Embarking on a solo trip is daunting, especially so if you’re a woman. We compiled a list of countries under the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL), which are fun, and most importantly safe for female travellers! ✈️
Check out these articles:
- Can A Muslim Woman Travel Without A Mahram
- 8 Trips In Asia You Have To Make If You're A Solo Traveller
11 Places Under VTL For Solo Female Travellers
Asia-Pacific
1. Brunei
Credit: Unsplash
It's really easy to find halal food in Brunei because almost everything is halal! From tasty local cuisines for you to savour such as their signature ambuyat, or their picturesque mosques and iconic ‘Venice Of The East’, there’s simply so much for you to do! Furthermore, Brunei has one of the lowest crime rates in South East Asia, so it’s generally safe for you to travel around.
2. Australia
Credit: @ayissa_f for Instagram
Brimming with bustling cities, stunning landscapes, vast wildlife (we’re talking about those adorable koalas! ?), and many delicious halal options, what is there not to love about the land Down Under? Australia is generally a safe country, with low crime rates, but low crime does not mean no crime, sisters. We suggest planning your itinerary carefully because getting around Australia is no easy feat. Once you do so, your safety is assured, while you’re busy snorkeling around the Great Barrier Reef or savouring delicious seafood at the Fremantle Markets. Need some tips to plan your trip? We got you covered with someessential tips for your future trip to Australia!
#HHWTips: Before booking your trip, do read up on any COVID-19 updates in regards to the country you’re visiting!
3. Indonesia
Credit: @zaskiyahck on Instagram
Indonesia will suit whatever any tourist looks for. You’re planning to shop till you drop? Head to Jakarta, to find everything from super cheap to super luxurious. You want a beach vacay to wash all your stresses away? Lombok and Bali are the way to go. Up for an adventure? Backpack your way through many of what Indonesia’s deep history and vast nature has to offer! Indonesia is also a relatively safe place for solo female travellers, but do your groundwork on the locations you’re planning to visit prior to your trip. Take note of specific customs and etiquette of each area you’re in, particularly in less touristy areas! Check out our comprehensive guide on how to travel to Indonesia via the VTL before you make your plans.
4. Malaysia
Credit: @riha_saidi for Instagram
The most highly anticipated VTL opening has finally come true! Long gone are the days when Singaporeans can’t cross the border to fulfill our Malaysian food cravings. While travelling around Malaysia may seem almost second nature to us, always stay alert of your surroundings, as with anywhere else, especially so at night, or less crowded places. If you need some ideas, we compiled a list of some of the best places in Malaysia for solo travel here! ☺️
#HHWTips: Do remember to check out the VTL process for going to Malaysia first! We also have endless recommendations of what to see and eat in Malaysia, so check it out here!
5. South Korea
Credit: @shiimuya for Instagram
Of course we have to include South Korea, that goes without saying! Whether you’re looking for fantastic shopping, great outdoor activities, festivals, food experiences or lush nature – South Korea offers all that and more (and by more we mean our K-drama oppas ?)! While South Korea is generally safe, do stay alert if you're walking outside after sunset especially in popular areas such as Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Itaewon. If you’re commuting via their packed subway trains, keep an eye on your belongings to prevent the risk of getting pickpocketed! If you need more tips, read our writer’s experience on her solo trip to South Korea. You can also check out our writer explaining the VTL process from Singapore to South Korea.
Europe
1. Spain
Credit: Pexels
Ahh… Magnificent palaces, delicious Muslim-friendly food, amazing culture and Islamic history, and breathtaking cities. Spain is a country steeped in incredible cultural splendour that promises travellers the best of old and new! While violent crime against solo female travellers is scarce, petty theft is unfortunately common, so do stay alert! Pickpockets and predators take advantage of those who look scared and timid, so try to appear you know what you’re doing even if you’re lost. Why not skip the usual touristy Barcelona and head on to Andalusia instead? It’s as breathtaking and magical as it sounds.
P.S. Read our writer’s guide to travelling solo around Europe as a Muslimah here!
2. Switzerland
Credit: @followmyhijab for Instagram
Switzerland’s alpine peaks, waterfalls, mountain vistas and some of the best panoramic train views in the world (and not forgetting their chocolates!), are some of the best reasons to add this country to your bucket list! Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, and the best place to go to if you’re a first-time solo traveller. As always, don’t throw caution to the wind, and always stay alert! The best way to travel Switzerland is by train, so check out our complete itinerary using the Swiss Travel Pass! ?
3. Netherlands
Credit: Pexels
Amsterdam has been the setting for scenes in many Hollywood movies over the years, as their waterways, bridges, and gabled canal homes bring an atmospheric background to the big screen that you just can’t find anywhere else. Cycling around Amsterdam’s canal belts is so blissful, and it’s giving off main character energy. It is safe to travel solo in the Netherlands, but you still need to take regular safety into consideration, such as not going out alone at night in secluded areas. You don’t have to worry too much about finding halal food because we got it covered right here!
P.S. Check out Netherlands’ Covid-19 guidelines before you book a trip!
5. Denmark
Credit: Pexels
Denmark seamlessly blends history and modernity together through its architecture, which makes it a must go country for solo travellers out there! Denmark may be touted as one of the best countries for solo women travellers, but do take note there are instances of violent crimes towards women. Nevertheless, always be wary of your surroundings and keep up your safety check wherever you are.
If you’re not sure where to go first, head on to the beautiful capital, Copenhagen! Shopaholics would love Stroget, Europe's longest pedestrian street, which offers a huge range of shops from budget-friendly chains to top luxury brands! If you’re more of a history buff, Copenhagen is home to many museums, including the David collection, an Islamic art showcase that is sure to enrich your travel experience.
North America
1. Canada
Credit: @traveling_muslimah for Instagram
O, Canada, your beauty is alluring! Canada has the perfect mix of nature and cosmopolitan, which is definitely suited to us city-dwellers who can’t give up the city life, but crave a much-needed break now and then! Canada has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, so you don’t necessarily have to worry.
Regardless, as we always advise, never get too comfortable especially if you’re alone in a foreign country! Keep your contacts back home updated on your whereabouts so that they know that while you’re having fun, your safety is assured! Not convinced? We give you 12 reasons why Canada should be on your bucket list. ?
P.S. You can read our writer’s personal experience on her solo trip to Canada here!
Travelling alone as a solo Muslim female traveller can be extremely scary, but do not let your fears hold you back! It’s a rare, wonderful opportunity to experience the world at your own pace and comfort. You might feel miserable, lonely or even question why you started the trip alone, but it will be worth it and you will discover more about yourself (and others around you!) than you ever thought was possible! Safe travelling, ladies!