Iceland: Ideal for the solo traveler
Seeing the July 2023 post in The Santa Monica Star about solo travel, I was inspired to contribute. I am a travel advisor based in Santa Monica specializing in active, culinary, and solo travel. As an independent woman, I enjoy the freedom of solo travel. Living in Los Angeles, I have a lot of single female friends who don’t always have the opportunity to coordinate busy schedules with friends or family. In my opinion, going on your own is certainly better than not traveling at all. Time goes by quickly, and if you are like me, my bucket list gets longer, not shorter.
There are many great destinations to suit every interest and some cultures are inerently safer for women. Iceland is one of those places, it consistently ranks among the safest destinations for solo travelers. The people are friendly and the tourism infrastructure is well-developed making it an inviting option for the solo traveler.
I just returned from a solo trip, a nine-day expedition cruise circumnavigating the island. What an incredible trip and totally different from the popular self-drive options. Being on a small ship, I was able to access remote fjords and islands unreachable by the ring road which gave me a different perspective of the majestic glaciers and dramatic waterfalls.
A couple of things about me, I love animals and I love good food and wine so I will make quick mention of a couple of unique highlights from my trip.
I took every opportunity to eat locally and I had some of the best experiences and meals. In fact, if you find yourself in Isafjordor, you must stop at family-owned Tjoruhusid restaurant.
Puffins! Seeing puffins on Grimsey Island was definitely a highlight. I didn’t realize that they are fabulous swimmers and over half of the population breeds in Iceland. Plus, they are adorable.
No matter your travel style, Iceland’s natural wonders, outdoor activities, friendly locals, and safety make it ideal for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience and a chance to connect with nature.
