Solo Travel in Your 30s

Last year, I booked a solo trip to Portugal with nothing but a backpack and a loose itinerary. It was simultaneously the most terrifying and liberating thing I’ve ever done.

Why Solo Travel Matters

There’s a unique kind of growth that happens when you’re completely alone in a foreign place. No one to defer to, no compromises on what to eat or where to go. Just you and your instincts.

My Portugal Itinerary

Lisbon (4 days)

The city of seven hills stole my heart. I spent my days:

• Getting lost in Alfama’s winding streets
• Eating pastéis de nata at Manteigaria
• Taking the iconic Tram 28
• Watching sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

Sintra (Day trip)

The fairytale palaces were worth every euro. Pro tip: book Pena Palace tickets online to skip the line.

Porto (3 days)

• Wine tasting in the Douro Valley
• Crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge at golden hour
• Browsing Livraria Lello (arrive early!)
• Simply sitting by the river with a glass of port

Practical Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Safety First

• Share your itinerary with someone at home
• Keep digital copies of important documents
• Trust your gut—if something feels off, leave
• Book accommodations with good reviews from solo female travelers

Staying Connected

• Get a local SIM card or eSIM
• Download offline maps
• Learn basic phrases in the local language
• Join walking tours to meet other travelers

The Art of Dining Alone

This was my biggest fear. My strategies:

• Bring a book or journal
• Sit at the bar where conversation is easier
• Lunch solo is easier than dinner (start there)
• Embrace the people-watching opportunity

What Solo Travel Taught Me

1. I’m More Capable Than I Thought

Navigating public transit in a foreign language, handling unexpected situations, making decisions confidently—I can do hard things.

2. My Own Company Is Enough

The loneliness I feared never really came. Instead, I discovered I actually enjoy being with myself.

3. Strangers Can Be Kind

From the elderly woman who helped me find the right metro line to the shopkeeper who drew me a map to a hidden viewpoint—people are generally good.

4. Plans Are Overrated

Some of my best experiences were completely unplanned. The secret garden I stumbled upon, the local festival I accidentally joined.

My Next Solo Adventure

I’ve already booked my next trip: Japan in cherry blossom season. The planning has begun, and I couldn’t be more excited.

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Have you traveled solo? Where would you recommend for a first solo trip?