The feeling of freedom, excitement, and self-discovery of traveling alone as a woman is unique. And the United States is an ideal place for solo travel because of its hugeness, diversity, and several opportunities.
This blog post will help you as a complete guide for solo female travelers in the United States. I have written this article based on some research. Here I’ll provide safety tips, budget tips, and most importantly, a list of the top 10 solo travel destinations in the United States.
How to travel alone as a woman in the USA?
Although traveling alone is exciting, safety should be a top priority.
Below are some important tips:
1. Take Care of Your Health and Fitness
- Consult your doctor before you travel and get the necessary medications.
- Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
- Drink more water, especially if you’re traveling in hot climates.
2. Don’t pack extra stuff and only take the essentials.
- Make a list of things you will need during the trip.
- Use a light-weight backpack and avoid packing extra items.
- Choose different types of clothing that can be used in a variety of situations.
3. Setting Boundaries and Dealing With Unwanted Attention
- Keep your boundaries clear and stay away from unwanted attention.
- Do not be afraid to say “no” and trust your intuition.
- Ask for help from local law enforcement.
4. Choose your destination carefully
- Choose your destination according to your interests and comfort.
- Research your destination well before you travel and learn about the local culture.
- Learn about reviews and experiences from other women travelers.
5. Plan Your First Night Well
- Book your accommodation well in advance.
- Use safe and reliable transportation to get from the airport to your hotel.
- Bring some food and drinks for the first night.
6. Take a Break From Technology
- Avoid too much use of technology while traveling.
- Enjoy the atmosphere and interact with the local people.
- Don’t share too much information on social media.
7. Protect Your Documents, Cards, and Cash
- Keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents.
- Keep your cards and cash in different places.
- Be aware of pickpockets in crowded places.
8. Meet Other Women Travelers
- Use app and website to communicate with other women travelers.
- Stay at local hostels and guest houses that provide a safe environment for women travelers.
- Join travel classes and group tours that are specifically designed for women.
Best Places for Women to Travel Solo in the United States
The United States is a vast and diverse country with a variety of experiences waiting in every corner. Here are 10 of my favorite places:
1. Washington, D. C.
- Historic Sites and Museums: Washington, DC is an ideal place for travelers interested in learning about American history and culture. Here you can visit the White House, the Capitol building, the Lincoln Memorial and numerous museums.
- Safe and Clean City: Washington, D.C. is a safe and clean city where there is no reason to be afraid to travel alone.
- Easy access to transportation: Washington, D.C. has a well-designed transportation system that can easily get you to different parts of the city.
2. San Francisco, California
- Beautiful scenery and various culture: San Francisco is famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, hanging trolleys, and diverse neighborhoods.Here you can enjoy a different types of food, culture and entertainment.
- The ideal environment for traveling alone: San Francisco is a generous and welcoming city where traveling alone is not a problem.
- Outdoor open spaces and nature: Near the city of San Francisco there are numerous parks and outdoor open spaces that can give you a break from the busy life.
3. New York, NY
- World-famous sights and entertainment: New York City is famous for Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and numerous Broadway shows and museums.
- New York City is a city that never sleeps 24/7. You can find something to do at any time of the day.
- Safe and clean transportation system: New York City’s subway system is safe and clean which can easily get you to different parts of the city.
4. Dallas, Texas (Dallas, TX)
- Food, Shopping, and Entertainment: Dallas is a vibrant city where you can enjoy a variety of food, shopping, and entertainment.
- Affordable Accommodation and Travel Costs: Dallas is a relatively affordable city that is ideal for your budget-friendly travel.
- Friendly and welcoming local people: The local people of Dallas are very friendly and welcoming which will make your trip even more enjoyable.
5. The Hot Springs, Arkansas (Hot Springs, AR)
- Natural hot springs and spas: It is famous for its natural hot springs and spa therapies. Here you can relax your body and mind.
- Historic National Park: This is a beautiful mixture of historic architecture and natural beauty.
- Calm and safe environment: This is a quiet and safe city that is ideal for solo women travelers.
6. Alamogordo, New Mexico (Alamogordo, NM)
- New Mexico Museum of Space History: If you’re passionate about history and science, Alamogordo is an ideal destination for you.The New Mexico Museum of Space History, which showcases the past of the American space program, is located here.
- White Sand Desert: If you’re a nature lover, Alamogordo won’t disappoint you. Here you can visit the desert of white sand, which is a unique natural beauty.
- Relatively Affordable Travel Destinations: Alamogordo is a relatively affordable travel destination that is ideal for your budget-friendly travels.
7. Anchorage, Alaska (Anchorage, AK)
- Nature and Wildlife: Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city and is home to numerous species and wildlife. Here you can go hiking, kayaking, and wildlife.
- Northern Lights: A wonderful sight to see, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) can be viewed in the sky from Anchorage throughout the winter months.
- Ideal Destination for Adventure lovers: If you love adventure travel, Anchorage is an ideal destination for you.
8. Chicago, Illinois (Chicago, IL)
- Architecture, food, and culture: Chicago is famous for its extraordinary architecture, world-famous food, and various culture.
- Museums and Art Galleries: Chicago is home to a variety of museums and art galleries that will spark your interest.
- Safe and easy-to-visit city: Chicago is a safe and easy-to-visit city where solo women travelers will feel comfortable.
9. Gulf Shores, Alabama (Gulf Shores, AL)
- Beaches and water sports: Gulf Shores is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches and water sports. Here you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports.
- Affordable and Family-Friendly Destinations: Gulf Shores is relatively affordable and family-friendly destination that offers safe and enjoyable travel for solo women travelers.
- Tasty Seafood: Gulf Shores is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood.
10. Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin (Elkhart Lake, WI)
- Lake and Nature: Elkhart Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Kettle Moraine region of Wisconsin. Here you can enjoy boating, fishing, and nature.
- Spa and Luxury Resort: Elkhart Lake is home to a variety of spas and luxury resorts where you can relax and calm your body and mind.
- Quiet and safe environment: Elkhart Lake is a quiet and safe city that is ideal for solo women travelers.
Hotels and homestays for solo women travelers in the United States:
Hotels and homestays are both great options to stay alone as a woman while traveling in the United States. Depending on your budget, preferences, and type of travel, you can decide what type of accommodation you want.
The Hotel:
There is no shortage of hotels in the United States, there are all kinds of options from luxury to budget friendly hotels.
Luxury Hotels: If you have an interest in both budget and luxury, you can choose luxury hotels. These hotels usually have beautiful decorations, spacious rooms, swimming pools, spas, restaurants and other facilities. These hotels typically offer 24-hour room service, concierge service, and other personalized services.
Budget-friendly hotels:
If you have a limited budget, you can choose a budget-friendly hotels. These hotels usually have basic facilities and are relatively affordable. These hotels usually offer limited services, but still provide a comfortable stay.
Boutique Hotel:
If you want a unique and local experience, you can choose a boutique hotel. These hotels usually have unique decor and personalized service. These hotels typically showcase local art and culture and provide guests with a comfortable atmosphere.
Tips for choosing a hotel:
- Safety: Safety is very important when traveling alone. Choose a hotel in a safe and well-lit area. The hotel should have a 24-hour reception desk, CCTV cameras and other security measures.
- Cleanliness: It is important that the hotel rooms are clean and well maintained. Bathrooms, showers and laundry rooms should be clean.
- Facilities: It is important that you have the necessary facilities at the hotel. This can include Wi-Fi, television, refrigerator, coffee maker, etc.
- Service: The hotel staff should be friendly and helpful.
- Location: The location of the hotel is important for your travel plans. If you want to stay close to the sights, then choose the hotel in the right location for you.
Homestay:
Homestay gives you the opportunity to enjoy the local culture and experience. You will spend time with local families and get insight into their way of life.
- Culture and Experience: Homestays give you the opportunity to talk to the local peoples and learn about their culture. You can eat local food, learn the local language and about local traditions.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Homestays are usually much more affordable than hotels and can also help to save your budget.
- Safe and comfortable environment: Most of the homestays provide a safe and comfortable environment for women travellers. You will be staying with local families who are responsible for your safety and wellbeing.
Home Selection Tips:
- Contact with family members: Before booking a homestay, contact the family members and learn more about them.
- Learn about rules and expectations: Every homestay has its own set of rules and expectations. Learn about these rules and expectations before booking a homestay.
- Location: The location of the homestay is important for your travel plans. If you want to stay close to the sights, then choose a homestay in a suitable location for you.
Both hotels and homestays are nice options for women when traveling in the United States. Depending on your budget, preferences and type of travel you can decide what type of accommodation you want. Choose a hotel or homestay that is suitable for you, considering safety, cleanliness, facilities, service, and location.
Conclusion
The United States is a vast and diverse country that offers numerous opportunities for women to travel alone. By keeping safety issues in mind and planning well, you can enjoy a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable trip. I hope this article will help you plan your trip to the United States.
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