Traveling alone as a woman should be empowering, not a safety hazard. Nowadays, many places around the world are friendly toward single travelers of all genders, but there are some clear winners when it comes to female globetrotters.
Reykjavik
Possibly the most female-friendly country in the world, Iceland prides itself on gender equality, having elected the world’s first openly lesbian prime minister, Jóhanna Sigur∂ardóttir (who stepped down in 2013). Stay at the chic 101 Hotel, home to Kitchen & Wine restaurant, which serves Icelandic bistro fare. From $308.
London
Cosmopolitan, easy to navigate, and egalitarian—what’s not to love? After a late night, call on the Pink Ladies, a car service whose female drivers will walk you to your door. (It’s members only, but you can join online for $15.) At the Dukes Hotel, the Duchess service includes fresh flowers, chocolates, and an all-female staff. From $487.
Berlin
The women of Berlin have no problem showing their strength: Germany’s Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has been called the most powerful woman on the planet, and the city is home to an all-female fight club (not that we suggest you join). Sleep at Artemisia, a hotel with a women-only floor near Berlin’s Kurfürstendamm street. From $55.
Melbourne
First, it ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. Mix in 24-hour public transportation, a thriving art scene, and companies like Female Friendly, which anoints businesses popular among local women, and you’ve got a solo slam dunk. The Ovolo Laneways hotel gets the company’s seal of approval. From $214.
