranger on a train or a sudden offer to participate in a community celebration.
What’s the best part? You will come back with more than just souvenirs. You will have explored unfamiliar locations, sampled different cuisines, and perhaps even challenged yourself.
Ready to keep the adventure going? Be sure to check out my post on Women’s UV Sun Protective Clothing for stylish and practical ways to stay protected from the sun’s rays while traveling!