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

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Iceland has seen a significant improve in tourism: and it’s simple 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 unimaginable to not fall in love with the differing landscapes, pleasant locals, and colourful essential metropolis.

Continuously on the checklist as one of many most secure journey locations on this planet, Iceland is attracting hordes of solo vacationers seeking 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 jiffy. Glaciers on one facet 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 effective place to start out for all vacationers.

The Size of the Country

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

Luckily in the event you’re renting a automotive 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 simple to navigate.

Of course, there are components of Reykjavik the place the locals stay, however the central a part of town is related by a couple of essential streets. Once you’ve walked it a few 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 employees 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 advocate it for solo vacationers. My favourite of all of them is Center Hotels Laugavegur. You’ll see the identical employees, a few of the similar vacationers, and it’s central to every thing (with a contented hour).

There are additionally fairly a couple of hostels on the town for funds 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 a few of the nicest folks: they usually’re in Iceland! Icelanders are extraordinarily happy with their nation and aren’t afraid to share this with guests.

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

Icelanders are genuinely comfortable folks, and that emanates to these passing by way of. After taking up 15 excursions in Iceland, I’ve at all times felt the fervour of the locals as they share their residence with me.

The Black sands of Reynisfjara Beach in Iceland

Day Tours

Yes, virtually each nation gives 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 unimaginable to not make a good friend or two alongside the best way.

Day excursions in Iceland are virtually focused at solo vacationers. If you wish to keep in Reykjavik, attempt 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 tough to get bored. As a solo traveler, it’s good to replenish your schedule whereas touring, and Iceland makes this simple.

Safety

In 2023, Iceland made it to the #1 spot because the most secure nation on this planet. Peaceful, with very low crime charges, Iceland has an aura about it that makes you’re feeling immediately comfortable upon arrival.

I’ve traveled to over 31 international locations, and I’ve to say I undoubtedly felt probably the most secure right here. Venturing out previous midnight through the summer time 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 at all times essential to stay diligent, however crime is a rarity in Iceland. If you’re staying in Reykjavik, most motels are situated inside strolling distance of every thing, so that you’ll really feel secure strolling round any time of the day or evening.

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 observed how particular the landscapes have 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 whole lot of the nation is harking back to Ireland, whereas the remaining appears like a panorama from Mars. There’s one thing right here for each sort of traveler to expertise.