Discovering Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Solo Travel Itinerary Suggestions 🌴🌍✈️
Oh, the joy of solo travel! There’s nothing quite like the freedom of setting off on a journey of self-discovery, without the constraints of companionship. But sometimes, we find ourselves seeking more than the standard tourist routes and crowded hotspots. Fear not, intrepid adventurer! This blog post is for you - presenting a list of off-the-beaten-path solo travel itinerary suggestions, guaranteed to give you an authentic travel experience!
1. Explore the Hidden Islands of Greece 🇬🇷🏝️
Ah, Greece - the perfect tourist destination. But did you know there are several small islands off the beaten path that the crowds don’t know about yet? Take a ferry from Athens port to witness ancient ruins, crystal clear waters, and unspoiled Greek culture. One such island is Serifos, a former iron-mining town on the Aegean Sea, with stunning beaches and breathtaking views of the sunset. Accomodation is available in traditional Greek houses and picturesque small hotels.
2. Trek the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal 🇳🇵🏔️
If you’re looking for a solo travel adventure that tests your physical endurance and celebrates natural beauty, trek the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. This 21-day trek throughout the Annapurna mountain range provides stunning views of moraines, valleys, and peaks, welcoming trekkers with open hearts and offers comfortable trekking trails, budget-friendly tea houses, small local markets and traditional food to fuel your journey.
3. Go on a Food Tour in Penang, Malaysia 🇲🇾🍴
Calling all food lovers! Set forth to the culinary heaven of South-East Asia and discover a range of delicious street food options in Penang off of the usual tourist trail. Take a walking tour around George Town, stopping at favorite stalls for char kway teow (stir-fried noodles), Hokkienmee (prawn noodle soup), and rojak (shrimp and tropical fruit salad). Don’t be afraid to try the Chendol, a sweet refreshing dessert with pandan jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar!
4. Bike through The Netherlands 🇳🇱🚲
What could be more millennial than hopping on a bicycle and exploring the “Venice of the North”? Navigate through serene canals and lush greenery, stopping at quaint cafes or tourist-friendly markets. Visit the charming town of Zaanse Schans, where windmills, houses and barns are preserved in their 18th and 19th-century state, or venture through the tulip fields along the coast of Lisse.
5. Mingle with Locals in Siem Reap, Cambodia 🇰🇭🧍♂️
Siem Reap might be the gateway to Angkor Wat, but once you’ve visited the temples, take a step into the lesser-travelled path and discover the real Cambodia. Sign up for a rural village tour, where you can immerse in local traditions such as ox-cart rides, handicraft-making classes, or ceremony blessings. Traverse the streets of the old market, and delight in Cambodian delicacies at street food stalls or dine at some of the finest restaurants Siem Reap has to offer.
There is a wealth of hidden gems out there to discover while traveling solo, and these unique itineraries are just a few of the many options available. The world is your oyster - go forth and explore!