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Yes! I made 7 travel mistakes in Guatemala that spelled out an early end to my trip. And despite being a professional traveler, some of my mistakes were as rookie as they come. Here’s what happened:NOT RESEARCHING ENOUGHFunny thing: I got by really well in my first decade or so of full-time travel without particularly researching the place I was about to visit. Instead, I followed my nose when an opportunity presented itself, (usually in the form of creative/free accommodation) – perhaps house-sitting, volunteering, filming a tv show (no, really! That happened – a few times), or just visiting friends. From there, the rest of the trip would somewhat organically unfold.But more recently, I’ve strayed away from free accommodation gigs, as I’ve wanted a bit more freedom; the kind of freedom that tending to somebody else’s home and pets can’t offer.In some ways, it has introduced a whole new set of travel difficulties; difficulties that most “normal” travelers are probably accustomed to facing and know how to circumvent – such as the very ordinary difficulties of booking accommodation. This exercise in having my travel stripes stripped off has been humbling to say the least. Here are a few of the ways that not researching enough got me into trouble in Guatemala.Booking Accommodation in the Wrong Place on Lake AtitlanAfter almost a month in Antigua, Guatemala where my boyfriend and I ate ourselves silly and enjoyed the ambiance of this UNESCO-rated walkable town, we headed to Lake Atitlan where we had reserved an AirBnB in a residential area of Panajachel.While our Guatemala travel itinerary was already on the rocks (for reasons that will become clear later), arriving to Panajachel was the end of the line.Lake Atitlan is rumoured to be one of the most gorgeous lakes in the world; on par with Italy’s Lake Como. Lake Atitlan (which is an ancient caldera of a volcano) is dotted with small towns rich in Mayan history and traditions, many of which are only accessible by boat, and which feature unique indigenous languages/dialects and cultures.Unfortunately, researching a destination from afar isn’t easy, and it was difficult to determine which town on Lake Atitlan was best to commit to as a base for two months. (Committing to a base for two months from afar was also a travel mistake, but we’ll get to that later).Our research revealed that Panajachel was the most popular town on Lake Atitlan for tourists. It is the best town in terms of accessibility (which felt important for ease of getting in and out), as well as having facilities like well-stocked grocery stores and other accoutrements of a comfortable life. Panajachel is also the largest town, but appeared to be pretty small on a map, still allowing me to conjure up visions of a quaint picturesque lakeside town.So we booked an AirBnB in a residential area of Panajachel, resting assured that we would be staying in a very quiet area that would be comfortable for a little personal retreat of sorts.Problem is, no sooner than the place was booked, did a gaggle of people come out of the woodwork (many of whom were Guatemalan) with disapproving scowls on their faces. None of them liked Panajachel as a destination (for various reasons), but given that I’d already made the arrangements, they shrugged and said it would be a good place as a base for exploring other towns on the lake. It wasn’t the best of Guatemala, but it would do, they supposed.They were right. On the whole, Panajachel is a dump. Literally; staying on the opposite side of a river that runs just beside Panajachel’s centre, I walked daily through clouds of smoke from people burning their garbage on the river’s banks; the river itself being a giant excavation site for sand. By mid-afternoon, the smoke was so thick I couldn’t even see the gigantic volcanoes on the other sides of the lake. None of this was particularly attractive.On the whole, Panajachel is a centre for commerce, and a destination for weekenders from Guatemala city who want to drink and party. It’s a jumping-off point for every other town on Lake Atitlan. But for the most part, it’s not the place to stay.WHAT I LEARNED: Feel free to book a place in Panajachel, but more as a place to stay on your way into or out of other towns around Lake Atitlan. Towns to consider (and research!) include San Pedro, San Marcos, Santiago Atitlan, and San Juan. Basically, anywhere other than Panajachel.Not Checking the NewsI almost never check travel alerts, because generally speaking if you take them too seriously you’ll never leave the house. However after buying my travel insurance for the trip, I received a list of travel alerts from my travel insurance provider. Apparently, Volcan de Fuego had been acting up recently; not only that, but the latest eruption was act two – it erupted violently earlier in the year, killing 200 people. Not only that, but Volcan de Fuego is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America, and is near to Antigua, where we were staying for almost a month.I evacuated Bali for less volcanic activity than this.So in the weeks leading up to our departure, I seriously considered pulling the plug on the trip. I asked a few questions via email of some people living in Antigua, and they blew off my concerns, ultimately convincing me to disregard the beginnings of a wee inner voice urging me to cancel the trip.With equal parts curiosity and terror, I spent a lot of time gawking at the always-active Volcan de Fuego in AntiguaVolcanoes aside, when my Dad (and others) said they’d seen Guatemala in the news and that it wasn’t good, I also blew that off, dismissing the headlines as being about dramas near the border to Mexico that I would have been unaffected by. But when my Guatemalan friend in Toronto emailed me the night before I was to leave, saying there were political troubles and that rumours indicated there would be a coup and state of emergency, I wavered. By the following morning, she replied to my rapid-fire questions by saying it seemed the rumours were just rumours, and that I would be fine even if there was trouble – which would be isolated to Guatemala city.While I did persevere in taking the trip, my inner voice was developing some actual ammunition for not being in Guatemala.WHAT I LEARNED: I still don’t read travel alerts. But in future, if I’m visiting a country I’m not already very familiar with, I’ll do a quick search for that country/destination in the news, just in case there’s something I need to know that would affect my decision to go.RANDOM ROOKIE TRAVEL MISTAKESWhile the mistakes above fall into the overall category of not researching enough, I don’t necessarily categorize them as rookie mistakes – especially since my little head-in-the-sand and free-accommodation approaches served me well for so many years.But the travel mistakes below? Yeah, I have no excuse.Booking Too Much, Too Far in AdvanceWhen I lived in the Sacred Valley of Peru, I watched travelers of all ilks come through the area. Some were on short fixed-duration vacations requiring an efficient use of time; thus, their trips were pretty intricately planned. No problemo.Other travelers were on much longer trips; it was common to meet people who had dedicated up to a year for a big trip around Central/South America. These people would arrive to the Sacred Valley of Peru and fall in love with the place (as I did). But because they were on a tight schedule, they couldn’t stay, much as they were desperate to. I could tell how far into their trip they were by the physical evidence of travel fatigue; dark circles under their eyes and slumped shoulders from bearing their backpacks for too long without enough rest.These people overbooked their trips in an effort to see everything everywhere, allowing no flexibility to rest and/or take more time in a particularly magical place.While I didn’t pack my trip to Guatemala with too much activity, I did create too many “commitments” too far in advance. With three months in mind, I booked the first month in Antigua, and the remaining two on Lake Atitlan in Panajachel. The division of time between Antigua and Panajachel was arbitrary; my thought being that Antigua would be the more active of destinations, and Panajachel would be a quiet lovely retreat type of experience.As you’ve already read, Panajachel was the wrong choice of destination on Lake Atitlan; on top of that, the accommodation itself left a lot to be desired; it wasn’t quiet, the bed was minuscule, there was no comfortable seating or workspace (ergonomics being very important for digital nomads), and the place smelled of mold.Had other factors (to be divulged later on) not been in play, I might have been able to bear – enjoy, even – this accommodation in Panajachel. But as it turned out, it was the final straw pushing us to cancel the entire trip. Problem was, we were at the mercy of a hefty cancellation policy, and despite staying only two of the eight booked weeks, we had to pay for four weeks.WHAT I LEARNED: I already knew what I learned; it was simply an unsavoury reminder. Unless you’re absolutely sure of a destination and/or specific accommodation, leave your schedule open. Book the first few days, even a week or two. But not two months, sight unseen.The problem is, it’s a very fine line, the other side of the equation entailing getting stuck paying a last-minute premium to stay somewhere you want to spend some time but didn’t book in advance, or worse yet no accommodation being available at all. A friend of mine ran into exactly that problem in Oaxaca Mexico during high season; after her pre-booked week, she wanted to extend but couldn’t. And when she searched for apartments, she had trouble finding something suitable/reasonably priced.But experience has also taught me that most places available online (especially on sites like AirBnB) are categorically overpriced. With a little bit of work you can find a place to stay on the spot that will cost less than anything you can find online in advance. I did it all over Asia and it worked a charm. (See also:How to Find an Apartment in Chiang Mai).My real problem? I didn’t have the energy to risk getting stuck somewhere without a plan. But you’ll read about that shortly.Setting Expectations / Trying to Recreate Old ExperiencesExpectations are always dangerous; they’re a cosmic set-up for disappointment. Thus, I erred in setting expectations that Antigua would be like Cuenca Ecuador, and that Panajachel would be like Pisac (the town I lived near in Peru). While Antigua was far from disappointing, I think some of my disappointment with Panajachel was in realizing that it was nothing like Pisac.WHAT I LEARNED: Again, this is a lesson I preach regularly but needed to be slapped with for good measure. Expectations are bad. And recreating old experiences is worse. It’s bad enough if you try to recreate an experience by returning to the same destination; it’s madness if you try to do it elsewhere.Listening to too Many People About Guatemala Travel SafetyThis one is a real can of worms. So before I get into questions like “is Guatemala safe”, I will note that everything is relative. And safety depends largely on location.I had a friend who wouldn’t visit me in Peru because travel alerts told her there was trouble at the Peruvian border with Ecuador; it didn’t matter that it was thousands of miles from where I lived – the whole country was a no-go zone for her.I’m not a particularly skittish traveler. And I’m pretty careful about whose advice I heed. Before I left for Guatemala, some acquaintances in Florida warned me of the dangers of Guatemala. They’d never left their county, much less the country, so I wasn’t concerned about their advice.But the woman I met in Antigua who had made studying Guatemala her life’s work and who had visited Guatemala consistently over the last 40 years? I figured she knew a thing or two.The problem is, she loved to pepper every conversation with gruesome tales of violence and murder – many of the victims thereof being unsuspecting tourists. After informing her of our plans to take a day-trip to the coast from Antigua with some expat friends, she relayed how many deaths happened along that very stretch of road, like she was talking about how many roadside fruit stands there are along the way. For good measure, she threw in a few other tales of bus drivers being attacked weekly and a French tourist being killed for not giving up his wallet while being mugged.I cancelled the day-trip.I let this woman get under my skin. Now, perhaps I wouldn’t have, if hers were the only tales of violence in Guatemala. The problem is, I’d already heard about violence in Guatemala, a lot.I even met a man with a very mashed-up face. He had been attacked and robbed outside a bar in Antigua just a few days prior. As an expat living in the area, he was extremely nonchalant about it. He seemed to think he got what he deserved for being out in Antigua late at night. The group of expats I was with at the time all nodded in agreement at this; it’s the cost of being out after dark, especially on empty streets, in Guatemala.While this man was my only first-hand account of violence in Guatemala, wherever you go you’ll find yourself no more than two degrees of separation from somebody who has been robbed, attacked, or even killed. It seems to be a fact of life in Guatemala. Guatemala city is generally to be avoided at all costs, and the rest of the country is hit and miss.Generally speaking, if you stick to tourist-friendly places, don’t go out at night, and never go walking by yourself somewhere without many people, you’ll be fine.But the “edge” of this edgy place did nothing to help me relax.WHAT I LEARNED: If you’ve made it this far into this answer, you’ve probably figured out that my trip to Guatemala was a perfect storm. These tales of violence, threatening my sense of safety and security – regardless of how founded or unfounded my concerns were, threw me over the edge. I was uncomfortable in every single way.My REAL MistakeAll the above travel mistakes were definite factors, but superfluous ones to the real reason why Guatemala was a bust for me.I simply didn’t want to travel. I was still too burned out from years prior of pushing too hard for too long with no home base to recover in. I had only just moved into my apartment in Toronto when, paint still proverbially drying, I left for five months. A variety of circumstances (including the encroaching winter) had dictated that it was time to hit the road again, so despite having reservations, I figured “why not”.But it wasn’t right, and I paid the price for it. After a month of bouncing around California, my boyfriend and I retreated at my friend’s place in Hollywood Florida for a month – my home away from home. But even while in Florida, I vocally admitted that I didn’t really want to travel to Guatemala. I needed more rest. Creature comforts. Sushi. Netflix. And fast internet. I didn’t want to be in a foreign environment, trying to figure everything out from scratch.The “intrepid” part of my traveling personality was on vacation (somewhere not in Guatemala).Leading up to the trip, I had an inner voice saying “don’t go”. It was pretty persistent, but I dismissed it as irrational fears of volcano Fuego blowing, or concerns about safety after being barraged by negative stories from afar, or … it doesn’t matter. Every time the don’t-go voice popped up, I dismissed it. The trip was booked and paid for, and I was going to enjoy it come hell or high water.But I didn’t enjoy it. It takes a monumental amount of energy to travel – to simply exist in a foreign environment; even more so when it’s long-term and you’re balancing a full-time location independent career alongside those travels. And in the months prior to my trip, I hadn’t had enough time to myself, to rest and recover following what I now understand was a pretty catastrophic episode of burnout that had been years in the making (and unmaking).WHAT I LEARNED: The time is not always right to travel. And if that time is not right, fighting it won’t help.I’ve said over and over again that travel is contextual, and here’s proof: I thought my accommodation in Panajachel was horrific. All I saw was the bad stuff. But my boyfriend didn’t see it that way. Sure, he nodded empathetically when I ranted and raved that the walls were moldy and the constantly barking dogs were intolerable. But had I been in a different frame of mind, instead of staring at moldy walls I’d have seen the beautiful garden, and instead hearing dogs barking I’d have put in some earplugs or listened to music.Traveling in a compromised state (and/or when you simply don’t want to) is inadvisable. Only on this (failed) trip to Guatemala did I realize just how much energy it takes to travel and be abroad. And only on returning from my trip early did I realize how sweet “home” can be.Other Guatemala Travel TipsYou can’t drink the water in Guatemala! This also affects what you can eat, and where. For more information, check out How to Stay Healthy While Traveling: Natural Preventions and Cures.The exchange rate between the Guatemalan Quetzal and the Dollar (U.S. or Canadian) is tricky. Before you head into the marketplace to test out your bargaining skills, arm yourself with a good currency conversion app. Here are some of the Best Travel Apps out there.This Quora answer has been adapted from my original article here: 7 Travel Mistakes I Made in Guatemala - The Professional Hobo

Are you an autonomous chic who, as a solo traveler, has dreamed of exploring the universe? Would you like to go on a memorable solo adventure you will enjoy until your last breath? From a uber energetic mega-metropolis in North America to the exotic jungles of Southeast Asia, we have rounded out the best areas to travel alone for women who want to move around the globe on an epic trip. Ladies, check out these thoughts for solo travel and helpful travel tips!Why are you traveling alone?Whether it's by choice or because your schedule doesn't suit anybody else's, solo travel is a intriguing journey that every woman should experience at least once in her life. For me, traveling solo is a liberating and eye-opening experience that feeds your passions, encourages self-discovery and extends your comfort zone.And when you're traveling alone, you're also free to build your own timetable, relax when you want, and be social whenever you want. To top it all off, traveling solo will enable you to meet a ton of individuals and build stronger relationships than you would if you were with a travel buddy.Traveling alone is not as complex and harmful as most individuals believe. Yes, the globe can be quite a bullying location, but most of it is just media hype. Trust me, the world is full of lovely, secure locations for women to travel alone.The list below is packed with amazing hot locations to visit.Also, be sure to perform a high-quality, multi-functional bag when traveling alone. See these bags and see which one suits perfectly with your requirements and budget.Would you like to go solo, but don't know where to go? Here is a list of some of the best locations for women to travel alone!Best and safest places for women to travel aloneRome, ItalyRome, Italy, famous for its inspirational style, lovely people, delicious food and romance, is a wonderful destination for all five senses. As a woman solo traveler, you will feel empowered and completely present walking around this vibrant Italian city. Not to mention, as you walk around Rome, you may even receive a suggestion for a marriage as a solo traveler.And for female solo travelers, there are plenty of cool and interesting stuff to do in Rome. Here, by visiting the amazing ancient locations of the city such as the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and the Coliseum, you can visualize the Roman Empire in its complete glory. You can also see the residence of the pope at the Vatican City and the basilica of St. Peter. You can then put on a pair of comfortable shoes and explore the squares and cobble lanes while drinking sterile water from the eye-catching fountains of the city.Even if you're living the eternal city for the tenth moment, you're going to fall in love with its endless beauty. If you're looking to go to Rome, use the funds below to get the highest price for your journey.A solo journey to Rome, like any European destination, involves a lot of walking. So treat your feet with a comfortable couple of shoes. Check out these shoes and accessories for your next journey and select the correct couple.Feel the blowing wind and listen to the gushing waves. In a dramatic one-piece Fairfield ruffle, enjoy a relaxing journey.New York City, United StatesLooking for incredible locations in America to travel alone? Explore the outer boroughs of the Big Apple and Manhattan's streets without arguments on which to visit iconic landmarks, state-of - the-art galleries and world-famous museums. If you're not as bold as Carrie Bradshaw and don't like dining alone in a restaurant, there are tons of food markets in NYC to eat. In Central Park, you can also go rollerblading, take a sightseeing trip on the Hudson, watch individuals in Times Square, or browse a flea market in Brooklyn.Melbourne, AustraliaHeaded to "Down Under Country?" Praised for its live music, award-winning food and creative culture, Melbourne is one of Australia's best locations for women to travel alone. Marked as Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne brightens and appeals with green gardens, big parks, cinemas, galleries, museums, comprehensive shopping and Victorian-era architecture to solo woman travelers. As an added plus, Melbourne can also serve as a base for exploring other great places to visit in Australia, such as Philip Island, The Great Ocean Road, and the National Park of Grampians.Reykjavik, IcelandReykjavik, Iceland, for females, is one of the safest locations in the globe to travel alone. As a matter of reality, it is ranked numero uno on the Global Peace Index, which is a report published by the Institute for Economics and Peace on the peacefulness of areas and nations around the world. But, make no error about it–the safety of Reykjavik is not the only reason it has crawled its way into our list of the best locations for females to travel alone. After all, it is the epicenter of Icelandic people's lives and culture as well as one of the country's tourism focal points. Eclectic, laid-back and absolutely lovely, Reykjavik is a excellent base for day trips that shows the perfect postcard attractions of Iceland, like the Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights.Amsterdam, NetherlandsAmsterdam, revered as one of Europe's finest locations to travel alone, is a lively, friendly and secure town with plenty to give women solo travelers. Known as the "Venice of the North," Amsterdam delights solo visitors with its beautiful canals, world-renowned museums, beautiful bridges and amazing architecture. Whether you want to party, dive into its culture and history, or just enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of an old European city, in the Dutch capital there is something for the taste of every solo traveler.GuatemalaIf you are looking for exciting locations in Central America to travel alone, look no further than Guatemala and its extremely prestigious Mayan ruins. Not only does it have a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, it's also a cheap place to travel, meaning you can remain there for a while to volunteer or learn Spanish. A playground or thrill-seekers, Guatemala has plenty to give intrepid travelers adventurous diversions, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, and kayaking.Montreal, CanadaMontreal in Canada is the place to be if you want to get a nice taste of Europe without spending a fortune. Lauded for its wealthy culture and history, Montreal appeals to female solo travelers with its picturesque Old Port riverfront, museums of history, great ancient French restaurants and ancient cobblestone streets beautifully lined with houses from the 17th century. Moreover, it is home to the Botanical Gardens of Montreal as well as dozens of bars and nightclubs.In particular, Canadians are friendly and charming, making Montreal one of North America's safest and best locations to travel alone. And by the manner, did we mention that the iconic and supremely lovely Niagara Falls are only a few hours away?Chiang Mai, ThailandNestled on the foothills of Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is one of the top and most scenic locations for women to travel alone in Asia. Surrounded by lush landscape and hills, Chiang Mai is much safer, quieter and greener than its capital, Bangkok, with a large expat and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Chiang Mai is a historically and culturally interesting town with more than 300 Buddhist temples and a variety of vegetarian dishes and yoga styles to offer.Bali, IndonesiaRelaxing beaches, temples and cheap accommodation and food are just some of the main reasons why Bali is often considered one of the ultimate locations for women to travel alone. With a wonderful backpacking culture for young people, budget-conscious female tourists are always going to be cool to hang out in Bali. And with all those striking beaches, you bet that in this tropical haven there are quite a few wonderful resorts for a bit of luxury. You're going to be so busy relaxing and soaking up the wonderful Balinese culture that you're going to forget you're traveling alone.British Virgin IslandsDo you think the Caribbean is only for couples and honeymooners? Be sure to include the supremely lovely British Virgin Islands in your route planner as you plan a journey to the West Indies for a scintillating Caribbean solo escape. Billed as the little secrets of nature, British Virgin Islands has a wonderful nightlife circuit and offers some well-known beaches that attract single-traveler flocks from around the globe. People are friendly there, and in this hot and beautiful Caribbean paradise you will find it easy to make friends.Copenhagen, DenmarkWithout a shadow of a doubt, Copenhagen –Denmark's capital–is one of Europe's safest and most intimate locations to travel alone. With its nightlife, culture, shopping and lovely architecture, this Danish town is known as the coolest child in the Nordic block. Moreover, although the town is blended in its urban scene, it is compact and relatively simple to navigate. In reality, by using just a bike, you can explore Copenhagen and experience its grandeur.Havana, CubaHavana–Cuba's capital–conjures pictures of cigars, salsa, Chevys of the 1950s, and colonial architecture that crumbles. But with the shifting of Cuba's political scene, private enterprise is strongly encouraged and smaller companies are growing and opening up. Now is an amazing time to visit the artisan stores and restaurants on the back road. Homestays in this nation are common, and this, along with low crime rates, means traveling alone in Cuba is rewarding and secure.Tulum, MexicoThe aquamarine waters of Tulum and the powdery white sand beaches are sufficient to euphoria anyone. Safe, lovely and much more peaceful than the nearby tourist locations, Tulum is a tropical getaway that allows solitary tourists to meet other travelers and enjoy a relaxing yoga or beach holiday.Rajasthan, IndiaRajasthan is an amazing introduction for women traveling solo to India. This wonderland, dubbed as the "Land of Kings," is full of historic treasures such as palaces and forts. Plus, traveling between Jaisalmer, Jodphur, Jaipur and Udaipur's main locations is quite simple. In addition, choosing cheap and atmospheric locations to eat and remain will spoil you. Spend time in the desert on a camel's back and don't miss Pushjar's Camel Fair in October or November.Costa RicaAre you an adrenaline junkie in search of exciting locations to travel by yourself? Then open your route scheduler or travel scheduler and schedule a journey to Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a wonderful place to quench your thirst for adventure with a host of recreational operations, volcanoes and surfing choices. Costa Rica, once stereotyped as an unsafe travel destination, is also full of helpful and warm-hearted locals, making it one of the best locations for women to travel alone.South Island, New ZealandNew Zealand's lovely South Island offers a host of interesting solo traveler operations including whitewater rafting, jet boating, skydiving, bungy jumping, kayaking, hiking, zorbing, and much more. This destination is definitely a large and zesty outdoor playground with jaw-dropping landscapes at every turn. Lakes, craggy coastline, glaciers and hills are the backdrop of a location that is voted as one of the most lovely locations in the world on a regular basis.Hong KongAlthough Hong Kong is one of the largest and busiest towns in the world, it is a wonderful place to relax, as it is full of Zen-like experiences like Tai Chi courses and lovely gardens. Moreover, it has often been considered one of the world's safest towns, making it a ideal Asian getaway spot for female solo travelers. In addition, Hong Kong offers its visitors an infinite range of attractions and experiences.SingaporeNo list of the best locations for females to travel alone without Singapore's incorporation is complete. Friendly, secure and supremely tidy, this Southeast Asian hub captivates female solo travelers with amazing shopping possibilities, mouthwatering cuisine, and culture mash-ups.Kyoto, JapanGoing to Japan on a solo journey? Looking for thoughts for solo travel in Japan? Here's a good travel advisory word for you: don't skip Kyoto. With its villas, imperial palaces and UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Kamigamo Shrine, Tō-ji, and Shinmogamo Shrine, Kyoto is known as the most lovely town in Japan. And like Japan's remainder, Kyoto is a fairly safe place for women to move.Palawan, PhilippinesPalawan, one of the most attractive and admirable locations to visit in the Philippines, is a magnificent tropical hub full of amazing natural wonders such as its impressive calcareous cliffs, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, the Coron Islands and the Kayangan Lake. The individuals in Palawan are pretty friendly and accessible to make things even better.A cruiseTechnically, it is not a particular destination for traveling, but a cruise in any part of the globe is nevertheless a wonderful experience, particularly for women traveling alone. You can appreciate the comfort of getting an itinerary and safe accommodation with a solo cruise journey. You can unpack once and get to many distinct locations without booking accommodations and flights. Sounds fantastic, right?Vancouver, CanadaThey don't call Vancouver to travel alone in Canada for nothing as one of the top and safest locations. According to the 2016 Crime and Safety Report, criminal activity in Vancouver is generally considerably smaller than most towns in the United States. The town also has a variety of attractions for all kinds of tourists, including Stanley Park, Vancouver Aquarium, Queen Elizabeth Park, Science World, and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.TaiwanTaiwan is a must-see, a must-see destination for eastbound solo passengers. It's not only highly secure, but it also has lots of charming locals ready to give a hand whenever you need it. It also has a superbly delicious cuisine that will certainly appease your taste buds and gastronomic urges. And, even if you're traveling alone as the country is loaded with striking sights and fascinating diversions, from colorful festivals to eye-catching mountain landscapes, you won't get bored there too.MaltaThis tiny Mediterranean hub lurks behind the shadows of its pop and trendy neighbors–Greece, Italy, Spain, and France–for years. However, thanks to a few viral blog posts, Malta has now become a desired destination and one of the best locations for women to travel alone.The traditionally kind-hearted Maltese will definitely make you feel at home when you set foot on their nation with their kindness, friendliness and hospitality. Nearly everyone in Malta can talk English fluently to make things even better for the solo traveler. English is, in reality, Malta's second official language, making things much easier for female solo tourists. Malta has tons to give to solitary travelers as far as attractions are concerned.IrelandIreland is an absolute dream destination for solo visitors with its scene-stealing, fascinating natural beauty and a mix of stuff to do and see. In addition, it is completely secure, ranked on the Global Peace Index as the 13th most peaceful location in the world.Toronto, CanadaLooking for a bet for sure-fire? Look beyond the vibrant city of Canada–Toronto! The Economist Intelligence Unit published its Safe Cities Index in 2015, ranking Toronto as the world's 8th safest cities. More than just a secure haven for solo travelers, Toronto also boasts striking sights, wonders, and fascinating places, including CN Tower, Canada's Ripley's Aquarium, Casa Loma, and more.Portland, Oregon, USAPortland is one of the safest significant towns and locations in the United States to travel alone. Most people, including solo women tourists, will have no problems walking alone at night along the streets of Portland. Moreover, Portland has a mishmash of attractions for female solo tourists, including Portland Aerial Tram, Portland Art Museum, Sapporo Bell, and Pittock Mansion.

15 Places in India That Every Tourist Must Visit !Choice of vacation destinations in India seem to be infinite; from scenic destinations to historically and culturally soaked sites, from cities bustling with chaos and confusion to destinations offering laid-back and relaxed stays. Amidst this huge list of destinations, there is always a dilemma of choosing a destination that is really worth a visit. Well! Relieving you of this dilemma, here is a list of top 15 destinations that make it to the list of ‘Must-Visit’ destinations in India for all travellers. Let’s now, find out the reasons as to why this is so.Kashmir – For its captivating natural beautyOne of the most incredible places in India, Kashmir is known for its enthralling beauty and is rightly nicknamed as the ‘Heaven on Earth’. With its Picturesque lakes, striking fruit orchards, verdant meadows surrounded with thick woods of pines and deodars, lush green gardens teeming with vibrant flowers and captivating valleys enclosed with snow-covered peaks of Himalayan and Pir-Panjal ranges – Kashmir seems to have directly made its way out from a picture postcard. From enjoying a heavenly ‘Shikara boat ride‘ on the pristine ‘Dal Lake’, strolling through the beautifully manicured ‘Mughal Gardens’, soaking in the untouched pastoral beauty of ‘Betaab’ and ‘Aru’ valleys, paying your homage to ‘Amarnath ji’ standing amidst the ethereal natural beauty of the tiny hamlet of ‘Chandanwari’, relishing the moment of plucking a fresh walnut at one the ‘Walnut Orchards’, braving the strong currents of River Sind during white water rafting in ‘Sonmarg’ to revelling in the adventure of world’s highest Gondola ride at Gulmarg – the magic of Kashmir with its breath-taking vistas is sure to captivate your heart and soul forever. Make sure to buy some of the traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and handlooms items and do try out few of the state’s world famous ‘Wazwan’ delicacies before returning from a memorable holiday in Kashmir.Leh-Ladakh – For its unmatched trekking optionsThe land of majestic snow-capped mountains, serene alpine glacial lakes, enchanting valleys and ancient colourful Buddhist monasteries, Leh-Ladakh is one of the ‘must-visit’ destinations in India for nature lovers and people seeking peace and serenity away from the busy city lives. Being home to plenty of serene alpine glacial lakes, some of the world’s highest mountain passes and high-altitude scenic trekking trails, Ladakh is also a dream destination for intrepid travellers and adventure freaks across India and different corners of the world. Be it the feeling of extreme spirituality and divinity listening to the chants and hymns of lamas in the ‘Hemis Monastery’, the tranquillity of ‘Pangong Lake’ offering an indescribable sense of peace and solitude, an unforgettable adventurous experience of trekking on the frozen ‘Zanskar River’, the fun of a unique sand-dune safari sitting on the back of Bactrian camel discovering the rugged landscapes of ‘Nubra Valley’ or the excitement of spotting a snow leopard in the thick of the ‘Hemis National Park’ – Ladakh has in its store, something for its every tourist. Being part of the colourful ‘Hemis Festival‘ is something which must definitely be on the itineraries of every tourist to the mystic land of Leh-Ladakh.Delhi – For its incredible history and pastDelhi, the bustling capital of India makes for one of the perfect travel destinations in India. A city of heritage monuments, teeming bazaars and mouth-watering street food reminding you of its rich past from the Mughal era to a city that is today, more cosmopolitan and contemporary with its sprawling boulevards, high-end malls, shopping complexes and luxury hotels & restaurants; Delhi is for sure, a true amalgamation of age old cultures and present day’s modernization. Be it a stroll through the narrow lanes of ‘Chandni Chowk’ relishing on its lip-smacking chaats, a real shopping fun in the streets of ‘Sarojini Nagar’ or more exotic ‘Delhi Haat’, a heritage walk through the awe-inspiring Mughal architectural masterpieces of ‘Humayun’s Tomb’ and ‘Qutab Minar’, a visit to the 700 years old ‘Hazrat Nizammuddin Dargah’, a lovely experience of relishing on some tasty cuisine sitting at a lake side café in the posh ‘Hauz Khas Village’, a memorable time at the lively ‘Kingdom of Dreams’ enjoying a musical Bollywood night, or a picnic time at the iconic ‘India Gate’; the list of ‘must-do things’ in Delhi has no end.One of the must-visit destinations in India, a trip to Delhi should definitely be on the travel list for all curious travellers, knowledge seekers and gastronomes looking out for a holiday trips in India.Agra – For its unprecedented Mughal grandeurA city immersed in a splendid Mughal charm, Agra needs no introduction. Home to the eternal symbol of love, the iconic ‘Taj Mahal’, Agra finds one of the top most places on the world heritage map. Having to its acclaim of being the only city in the world glittering with three world heritage sites, Agra definitely makes it to the list of popular Indian travel destinations. With its three gems, the impressive Taj Mahal, magnificent Agra Fort and splendid Fatehpur Sikri; the city lures thousands of tourists including historians and art lovers from all across India and the world. From savouring on the city’s authentic and traditional Mughlai flavours, shopping in the lively markets teeming with marble handicrafts adorned with fine inlay carvings and fine leather items, watching the epic of the timeless love between Shah Jahan and his beloved, Noor Jahan coming to life at the ‘Kalakriti Cultural & Convention Center’ to soaking your spirits in the enthralling fiesta of the ‘Taj Mahotsav‘, there is much more to do in the historic city of Agra than just exploring its monuments. For a more closer and adventurous face off with this cultural city, get on an off the beaten path journey and explore the narrow alleyways of the old city, ancient temples or visit the renowned poet, Mirza Ghalib’s birthplace.Varanasi – For its spiritual essenceIndia is a land of cultures, religions and spirituality, therefore, an Indian exploration remains incomplete without a trip to the holiest city of Varanasi. Also known as the city of ‘Moksha’, the place holds a great religious significance for Hindus. Situated on the banks of sacred river Ganga, the city is believed to be more than 5000 years old. Bustling with enchanting ancient temples and holy Ghats crowded with people performing various rituals and prayers, Varanasi makes for an ultimate spiritual holiday destination in India. From paying homage to Lord Shiva in the famous ‘Kashi Vishwanath Temple’, taking a dip in holy waters of river Ganga absolving your sins, revelling in the spiritual aura of the divine Ganga Aarti during evenings on the ‘Dasaswamedha Ghat’, taking a walk along the Ghats watching life flow by, exploring the chaotic and colourful streets teeming with life to gorging on its delicious ‘Benaras ki Chaat’ or indulging in a unique shopping experience of musical instruments and world-renowned ‘Benarasi Silk Sarees’; Varanasi is indeed an incredible place to visit in India.Jaislamer – For its Rajputana magnificence and plethora of desert activitiesAlso known as the ‘Land of Golden Sand’, Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage and stories of bravery and chivalry of the great Rajput rulers. An exotic city set amidst endless stretches of golden Thar Desert, Jaisalmer spells a magnetic pull at travellers sitting in different corners of the world. Be it the magnificence of the ‘Sonar Quila’ or the ‘Jaisalmer Fort’ beaming in its full glory, the magical charisma of the ancient ‘Salim ji ki Haveli’, ‘Nathmal ji ki Haveli’ and ‘Patwon-ki-Haveli’ reminding us of the royal grandeur of erstwhile wealthy Rajput merchants, an enthralling experience of ‘Sand Dune Bashing’, a rustic charm of a ‘Camel Safari’ exploring infinite stretches of golden sand or an unforgettable culinary experience of authentic Rajasthani cuisine; Jaisalmer impresses its every visitor with an extensive range of cultural offerings.The annual ‘Jaisalmer Desert Festival’ is a visual treat to eyes and it makes much sense to plan for a holiday trip to Jaisalmer during this festival. Folk dances, cultural musical performances, campfires under open starlit sky, enthralling camel shows, local haats selling exquisite jewellery and handicrafts; exuberance and vivaciousness of this gala event can be seen at every nook and corner of the city. One of the most colourful and vibrant places, Jaisalmer, for sure is one of the most striking places to visit in India.Rann of Kutch – For its rustic village life experienceAn enormous stretch of white salt that is submerged under water for 4 months in a year, the great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is an incredible place to visit in India. With its astounding natural beauty, the world’s one of the greatest salt desert is swarmed by an endless number of tourists every year, especially during the famous ‘Rann Utsav’ when the white canvas gets painted into different hues and shades. Live folk music and dance performances, camel safaris, a rustic stay and a delicious Kutch cuisine makes this experience an unforgettable one for every visitor. From walking along vast stretches of white getting a glimpse of salt making process, watching colourful migratory birds in the ‘Chari Daand’ sanctuary, getting breath-taking views of the infinite expanse of the Rann from ‘Kala Dungar’ to seeing the artisans creating magic with their hands making exquisite embroidery pieces; a trip to Rann of Kutch is truly an eye-opener. What adds to the charm of this memorable trip is a stay in traditional ‘Bhungas’ or cylindrical shaped huts with conical roofs in the enchanting ‘Hodka Village’ nearby. Providing you a feel of a rustic village life, these huts are beautifully decorated with traditional mirror work patterns and delicate lattice work. During night, enjoy a bonfire and watch a folk dance performance under the moonlit sky relishing on the tasty and spicy home-made Kutch delicacies.Aurangabad – For its mesmerizing ‘Ajanta & Ellora’ cavesDotted with plenty of ancient monuments, Aurangabad is a historical city located in Maharashtra. A city ruled by several dynasties in the past, today boasts of its rich heritage with its architectural marvels reminding the tales of its reigning dynasties. Mostly famed for its stunning Buddhist cave paintings of Ajanta & Ellora, a world heritage site, Aurangabad is visited by many national and international tourists throughout the year for many other reasons too. The magnificent ‘Bibi ka Maqbara’ reflecting the architecture of iconic ‘Taj’ and houses the tomb of Aurangzeb’s wife, Begum Rabia attracts many historians, architects and art lovers. The fortified city’s rich and alluring gates like ‘Kala Darwaza’ and ‘Rangeen Darwaza’ adorned with intricate carvings provide you a sneak peek into the artistic skills of the artisans and craftsmen of the bygone era.The city’s one of its kind cultural fiesta of ‘Ellora Ajanta Festival’ showcasing the talent of number of dancers and musicians across the country in the backdrop of illuminated 1400 years old caves adds to the charm of this historic city and provides one more reason to art lovers for a visit to Aurangabad.When in Aurangabad, do not give a miss to the lifetime opportunity of adding to your wardrobe, a traditional and exquisite collection of fine hand-woven Himroo and Paithani silk, an exotic speciality of Aurangabad.Sunderbans – For its enigmatic wildernessHome to the world’s largest mangrove forests, inhabited with the man-eating royal Bengal tigers, Sunderbans is one of the most famous offbeat places to visit in India. Situated on the mouth of the mighty Brahmaputra and river Ganges, the forests are also home to unlimited species of other wild animals, reptiles and birds. Evoking a mysterious fervour, Sunderbans has always lured adventure buffs, nature lovers and bird watchers from across the globe. Tracking down a ferocious beast, standing on the deck of your boat navigating through the dense mangroves engulfed in a sheer silence that is only occasionally broken by the whispering of bushes, squeaking of lizards and chirping of birds; the adventure is definitely one of the most exciting and enthralling experiences you can have at Sunderbans. Besides the spine-chilling adventurous journey, a trip to the Sunderbans also offers you an unmatched scenic and bird watching experience that is indescribable in words. Needless to say, a visit to this world heritage site, for sure makes for an unforgettable holiday excursion. As a remembrance to this mysterious world, fresh forest honey and brown rice makes for a perfect buy.Sikkim – For its breathtaking natural vistasOne of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in India, Sikkim is a glittering gem of the North-East Himalayas. With its enchanting snow-capped mountains, quaint little villages, pristine lakes and vibrant Buddhist monasteries, Sikkim is one of the best destinations in India to spend a peaceful and laid back holiday amidst extreme tranquillity and solitude. Teeming with some of the world’s best scenic trekking trails and rivers ideal for indulging in real thrill of white water rafting, this little North-Eastern state also makes for a perfect adventure destination in India for trekkers, rafters, mountaineers and rock climbers. Be it the breath-taking panoramas of the rhododendron carpets as you trek to the enchanting ‘Yumthang Valley’, the surreal experience of reaching the ‘Gurudongmar’ and ‘Cholamu’ lakes or an ecstasy of braving the strong currents of River Teesta as you navigate through twist and turns of the torrential river during the white water rafting adventure; Sikkim never ceases to hypnotise you with its serene magic of nature.This quaint state of India is also a perfect place to go for some meditation sessions at one of the numerous old monasteries, indulge in a thrilling fun of hand-gliding or paragliding, experience a unique ‘Yak Safari’, satiate your taste buds with delicious Sikkimese delicacies, shop till your heart’s desire purchasing incredible Sikkimese handcrafts, thangka paintings and mural items or be part of one of the state’s fascinating festivals.Meghalaya – For its spell binding man-made artistic splendours.Also known as the ‘abode of clouds’, Meghalaya is a hidden gem nestled in the lap of pine covered Khasi and Garo Hills in the Eastern Himalayas. One of the most picturesque states of North East India with its lush terraced slopes, gushing waterfalls, mystic caves, dense forests and sparkling lakes and rivers; Meghalaya is an ideal holiday destination in India for trekkers, cavers and nature enthusiasts. It is only in Meghalaya where you will come across unique man made living root bridges that are grown and not built. Yes! You heard it right the ‘bridges which are grown’. The people of Khasi tribe in Meghalaya have been growing these bridges since ages by directing the intermingled roots of rubber trees over hollowed beetle nut trunks to make them run over streams and rivers. The roots mature over a span of 10-15 years and gain strength with each passing year. Fully mature bridges can take a load of dozens of people. The ‘double decker living root bridge’ in Cherrapunjee is one such artistic splendour that has been standing strong for over 200 years.The awe-inspiring and claustrophobic caves of ‘Krem Mawsmai’ is another tourist attraction in Meghalaya that leaves you spell bound with its impressive shapes of stalactites and stalagmites formed over hundreds of years. You will also be amazed to know that ‘Mawlynnong’, the cleanest village in India is also a part of this beautiful state.Offering some of the nature’s finest and incredible vistas, man-made artistic splendours and an experience of a rustic village life, all topped up with a dollop of delicious local food; Meghalaya for sure, makes it to the list of must see places in India.Kerala – For its backwaters and much morePristine backwaters, coconut fringed beaches, rejuvenating Ayurvedic massages and colourful festivals; Yes! You guessed it right. I am taking about the God’s own country, Kerala, one of the most picturesque places in India with a footfall of thousands of tourists every year. Tucked between Arabian Sea and Western Ghats, Kerala has been blessed with immense natural beauty. Besides serene backwaters and pristine beaches, Kerala is also home to scenic hill station and numerous wildlife sanctuaries. Offering an umpteen number of tourist activities, a trip to Kerala is a ‘must-have’ experience for every traveller across the world. From memorable houseboat stays on backwaters of Alleppey, nature walks through lush slopes and sprawling tea gardens of ‘Munnar’, thrilling elephant rides at the ‘Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary’ to watching mesmerizing Kathakali performance at the ‘Kathakali Centre’; Kerala is a destination worth visiting once in lifetime.When in Kerala, you simply cannot miss gorging on the aromatic Kerala food served traditionally on banana leaves or experiencing a rustic stay in a tree house. A vibrant temple festival showcasing the cultural legacy of the state or observing the massive Chinese Fishing nets being operated by the fishermen on the beach of Fort Kochi is also something you will find only in Kerala.Hampi – For its brilliantly carved monumentsA city immersed in the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire dating back to the period between 14th and 16th century, Hampi is one of the most incredible places to visit in India. Ruins of this ancient city with its number of strikingly beautiful monuments, temples and palaces still tell you the tales of grandeur and magnificence of the Vijayanagara rulers. Be it the artistic splendour of the ‘Virupaksha Temple’, the spellbinding exquisite carvings of the iconic stone chariot in the ‘Vijaya Vittala Temple’, the ornamentally carved pillars of the ‘Achyutaraya Temple’ or the fascinating architecture of the ‘King’s Balance’; a walk through the streets of Hampi is sure to make you discover the hidden stories of a great empire whose grandiosity and magnificence is today lost in history. A trip to this historic city is incomplete without being part of its musical extravaganza during the ‘Hampi Utsav’ when the whole city comes alive with live cultural dance performances in the backdrop of the splendid ruins lit up in glittering lights, making it an exceptional sight to behold.Mysore – For its rich cultureConsidered to be the cultural capital of Karnataka in South India, Mysore is a historic city known for its ornate palaces and gardens. Fast developing as an IT hub, the city still retains its old world cultural charm. From the city’s streets soaked in the fragrance of perfumed incense, boulevards teeming with stalls trading exquisite sandalwood carvings, markets lined up with shops selling beautiful silk sarees to sweet shops queued with hordes of customers waiting to have their share of the delicious ‘Mysore Pak’ – every nook and corner of the city seems to be so full of life.Needless to say, every attraction of Mysore unfolds a new story related to the city’s glorious past: whether you walk past the elaborate pathways of the magnificent ‘Mysore City Palace’ dazzling with thousands of bulbs against the dark night sky, take a relaxing stroll through the sprawling ‘Brindavan Gardens’ lined up with musical fountains along the pathways, witness the sheer extravaganza of a royal procession of colourfully decked up elephants during the world famous ‘Mysore Dasara Festival’, take a climb up to the ‘Chamundeshwari Temple’ perched on the ‘Chamundi Hill’ or get awe-struck with the spectacle of the well preserved ‘Hoyasala Temples’ in Somnathpur; the city of Tipu Sultan continues to fascinate you with its rich cultural heritage.Providing you with an unmatched travel experience, a visit to this beautiful city is a must for every travel enthusiast, both national and international.Andaman & Nicobar – For its pristine beauty and array of water sportsKnown for their picturesque beauty with pristine beaches, azure waters and verdant forests, Andaman & Nicobar are a group of more than 500 shimmering islands tucked in an infinite expanse of the Bay of Bengal. Relatively unexplored, these islands have that enigmatic charm to them that lures thousands of tourists every year. Packed with an array of interesting activities, a holiday in Andaman & Nicobar is sure to be one of the best vacations in India. The Asia’s best beach, ‘Radhanagar Beach’ on the ‘Havelock Island’ is a paradise for honeymoon couples who can be seen here immersed in romantic walks holding each other’s hands and witnessing the beautiful sunset. For water sports lovers, the azure waters teeming with a diverse marine life and coral reefs, offer a perfect ambience to indulge in some world-class scuba diving and sea walking experience. If you are looking out for an adventurous twist in the serenity of these beautiful islands, go for boat safaris through thick mangrove forests leading to dark limestone caves at the ‘Baratang Island’, take a challenging trek to the ‘Saddle Peak’ snaking through scenic terrains and thick forests sighting few exotic colourful birds or camp under the open moonlit sky and try your hands at a bar-be-que experience of cooking your own fresh catch of a fish or crab.Hope this works for you !