Best places to visit as a female solo traveler

In the past five years I have been traveling all around the world. I recently started chatting with a new friend and quickly realized I had failed to write down a pros and cons list on all the places I have traveled. So my new blog post is for those female solo traveller’s who need a little boost of confidence and want to learn more about traveling as single woman. Traveling all by yourself as a female these days can be a bit intimidating. What really helps is to bring a friend, meet a family member, or make new friends online in the city you plan to visit. Even though I traveled alone on most of these trips I was never really all alone. I always tried to make new friends or meet someone I already knew at the destination. Let’s jump right into it!

Panama

Panama is located in Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica. I have a best friend who has been living in the city of PA for a few years now. I am hoping to visit one last time in 2024 and re-visit the San Blas Islands. When first traveling to Panama you really want to make sure to make time to explore outside of the city, because that is where all the real beauty lies. My best friend arranged for a private driver to drive us over 3 hours to meet a tour guide who then took us both on a Cayuko “dug-out canoe”. We then sailed away to multiple San Blas Islands together and swam in the clear Caribbean sea. We saw starfishes, ate delicious Guna homemade family food, and drank local craft beers.

PROS – You can meet many people who speak english and spanish. Prices are fair for most of the trip. The food is one of a kind so bring an open mind. Being outdoors is the only way to experience Panama. Local parks are like going to a local zoo, if lucky you will see many Tucans.
CONS – Ticket prices can vary between $400-$600 plus depending on the season you visit. You have to drive a few hours outside the city to enjoy the caribbean ocean. If it’s not hot then it is raining most of the year. You need a passport to travel to Panama. You might get car sick going up and down the mountains.
Tips – Always carry cash on you for when you see vendors on your trip. Say yes to all the adventures that are presented your way, of course if your intuition tells you otherwise. Ride your bike en la Cinta de Panama. Look up in the trees and down at the ground you will see so many different types of wild animals. Eat out everyday if you can the prices are great for eating. Take your tennis shoes and sandals. You will really only need shorts, workout clothes, and one cute dress up outfit. Book your ticket with months in advance, so it gives you time to book other excursions. Read reviews on tour guides, it’s smart to have one during some of the excursions. Take water with you everywhere. Don’t forget to bring your camera and tripod!