5 Reasons Why Iceland Was My Favorite Destination for Solo Travel This Year

Iceland has seen a significant improve in tourism: and it’s straightforward to see why. I visited for the primary time 2 years in the past after which went again 4 extra occasions quickly after. It’s virtually not possible to not fall in love with the differing landscapes, pleasant locals, and colourful principal metropolis.

Continuously on the record as one of many most secure journey locations on the planet, Iceland is attracting hordes of solo vacationers trying to enterprise all through the nation.

I’ve traveled round Iceland in lots of capacities: solo, by van, with tour guides, and later with household. There’s one thing magical about experiencing a various panorama each couple of minutes. Glaciers on one aspect and volcanic fields on the opposite.

If you’re trying for someplace to start your solo journey adventures, then this small Nordic Island is an efficient place to begin for all vacationers.

The Size of the Country

While you might technically drive the entire Ring Road round Iceland in about 24 hours, a extra practical time-frame can be about 6-10 days, relying in your stops and route.

Luckily should you’re renting a automobile or van in Iceland, the primary roads are fairly simple. Icelanders and vacationers are respectful on roads, and also you’ll hardly ever hear the honk of a horn.

Although it’s the second-largest island in Europe, Iceland has a really compact really feel to it. With a inhabitants of about 140,000, the primary metropolis of Reykjavik feels homely and straightforward to navigate.

Of course, there are elements of Reykjavik the place the locals reside, however the central a part of town is linked by a couple of principal streets. Once you’ve walked it a couple of times, you get the cling of the place to go.

Hotels and Hostels

Compared to most locations I’ve traveled, it’s very easy to get to know the resort workers and different vacationers in Iceland due to its dimension and household really feel.

Having labored with Center Hotels, I’ve stayed at most of their places in Iceland and undoubtedly suggest it for solo vacationers. My favourite of all of them is Center Hotels Laugavegur. You’ll see the identical workers, among the similar vacationers, and it’s central to all the pieces (with a cheerful hour).

There are additionally fairly a couple of hostels on the town for finances vacationers. I stayed at each the Kex Hostel and Loft HI Hostel. They’re each proper in Reykjavik and are in style for solo vacationers and locals. Both have buzzing bar areas and occasions all through the week.

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The People

After years of journey, I believe I’ve discovered among the nicest individuals: they usually’re in Iceland! Icelanders are extraordinarily pleased with their nation and aren’t afraid to share this with guests.

I’ve visited Iceland round 5 occasions now and have all the time met the cheeriest individuals on my journeys, at eating places, and within the streets. If you’re touring alone, they’re very prepared to assist with suggestions and journey suggestions and can even sit and chat.

Icelanders are genuinely completely satisfied individuals, and that emanates to these passing by way of. After taking on 15 excursions in Iceland, I’ve all the time felt the eagerness of the locals as they share their residence with me.

The Black sands of Reynisfjara Beach in Iceland

Day Tours

Yes, virtually each nation affords day excursions, however the ones in Iceland are on a complete new stage. When you’re touring to the South Coast for a 10-hour day journey with a bunch of strangers, it’s nearly not possible to not make a pal or two alongside the best way.

Day excursions in Iceland are virtually focused at solo vacationers. If you wish to keep in Reykjavik, strive any of the boat excursions from the Old Harbor or the strolling meals tour. I attempted this tour my first time visiting as a solo traveler and met so many vacationers and locals.

There’s a lot to do right here; it’s actually troublesome to get bored. As a solo traveler, it’s good to refill your schedule whereas touring, and Iceland makes this straightforward.

Safety

In 2023, Iceland made it to the number one spot because the most secure nation on the planet. Peaceful, with very low crime charges, Iceland has an aura about it that makes you are feeling immediately comfortable upon arrival.

I’ve traveled to over 31 international locations, and I’ve to say I undoubtedly felt probably the most protected right here. Venturing out previous midnight in the course of the summer season months or strolling round within the darkness of the winter, I’ve by no means felt unsafe right here as a solo traveler.

Like anyplace, it’s all the time vital to stay diligent, however crime is a rarity in Iceland. If you’re staying in Reykjavik, most resorts are positioned inside strolling distance of all the pieces, so that you’ll really feel protected strolling round any time of the day or night time.

Aerial view of the city of Reykjavik Iceland

Natural Wonders

I’ve by no means been extra in awe of a spot. Even driving from the airport, I seen how particular the landscapes had been in Iceland. If you discover the Golden Circle, you’ll see spectacular waterfalls and geysers, however then enterprise to the South Coast, and also you’re met with black-sand seashores and glaciers.

Iceland is a nature-lovers paradise. A number of the nation is harking back to Ireland, whereas the remaining appears to be like like a panorama from Mars. There’s one thing right here for each kind of traveler to expertise.