One of the biggest concerns I see from women that want to travel solo is whether it’s safe. The reality is that we can’t control any environment and you could experience an unfavorable situation at home the same way you could anywhere else. It’s important to think about safety, yes, but if you want to explore, then you can’t let it consume you.

If you’re new to traveling alone, you don’t necessarily need to jump straight into another country. There are places right here in the U.S. where you can build your confidence, and if you decide to go abroad, then there are some places that are easier to navigate than others.

It’s important to keep in mind that you have to figure out what solo travel looks like for you and the only way to do that is by going places. There are some places I enjoyed that other people hate, but I never let someone else’s experience of a place determine whether I go or not.

These are a few of the places I’ve felt safe, starting at home in the U.S. then expanding outward.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you’re testing out solo travel for the first time, New Orleans is one of the best places to do it. In fact, this was my first solo trip ever in 2017, and even in the sweltering July heat, I had the time of my life.

Why it felt safe: There’s always movement around you. There are people, there’s music, there’s food everywhere you go, so it never really feels isolating. This matters when you’re alone because, although you arrived by yourself, you don’t want to feel like you’re navigating the space totally alone.

Best areas to stay:

French Quarter (central, easy to explore)
Garden District (quiet, beautiful, residential)

Best time to go: February–May or October–December

Why it matters for Black women: New Orleans is a cultural anchor. Black history, creativity, and influence are everywhere, and you don’t really have to search for it. it’s just—there. There’s a reason Essence Fest has held it down in NOLA for many years. As a Black woman, it was easy for me to feel at home in the city.

Explore

2. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a big city, but don’t be intimidated by that. When you know where to stay and what to do, it seems like a more manageable place to be, and that’s exactly what you want when you’re traveling solo.

Why it felt safe: It’s structured. The grid system is easy to navigate, public transportation is reliable, and there are always people out, especially in the summer and in the neighborhoods you would most likely be staying in. Ubers are easy to call, but in many cases, you also can walk alone and be fine.

Personally, I have stayed in the theater district where I can walk to the Nederlander Theatre or the Chicago Theatre for a show, a mall is close by, and there are many restaurants. I would also add that Chicago is probably the most hospitable U.S. city I’ve ever been to. Most people are incredibly friendly.

Best areas to stay:

River North (central, walkable, close to everything)
West Loop (food scene, slightly quieter, still lively)
Gold Coast (clean, residential feel, close to the lake)
South Loop (more relaxed, still well-connected)

Best time to go: Late May through September

Why it matters for Black women: Chicago has Black cultural legacy, especially in Bronzeville. You’ll also find many southern and soul food restaurants in Chicago thanks to the Great Migration. There’s a strong presence and history here that you can tap into while enjoying what I would consider a very accessible city.

Explore

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

This is your bridge between domestic and international travel.

Why it felt safe: You’re still within U.S. systems. It’s the same currency, and you don’t need a passport to go here, but it doesn’t feel American. The cultural experience is totally different. Choosing Puerto Rico as your first international destination is an easy way to build your confidence traveling solo.

Best areas to stay:

Old San Juan (historic, walkable)
Condado (beach + nightlife)
Santurce (creative, arts-focused)

Best time to go: December–April

Why it matters for Black women: Puerto Rico’s Afro-Caribbean roots show up in the music, food, and overall identity. Black culture exists in many forms across the diaspora, and this is a great place to tap in.

Explore

4. The Bahamas (Nassau)

When you want an easy and relaxing destination that is beautiful and still culturally rich, The Bahamas is a good place to start.

Why it felt safe: It’s relatively simple to navigate, the people are welcoming and helpful, and you don’t really have to overthinking your activities. Swimming with pigs, hitting the beach, or parasailing are quite easy and accessible to do.

Best areas to stay:

Junkanoo Beach
Cable Beach
Paradise Island

Best time to go: December–April

Why it matters for Black women: The Bahamas feels like our culture and community. If you stay in the Junkanoo Beach area, you can walk to the fish fry, which is exactly what it’s called. It looks like a cookout we would have at home. You’ll get something good to eat plus get a feel for how people interact here. You also can safely walk a short distance into the main area for shopping and dining.

Explore

5. Cartagena, Colombia

Once you’re ready to go international, Cartagena is a good start.

Why it felt safe: It’s built for exploration. Walkable neighborhoods make it easy to get settled even when you’re alone.

Best areas to stay:

Centro Histórico (Old City)
Getsemaní (colorful, cultural, more local feel)

Best time to go: December–April

Why it matters for Black women: Afro-Colombian culture is front and center. There’s a visible connection to African heritage with the Palenqueras, the music and dancing in the streets, and even some of the food. It feels familiar and although you may be by yourself, there is always movement in the main areas. You’ll be warmed and inspired by the bright colors and the open fresh air that we often miss at home.

Explore

6. Morocco (Marrakech & Essaouira)

Morocco may challenge you but in a good way.

Why it felt safe: Marrakech keeps you aware, and though there are many, many people in common areas, you’ll feel at home more than you’ll feel overwhelmed. It’s easy to catch taxis, most people speak English in tourist areas, and many of the main attractions are centralized so you can walk to them.

Best areas to stay:

Marrakech: Medina (trusted riads), Gueliz (modern feel)
Essaouira: Medina or coastal areas

Best time to go: March–May or September–November

Why it matters for Black women: Morocco is in Africa but also connects to Arab and European cultures. It’s a unique blend of cultures that is quite interesting to learn about and experience.

Explore

7. Kenya

I’m recommending Kenya because it’s the first country I visited in Africa, and it was quite a welcoming and deeply emotional experience to land here in the motherland.

Why it felt safe: There’s a level of ease that comes from being in a majority-Black country. You don’t have to navigate being perceived. In general, Kenyan people are laid back and friendly, and I never felt like I was in any danger, even on safari.

Best areas to stay:

Nairobi: Westlands, Karen

Safari lodges and curated tours

Best time to go: June–October

Why it matters for Black women: Kenya offers something that’s hard to describe until you feel it. You feel a real sense of connection that makes it a grounding, affirming, and expansive experience all at once.