Sometimes the travel bug bites hard, but you don’t always have a buddy who is able to join in on the adventure at a moment’s notice. Why should you miss out on experiencing a new place just because you don’t have a travel companion? This year more than ever international tourism is expected to rise in the form of solo travelers, and we’ve rounded up the safest destinations for you. Pack your bags, and get ready to make new friends on the road.
The largest city in Switzerland is known for its many financial and banking institutions, but its small population and highly developed infrastructure make for an ideal tourist destination. Housing many museums, art galleries and incredible shopping, Zurich was once considered the city offering best quality of life in the world, and we all want a piece of it.
Photo credit: S.Borisov / Shutterstock
The beautiful capital of Hawaii is commonly known as the gateway to the U.S island chain. Famous for iconic views, beaches and deep blue waters, Honolulu also offers luxury dining, nightlife and hospitality. Don’t miss historic sites like Pearl Harbor, and of course, soak up the sun on the sandy beaches of Oahu Island.
Photo by: Hawaii Tourism Authority
Built around waterways and mostly made up of flat landscapes, Copenhagen is a city of high walkability as well as being very cyclist-friendly, making it a popular destination for backpackers from across thew world. The compact downtown areas has access to most of the tourist attractions including City Hall Square and Central Station, and other popular spots including the many palaces, museums, highly Instagrammable streets, and unique international cuisine.
Photo credit: Visit Copenhagen
Porto is a coastal city in northwest Portugal known for its bridges and of course, port wine production. Nnarrow cobbled streets and many outdoor cafes bring that charming coastal vibe we all love about European cities. Less known (and less crowded) than the major cities, Porto is ideally explored as a city break destination but is also a convenient starting point to explore the rest of one of Europe’s oldest countries.
Photo Credit: Visit Portugal
We know London as the capital England and perhaps for the Big Ben. But recently solo travelers have been making London their starting point when visiting all of the U.K, and the smaller surrounding cities. London itself offers great international cuisine, luxury hotels, and innovative art scene, and stunning panoramic views.
Photo credit: Visit London
Large for Norway’s standards but still containing a small-town vibe, Bergen is a special blend of modern and natural beauty. Locals have a sense of pride of their Viking Age roots, and are happy to share local attractions with visitors. Bergen also has a large student population reflected in the city’s vibrant and youthful personality. Brimming with sight-seeing opportunities, Bergen is home to Norway’s biggest yearly cultural event, the Bergen International Festival.
Photo credit: Visit Norway
Sweden is known for its liberal culture, and Stockholm does not disappoint in the fun department. Drinking on the water is a popular way to spend the summer days, as well as dining on the many boat-turned restaurants. Similar to Austin, Stockholm houses a booming live music scene, and its blend of modern Scandinavian design and local culture aesthetic appeals to most. There is something for everyone in the city, but don’t forget to take advantage of its warm summers and take a tour of the unique natural landscape of this region.
Photo credit: Anette Andersen / Shutterstock
I know what you’re thinking: isn’t Tokyo too hectic to visit alone? The answer is a resounding ‘no’. Just the opposite, in fact. The frenetic pace of this mega-city is perfect for the first time visitor who is traveling alone. You will never feel alone in Tokyo. Most of the city will feel like New York, a concrete jungle filled with noises and color, and it takes a bit of time to really feel at home. Embrace Tokyo’s personality and spend your time really experiencing the city like a local; Eat in hole-in-the-wall spots, ask the friendly natives for good recommendations, wander into local shops selling odd items, and don’t waste time trying to tick off tourist sights. A little hectic but perfectly safe, Tokyo is meant for the solo traveler.
Photo credit: Source: bluehand / Shutterstock
Best known for the iconic structure that is home to the Sydney Opera House, Sydney is also a hot destination for lone travelers. Being the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia, Sydney has a wide range of culinary, design, art, and music that is sure to please even the most demanding visitor. Commonly referred to as the Harbour City, Sydney offers miles of sandy beaches and blue waters, as well as deep and ethnically diverse history built on decades of longterm immigration, making for some of the world’s highest quality of life.
Photo Credit: Leah-Anne Thompson / Shutterstock
The maritime climate in Dublin makes it a desirable spot for travelers year round. Cool summers, mild winters, and with many landmarks to see, Dublin has attractions dating back hundreds of years. This unique city has more green spaces per square kilometer than any other capital in Europe, and 97% of its lucky residents live by a park area. Dublin is one of the most walkable cities in Europe, and there is no other way to visit the famous Dublin Castle, used by the Vikins in the 930’s, St. Stephen’s Green park which remains green all year, and Temple Bar, known as the party hub of the city.
Photo credit: Lonely Planet
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New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…