Thinking of taking a solocation? Here's why Dubai, Poland, Spain may be just right
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More and more people are taking up opportunities to travel alone.
InsureMyTrip conducted a study across 62 cities based on female safety and tourism metrics to create a list of the best cities for solo female travellers.
Dubai in the United Arab Emirates came up tops for safety, with an overall score of 7.71 - 83% of women reporting feeling safe walking alone at night
Solo travel is on the rise, but for female travellers it is safety concerns - more than money or geography - that often stop them in their tracks.
InsureMyTrip conducted a study across 62 cities based on female safety and tourism metrics to create a list of the best cities for solo female travellers.
Travel trends have changed to reflect that the safest places to travel to alone are not always the Nordic countries. Due to their reputation of being small and often equal-gender societies, there was a belief among travellers that they were safer vacation spots for solo travellers. However, that has changed.
Dubai in the United Arab Emirates came up tops for safety, with an overall score of 7.71 - 83% of women reporting feeling safe walking alone at night.
Dubbed the city that never sleeps, it has establishments closing late in the evening, surveillance in public spaces, night tours of the city, late-night restaurant dining, and shopping at various boutiques and malls.
This setup is perfect for solo travellers who love leisurely exploring the city.
READ | The world's safest country for women travelling alone is not a Nordic country
And if you aren't too concerned about safety and you were already looking to chase the summer as South Africa gets colder, here are six good reasons why you should consider Dubai:
1. Perfect winter weather
Trade icy mornings for balmy days bathed in sunshine. Dubai's winter climate is idyllic, averaging a pleasant 25°C, perfect for exploring the city from the early morning to the late evening.
2. Thrilling theme parks
Thrill-seekers unite at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world's largest indoor theme park, or Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. Little ones will be mesmerised by KidZania, a miniature city where children can role-play their dream jobs.
3. Desert adventures
Escape the urban bustle with a desert safari. Families can experience dune bashing and sandboarding, followed by a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
4. Underwater wonders
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, in the Dubai Mall, is home to thousands of marine animals. Walk through the underwater tunnel and marvel at sharks, rays, and penguins - witness the ocean's wonders up close.
5. Cultural immersion
Dubai is more than a modern metropolis; it's a city steeped in history and tradition. Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, a labyrinth of narrow alleyways and traditional wind-tower architecture. Visit the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort for insights into the city's past.
6. Family friendly convenience
Dubai's commitment to luxury extends to its family-friendly accommodations. The city boasts many hotels and resorts catering to families, offering spacious rooms, kids' clubs, and dedicated family pools.
Many hotels also offer all-inclusive packages, making it easier to budget for your trip. Consider purchasing a Dubai Pass, which provides access to multiple attractions at a discounted rate. Look for hotels that offer free breakfast or complimentary access to kids' clubs.
READ | Best destinations for solo women travellers - SA ranks in the top 20
Other countries that made the top 10 cities for solo female travellers, with their overall scores, are as follows:
Dubai, UAE - 7.71
Krakow, Poland - 7.18
Madrid, Spain - 7.14
Munich, Germany - 6.89
Chiang Mai, Thailand - 6.84
Lisbon, Portugal - 6.61
Prague, Czechia - 6.50
Vienna, Austria - 6.47
Singapore - 6.43
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