As someone who's built a life and a business around solo travel, I've learned that feeling safe is essential to truly enjoying a destination. Over the years, I've been fortunate to visit places where not only did I feel secure, but I also found a deep connection. Here are three destinations that left a lasting impression on me as a solo traveler.

Bali, Indonesia
Bali was a game-changer for me. From the moment I arrived, the island's energy put me at ease. The kindness of the people stood out—there's something about the way the Balinese treat you that just makes you feel at peace. I could relax and explore without constantly looking over my shoulder.
Sure, like anywhere, you have to watch out for pickpockets, but that was the only thing on my radar. Bali offers so much diversity in activities—whether I was grounding myself at the Yoga Barn in Ubud or riding the waves during a surf lesson in Seminyak, I always felt a sense of calm. And let's talk about the food—affordable, flavorful, and an experience in itself. Bali is one of those places where your dollar stretches far, but your experiences stretch even further.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town feels like home—literally. From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was greeted with “my sister,” and it felt like a warm welcome from family. That’s why Cape Town has become my favorite place in the world. It reminds me so much of Miami, especially Camps Bay, which is like a mirror image of Miami Beach but with the stunning backdrop of mountains.
The only downside? The water is freezing cold! But even though I didn’t spend much time in the ocean, Cape Town offers so many other experiences. Whether it was sipping wine at a beautiful vineyard or going on a safari, every day felt like a new adventure. And let’s not forget—it’s easy on the wallet too. When you convert your dollars, you get to enjoy all the luxuries without the guilt of overspending.
Dakar, Senegal
Senegal might not be on everyone’s radar, but it definitely should be. I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect going solo to Dakar, but I was pleasantly surprised. The people were incredibly friendly, and the Radisson Blu I stayed at was top-notch—I even ran into a Hollywood actor there!
One of the most memorable experiences was taking a five-hour drive outside Dakar to a reserve where I literally walked with tigers. Yes, you read that right—walked with tigers. It was both terrifying and exhilarating, but I’m so glad I pushed myself to do it. Beyond the adrenaline rush, Senegal left a profound impact on me, especially the history surrounding the enslaved people. That blend of history and adventure made my time in Senegal unique and unforgettable.
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