5 destinations that are ideal for solo pandemic travel
Editor's Note
Your travel philosophy shouldn't change, no matter how many people are along for the journey. All travelers yearn for fulfilling experiences. Solo explorers aren't any different.
Over the years, traveling by myself has crafted some of my most rewarding memories ever (peep my Instagram for some of them).
I love weaving the great outdoors with the opportunity to meet others. Or perhaps intertwining an urban escape with a moment of Zen somewhere more remote.
Of course, the pandemic is now a major consideration about where you can go, too. Here are five destinations I've visited that may be a great choice for solo pandemic travel.
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Iceland
Iceland is open to fully vaccinated U.S. travelers, along with those that have recovered from COVID-19. In addition, you'll need to have a negative PCR or antigen test result within 72 hours of departing for Iceland.
I visited Iceland solo several years ago, and if one word could describe that experience, it would be "otherworldly." The vast landscapes and rugged terrain, combined with the fast-changing weather and surreal northern lights, make for an experience unlike any other.
And I did all of it solo by renting a car and staying at a variety of Airbnbs around the island nation.
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While Iceland may be on the more expensive end, especially when traveling solo, it doesn't have to break the bank. Stay at an Airbnb, cook for yourself or even rent a camper van as TPG staffer Stella Shon did.
Related: Traveling to Iceland during the coronavirus pandemic — the complete guide
Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal is open to U.S. travelers, and I visited this past summer. All travelers headed to Portugal must provide proof of a negative nucleic acid amplification test, such as a PCR test, taken within 72 hours before boarding. Rapid tests are also accepted but must be performed within 48 hours of boarding.
In my mind, it's one of the perfect cities that combine a picturesque historic center along with easy access to gorgeous beaches and natural escapes.
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Related: Traveling to Portugal: 7 things to know before you go
Consider a daytrip to the beach town of Cascais or the whimsical palaces and castles of medieval Sintra. Best of all, as one of the cheapest Western Europe capital cities, it can be relatively affordable for solo travelers.
Merida, Mexico
Right before the onset of the pandemic, I visited the vibrant Mexican city of Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula. Mexico is currently open to U.S. travelers by air, but border crossings remain closed.
Merida has a rich Mayan and colonial heritage, with cathedrals and monuments erected throughout its colorful downtown core.
It's affordable, safe and a charming place to spend a few days -- or even longer. That's because Merida is centrally located, with easy access to Mayan ruins (like the famous Chichen Itza) and cenotes.
As a solo traveler, I would much prefer visiting Merida to the popular touristy destinations of Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Your money goes much further here, too.
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Related: Beyond the beach: Mexico's 6 best inland destinations
Toronto
On Aug. 9, Canada reopened its borders to U.S. residents for both land and air crossings.
Toronto is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. If you want to savor cuisines from around the globe, this is the place to be.
There is a slew of galleries, museums and attractions so you'll never get bored as a solo traveler, either. Driving to Toronto is relatively straightforward if you're coming from major cities in the Northeast, or take a quick one-hour flight from cities such as New York.
Related: Traveling to Canada during the pandemic — what's it like?
Istanbul
Istanbul is known for its incredible culture and cuisine, set against a historical and religious backdrop that spans centuries. It's an impressive city — and not just because its 20 million residents stretch across two separate continents.
I visited as a solo traveler earlier this fall and had a fantastic time. In such a massive city, you'll never run out of things to do, no matter what type of experience you are in search of. During my time there, I used Airbnb Experiences to see a unique, local side of the city.
If visiting has been on your list, know that it is very feasible at present. Of course, rules are constantly changing, so keep abreast of the latest both here at TPG as well as the official information at the U.S. Embassy in Turkey website.
Note that Turkey is currently on the State Department's Do Not Travel list.
Related: 5 things to know about entering Turkey right now
Bottom line
The world is reopening for tourism, and solo travelers with a case of wanderlust can get back out on the road. Here, I showed you five of the best international destinations for solo travelers. They're all jam-packed with activities and sights, making them perfect for the lone traveler.