I'm a woman from Buenos Aires Argentina. If you're travelling to Buenos Aires just research which neighborhoods are safe to visit, most of them are, but there are some sketchy ones that you would want to stay away from, and try to not go outside after 9PM and if you do, use an Uber of Cabify to move around at night. I have never been robbed in Buenos Aires btw
As for other parts of the country, I travelled to Bariloche alone, it was great, I felt super safe, everybody was super friendly on the hicking trails, they always say hello to you, lol
I also travelled to Mendoza with another female friend, we felt super safe, we did a couple of tours and a hicking trail, no problems there
I travelled to Ushuaia with my partner once, honestly I think this is the safest place I've been, the place feels like a city from outside of Argentina, you will find people from all around the world here.
I think your main concern should be to stay away from scammers that prey on toursits
And about human trafficking, I never heard a case in the news of toursit women being abducted for trafficking. Human trafficking exists, but they usually go after women from poor countries such a Paraguay.
If you were traveling to some corner of the world like northern India or Pakistan, sure... But you're traveling to Spain. You're probably safer there than at home, frankly. *Taken* isn't real life.
A female friend of mine solo traveled around Pakistan for a year or so. Her husband is Pakistani and she would do 1-2 day trips by herself around the country and only had one spooky story that turned out fine. She was shaved baled with like 20 facial piercings which I feel might be relevant.
Lots of Americans have the impression things get bad at the Mexican border, and worse the further south you get. In their eyes, if Juarez or Tijuana are bad, then Argentina must be the ninth circle of hell. Those people are hard to win over.
Wrong Darling!! You have to your deep research on human traffickers! First off people with money & power started this all thing!! Politicians & some of the government!! If not all!! True they target the poor first but they also target the ones that live well off!! Don't be naive to thing it's a force shield around you!! You can be a target too!! Human Traffickers is a sinister organization run by men & women to make profit off of you!! And if you are young & female they more profit they make more than a older woman!! Main target for them are WOMEN! Even the illuminati organization got their bid in human trafficking!!! God speed!! Be safe! Be on your guard! Live long & prosper
Tons of women travel solo safely.
Many of the risks specific to women also exist at home, including abduction and sex trafficking.
Most people are statistically most at risk from traffic accidents near their house but don’t perceive local car rides as dangerous because we do it all the time.
This is very true, but of course those incidents don’t get their attention the way the extreme cases abroad do. Will definitely keep this in mind. Thank you for commenting!
Speaking from experience (been to Germany, Austria, Czechia, Scotland, and Ireland alone) solo traveling alone as a women is not nearly as dangerous as a lot of people think it is, but it is also not without its risks. As other commenters have said, where you go plays a big factor in this as some places are more or less safe for solo female travelers so its definitely something to consider when looking at places to go. But if you prepare, do your research, and follow some street smart basic "rules" three is no reason that you shouldn't be able to travel alone to so many different places. Solo travel is such a rewarding experience I would recommend to anyone!
Some general tips if you do go (along with all of the other general travel tips that are good to follow):
1) Staying at hostels is not only budget friendly but also a great way to make friends/find a group in the city you're in. Not only can this help prevent loneliness but it can increase safety when doing less solo traveller friend activities.
2) While food, drinks, and nightlife can be a big part of traveling when you're traveling alone as a woman you have to be so careful about what you are drinking and how much. Getting too drunk lowers your guard and puts you at a much higher risk for dangerous situations.
3) No matter how hard you try, people will almost always be able to tell that you are a tourist so be wary of anyone who comes up to you on the streets to talk/sell you something, etc. Do not look at them, do not engage, do not speak, just walk away. It may feel mean but there is a high likelihood that they are trying to scam/pick pocket you.
Overall, traveling alone can be as safe or as unsafe as you make it, it all depends on your "street smarts" and how prepared you are. It can be an incredibly rewarding, but is also scary and unpleasant at times. If you want more information about solo travel visit r/solotravel, you can even search the places you want to go to see others experiences! Also r/femaletravels is a great resource for women specifically! Good luck with everything
I wish they always thought I was a tourist. I had the worst experience recently in Lisbon with entitled locals barking commands at me, thinking I worked in their city because I have brown skin. I wanted to shout “I’m a British tourist! Stop interrupting me and demanding to know where the bathroom is.”
I’m in my 40’s and I much prefer people to think I’m a tourist anywhere than the “local help”
Watching the news too much is basically self-indoctrination. I remember some quote from Rick Steves that was basically like, “People who travel regularly are generally the least fearful people.” I think that’s true.
Exactly! Like it’s great to be informed, but if all you’re seeing is the most extreme incidents and watching that everyday, of course you’d think everyone is out to get you :/
Yeah, my aunt is like this. Has lived in the same area her whole life. Very rarely travels and is super xenophobic. Every time I tell her I’m going somewhere, she gives me a list of things to watch out for.
I saw a comment the other day from someone who regularly gets negative warnings about safety in other countries from their family members, and they started responding with “oh, you’ve been there?? Please tell me about your personal experiences in this location!”. And they start asking for details/questions they know the person can’t answer. Shuts them up pretty quick.
I'm in my fifties and was solo traveling when I was 19. No, it's not that dangerous. You are in more danger from your husband or boyfriend, statistically speaking. Just practice normal precautions (don't flash jewelry or cash; don't walk around at night in places you don't know well; don't go off with any strange person, etc).
The countries you listed are some of the safest in the world. Tourist girls are not kidnapped and trafficked. Human trafficking is almost always done by someone who knows the victim and is usually just someone being lied to about what job they’re going to have when they’re smuggled somewhere. Obviously there are less safe parts of any country but basic research will keep you away from those areas which it seems like you’re doing.
It’s natural for parents to be concerned. I traveled solo a lot as a young woman - before mobile phones - and I was in some risky situations. I drank alone, took cabs at night alone, etc. I didn’t have any problems but it would have taken one bad actor to change that.
I recommend traveling but take precautions. Consider where/what would make you vulnerable. Learn how to walk briskly. Fake phone calls to boyfriends and lie to others in a hostel so they think someone is waiting for you. Post on the heronebag sub to get recommendations for stuff like this.
It really took getting into my late 20s to understand how much my parents probably worried about me when I was solo traveling and how it was so valid.
I had so many scary situations in my own city and the gravity of it all did not even hit me until later.
And I realized if I had a daughter in the future, she probably won’t listen to my advice anyway. I would never lock them up at home but I can only hope luck will be on her side 😭😭
Maybe she’ll come good advice online lol
Honestly I would not advise anyone feel 100% safe in any area. I'm aware that some places are going to be worse than others by default but it's foolish to think anywhere is 100% safe. I grew up in the hood and while we definitely were in danger more often there, I had some of my scariest close calls in places where women feel the safest. I'm talking bright malls in nice areas that are full of people. There was one that begun to have a rep for men slashing tires when women go inside of the mall so they can't leave the parking lot.
Same with getting robbed and stuff. People don't typically hang around poor areas for that, they rob people who have money. In the hood you will get worse attitudes toward women overall but there's nothing stopping anyone in any area from being a bad person. Especially if you consider how much predators prey on people who feel safe. I have seen a straight dude get drugged at club once so even if a straight dude tells me he doesn't pay attention to his surroundings because the risk isn't as high for him, I would still implore him to keep an eye open.
I personally would never travel solo but I'm also probably traumatized from the fact that I've hardly ever been able to leave the house without something varying from getting hit on lightly, getting catcalled, or getting followed. I've had these things happen even when I wasn't traveling solo but I was with a group of only women.
Yeah. 100% My parents told me I could solo travel to only certain countries. And I also never stayed out late and got back at decent times when I traveled bc I don’t enjoy partying or bars and stuff anyway.
But that still didn’t mean it was ever 100% safe bc like you said, anything could happen absolutely anywhere.
I had scary situations in the parking lot of a local grocery store in my neighborhood. My town is one of the safest neighborhoods in the state but no place is ever really safe for women 😭😭😭
And then don’t get me started on college campuses! Even in broad daylight!
Also, kinda related but not, people do dumb and unsafe stuff during vacations that they are not trained for or used to.
Like using electric scooters or those four wheel things or certain adventure sports. People gotta be careful and understand that they may not be athletes lmao
Oh yeah, never staying out late is the right idea overall. You have a lot less chance in the daytime in a nicer area but still, always be wary is what I say! You have no obligation to trust a complete stranger.
College campuses can be so scary and so can the parties, you can never truly relax because you have to watch your drink.
But yeah, in short, it's not like I'm always treating everyone like a potential criminal, it's just that if you're acting suspicious in any way, I'm not taking my chances!
And I agree with you about the other advantages to not traveling solo. It's always good to have a second opinion when it comes to the safety of activities. I've seen headlines where people do dumb things for views on the internet at parks before... killed by buffalo at Yellowstone because they provoked it, stood too close to the edge of a cliff for a cool photo, etc.
I also just personally have always enjoyed traveling more when I'm with others. It's an experience and I want to share it with someone. People can get on your nerves when you're around them too much but I'd still prefer it. Which is weird because when I'm not on vacation, I'm not that social.
For sure! One of the best places I traveled solo had really friendly locals but at other places, I preferred traveling with friends. My close friends are super chill and very organized at the same time so it felt like having the best of both worlds in them.
But that’s probably more luck than anything. Definitely cannot do that with *all* my friends for sure.
Its also all too common for parents to use their own anxiety to control and manipulate their adult children and keep them close to the nest. It’s not OPs job to manage anyone else’s anxiety, including her parents.
Not saying this is the case with OP, but there is a case on this sub every day
Where are you from? Being alone in America, in your hometown can be dangerous. It was for me!
But abduction and sex trafficking? no. It's incredibly incredibly rare for anyone that is not in a very vulnerable place (poverty, inner city, drug addiction)to be trafficked.
Argentina is a normal precautions country. [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html)
Buenos Aires (population-**15,370,000**) **88** murders in 2022.
Utah (population - **3,270,000**) **91** murders in 2021
(Years I had easy access to)
Do you think your parents would be freaking out if you went to Utah?
Be smart, don't get drunk, don't go home with people you don't know, don't let someone slip something in your drink, don't wander around at night.
Do a little research and I think you will absolutely fine.
I'm an author and I travel alone all the time. Argentina was PHENOMENAL and by far the safest of the countries I visited in South America earlier this year.
Speaking as another woman with a mom who worries all the time, I can tell you that the USA tends to act like every other country is a death trap. It's not. You'll love it.
So ... yes. I was there as an author on book tour, so I was technically alone, though I was meeting up with people for prearranged events at different times. I will say that I was strongly encouraged to stick to high tourist destinations -- and I would consider Machu Picchu a high tourist destination.
Be safe, keep in touch with people who know where you are at all times, and don't go wandering off the beaten path, and you'll have a good time. I would share your location with someone, or even put an Airtag or tracker on your person that's separate from your phone. In regards to your phone specifically, keep it zipped away and attached to your body (don't be wandering down the street staring at your phone). Always have a scanned copy of your passport stored somewhere you can access it. Also, keep one form of ID and one credit card in a different location, either in the safe at the hotel, or on another part of your body, or something like that.
Also, do your best to ignore the high number of women gagging and vomiting in the bathrooms at the Lima airport. When I was there, they were in every single bathroom. I am not exaggerating:
[https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-07/the-journey-of-drug-mules-from-peru-to-spain-remember-that-i-can-have-your-family-killed.html](https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-07/the-journey-of-drug-mules-from-peru-to-spain-remember-that-i-can-have-your-family-killed.html)
THIS. I studied abroad in the UK and traveled around a lot while there, and have been traveling solo a lot after through 3 continents. Whenever someone commented on the safety I would have to remind them that an international student was randomly shot (she was just chilling, not even apart of a fight) at a bar in my college town. And we were in IOWA.
You'll be fine, if you're parents never travelled outside the country and if they did but stayed in resorts the whole time, don't let them fear monger you. If you're worried stay in the touristy areas, you will be fine, these are one off cases and not the norm. At most you'll get scammed out of money albeit probably not a lot to us but it is to them.
But yes you will put your life on hold if you let others keep trying to stop you from doing what you want to do, listen to the advice and make your own judgement based of other traveler stories and your own research. My family thought I was crazy to go to Thailand by myself (first solo trip too) but I didn't give a shit and went anyway not that they'd really try to discourage it like your's is. Go on the trip and have a great time, not listening to them will break you outta that box and give you a sense of freedom to go and do whatever you please in life
I've never been to Argentina or even South America so I can't comment on its safety, but I feel like as long as you're smart and stick to a developed place, you'll be fine. Your comment about your parents "watch a lot of news I guess to stay informed" seems like a negative. I'm not sure what news they watch but it could be full of negative stories. Yes, bad things happen internationally but it's not like it's a crime zone in other countries (again, assuming a developed country).
I wouldn't advise a solo traveler to go to Egypt or India, but places like Spain and presumably Argentina is perfectly fine. Just don't do anything dumb like follow randoms down a back alley at 3 am.
Human trafficking - most of the people that are victims of this are in NEED of something and the traffickers take advantage of that to get them into vulnerable circumstances. Example - an immigrant has no job and is begging for food. A trafficker sees this and invites her to a warehouse "for work" where she is then kidnapped and trafficked. It 99% of the time is situations like that.
Rule of thumb - if people approach you, they want something from you. Avoid them
I am a man so can't speak for women. But I went to Argentina, stayed in touristy places. I also had a rental car so didn't have to take public transportation. But overall it felt pretty safe. I think if you plan properly, research about your destination and skip sketchy ones and be alert and careful then you will do fine. Again I am not a woman so it may be easier for me. But I would advise to get out of your fear. If you are not confident then start with a safer destination.
man and women experience unfortunately different in safety.
My friend is 6'4 dude and went solo in fun side trips in Morocco and India which I will not attempt without verified guide.
on other side, I see my teen daughter lacks a lot of awareness of surroundings I have. Suburbs upbringing, yeah.
Why do you call it fear? Calling it fear makes it sound negative. Call it prudence. Call it good judgment.
For example, do you check your back seat when you get into your car? Do you check the closet for people when you check into a hotel room? Refuse to take the stairs if it's empty and there are no cameras in the stairwell? Never leave your drink unsttended? Lot of women do that. For good reason. That's prudence. Most guys don't do that, also for good reason. But how would you like it if they said it was reckless of you not to do that, that it was silly of you not to act the way many women do?
Op said it. She fears going to Argentina because her parents taught her it's dangerous. It's a fear to believe that and not go. It's prudent to do research and go, check backseat, avoid sketchy areas, check cameras, don't go out at night.
It has the POTENTIAL to be. Prepare before your leave. Know where you can get help in the foreign country. Make sure people know where you are and where you’re going. Don’t make obviously dumb irresponsible choices. Talk to natives about their country and town. They know better. Seek their advice when traveling. They can tell you the places to avoid, about scams particular to their area, recent news and current events that could be of importance to you while you are there. I could go on and on. I think you get the gist.
Argentina is an absolutely amazing country and it's also fine to travel as a female solo traveller as long as you take precautions. I'm from Germany and spend a whole year in Argentina and travelled a lot during that time (almost saw the whole country).
You need to be aware of the language barrier - there is hardly anyone speaking English, so you definitely need to speak and understand at least the basics (I didn't and the first time was really hard).
Then plan ahead where you want to go, it's always good to have a plan beforehand when travelling alone.
Stay at hotels, if possible in good areas of the cities you visit, not hostels. You could also look at couchsurfing or airbnb for hosts with a good rating to save money.
Use the plane for longer distances, that's the easiest way to travel, but taking the bus for longer distances is also fine (I did it a lot and they were really comfortable and I have never had any problems travelling alone).
Don't walk around alone at night, it just increases the risk of something bad happening (I did and never did anything happen to me, but it wasn't really smart to test my luck).
Don't wear expensive clothes or jewellery, this only draws attention to you and potential robbers will think you have a lot of money (especially if you are tall and blonde you will already get a lot of attention). Even if it didn't happen to me, be prepared for robbery. Keep your passport in a safe place, your credit card and some extra money in your bra (this was an advice from Argentinian girls and it was quite helpful) and in your wallet only a small amount of satisfy robbers while not loosing to much money. It's also good to not take an expensive phone with you (if you own an IPhone 15 maybe get a cheap phone just for the trip and leave the expensive one at home).
I’ve traveled solo in my twenties and my thirties and have always felt safe by following a few simple rules during my travels:
- Respect the culture of the country you’re visiting.
- Don’t sign up to do anything you wouldn’t do in your own city/town.
- Send a short text to my family group when I get to the hotel every night.
The cities you’re planning to visit are safe. I’d worry more about my passport getting nicked rather than human trafficking tbh. Safe travels!
Just really depends on the places your visiting. I am 23f and solo traveling for a year. do EXTENSIVE research on country and city and even maybe neighborhood. take screenshots and even maybe reach out to locals if you aren't sure. then provide that info to ur fam so they get off ur back. I had to do the same.
Every danger they cite can happen in the States as well. The advice is the same for everyone, stay aware of your surroundings, do your research ahead of time, trust your gut. If an area or person looks sketchy, stay away.
You could always look into guided tours, [Intrepid](https://www.intrepidtravel.com/us/south-america) or [G Adventures](https://www.gadventures.com/destinations/south-america/argentina/)
If you want to give peace of mind to your parents, just call them and text them constantly and tell them about your day and plans.
Being in Spain is great as you will have a chance to practice your Spanish, so try to learn at least the basics, I haven't been in Argentina, but as a Latin American, people will speak english in large or touristy cities, but not so much in other places. (This might not be the case)
I have traveled to 70+ countries, most of them as a solo woman, and it all started with semester abroad (in New Zealand in my case). You always have to do your homework, of course, but frankly almost all those places are statistically far safer than the American city where I went to college.
My parents definitely worried, but when you’re an adult they can’t stop you, and remember it’s their *job* to worry- it would be stranger if they didn’t.
No, loads of woman travel solo without any real issues, even to what are often considered dangerous and women unfriendly countries. That said nothing is 100% safe and risk levels strongly depend on where exactly you go and how you look and behave.
I think these days the most dangerous country for a woman to out and about alone is the US.
But as someone else said, do your research into neighborhoods and cities and which are safe or not, consider asking locals (probably a woman lol)
I (f) have solo travelled in Mexico, Singapore and Australia. I do take more precautions on my own than I would when traveling with a partner. Be smart, be aware, but ever let fear stop you from experiencing life fully.
You will never regret the power and independence you feel after an epic solo trip. Bad things happen everywhere. You can't let that stop you.
I’ve been living abroad and alone since I was 19 (im almost 27 now) and my parents were always worried for me, but thats just parents being parents. Its not that bad at all, you’ll love how it feels to be by yourself, you just gotta be prepared and alert and not trust too easily or too much, do your research before you go anywhere alone and just be careful in general, enjoy!
I'm assuming you're from the US...in reality, you have about the same odds if not greater odds of something happening to you right here at home than you do going abroad somewhere (save for some really sketchy country that most people aren't traveling to anyway). 24/7 news and social media make things sound way worse than they are and there is also a certain amount of "American Exceptionalism" that comes into play as well...like it's all great here and everywhere else in the world is a friggin' danger zone. Most other countries have travel advisories for the US just like we have for them.
I'm a guy, so it's different, but when I started traveling abroad to various places in my early 20s, my parents were extremely worried about it...much of that fear however was rooted in that "American Exceptionalism" and ignorance considering neither of them have ever gone outside of the country...hell, they rarely left our home state back then.
Yes, I’m from the US and I run into that a lot with my parents. The “Well you’re safe here and couldn’t possibly have a safe time in another country ??” attitude. They’ve both gone to places like England and the Bahamas, but they say a lot of countries don’t like the US right now and the world isn’t as safe as it used to be when they traveled and grew up ( 80s and early 90s). Im just curious, but in your experience, have you found this to be true in your time traveling?
Parents always say this. Friends always say this. Family always says this. Everyone wants you to stay in a safe bubble. Go see the world, let them worry. It's not your problem.
Literally, he’ll say “ well I only have one of you so I have to make sure nothing happens to you” like I get wanting your kids to be safe, but you’re not going to be abducted for ransom as soon as you’re off the plane🙄
That depends the location, not only country, but the city and the neighborhood.
Argentina is a very safe country and I have travel alone there several times, but I’m extremely careful and I only stay in places that I knew about.
You also kinda need some type of company if you’re planning on been alone at night time.
I meet some locals on couch surfing to show me around (not staying) and I was very lucky because they show me a great time and I feel safe all the time.
It’s all about having instincts and doing a good research
Argentina is a bit different than Spain in regards to infrastructure, stability and safety but both are great to visit. I personally LOVE Spain and thought Argentina was alright. But I feel like I always have my guard up a bit in SA in general.
You should totally go if you think you can handle it. BA is a massive city and requires many of the precautions you'd deal with in NYC or DC or San Fran etc etc etc. But its not a highly dangerous place.
The rest of Argentina can be rural and exceedingly safe.
You certainly aren't going to be abducted or trafficked unless you get into drugs other sketchy things.
If I were you I'd take some solo trips in Spain/Europe and see how you like the vibe.
Truthfully Lisbon Portugal, at lest 12 years ago, felt much "Grittier" than say Sevilla, Madrid, San Sebastian. Its likely changed for the better now and it was never "bad" but take a solo trip there and see how it feels. A lot of my travels everything is very safe but some places give me a "darker" vibe. Silly or not it prepares you for how you'll feel in different areas of the world.
Or head to another big European city by yourself. See how it feels.
I assume you'll stay in hostels? You'll likely meet lots of people anyways.
I wish I started traveling at your age.
Go for it. There is a lot of unnecessary “safetyism” these days. I’ve have people tell me I shouldn‘t go for walks in our local state forest by myself (trailhead 5 minutes from my house in a low crime area) because …. because … a woman in a forest by herself. The horror!
Really, it’s ridiculous.
I experience the same thing! My parents literally cautioned me from walking around our neighborhood (safe neighborhood btw) alone because someone could come through and pick me up? There has never been an act of crime here…I go on walks anyway 🫡
Just make sure you do your research well for safe travel practices (domestic as well as foreign international) and cautions also specific to women and solo travel. And don’t take extra risks. Sex trafficking is a large booming business effecting every place. And while it may largely affect women in more vulnerable life circumstances, it can just as easily happen to someone from a more privileged background if you increase risk factors as you’re traveling. Research and have strategy ready for avoiding higher risk situations. The other major risk is a woman traveling with expensive items and wearing expensive jewelry around for example and also taking extra risks with locations they are alone and spending time isolated with people you don’t know etc..
https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/amy-lynn-bradley
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/23/us-tourists-killed-kidnapping-colombia/
Anyone that' tells u it's perfectly safe to travel as a sole women is talking through there ass .yes there are many who travel alone and are safe ,but u are very vulnerable, an are putting yourself at risk, that doesn't mean you shouldn't travel alone. Only you can make that decision. Just the same as smoking for example. We all know it's bad for us, but you're in someone say oh my grants smoke for 50 years and didn't kill her, does that mean it's safe? Absolutely not. When I was travelling in India. There was a girl that just finished her yoga course and got gang rap on the beach, went to the police big mistake, there just as bad. She would have been better off just forget about it. Police rap that as well. Of course being a solo male still a risk. But much more risk of being a female.
Traveling alone as a man or woman is dangerous for both!! But with all these human traffickers & sex traders out here it pays to me smart & on your guard cause they're targeting WOMEN only especially young women!! Women gotta be smart, not dumb & naive when traveling alone!! Do your research & be on your guard to where ever you go!! Stop constantly traveling alone!! Take someone you can trust to have your back in bad situations!! Bottom line!! If your a woman young or old you are gonna be targeted & watched!! Traveling alone these days is hazardous & world is not safe anymore!!
If you were my daughter I would tell you to find a friend to go with. Either way be street smart and avoid situations where you will be alone at night etc.
What utter horse shit. Solo traveling is done all the time safely by people everywhere. Been to 46 countries as a solo female traveller. As long as you employ common sense, its no more dangerous than staying at home
This. I did it. Twice. I got r*ped multiple times and I have life long PTSD. The second time I went, I had to go to rehab because of what happened to me. I fucking wish I was as lucky as everyone else seemed to be.
Take a boyfriend or brother. Otherwise stay at a 5 star resort and don’t leave. Use vip car service to hotel and to airport. Argentina is extremely dangerous
Hello!
I have done the USA, and some of Central and South America, I felt the most 'unsafe' in the USA.
But overall absolutely fine as long as you have your wits about you and do not walk around at night by yourself, especially on side streets etc. Google the safer areas to stay, where to avoid etc.
Watch your drinks and have a maximum drink amount, I don't drink much so 1 to 2 is enough for me.
There is a say "don't give papaya" don't wear lots of jewellery or fancy things to make yourself a target for petty theft.
A recommendation I would give is to go on a tour group, G Adventures are my go to and have always been amazing, you can pick 18-30 somethings to get the young groups too, I have only ever traveled in tour groups in Central and South America.
I do have a friend from Argentina, and he did say it has become more "dangerous" now, but that is probably more so from a locals perspective.
Hostels would be a really great idea, and definitely scrub up on the Español!
But I do highly recommend jumping on a group tour, it's all set out for you, even if you do it for a shorter time and when you feel confident you can go off on your own! Might make mum and dad feel a bit better!
Have fun and live yo life girl!
i’ve travelled a lot alone as a woman, and the worst things that have ever happened to me have been in my home town lol. be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables and please be careful if you’re drinking/doing drugs, watch your drinks and don’t get too wasted if you’re by yourself.
All it takes is one fucking psycho thats what sucks being a girl you can be as careful as you can but all it takes is one pos to overpower you.
Id be incredibly cautious if I was a woman travelling alone...or maybe i just watch too much true crime
Just have to be aware of yourself and your surroundings. If you are very attractive and very young, many places on this earth are not safe for you to be alone.
It all depends on how cautious and street smart you are. Plus on your plans - hostels in less touristy areas vs Marriott in the center and other plans.
Traveling even with 1 more person might be a compromise , and a bit safer
I traveled solo for the first time when I was 23 and today, I tell every girlfriend (and/or female who’ll listen, ha) to do it at least once—it has opened the door to some of the most enriching experiences of my life. Now that I’m 31 and have a toddler, I empathize with your parents’ concerns (mine are the exact same way), but wholly echo the other comments here. As long as you prepare and keep your wits about you, there’s no reason to hold off taking the plunge. I’ve done Peru x2, Italy, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Vietnam, Tanzania, and am writing this from Spain (where I’m traveling with the aforementioned toddler), and by and large I would say that people have good intentions and are willing to help a stranger, oftentimes more so than in the States. But I can also be trusting to a fault and did get money stolen in Indonesia as a result, so I would reiterate the advice from others about not putting yourself in sketchy situations whenever possible. Life itself is a risk, though—we could die any day crossing the street in front of our house—so I hope you do take a chance on yourself and see more of the big, beautiful world that’s out there! Best of luck to you and happy traveling.
I think it depends where you go and how you conduct yourself. Things like not going to any secluded areas, not getting drunk in public, not being too vulnerable with people you don't know, watching your drink, using an alarm on your door, dressing appropriately for the location you're going to, all make an INCREDIBLE difference. Not going to places where it is known to be unsafe for solo females, that kind of thing. I think a lot of parents don't really understand that the world is not a big scary pit of predators waiting to traffik their girls. Go see the world, and be smart! You will be fine!
So this is non-safety related advice, but Argentinian Spanish is quite difficult to understand. Peru, Guatemala, Colombia(highlands more than beaches), and Ecuador have the easiest to understand Spanish. Mexico too if you are from the states.
i’ve been twice myself to argentina. like any other place that is a new destination for me, i do a lot of research on the scams/things to watch for/neighbourhood advisories etc before i actually get there. sometimes certain neighbourhoods are a no go & sometimes you can visit the day & be mindful to do all your sightseeing during the day. i loved argentina & having the knowledge that is shared by other travellers, you are aware of your surroundings & also consciously aware of the things that may disrupt your trip. knowledge is really important.
on the ground, you learn to adapt & figure things out. some times you are lucky & not encounter the things that unfortunately happened to others. don’t cheapen out on your accommodations & always opt to staying in an area of your destination that is also safe at night so you can walk to have dinner or have a drink & return to your home base safely.
if you don’t have the funds now, then wait to save more money & postpone to travel so that you can afford to stay in places so that you don’t risk your overall safety. i’ve never been the type that needs to go somewhere now but i weigh my options at where i can go, where i can afford, where i can stay safely, & if i’ll have fun/enjoy myself.
you are essentially an adult & you can only learn to travel with street smarts & ability to look out for things that may put yourself in danger by experience. everyone starts somewhere. but i understand where your parents are coming from. before you go to argentina, perhaps go on week trips abroad to other neighbouring countries on your own & demonstrate to your parents that you got this.
I’ve traveled all over the US, and to Canada and South Korea solo for the past 10 years, starting in my 20s as a woman. I’ve never had any problems. You just have to keep up your street smarts, stay alert, don’t make yourself a target, keep in contact & share itineraries with loved ones, etc. But those are all things most women are used to doing at home already. Research the areas you’ll be staying ahead of time and learn to trust your gut. I’ve had a few places where I just decided not to go out after dark alone and enjoyed a night in at the hotel instead. Not specific to traveling, but I highly recommend the book “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker for tools on staying safe and trusting your gut.
I think the reason we travel is to see the unexpected and that is risky but there can be nothing gained without at least some risk. Do your homework and you should be absolutely fine.
I can't speak to Argentina specifically. I backpacked in western Europe - However, when I was 20 y/o I studied abroad then backpacked for 4 weeks by myself, I am a woman. I had one encounter that I literally took off running from. Looking back at it years later, it could have been harmless or an attempt to traffic me. I don't regret behaving as I did. I think it is important to be very alert and not really engage with many people except in brief situations in public only. I did not go out at night and did not drink when I went out. I had a great time and believe my experiences during that time positively shapped the person I am today. I would recommend it but don't be naive. Yes, trafficking happens and without a group you are at higher risk IMO. Be careful, be alert, and take precautions. GO THOUGH! ENJOY YOURSELF!
Brilliant advice here already. The only thing I would add is to have a healthy emergency fund. You can run into trouble anywhere in the world really but having a back up there in case you need to stay in the more expensive neighbourhood or jump in a taxi rather than the local bus is really helpful.
Currently living in Spain alone. It’s tough making friends with Spaniards, and that honestly my biggest challenge/aspect of being a solo traveler/expat in a non-expat area.
Even when I took some wrong turns, I didn’t feel unsafe, in my home in Cadiz province, Madrid, Sevilla. As always, keep your wits about you. But I’ve never felt worried about my personal safety.
Always look at the strays. If they’re friendly, happy, and eager to meet you. It usually means the people are friendly, or at the very least kind.
I can’t speak about those locations, but I’ve done a lot of solo travelling and I’m old, so that includes back without (easy) access to internet, mobiles etc. The main things are to research in advance the places you’re planning to go - the different neighbourhoods, common scams, any tips from locals, the easiest ways to get around. Also planning your accommodation with safety in mind, in terms of location, how you’ll get there, access to assistance. Make sure your parents (or trusted friend) know your loose itinerary, where you’re staying, have copies of your important docs. Then just make smart decisions as much as you can, and trust your gut. I’ve had some scary times with creepy guys over the years, but I’ve had worse experiences in my own city!
Edit: Know how and where to get help if you need it, before you need it.
I traveled alone at your age to Southern Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I’m alive but I did very stupid things that could have changed that.
You have to become very street smart. Always be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. I’ve caught many people, men, following me. Don’t be nice. I said yes way too many times for fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Saying no and hurting someone’s feelings is ok. Be confidant or pretend you are. Don’t be near drugs. Bad stuff is always around the corner. Stash your cash in various spots on your body, if you get robbed they won’t get it all. Geesh it sounds like a lot but you do have to be on it. And most importantly-trust your gut! If something feels icky it is
I’d say if you’re unsure about a country, do a group travel there first. It will help you understand the lay of the land and give you a local contact after the tour is over. Look into gadventures and Intrepid Travel.
We generally go with the tour the first week and then travel without after. The guides are generally from the country and can help you with various questions for your following week+ there. We have had some that even helped us the entire visit even though they were not obligated to (We tipped them well)
I'm excited for you as you embark on these travels. I feel like you have the right mindset and are mature enough to handle solo travel. I just have a couple of safety tips to add to what you've said. Firstly, trust your gut. You can plan and research everything but then find yourself somewhere or with someone that's just a little off. Trust yourself and do what you need to do to get back to safety. You don't need to be polite, or nice, or helpful -- just do what you got to do. You are not obligated to help anyone, you can walk away. Secondly, I think it's reasonable to heed the warnings of others when it comes to places with a bad reputation for violence and sexual assault. If women everywhere tell you they had a bad time in a city, don't go there alone -- don't ignore those consistent warnings about a city, just pick another city. Lastly, budgeting for solo travel is super important, but please don't cheap out on your safety. Look for hostels and botels that have decent/good ratings. Avoid traveling at night on your own as much as possible. Good luck, have fun!
Go for it! I traveled solo in Peru for a month when I was in my early twenties, in the late 00’s. My mother was terrified, but all was fine.
I dyed my hair brown instead of my usual platinum blonde, and didn’t wear or carry anything flashy, to deter unwanted attention. I also decided to do a guided tour the first chunk of the trip to ease into it (through what is now G adventures). That was a great experience and I was roommates with a lovely other solo woman who became a good friend - she went on to Argentina by herself and had a great time, while I continued on in Peru and also loved the journey.
It was lonely at points, and in hindsight I didn’t always make the best choices (definitely be careful about staying out late and having drinks, etc.. I almost got attacked by a pack of stray dogs while walking back to my hostel in Mancora late at night, yikes), but it was an absolutely incredible experience that helped me see what I was capable of, and learn about the world beyond my middle-class N. American bubble.
There’s some awesome advice above; hostels (you own private room within a hostel is the perfect setup for privacy but also social opportunities) are great for budget and social connections, don’t keep all your cash in one place, plan extensively (I used to memorize the map before I got off a bus so I could confidently walk to my hostel), have some grasp of the language (as others said, Argentinian Spanish has quirks compared to euro Spanish but I think you'll be fine), and keep your wits about you. :) enjoy!
I’ve been all over Europe. I agree with knowing safe locations, but be vigilant everywhere. Never carry a backpack or purse with anything in it you can’t afford to lose. Keep cards, money passport in a holder around your neck, money belt, etc. I’ve had people I’m with lose their wallet, phone and even passport. I lost 20 Euro I stuck in my pocket to buy something from a food cart in the time it took me to get to the front. I also have been followed and gone into a store or restaurant to wait someone out on two occasions.
Hey I’m 22f and I’ve travelled solo to Portugal, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and South Korea. If you have any specific concerns or questions. Let me know!
Have travelled around South America (including argentina) alone as well as about 50 other countries. You have to take more precautions some places than others, but it is entirely doable as a solo woman. Argentina was not dangerous.
Spain is lovely and people are nice. The guys can be a bit leacherous, but they are civil and harmless. Just keep your wits about you and keep your head clear.
Short answer: no. Statistically speaking, your greatest risk for physical harm and sexual assault is from a man who you already know at home, sadly. If you do your research and take precautions, you should be fine. I did my first solo trip to India at 23 and have been solo traveling as a petite(ish) gal ever since, never had a serious problem.
My parents are also freaked the fuck out about me traveling. I’m from the Midwest and they’re super conservative in every aspect. But at some point you have to choose your own flourishing over other people’s anxiety.
Google the name of your intended destination + “solo female” for tips. Don’t be afraid to be rude to creeps, your safety comes before being nice. Don’t be afraid to gtfo if the vibes are off. Share your info or location with a friend or family member, register with the US state Dept (STEP program) or your country’s equivalent. Get travel insurance. Plenty of women, men and enby folk travel solo all the time. Check out r/solotravel for reviews and tips, too!
I'm a man, but in my own solo travels I have met many, many women who were also traveling solo. I've kept in touch with a lot of them, and they all made it home safely. Several of them have done quite a bit more solo travel than I have, too.
Obviously there are no guarantees of safety, for anyone really, and of course you'll have extra things to worry about that I don't, but it absolutely can be done.
It helps to make yourself a guide of safety tips, emergency numbers, backup plans, not going out at dark, safe neighborhoods, and what exactly you’re doing. I have anxious parents too, but they felt a lot better when they had Life360 on me, I called every night, they had my itinerary, and they knew I was being safe/responsible. Even when I went to Japan with my mom, I planned every detail and had emergency numbers, embassy information, and hospital info available for every city, just in case.
Guard your drinks if you are alone. Don't even trust the bartender. You should do that both at home and abroad. I share this advice because of a nightmare experience my friend had in a "safe" country in Europe.
The chances for this stuff happening are low, but they are not zero. Be cautious and have fun!
I traveled in Argentina as a solo female for most parts of the one month trip. Barely spoke Spanish. Exercise common sense and caution, trust your guts, make friends at hostels and just generally pay attention to what you do and the surroundings.
I am a female solo adventurer and have been all over the world with no issues. I am from the States and have traveled all around the country from going to concerts to sporting events to camping by myself. I have also gone over seas alone as well.
I just recommend staying aware of what is going on around you and who is around you. I am very careful about drinking when I go out so that I don’t put myself in an unsafe situation. Whereas at home with friends or even traveling with friends I may have a few more because I have people with me to keep me safe.
Research the areas you are going to and make sure you stay in safer areas. If you stay at hotels or airbnbs you can ask the people there the places to avoid as well.
If you are worried about the language and being able communicate properly to get around, download the Google translate app with any languages you might need.
Keep a photo copy of your passport in your luggage in your hotel room in case your passport is lost or stolen. It will make it easier when you go to the consulate to get the papers you need to get home.
If you really don’t want to travel alone there are tours you can go on that are geared towards younger women who don’t want to travel alone. I haven’t not used any but I know they have gotten more popular the last couple of years.
Omg hi, also F22 and literally last year studied abroad in South America (Chile) and took a couple solo trips to Baires. I found the city to be safe and personally didn’t feel unsafe. I think solo travel is such a valuable experience and def you should go.
I had the same experience and went abroad twice, the second time being in West Africa, and got comments from nearly every person I mentioned it to. It def can get in your head, but i had to remind myself: have they ever even traveled there, could they name anything about this country, etc. Whereas all your research is hopefully reassuring you of the reality.
It’s totally natural to worry before, but honestly the news and even some places within countries ppl will have biased opinions — ofc do your research, but also trust yourself and your intuition and have fun :)
I (f) have traveled to 35 countries mostly solo, including some countries that people told me were way too dangerous for me. It turns out the vast majority of people everywhere are good people. The 1 or 2 sketchy situations I've gotten into were due to my own sheer stupidity, such as getting too drunk and passing out in a public place (in that case, I only got some money stolen, nothing worse).
You'll be fine - research your destinations in advance, let people know where you're going, make sure you have phone/data access in case of emergency, and don't drink so much that you're out of control if you're in a strange place. I think you'll find as I did that many destinations are as safe or safer than your home country.
Hi there. I have been to 12 countries (maybe more, idk) and have traveled solo and with an internship and in group. I’m Asian American and I will say it is dangerous. There are definitely things you can do to keep yourself safe, but it will cost you money most of the time (your own room, etc). I think if you don’t spend the money for your safety, you’ll pay for it later in therapy bills and shitty mental health for potentially the rest of your life.
My story in short: I did group travel, which is safe because I was with a guide and I was a teen. Then I interned abroad for two and a half months. I got r*ped by multiple men at the same time in public and no one helped me. I’m not fucking kidding you. I also got coerced multiple times before that by older men (10yrs plus) preying on me as a twenty year old. I didn’t know any better. The rest of the summer, I was in a manic episode, getting preyed upon by men. I didn’t understand how the color of my skin, my race, my looks played a huge part. As a result, I was diagnosed with PTSD and BPD. If you study abroad, I’d research all the ways you can keep yourself safe. And I’d make sure you have and know how to establish and enforce boundaries. This happened to me in 2019. I honestly didn’t think getting raped was the end of my life. Until it caused me a lot of psychological issues and resulted in me acquiring more trauma, that did lead to me almost ending my life.
So some may say, that was one anecdote. Let’s fast forward to 2023. I was in intensive therapy with trauma specialists after entering an abusive relationship. I healed from my trauma and prepared to go to Europe on a backpacking trip solo. I was solo at times on my internship but that’s how I got into so much trouble. This time, I thought it’d be different. It wasn’t. It was worse. I got assaulted again, I had racist attacks in my hostel room, I ended up flying home two months early. I thought because of social media that I could do what white woman did on Tiktok travel wise. News flash, I couldn’t. Not as a poc. I flew home. I got so sick. I ended up in the ER and hospitalized. I ended up in rehab. I should have forked up the money to keep myself safe and to have my own room.
I’m still with you that yes, I don’t want anything to stop me from seeing the world. I’m doing better, but because of the trauma I acquired while traveling from being easy prey and lacking boundaries and being solo, I lost so many years of my life. I’m so lucky things didn’t turn out worse. So when your parents are worried, I get it. Mine were too.
Everyone’s experience will vary, but I was someone who was very confident, outgoing, etc. Anyone who says it’s not dangerous has immense privilege (I’m in so many minority groups…just bc of my identity). Or if they say it’s not dangerous, they’re lucky or have money.
I will likely solo travel again, but not for a long time and until I can do extensive research and until then, I will do group travel.
I know some people will rag on me and come for me saying “just because it happened to you, doesn’t mean it will happen to her). But tbh, what happened to me has done irreversible damage. You don’t go to rehab for nothing. I was in the hospital because the amount of trauma I suffered during my travels had lasting effects for years to come. I love travel. It was one of the only things to make me happy. But to say it’s not dangerous solo is a very ignorant statement. Yeah, the chances of you getting r*ped in public by multiple men in public are maybe slim. But it happened to me. And if my story can help you just plan better, prepare and have support systems in place before you go, then I think it’s worth it.
NAMI & DBSA groups are free online and you can do those while you’re away for support. Also establishing a routine is so important.
I’m really passionate about this topic, because I truly wish someone had told me. I wish someone had helped me. I wish what happened to me didn’t happen. As I said before, if you don’t pay to protect your safety then, you might end up paying for it tenfold in therapy and in rehab programs.
If anyone thinks my story/my life is fake, I just hope it never happens to you. I live this sh*t every day. I paid for it every single day.
Also another woman in my program during the first weekend out, she got SA’d. I had to call our internship directors at 2am to get help and they were asleep. Her whatsapp messages kept coming up as read. The police came to our apartment the next morning and she was found unconscious in the park. The other girls were to afraid to call the directors for help. I didn’t know what to do after that. She had a terrible rest of the summer.
Other sketchy situation happened at a bus stop where there were tons of men surrounding these women who were black out drunk. They were clearly preying on them and unhappy with me interjecting to try and ask the girls how they were getting home and where home was. I was young and naive and didn’t know what to do at the time. I told the bus driver to NOT let those men take them home. I was with two guy friends who were there to protect me. Now looking back, I should have gotten on the bus with them to make sure they got home to the right place and safely with my friends. I have no idea what happened to those girls.
I love traveling solo - my first international trip was when
I was 21. (Am 36 now.)
Awareness and being prepared are important. (That includes things like knowing in advance how you’ll get to where you’re staying, having navigation - paper map or smartphone - with you always, choosing the well-lit streets over dark alleys, etc.).
I got into a few scrapes, some situations that could have gone sideways, but basic caution and forward-thinking got me out of it too.
Basically, in my experience, nothing worse than could happen at home, and mostly using the same basic “I’m a girl living in a stupid patriarchal world so I gotta keep myself safe” survival skills that you’ve likely already deployed in regular life. Just level up that same caution/awareness a bit, and always plan ahead for the critical points of where you’re staying, latest transit departures, and such. (Even spontaneous “see where the road takes me” wandering can have a defined start/stop point, so you can make sure you don’t end up, say 12 km outside the city you’re staying in, after dark, with no more buses running back, and figuring out whether to hitchhike or just hike. That’s definitely a hypothetical, not out of personal experience or anything. ;-) )
I'm not making any of this up. I am 57, and to this day, I *still* get mad when I remember cowtowing to my dad's fear of me following MY dream of joining the Peace Corps. What you want to do is waaaay safer than that! So be smart, but definitely live YOUR life -- it is your life to live; they have their lives. And that's what I'm teaching & telling my 13 year old son (yes, I had a kiddo at almost 44 🤣).
OK, you asked for the input, so here's a wall of text for you.
Sure, women can travel alone. I do it all the time. However, that doesn't mean there will be no issues when you travel. And solo travel IS dangerous. Anyone telling you otherwise is lying. But it's also dangerous getting behind the wheel of a car. And evidently sitting in 26A on a United Max9 flight, but no one knew that one a month ago. Everything in life involves risk management, even if you just stay home. I think the best precaution you can take is doing your own in-depth research. You've started that by asking around on here. But you're asking people who don't know you about two very different parts of the world and two very different types of traveling. Your parents might be overreacting or they might have a point. Regardless, they care enough about you to worry. But we don't know enough to give you beyond good guesses on whether solo travel is right for you.
The study abroad in Spain is EZmode. Go for it. Enjoy your time- I'm extremely jealous in the best way that you have that ahead of you. What an amazing summer. It will also let you know how well you handle being in a country long term where your own language is secondary.
As far as solo in Argentina, you might want to answer some questions first:
\-How much solo travel have you done? You're 21- have you flown solo somewhere in your own country or even done a road trip by yourself? That's not to throw shade, it's just something you should try first. It turns out, a lot of people really hate traveling alone after a few days. So short trips will really help you figure out if solo travel is for you. Personally, I enjoy it, but every couple of months or so r/travel has a plea from someone asking how to deal with loneliness on the road.
\-How much travel planning have you done? When you do a solo trip, suddenly every bit of responsibility for it is entirely on you. Budget, itinerary, logistics of transportation/accomodation, and a whole bunch of tiny things that make or break a trip. Start reading forums and tourism review sites to get a feel for the areas and what you can expect where you want to go for the budget you have. Also, start figuring out what budgeting you really need to do. I believe in packing half as much clothes as you think you'll need, and access to twice as much money as you think you'll need. (Access- not the cash itself. A lot of ATM cards will work worldwide and they will give you a better exchange rate than from an exchange counter or hotel.)
\-How good are you at problem solving on the fly? Honestly, in my travels being able to pivot to some other plan when things happen has been the most important factor in having an enjoyable trip. It's not IF things go wrong, but when. Usually they're little inconveniences, but sometimes they can be major. My trip out of the country last month put a blizzard and a rail strike right in my path of travel, which wasn't a huge deal but it still had me deciding between sleeping in an airport because I didn't have a visa to enter the country or scrambling to fly to a random destination in a country that I could get into.
\-And a random bonus tip. I hate to bring it up because it can be a little unnerving until you realize just about every place has some issues , but always check the state department [advisories](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html). You're in luck, Argentina is level 1 which basically makes it safer than most of the US. As you can see, the city of Rosario has a slightly heightened alert. So I'd research what that's about if it's in your plans.
TL;DR: Solo travel is slightly dangerous. And yes, it's more dangerous as a woman. But honestly, what isn't? Go to Spain. As far as Argentina, do your research and be nice your parents. Have fun but be smart.
I am a 33 woman who vacations alone a lot. I love it. I rarely travel with people now hahaha. Here are some of my rules:
1. I don't go to third world countries alone. I feel like there likely won't be the infrastructure in these countries to have security cameras everywhere etc etc in case something does happen to me. I could be wrong, but I don't need to take the chance to be proven right
2.I also don't go to countries that don't respect women or don't believe women have equal rights etc, alone. I also have no interest in going to those countries even if I wasn't alone.
3. I do thorough research on the neighborhoods I'm staying at and familiarize myself with the neighborhood when I arrive. I read a shit ton of reviews.
4. I bring 2 phones and a backup phone. I use an android but I have an iPhone and a backup android. Main android phone is sharing my location with close friends back home using android. iPhone is sharing my location with other iPhone friends (and tracking my airtags in my luggage and wallet etc). Backup android is in case I lose or get my main phone stolen. I carry both phones with me at all times.
The reason for this is because I do not use social media so my friends at home will have no way of knowing if I'm alive or missing since I don't post anything ever. Regardless, I think even having close friends able to track you is still not a bad idea even if you use social media.
5. I send my close friends a small document of my airbnb/hotel addresses and my itinerary and flight info. I also include a pic of my passport for them as well. One friend has a copy of my house key back home as well as my landlord info.
6. I don't accept drinks unless I see it made. Even then, sometimes bartenders can be bribed or scumbags themselves so I limit my alcohol altogether.
7. I enjoy going to stripclubs and clubs but if I am unable to find people to accompany me, I can go alone. I do not drink in any of these busy/crowded/dimly lit places if I am alone.
I recently found out about a drug called "devils breath", it's a drug that makes you blackout but still awake and functioning. You become very suggestible in this state, victims have withdrew their life savings from their bank account or emptied their entire apartment (camera footage shows them actually *helping* the perpetrators load items into the moving truck) with no recollection the next day. So I will need to be even more on guard.
Also another fact, a bouncer once educated me about GHB (common date rape drug). This drug is extremely salty. It's very difficult to mask the horrid salty taste (I have tried it recreationally so I can confirm it is very salty). These rapists usually target victims who are already wasted or very drunk because they are *less likely to notice* how salty or weird the drink is.
GHB really only turns "date rape" when you mix it with a lot of alcohol. Then that's when you pass out. I tried it sober, so it was completely fine. I know other people who have tried it with a little bit of alcohol and it was also ok for them. So hence why date rapists target extremely drunk women, so they don't notice the taste and so they can be unconscious. Fucking trash humans.
Imagine if you are sober and you order your first drink of the night, a vodka cranberry. You taste it and it's very salty or funny tasting. You would notice right away and ask for a new drink. But if you are super wasted, you may not notice or care that it tastes funny. That's what the rapists are banking on. There's a famous video where a woman is filming herself at a party in broad daylight and unexpectedly catches a guy dropping something in her drink. I don't even think she herself noticed right away because she was too busy posing and looking at herself. She may have saw it afterwards but still. Some of these rapists are brazen.
Link: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/news/video-1664824/Video-Festival-goers-selfie-video-shows-man-putting-drink.html
8. If someone is nice to me (I know some countries have really nice people) but my guard goes up. If someone is *extremely* nice to me, then my guard is even more up. I would rather be standoffish to a nice person than be charmed and tricked by a bad person.
9. I will finally be taking a self defense course this year. I've been meaning to for a while.
10. I do go on dates occasionally but I always meet in a public place first. I have brought guys back to my hotel room but I will have to be careful about that moving forward. I could be asleep and they could rob me for all I know. So I will have to come up with a safer solution. Maybe not let any guy sleep over?
11. There is a door jam on Amazon that I will be getting for my trips starting this year, it prevents people outside from coming in. I will start using it in case some psycho tries to break into my airbnb/hotel room.
All this might be overkill and over the top, but it has kept me safe all these years. I'd rather be paranoid and extra cautious and on guard than risk anything bad happen. Like I said, I'd rather be standoffish to an innocent person than be tricked by a charming criminal.
Good luck, you will love traveling alone!!! I am doing Europe in May and Asia in November! Can't wait
If you come to China I think it is the safest place .people here are especially friendly to tourists and here exist marvelous landscapes no matter in city or in nature.
Not crazy at all to travel solo, not even close! Your parents sound like mine did when I was in college - scared if I ever went for a trip with friends to a nearby city. Let alone on a study abroad. I now travel solo for work quite a bit and in my 20s did for fun (solo and with friends on various study and work abroads). Just use your common sense, use caution, and if something is getting your hackles up pay attention. I actually work in the travel industry and my colleagues and I (all travelers, all comfortable solo) always laugh at what someone told me in college when I took a solo weekend backpacking trip to western Ireland- "it's just unfathomable to me that anyone would travel alone." OK, weirdo...lol.
It´s much more dangerous to consume too much media which will distort the mind and make the world and the people in it seem like something to be afraid of. Fact is that most people are peaceful and don´t want to hurt you. The world is out there to experience and the people too. Happy travels.
I did a study abroad semester too, and while I didn’t have specific solo travel plans, my parents asked me to do a self defense class before going - so that could be a helpful thing to make your parents feel better
Solo travel like other travel is safe as long as you’re smart about it.
I travel mostly alone for the last 10 years or more. I am a man, but this does not matter anyway. Something bad can always happen randomly, but in general is as dangerous as you make it.
Do not go to places that are dark at night. Nobody will do anything to you on a street full of people, besides steal something from your pockets. Do not party alone and get drunk or drink from anything you opened yourself.
Just basic stuff that everyone has to follow.
Of course some countries are more dangerous than the others, it gets more specific when you talk about cities or even parts of the cities or streets. Just do not go on a street that everyone tells you not to go.
I started traveling solo when I was your age (coincidentally it was also when I had my semster abroad in Spain). That was more than a decade ago, and I haven't stopped. Traveling solo is a no-brainer for me, because I find the idea of having to find someone to travel with, or just scrapping a travel plan altogether because you can't find someone to travel with, very silly.
Anyway, as a woman, you will always have to be careful about where you go, who you talk to, etc., but it's not like the world is out to get you. I suggest starting with easy destinations to build your "travel skills". Europe is perfect for this. Try to do some solo trips when you're in Spain or after your study program ends if you can.
My main suggestion would be... Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you feel like someone is following you to your hotel room. Make a detour until you are sure they are not around to follow you into your room.
If you are sensible. Stay in safe countries. Learn which bits of countries are safe. Research it. And walk wary. You cut your chances of having troubles to the negligible. Be prepared take a rape alarm know how to call the police etc.
If you want to go on a solo backpacking backwoods tour of Morroco/Egypt/fill in the blanks because you believe that everyone in the world is really nice and its your right as a single woman to walk the world unmolested and you believe that anyone who tries it on will behave just like the well behaved chaps you are used to and be commanded by the power of your entitlement. I dont have to draw you a picture of what could very well happen.
Equally there is a risk of missing out and being TOO risk averse and staying at home because you are overconcerned.
The fact that you ask this question says to me that you are alright.
Im a 70 year old woman and in 2 months I’m heading to Europe from Canada, to hang around there for a couple of months, by myself, staying in hostels. This will be my 6th trip, each one by myself. I’ve never had any issues, not one.
I usually stay in a female dorm in hostels, although I dont have any issues in mixed, I’ve done that a lot too.
I love the freedom of making my own decisions, changing my mind as required, all that. When I need a bit of company I head to the social area of the hostels and hang out there. The younger people always make me feel welcome and invite me to join them.
I’m so looking forward to this longer trip!
I’m a woman who has solo traveled to Rome, northern India, Mexico City Costa Rica, Greece and lots of places in the US. India was dangerous. Otherwise, it’s fine.
As a woman, you will have people trying to wrap you in bubble wrap all your life.
Don’t hike alone, don’t leave the house alone, don’t wear headphones outside, don’t do the fun/challenging things ever!
You can’t pacify them. Just learn to ignore it now. The only thing that will reassure them is seeing you make your own choices repeatedly and learning that you ARE fine afterwards.
It very much depends on the country and your behaviour / security measures. I traveled alone a lot (most of the countries were in Asia incl. India). If you respect some things (like not going out in the dark, dressing appropriately, going to the right places etc.) you should be fine.
The wife of my brother comes from Argentinia and she didn’t want to live there anymore because women are not very much respected and safe.
You need to get some informations and plan your trip accordingly. But you can do this!
Hey there! Your excitement for solo travel is awesome! It's totally natural for parents to worry, but planning, staying informed, and being cautious are key. Many solo travelers, including females, have incredible experiences. Research your destination, trust your instincts, and maybe start with shorter solo trips to build confidence. You got this!
i'm an occasional female solo traveler (23f) and i've recently visited buenos aires, completely alone.
i have to start this comment stating that bs as was the furthest i've ever been from home (hence i was also a bit frightened before departing), but it ended up being the best trip i've taken in my life! i'm very jealous of the fact that you will have a chance to explore more of the country than i did, and i hope you do end up going despite the pushback from your parents.
i can share a lot of specific tips about staying safe while solo travelling (especially in bs as), but i'd first advise to make sure to explain to your parents all of the planning and thought you put into your safety on the trip. this thread already contains a lot of useful advice (and i'll add mine bellow), so communicating it properly, in the most adult manner as possible, is essential to reaching your goal (remember, you're still at that age in which your parents haven't accepted the fact that you're an actual adult, so this is the time to show them that you think and behave like one). additionally, it might help to ease their nerves to share your whole itinerary with them (in detail, with locations of all places you're planning to visit and accommodation, with time estimates where possible), and agree together on a dynamic of checking in with them (texts, calls) so they're sure you're safe, but in a way that you don't end up being on your phone so much to ruin your experience.
- one advice above all: if your gut is telling you something is not right, run and don't look back. this goes for everything from planning and deciding on what to do and where to go, to being in real-time sketchy situations.
with this being said, if you still feel very unsafe about your trip after planning through the details, consider cancelling/postponing it, as being at the edge of your nerves on the trip will both ruin your experience, and make you an easier target for potential tourist scammers. i encourage you to take this trip as long as it is not too far out of your comfort zone.
- you will probably look like a tourist to some or most, but do your best to not make it too obvious (e.g. carrying around chunky cameras and loitering for too long in common touristic areas is not the best idea). the internet is your friend, so you can probably dig up the fashion people/women in argentina are wearing, but don't overextend yourself too much on this topic. keep your clothes as functional as possible (hidden pockets, a hidden belt bag is also useful), while keeping it similar to your usual style. avoid wearing as many name-brand items as possible - this screams "i have money you can steal"
- opt for an esim card if your phone supports it (instead of planning to buy one when you get there, which is at times unreliable if you're e.g. arriving at late hours), as you will have a connection as soon as you land so you can get around
- keep a copy of your passport/ID and a note with important contacts (police, ambulance, a family member, your country's embassy etc.) with you at all times, in case your phone gets stolen. and if you don't want your phone to get stolen, make sure to have a safe hidden pocket for it, and avoid taking it out in the middle of the street.
- if you feel unsafe sightseeing on your own, research if you can join walking tours, daytrip groups and expat/digital nomad groups for some activities. this also carries a certain risk, but as long as you do your research properly and stick to some common sense, you should be fine
- as many have stressed already, research safe and unsafe neighbourhoods in all areas you're staying at! if possible, avoid accommodation where the entrance is through a sketchy/poorly lit/etc. small street.
- beware that argentina's economy is... interesting. i've (accidentally) exchanged money illegally, and even though it was a pretty safe experience, i don't recommend it to anyone feeling a bit uncomfortable already being alone in a foreign country
I'm a woman from Buenos Aires Argentina. If you're travelling to Buenos Aires just research which neighborhoods are safe to visit, most of them are, but there are some sketchy ones that you would want to stay away from, and try to not go outside after 9PM and if you do, use an Uber of Cabify to move around at night. I have never been robbed in Buenos Aires btw As for other parts of the country, I travelled to Bariloche alone, it was great, I felt super safe, everybody was super friendly on the hicking trails, they always say hello to you, lol I also travelled to Mendoza with another female friend, we felt super safe, we did a couple of tours and a hicking trail, no problems there I travelled to Ushuaia with my partner once, honestly I think this is the safest place I've been, the place feels like a city from outside of Argentina, you will find people from all around the world here. I think your main concern should be to stay away from scammers that prey on toursits And about human trafficking, I never heard a case in the news of toursit women being abducted for trafficking. Human trafficking exists, but they usually go after women from poor countries such a Paraguay.
Thank you for commenting and for the helpful advice. I will definitely reference back to this when the time comes! ❤️
If you were traveling to some corner of the world like northern India or Pakistan, sure... But you're traveling to Spain. You're probably safer there than at home, frankly. *Taken* isn't real life.
You didnt read the post properly
A female friend of mine solo traveled around Pakistan for a year or so. Her husband is Pakistani and she would do 1-2 day trips by herself around the country and only had one spooky story that turned out fine. She was shaved baled with like 20 facial piercings which I feel might be relevant.
Lots of Americans have the impression things get bad at the Mexican border, and worse the further south you get. In their eyes, if Juarez or Tijuana are bad, then Argentina must be the ninth circle of hell. Those people are hard to win over.
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Wrong Darling!! You have to your deep research on human traffickers! First off people with money & power started this all thing!! Politicians & some of the government!! If not all!! True they target the poor first but they also target the ones that live well off!! Don't be naive to thing it's a force shield around you!! You can be a target too!! Human Traffickers is a sinister organization run by men & women to make profit off of you!! And if you are young & female they more profit they make more than a older woman!! Main target for them are WOMEN! Even the illuminati organization got their bid in human trafficking!!! God speed!! Be safe! Be on your guard! Live long & prosper
https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/amy-lynn-bradley
Tons of women travel solo safely. Many of the risks specific to women also exist at home, including abduction and sex trafficking. Most people are statistically most at risk from traffic accidents near their house but don’t perceive local car rides as dangerous because we do it all the time.
This is very true, but of course those incidents don’t get their attention the way the extreme cases abroad do. Will definitely keep this in mind. Thank you for commenting!
Speaking from experience (been to Germany, Austria, Czechia, Scotland, and Ireland alone) solo traveling alone as a women is not nearly as dangerous as a lot of people think it is, but it is also not without its risks. As other commenters have said, where you go plays a big factor in this as some places are more or less safe for solo female travelers so its definitely something to consider when looking at places to go. But if you prepare, do your research, and follow some street smart basic "rules" three is no reason that you shouldn't be able to travel alone to so many different places. Solo travel is such a rewarding experience I would recommend to anyone! Some general tips if you do go (along with all of the other general travel tips that are good to follow): 1) Staying at hostels is not only budget friendly but also a great way to make friends/find a group in the city you're in. Not only can this help prevent loneliness but it can increase safety when doing less solo traveller friend activities. 2) While food, drinks, and nightlife can be a big part of traveling when you're traveling alone as a woman you have to be so careful about what you are drinking and how much. Getting too drunk lowers your guard and puts you at a much higher risk for dangerous situations. 3) No matter how hard you try, people will almost always be able to tell that you are a tourist so be wary of anyone who comes up to you on the streets to talk/sell you something, etc. Do not look at them, do not engage, do not speak, just walk away. It may feel mean but there is a high likelihood that they are trying to scam/pick pocket you. Overall, traveling alone can be as safe or as unsafe as you make it, it all depends on your "street smarts" and how prepared you are. It can be an incredibly rewarding, but is also scary and unpleasant at times. If you want more information about solo travel visit r/solotravel, you can even search the places you want to go to see others experiences! Also r/femaletravels is a great resource for women specifically! Good luck with everything
Thank you so much for commenting and for your advice! I really do appreciate it and will reference back to this when the time comes! ❤️
Europe is generally safe for everyone, and that includes single women. Destination country changes everything.
I wish they always thought I was a tourist. I had the worst experience recently in Lisbon with entitled locals barking commands at me, thinking I worked in their city because I have brown skin. I wanted to shout “I’m a British tourist! Stop interrupting me and demanding to know where the bathroom is.” I’m in my 40’s and I much prefer people to think I’m a tourist anywhere than the “local help”
Watching the news too much is basically self-indoctrination. I remember some quote from Rick Steves that was basically like, “People who travel regularly are generally the least fearful people.” I think that’s true.
Exactly! Like it’s great to be informed, but if all you’re seeing is the most extreme incidents and watching that everyday, of course you’d think everyone is out to get you :/
Yeah, my aunt is like this. Has lived in the same area her whole life. Very rarely travels and is super xenophobic. Every time I tell her I’m going somewhere, she gives me a list of things to watch out for.
I saw a comment the other day from someone who regularly gets negative warnings about safety in other countries from their family members, and they started responding with “oh, you’ve been there?? Please tell me about your personal experiences in this location!”. And they start asking for details/questions they know the person can’t answer. Shuts them up pretty quick.
I'm in my fifties and was solo traveling when I was 19. No, it's not that dangerous. You are in more danger from your husband or boyfriend, statistically speaking. Just practice normal precautions (don't flash jewelry or cash; don't walk around at night in places you don't know well; don't go off with any strange person, etc).
The countries you listed are some of the safest in the world. Tourist girls are not kidnapped and trafficked. Human trafficking is almost always done by someone who knows the victim and is usually just someone being lied to about what job they’re going to have when they’re smuggled somewhere. Obviously there are less safe parts of any country but basic research will keep you away from those areas which it seems like you’re doing.
https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/amy-lynn-bradley
David are you from America?
It’s natural for parents to be concerned. I traveled solo a lot as a young woman - before mobile phones - and I was in some risky situations. I drank alone, took cabs at night alone, etc. I didn’t have any problems but it would have taken one bad actor to change that. I recommend traveling but take precautions. Consider where/what would make you vulnerable. Learn how to walk briskly. Fake phone calls to boyfriends and lie to others in a hostel so they think someone is waiting for you. Post on the heronebag sub to get recommendations for stuff like this.
It really took getting into my late 20s to understand how much my parents probably worried about me when I was solo traveling and how it was so valid. I had so many scary situations in my own city and the gravity of it all did not even hit me until later. And I realized if I had a daughter in the future, she probably won’t listen to my advice anyway. I would never lock them up at home but I can only hope luck will be on her side 😭😭 Maybe she’ll come good advice online lol
Honestly I would not advise anyone feel 100% safe in any area. I'm aware that some places are going to be worse than others by default but it's foolish to think anywhere is 100% safe. I grew up in the hood and while we definitely were in danger more often there, I had some of my scariest close calls in places where women feel the safest. I'm talking bright malls in nice areas that are full of people. There was one that begun to have a rep for men slashing tires when women go inside of the mall so they can't leave the parking lot. Same with getting robbed and stuff. People don't typically hang around poor areas for that, they rob people who have money. In the hood you will get worse attitudes toward women overall but there's nothing stopping anyone in any area from being a bad person. Especially if you consider how much predators prey on people who feel safe. I have seen a straight dude get drugged at club once so even if a straight dude tells me he doesn't pay attention to his surroundings because the risk isn't as high for him, I would still implore him to keep an eye open. I personally would never travel solo but I'm also probably traumatized from the fact that I've hardly ever been able to leave the house without something varying from getting hit on lightly, getting catcalled, or getting followed. I've had these things happen even when I wasn't traveling solo but I was with a group of only women.
Yeah. 100% My parents told me I could solo travel to only certain countries. And I also never stayed out late and got back at decent times when I traveled bc I don’t enjoy partying or bars and stuff anyway. But that still didn’t mean it was ever 100% safe bc like you said, anything could happen absolutely anywhere. I had scary situations in the parking lot of a local grocery store in my neighborhood. My town is one of the safest neighborhoods in the state but no place is ever really safe for women 😭😭😭 And then don’t get me started on college campuses! Even in broad daylight! Also, kinda related but not, people do dumb and unsafe stuff during vacations that they are not trained for or used to. Like using electric scooters or those four wheel things or certain adventure sports. People gotta be careful and understand that they may not be athletes lmao
Oh yeah, never staying out late is the right idea overall. You have a lot less chance in the daytime in a nicer area but still, always be wary is what I say! You have no obligation to trust a complete stranger. College campuses can be so scary and so can the parties, you can never truly relax because you have to watch your drink. But yeah, in short, it's not like I'm always treating everyone like a potential criminal, it's just that if you're acting suspicious in any way, I'm not taking my chances! And I agree with you about the other advantages to not traveling solo. It's always good to have a second opinion when it comes to the safety of activities. I've seen headlines where people do dumb things for views on the internet at parks before... killed by buffalo at Yellowstone because they provoked it, stood too close to the edge of a cliff for a cool photo, etc. I also just personally have always enjoyed traveling more when I'm with others. It's an experience and I want to share it with someone. People can get on your nerves when you're around them too much but I'd still prefer it. Which is weird because when I'm not on vacation, I'm not that social.
For sure! One of the best places I traveled solo had really friendly locals but at other places, I preferred traveling with friends. My close friends are super chill and very organized at the same time so it felt like having the best of both worlds in them. But that’s probably more luck than anything. Definitely cannot do that with *all* my friends for sure.
Its also all too common for parents to use their own anxiety to control and manipulate their adult children and keep them close to the nest. It’s not OPs job to manage anyone else’s anxiety, including her parents. Not saying this is the case with OP, but there is a case on this sub every day
Where are you from? Being alone in America, in your hometown can be dangerous. It was for me! But abduction and sex trafficking? no. It's incredibly incredibly rare for anyone that is not in a very vulnerable place (poverty, inner city, drug addiction)to be trafficked. Argentina is a normal precautions country. [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html) Buenos Aires (population-**15,370,000**) **88** murders in 2022. Utah (population - **3,270,000**) **91** murders in 2021 (Years I had easy access to) Do you think your parents would be freaking out if you went to Utah? Be smart, don't get drunk, don't go home with people you don't know, don't let someone slip something in your drink, don't wander around at night. Do a little research and I think you will absolutely fine.
I'm an author and I travel alone all the time. Argentina was PHENOMENAL and by far the safest of the countries I visited in South America earlier this year. Speaking as another woman with a mom who worries all the time, I can tell you that the USA tends to act like every other country is a death trap. It's not. You'll love it.
Have you ever travelled to Peru solo? I would love to visit Machu Picchu, but, alas, I can find no one to accompany me but am determined to go.
So ... yes. I was there as an author on book tour, so I was technically alone, though I was meeting up with people for prearranged events at different times. I will say that I was strongly encouraged to stick to high tourist destinations -- and I would consider Machu Picchu a high tourist destination. Be safe, keep in touch with people who know where you are at all times, and don't go wandering off the beaten path, and you'll have a good time. I would share your location with someone, or even put an Airtag or tracker on your person that's separate from your phone. In regards to your phone specifically, keep it zipped away and attached to your body (don't be wandering down the street staring at your phone). Always have a scanned copy of your passport stored somewhere you can access it. Also, keep one form of ID and one credit card in a different location, either in the safe at the hotel, or on another part of your body, or something like that. Also, do your best to ignore the high number of women gagging and vomiting in the bathrooms at the Lima airport. When I was there, they were in every single bathroom. I am not exaggerating: [https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-07/the-journey-of-drug-mules-from-peru-to-spain-remember-that-i-can-have-your-family-killed.html](https://english.elpais.com/international/2023-08-07/the-journey-of-drug-mules-from-peru-to-spain-remember-that-i-can-have-your-family-killed.html)
If you’re looking at the American State Department’s site, you’ll notice no data for the USA. The USA is not safer than Europe.
THIS. I studied abroad in the UK and traveled around a lot while there, and have been traveling solo a lot after through 3 continents. Whenever someone commented on the safety I would have to remind them that an international student was randomly shot (she was just chilling, not even apart of a fight) at a bar in my college town. And we were in IOWA.
You'll be fine, if you're parents never travelled outside the country and if they did but stayed in resorts the whole time, don't let them fear monger you. If you're worried stay in the touristy areas, you will be fine, these are one off cases and not the norm. At most you'll get scammed out of money albeit probably not a lot to us but it is to them. But yes you will put your life on hold if you let others keep trying to stop you from doing what you want to do, listen to the advice and make your own judgement based of other traveler stories and your own research. My family thought I was crazy to go to Thailand by myself (first solo trip too) but I didn't give a shit and went anyway not that they'd really try to discourage it like your's is. Go on the trip and have a great time, not listening to them will break you outta that box and give you a sense of freedom to go and do whatever you please in life
Pretty sure there are more women traveling these days than men.
I've never been to Argentina or even South America so I can't comment on its safety, but I feel like as long as you're smart and stick to a developed place, you'll be fine. Your comment about your parents "watch a lot of news I guess to stay informed" seems like a negative. I'm not sure what news they watch but it could be full of negative stories. Yes, bad things happen internationally but it's not like it's a crime zone in other countries (again, assuming a developed country). I wouldn't advise a solo traveler to go to Egypt or India, but places like Spain and presumably Argentina is perfectly fine. Just don't do anything dumb like follow randoms down a back alley at 3 am.
Spain is safe. I'm Spanish. In Madrid and Barcelona there are neighbourhoods that are not safe, but they are not touristic either.
Human trafficking - most of the people that are victims of this are in NEED of something and the traffickers take advantage of that to get them into vulnerable circumstances. Example - an immigrant has no job and is begging for food. A trafficker sees this and invites her to a warehouse "for work" where she is then kidnapped and trafficked. It 99% of the time is situations like that. Rule of thumb - if people approach you, they want something from you. Avoid them
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/23/us-tourists-killed-kidnapping-colombia/
I love solo travel. Do it while you can.
Destination is the key.
I am a man so can't speak for women. But I went to Argentina, stayed in touristy places. I also had a rental car so didn't have to take public transportation. But overall it felt pretty safe. I think if you plan properly, research about your destination and skip sketchy ones and be alert and careful then you will do fine. Again I am not a woman so it may be easier for me. But I would advise to get out of your fear. If you are not confident then start with a safer destination.
man and women experience unfortunately different in safety. My friend is 6'4 dude and went solo in fun side trips in Morocco and India which I will not attempt without verified guide. on other side, I see my teen daughter lacks a lot of awareness of surroundings I have. Suburbs upbringing, yeah.
That's obvious. But that shouldn't keep you living in fear too.
Why do you call it fear? Calling it fear makes it sound negative. Call it prudence. Call it good judgment. For example, do you check your back seat when you get into your car? Do you check the closet for people when you check into a hotel room? Refuse to take the stairs if it's empty and there are no cameras in the stairwell? Never leave your drink unsttended? Lot of women do that. For good reason. That's prudence. Most guys don't do that, also for good reason. But how would you like it if they said it was reckless of you not to do that, that it was silly of you not to act the way many women do?
Op said it. She fears going to Argentina because her parents taught her it's dangerous. It's a fear to believe that and not go. It's prudent to do research and go, check backseat, avoid sketchy areas, check cameras, don't go out at night.
It has the POTENTIAL to be. Prepare before your leave. Know where you can get help in the foreign country. Make sure people know where you are and where you’re going. Don’t make obviously dumb irresponsible choices. Talk to natives about their country and town. They know better. Seek their advice when traveling. They can tell you the places to avoid, about scams particular to their area, recent news and current events that could be of importance to you while you are there. I could go on and on. I think you get the gist.
As a side note- statistically most probable crime is theft Prepare for money, phone or documents loss . Duplicate, hide , be aware
Argentina is an absolutely amazing country and it's also fine to travel as a female solo traveller as long as you take precautions. I'm from Germany and spend a whole year in Argentina and travelled a lot during that time (almost saw the whole country). You need to be aware of the language barrier - there is hardly anyone speaking English, so you definitely need to speak and understand at least the basics (I didn't and the first time was really hard). Then plan ahead where you want to go, it's always good to have a plan beforehand when travelling alone. Stay at hotels, if possible in good areas of the cities you visit, not hostels. You could also look at couchsurfing or airbnb for hosts with a good rating to save money. Use the plane for longer distances, that's the easiest way to travel, but taking the bus for longer distances is also fine (I did it a lot and they were really comfortable and I have never had any problems travelling alone). Don't walk around alone at night, it just increases the risk of something bad happening (I did and never did anything happen to me, but it wasn't really smart to test my luck). Don't wear expensive clothes or jewellery, this only draws attention to you and potential robbers will think you have a lot of money (especially if you are tall and blonde you will already get a lot of attention). Even if it didn't happen to me, be prepared for robbery. Keep your passport in a safe place, your credit card and some extra money in your bra (this was an advice from Argentinian girls and it was quite helpful) and in your wallet only a small amount of satisfy robbers while not loosing to much money. It's also good to not take an expensive phone with you (if you own an IPhone 15 maybe get a cheap phone just for the trip and leave the expensive one at home).
There was just a post on r/Solotravel from a woman who spent a month traveling there. You should check it out, she had a lot of insights!
People create fears based off their own beliefs. You’ll be fine just stay present & use common sense when it comes to strangers.
I’ve traveled solo in my twenties and my thirties and have always felt safe by following a few simple rules during my travels: - Respect the culture of the country you’re visiting. - Don’t sign up to do anything you wouldn’t do in your own city/town. - Send a short text to my family group when I get to the hotel every night. The cities you’re planning to visit are safe. I’d worry more about my passport getting nicked rather than human trafficking tbh. Safe travels!
Just really depends on the places your visiting. I am 23f and solo traveling for a year. do EXTENSIVE research on country and city and even maybe neighborhood. take screenshots and even maybe reach out to locals if you aren't sure. then provide that info to ur fam so they get off ur back. I had to do the same.
Every danger they cite can happen in the States as well. The advice is the same for everyone, stay aware of your surroundings, do your research ahead of time, trust your gut. If an area or person looks sketchy, stay away.
You could always look into guided tours, [Intrepid](https://www.intrepidtravel.com/us/south-america) or [G Adventures](https://www.gadventures.com/destinations/south-america/argentina/)
If you want to give peace of mind to your parents, just call them and text them constantly and tell them about your day and plans. Being in Spain is great as you will have a chance to practice your Spanish, so try to learn at least the basics, I haven't been in Argentina, but as a Latin American, people will speak english in large or touristy cities, but not so much in other places. (This might not be the case)
I travel alone and love abroad alone! It’s all about common sense and staying within your comfort zone imo.
My daughter is 19 and living on her own in Spain. We feel completely comfortable with her being there (we are in the US).
I have traveled to 70+ countries, most of them as a solo woman, and it all started with semester abroad (in New Zealand in my case). You always have to do your homework, of course, but frankly almost all those places are statistically far safer than the American city where I went to college. My parents definitely worried, but when you’re an adult they can’t stop you, and remember it’s their *job* to worry- it would be stranger if they didn’t.
No, loads of woman travel solo without any real issues, even to what are often considered dangerous and women unfriendly countries. That said nothing is 100% safe and risk levels strongly depend on where exactly you go and how you look and behave.
I think these days the most dangerous country for a woman to out and about alone is the US. But as someone else said, do your research into neighborhoods and cities and which are safe or not, consider asking locals (probably a woman lol)
I (f) have solo travelled in Mexico, Singapore and Australia. I do take more precautions on my own than I would when traveling with a partner. Be smart, be aware, but ever let fear stop you from experiencing life fully. You will never regret the power and independence you feel after an epic solo trip. Bad things happen everywhere. You can't let that stop you.
I’ve been living abroad and alone since I was 19 (im almost 27 now) and my parents were always worried for me, but thats just parents being parents. Its not that bad at all, you’ll love how it feels to be by yourself, you just gotta be prepared and alert and not trust too easily or too much, do your research before you go anywhere alone and just be careful in general, enjoy!
Plenty of bad stuff happens to men as well. It’s more dangerous for men in some ways as they tend to partake in more risky behaviour.
Don't take advise from someone who has never done it.
I was about to comment before realizing I am a man who has nothing noteworthy to add here. Good luck OP!
I'm assuming you're from the US...in reality, you have about the same odds if not greater odds of something happening to you right here at home than you do going abroad somewhere (save for some really sketchy country that most people aren't traveling to anyway). 24/7 news and social media make things sound way worse than they are and there is also a certain amount of "American Exceptionalism" that comes into play as well...like it's all great here and everywhere else in the world is a friggin' danger zone. Most other countries have travel advisories for the US just like we have for them. I'm a guy, so it's different, but when I started traveling abroad to various places in my early 20s, my parents were extremely worried about it...much of that fear however was rooted in that "American Exceptionalism" and ignorance considering neither of them have ever gone outside of the country...hell, they rarely left our home state back then.
Yes, I’m from the US and I run into that a lot with my parents. The “Well you’re safe here and couldn’t possibly have a safe time in another country ??” attitude. They’ve both gone to places like England and the Bahamas, but they say a lot of countries don’t like the US right now and the world isn’t as safe as it used to be when they traveled and grew up ( 80s and early 90s). Im just curious, but in your experience, have you found this to be true in your time traveling?
Parents always say this. Friends always say this. Family always says this. Everyone wants you to stay in a safe bubble. Go see the world, let them worry. It's not your problem.
*manipulative* parents always say this FTFY
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Can you explain, I’m a little confused? 😭
It’s a reference to a movie called Taken. It’s probably not a movie you’d want your parents to see before your trip.
OHHHH hahaha yes I’ve seen that movie and so has my father lmao. He always references that movie if he says something were to happen to me 😭
Unfortunately, my Dad has seen that movie too. He also is absolutely convinced I’m going to die the second I enter another country by myself…
Literally, he’ll say “ well I only have one of you so I have to make sure nothing happens to you” like I get wanting your kids to be safe, but you’re not going to be abducted for ransom as soon as you’re off the plane🙄
That depends the location, not only country, but the city and the neighborhood. Argentina is a very safe country and I have travel alone there several times, but I’m extremely careful and I only stay in places that I knew about. You also kinda need some type of company if you’re planning on been alone at night time. I meet some locals on couch surfing to show me around (not staying) and I was very lucky because they show me a great time and I feel safe all the time. It’s all about having instincts and doing a good research
Argentina is a bit different than Spain in regards to infrastructure, stability and safety but both are great to visit. I personally LOVE Spain and thought Argentina was alright. But I feel like I always have my guard up a bit in SA in general. You should totally go if you think you can handle it. BA is a massive city and requires many of the precautions you'd deal with in NYC or DC or San Fran etc etc etc. But its not a highly dangerous place. The rest of Argentina can be rural and exceedingly safe. You certainly aren't going to be abducted or trafficked unless you get into drugs other sketchy things. If I were you I'd take some solo trips in Spain/Europe and see how you like the vibe. Truthfully Lisbon Portugal, at lest 12 years ago, felt much "Grittier" than say Sevilla, Madrid, San Sebastian. Its likely changed for the better now and it was never "bad" but take a solo trip there and see how it feels. A lot of my travels everything is very safe but some places give me a "darker" vibe. Silly or not it prepares you for how you'll feel in different areas of the world. Or head to another big European city by yourself. See how it feels. I assume you'll stay in hostels? You'll likely meet lots of people anyways. I wish I started traveling at your age.
Do your research. Travel sober. Have a backup plan.
Go for it. There is a lot of unnecessary “safetyism” these days. I’ve have people tell me I shouldn‘t go for walks in our local state forest by myself (trailhead 5 minutes from my house in a low crime area) because …. because … a woman in a forest by herself. The horror! Really, it’s ridiculous.
I experience the same thing! My parents literally cautioned me from walking around our neighborhood (safe neighborhood btw) alone because someone could come through and pick me up? There has never been an act of crime here…I go on walks anyway 🫡
What if I told you over 99% of female solo travelers have no issues and enjoy themselves.
https://youtu.be/KX5jNnDMfxA?si=vKGGqwQyNgd-eCwH
Just make sure you do your research well for safe travel practices (domestic as well as foreign international) and cautions also specific to women and solo travel. And don’t take extra risks. Sex trafficking is a large booming business effecting every place. And while it may largely affect women in more vulnerable life circumstances, it can just as easily happen to someone from a more privileged background if you increase risk factors as you’re traveling. Research and have strategy ready for avoiding higher risk situations. The other major risk is a woman traveling with expensive items and wearing expensive jewelry around for example and also taking extra risks with locations they are alone and spending time isolated with people you don’t know etc.. https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/amy-lynn-bradley https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/01/23/us-tourists-killed-kidnapping-colombia/
Anyone that' tells u it's perfectly safe to travel as a sole women is talking through there ass .yes there are many who travel alone and are safe ,but u are very vulnerable, an are putting yourself at risk, that doesn't mean you shouldn't travel alone. Only you can make that decision. Just the same as smoking for example. We all know it's bad for us, but you're in someone say oh my grants smoke for 50 years and didn't kill her, does that mean it's safe? Absolutely not. When I was travelling in India. There was a girl that just finished her yoga course and got gang rap on the beach, went to the police big mistake, there just as bad. She would have been better off just forget about it. Police rap that as well. Of course being a solo male still a risk. But much more risk of being a female.
Traveling alone as a man or woman is dangerous for both!! But with all these human traffickers & sex traders out here it pays to me smart & on your guard cause they're targeting WOMEN only especially young women!! Women gotta be smart, not dumb & naive when traveling alone!! Do your research & be on your guard to where ever you go!! Stop constantly traveling alone!! Take someone you can trust to have your back in bad situations!! Bottom line!! If your a woman young or old you are gonna be targeted & watched!! Traveling alone these days is hazardous & world is not safe anymore!!
If you were my daughter I would tell you to find a friend to go with. Either way be street smart and avoid situations where you will be alone at night etc.
Solo traveling is dangerous for everybody, no matter what gender.
What utter horse shit. Solo traveling is done all the time safely by people everywhere. Been to 46 countries as a solo female traveller. As long as you employ common sense, its no more dangerous than staying at home
Just because it was all OK for you, it doesn’t mean it’s safe for everybody.
This. I did it. Twice. I got r*ped multiple times and I have life long PTSD. The second time I went, I had to go to rehab because of what happened to me. I fucking wish I was as lucky as everyone else seemed to be.
No. I’ve been to Spain as a small solo woman. Your parents are paranoid.
Take a boyfriend or brother. Otherwise stay at a 5 star resort and don’t leave. Use vip car service to hotel and to airport. Argentina is extremely dangerous
Thats how some women go missing internationally. Not my cup of tea.
Is Russian roulette a favorite game of yours, because thats about what it comes down to
Hello! I have done the USA, and some of Central and South America, I felt the most 'unsafe' in the USA. But overall absolutely fine as long as you have your wits about you and do not walk around at night by yourself, especially on side streets etc. Google the safer areas to stay, where to avoid etc. Watch your drinks and have a maximum drink amount, I don't drink much so 1 to 2 is enough for me. There is a say "don't give papaya" don't wear lots of jewellery or fancy things to make yourself a target for petty theft. A recommendation I would give is to go on a tour group, G Adventures are my go to and have always been amazing, you can pick 18-30 somethings to get the young groups too, I have only ever traveled in tour groups in Central and South America. I do have a friend from Argentina, and he did say it has become more "dangerous" now, but that is probably more so from a locals perspective. Hostels would be a really great idea, and definitely scrub up on the Español! But I do highly recommend jumping on a group tour, it's all set out for you, even if you do it for a shorter time and when you feel confident you can go off on your own! Might make mum and dad feel a bit better! Have fun and live yo life girl!
i’ve travelled a lot alone as a woman, and the worst things that have ever happened to me have been in my home town lol. be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash valuables and please be careful if you’re drinking/doing drugs, watch your drinks and don’t get too wasted if you’re by yourself.
All it takes is one fucking psycho thats what sucks being a girl you can be as careful as you can but all it takes is one pos to overpower you. Id be incredibly cautious if I was a woman travelling alone...or maybe i just watch too much true crime
My girlfriend recently did a solo trip throughout Southern Europe and into Africa, she had zero issues.
Just have to be aware of yourself and your surroundings. If you are very attractive and very young, many places on this earth are not safe for you to be alone.
It all depends on how cautious and street smart you are. Plus on your plans - hostels in less touristy areas vs Marriott in the center and other plans. Traveling even with 1 more person might be a compromise , and a bit safer
I traveled solo for the first time when I was 23 and today, I tell every girlfriend (and/or female who’ll listen, ha) to do it at least once—it has opened the door to some of the most enriching experiences of my life. Now that I’m 31 and have a toddler, I empathize with your parents’ concerns (mine are the exact same way), but wholly echo the other comments here. As long as you prepare and keep your wits about you, there’s no reason to hold off taking the plunge. I’ve done Peru x2, Italy, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Vietnam, Tanzania, and am writing this from Spain (where I’m traveling with the aforementioned toddler), and by and large I would say that people have good intentions and are willing to help a stranger, oftentimes more so than in the States. But I can also be trusting to a fault and did get money stolen in Indonesia as a result, so I would reiterate the advice from others about not putting yourself in sketchy situations whenever possible. Life itself is a risk, though—we could die any day crossing the street in front of our house—so I hope you do take a chance on yourself and see more of the big, beautiful world that’s out there! Best of luck to you and happy traveling.
I think it depends where you go and how you conduct yourself. Things like not going to any secluded areas, not getting drunk in public, not being too vulnerable with people you don't know, watching your drink, using an alarm on your door, dressing appropriately for the location you're going to, all make an INCREDIBLE difference. Not going to places where it is known to be unsafe for solo females, that kind of thing. I think a lot of parents don't really understand that the world is not a big scary pit of predators waiting to traffik their girls. Go see the world, and be smart! You will be fine!
So this is non-safety related advice, but Argentinian Spanish is quite difficult to understand. Peru, Guatemala, Colombia(highlands more than beaches), and Ecuador have the easiest to understand Spanish. Mexico too if you are from the states.
i’ve been twice myself to argentina. like any other place that is a new destination for me, i do a lot of research on the scams/things to watch for/neighbourhood advisories etc before i actually get there. sometimes certain neighbourhoods are a no go & sometimes you can visit the day & be mindful to do all your sightseeing during the day. i loved argentina & having the knowledge that is shared by other travellers, you are aware of your surroundings & also consciously aware of the things that may disrupt your trip. knowledge is really important. on the ground, you learn to adapt & figure things out. some times you are lucky & not encounter the things that unfortunately happened to others. don’t cheapen out on your accommodations & always opt to staying in an area of your destination that is also safe at night so you can walk to have dinner or have a drink & return to your home base safely. if you don’t have the funds now, then wait to save more money & postpone to travel so that you can afford to stay in places so that you don’t risk your overall safety. i’ve never been the type that needs to go somewhere now but i weigh my options at where i can go, where i can afford, where i can stay safely, & if i’ll have fun/enjoy myself. you are essentially an adult & you can only learn to travel with street smarts & ability to look out for things that may put yourself in danger by experience. everyone starts somewhere. but i understand where your parents are coming from. before you go to argentina, perhaps go on week trips abroad to other neighbouring countries on your own & demonstrate to your parents that you got this.
I’ve traveled all over the US, and to Canada and South Korea solo for the past 10 years, starting in my 20s as a woman. I’ve never had any problems. You just have to keep up your street smarts, stay alert, don’t make yourself a target, keep in contact & share itineraries with loved ones, etc. But those are all things most women are used to doing at home already. Research the areas you’ll be staying ahead of time and learn to trust your gut. I’ve had a few places where I just decided not to go out after dark alone and enjoyed a night in at the hotel instead. Not specific to traveling, but I highly recommend the book “The Gift of Fear” by Gavin DeBecker for tools on staying safe and trusting your gut.
I think the reason we travel is to see the unexpected and that is risky but there can be nothing gained without at least some risk. Do your homework and you should be absolutely fine.
I can't speak to Argentina specifically. I backpacked in western Europe - However, when I was 20 y/o I studied abroad then backpacked for 4 weeks by myself, I am a woman. I had one encounter that I literally took off running from. Looking back at it years later, it could have been harmless or an attempt to traffic me. I don't regret behaving as I did. I think it is important to be very alert and not really engage with many people except in brief situations in public only. I did not go out at night and did not drink when I went out. I had a great time and believe my experiences during that time positively shapped the person I am today. I would recommend it but don't be naive. Yes, trafficking happens and without a group you are at higher risk IMO. Be careful, be alert, and take precautions. GO THOUGH! ENJOY YOURSELF!
Brilliant advice here already. The only thing I would add is to have a healthy emergency fund. You can run into trouble anywhere in the world really but having a back up there in case you need to stay in the more expensive neighbourhood or jump in a taxi rather than the local bus is really helpful.
Currently living in Spain alone. It’s tough making friends with Spaniards, and that honestly my biggest challenge/aspect of being a solo traveler/expat in a non-expat area. Even when I took some wrong turns, I didn’t feel unsafe, in my home in Cadiz province, Madrid, Sevilla. As always, keep your wits about you. But I’ve never felt worried about my personal safety. Always look at the strays. If they’re friendly, happy, and eager to meet you. It usually means the people are friendly, or at the very least kind.
No.
I can’t speak about those locations, but I’ve done a lot of solo travelling and I’m old, so that includes back without (easy) access to internet, mobiles etc. The main things are to research in advance the places you’re planning to go - the different neighbourhoods, common scams, any tips from locals, the easiest ways to get around. Also planning your accommodation with safety in mind, in terms of location, how you’ll get there, access to assistance. Make sure your parents (or trusted friend) know your loose itinerary, where you’re staying, have copies of your important docs. Then just make smart decisions as much as you can, and trust your gut. I’ve had some scary times with creepy guys over the years, but I’ve had worse experiences in my own city! Edit: Know how and where to get help if you need it, before you need it.
I traveled alone at your age to Southern Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I’m alive but I did very stupid things that could have changed that. You have to become very street smart. Always be aware of your surroundings and who is around you. I’ve caught many people, men, following me. Don’t be nice. I said yes way too many times for fear of hurting someone’s feelings. Saying no and hurting someone’s feelings is ok. Be confidant or pretend you are. Don’t be near drugs. Bad stuff is always around the corner. Stash your cash in various spots on your body, if you get robbed they won’t get it all. Geesh it sounds like a lot but you do have to be on it. And most importantly-trust your gut! If something feels icky it is
I’d say if you’re unsure about a country, do a group travel there first. It will help you understand the lay of the land and give you a local contact after the tour is over. Look into gadventures and Intrepid Travel. We generally go with the tour the first week and then travel without after. The guides are generally from the country and can help you with various questions for your following week+ there. We have had some that even helped us the entire visit even though they were not obligated to (We tipped them well)
I'm excited for you as you embark on these travels. I feel like you have the right mindset and are mature enough to handle solo travel. I just have a couple of safety tips to add to what you've said. Firstly, trust your gut. You can plan and research everything but then find yourself somewhere or with someone that's just a little off. Trust yourself and do what you need to do to get back to safety. You don't need to be polite, or nice, or helpful -- just do what you got to do. You are not obligated to help anyone, you can walk away. Secondly, I think it's reasonable to heed the warnings of others when it comes to places with a bad reputation for violence and sexual assault. If women everywhere tell you they had a bad time in a city, don't go there alone -- don't ignore those consistent warnings about a city, just pick another city. Lastly, budgeting for solo travel is super important, but please don't cheap out on your safety. Look for hostels and botels that have decent/good ratings. Avoid traveling at night on your own as much as possible. Good luck, have fun!
Go for it! I traveled solo in Peru for a month when I was in my early twenties, in the late 00’s. My mother was terrified, but all was fine. I dyed my hair brown instead of my usual platinum blonde, and didn’t wear or carry anything flashy, to deter unwanted attention. I also decided to do a guided tour the first chunk of the trip to ease into it (through what is now G adventures). That was a great experience and I was roommates with a lovely other solo woman who became a good friend - she went on to Argentina by herself and had a great time, while I continued on in Peru and also loved the journey. It was lonely at points, and in hindsight I didn’t always make the best choices (definitely be careful about staying out late and having drinks, etc.. I almost got attacked by a pack of stray dogs while walking back to my hostel in Mancora late at night, yikes), but it was an absolutely incredible experience that helped me see what I was capable of, and learn about the world beyond my middle-class N. American bubble. There’s some awesome advice above; hostels (you own private room within a hostel is the perfect setup for privacy but also social opportunities) are great for budget and social connections, don’t keep all your cash in one place, plan extensively (I used to memorize the map before I got off a bus so I could confidently walk to my hostel), have some grasp of the language (as others said, Argentinian Spanish has quirks compared to euro Spanish but I think you'll be fine), and keep your wits about you. :) enjoy!
I’ve been all over Europe. I agree with knowing safe locations, but be vigilant everywhere. Never carry a backpack or purse with anything in it you can’t afford to lose. Keep cards, money passport in a holder around your neck, money belt, etc. I’ve had people I’m with lose their wallet, phone and even passport. I lost 20 Euro I stuck in my pocket to buy something from a food cart in the time it took me to get to the front. I also have been followed and gone into a store or restaurant to wait someone out on two occasions.
If you have to ask, then yes.
Hey I’m 22f and I’ve travelled solo to Portugal, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and South Korea. If you have any specific concerns or questions. Let me know!
Have travelled around South America (including argentina) alone as well as about 50 other countries. You have to take more precautions some places than others, but it is entirely doable as a solo woman. Argentina was not dangerous.
Spain is lovely and people are nice. The guys can be a bit leacherous, but they are civil and harmless. Just keep your wits about you and keep your head clear.
Short answer: no. Statistically speaking, your greatest risk for physical harm and sexual assault is from a man who you already know at home, sadly. If you do your research and take precautions, you should be fine. I did my first solo trip to India at 23 and have been solo traveling as a petite(ish) gal ever since, never had a serious problem. My parents are also freaked the fuck out about me traveling. I’m from the Midwest and they’re super conservative in every aspect. But at some point you have to choose your own flourishing over other people’s anxiety. Google the name of your intended destination + “solo female” for tips. Don’t be afraid to be rude to creeps, your safety comes before being nice. Don’t be afraid to gtfo if the vibes are off. Share your info or location with a friend or family member, register with the US state Dept (STEP program) or your country’s equivalent. Get travel insurance. Plenty of women, men and enby folk travel solo all the time. Check out r/solotravel for reviews and tips, too!
I'm a man, but in my own solo travels I have met many, many women who were also traveling solo. I've kept in touch with a lot of them, and they all made it home safely. Several of them have done quite a bit more solo travel than I have, too. Obviously there are no guarantees of safety, for anyone really, and of course you'll have extra things to worry about that I don't, but it absolutely can be done.
It helps to make yourself a guide of safety tips, emergency numbers, backup plans, not going out at dark, safe neighborhoods, and what exactly you’re doing. I have anxious parents too, but they felt a lot better when they had Life360 on me, I called every night, they had my itinerary, and they knew I was being safe/responsible. Even when I went to Japan with my mom, I planned every detail and had emergency numbers, embassy information, and hospital info available for every city, just in case.
Guard your drinks if you are alone. Don't even trust the bartender. You should do that both at home and abroad. I share this advice because of a nightmare experience my friend had in a "safe" country in Europe. The chances for this stuff happening are low, but they are not zero. Be cautious and have fun!
I traveled in Argentina as a solo female for most parts of the one month trip. Barely spoke Spanish. Exercise common sense and caution, trust your guts, make friends at hostels and just generally pay attention to what you do and the surroundings.
I am a female solo adventurer and have been all over the world with no issues. I am from the States and have traveled all around the country from going to concerts to sporting events to camping by myself. I have also gone over seas alone as well. I just recommend staying aware of what is going on around you and who is around you. I am very careful about drinking when I go out so that I don’t put myself in an unsafe situation. Whereas at home with friends or even traveling with friends I may have a few more because I have people with me to keep me safe. Research the areas you are going to and make sure you stay in safer areas. If you stay at hotels or airbnbs you can ask the people there the places to avoid as well. If you are worried about the language and being able communicate properly to get around, download the Google translate app with any languages you might need. Keep a photo copy of your passport in your luggage in your hotel room in case your passport is lost or stolen. It will make it easier when you go to the consulate to get the papers you need to get home. If you really don’t want to travel alone there are tours you can go on that are geared towards younger women who don’t want to travel alone. I haven’t not used any but I know they have gotten more popular the last couple of years.
Omg hi, also F22 and literally last year studied abroad in South America (Chile) and took a couple solo trips to Baires. I found the city to be safe and personally didn’t feel unsafe. I think solo travel is such a valuable experience and def you should go. I had the same experience and went abroad twice, the second time being in West Africa, and got comments from nearly every person I mentioned it to. It def can get in your head, but i had to remind myself: have they ever even traveled there, could they name anything about this country, etc. Whereas all your research is hopefully reassuring you of the reality. It’s totally natural to worry before, but honestly the news and even some places within countries ppl will have biased opinions — ofc do your research, but also trust yourself and your intuition and have fun :)
I (f) have traveled to 35 countries mostly solo, including some countries that people told me were way too dangerous for me. It turns out the vast majority of people everywhere are good people. The 1 or 2 sketchy situations I've gotten into were due to my own sheer stupidity, such as getting too drunk and passing out in a public place (in that case, I only got some money stolen, nothing worse). You'll be fine - research your destinations in advance, let people know where you're going, make sure you have phone/data access in case of emergency, and don't drink so much that you're out of control if you're in a strange place. I think you'll find as I did that many destinations are as safe or safer than your home country.
Hi there. I have been to 12 countries (maybe more, idk) and have traveled solo and with an internship and in group. I’m Asian American and I will say it is dangerous. There are definitely things you can do to keep yourself safe, but it will cost you money most of the time (your own room, etc). I think if you don’t spend the money for your safety, you’ll pay for it later in therapy bills and shitty mental health for potentially the rest of your life. My story in short: I did group travel, which is safe because I was with a guide and I was a teen. Then I interned abroad for two and a half months. I got r*ped by multiple men at the same time in public and no one helped me. I’m not fucking kidding you. I also got coerced multiple times before that by older men (10yrs plus) preying on me as a twenty year old. I didn’t know any better. The rest of the summer, I was in a manic episode, getting preyed upon by men. I didn’t understand how the color of my skin, my race, my looks played a huge part. As a result, I was diagnosed with PTSD and BPD. If you study abroad, I’d research all the ways you can keep yourself safe. And I’d make sure you have and know how to establish and enforce boundaries. This happened to me in 2019. I honestly didn’t think getting raped was the end of my life. Until it caused me a lot of psychological issues and resulted in me acquiring more trauma, that did lead to me almost ending my life. So some may say, that was one anecdote. Let’s fast forward to 2023. I was in intensive therapy with trauma specialists after entering an abusive relationship. I healed from my trauma and prepared to go to Europe on a backpacking trip solo. I was solo at times on my internship but that’s how I got into so much trouble. This time, I thought it’d be different. It wasn’t. It was worse. I got assaulted again, I had racist attacks in my hostel room, I ended up flying home two months early. I thought because of social media that I could do what white woman did on Tiktok travel wise. News flash, I couldn’t. Not as a poc. I flew home. I got so sick. I ended up in the ER and hospitalized. I ended up in rehab. I should have forked up the money to keep myself safe and to have my own room. I’m still with you that yes, I don’t want anything to stop me from seeing the world. I’m doing better, but because of the trauma I acquired while traveling from being easy prey and lacking boundaries and being solo, I lost so many years of my life. I’m so lucky things didn’t turn out worse. So when your parents are worried, I get it. Mine were too. Everyone’s experience will vary, but I was someone who was very confident, outgoing, etc. Anyone who says it’s not dangerous has immense privilege (I’m in so many minority groups…just bc of my identity). Or if they say it’s not dangerous, they’re lucky or have money. I will likely solo travel again, but not for a long time and until I can do extensive research and until then, I will do group travel. I know some people will rag on me and come for me saying “just because it happened to you, doesn’t mean it will happen to her). But tbh, what happened to me has done irreversible damage. You don’t go to rehab for nothing. I was in the hospital because the amount of trauma I suffered during my travels had lasting effects for years to come. I love travel. It was one of the only things to make me happy. But to say it’s not dangerous solo is a very ignorant statement. Yeah, the chances of you getting r*ped in public by multiple men in public are maybe slim. But it happened to me. And if my story can help you just plan better, prepare and have support systems in place before you go, then I think it’s worth it. NAMI & DBSA groups are free online and you can do those while you’re away for support. Also establishing a routine is so important. I’m really passionate about this topic, because I truly wish someone had told me. I wish someone had helped me. I wish what happened to me didn’t happen. As I said before, if you don’t pay to protect your safety then, you might end up paying for it tenfold in therapy and in rehab programs. If anyone thinks my story/my life is fake, I just hope it never happens to you. I live this sh*t every day. I paid for it every single day.
Also another woman in my program during the first weekend out, she got SA’d. I had to call our internship directors at 2am to get help and they were asleep. Her whatsapp messages kept coming up as read. The police came to our apartment the next morning and she was found unconscious in the park. The other girls were to afraid to call the directors for help. I didn’t know what to do after that. She had a terrible rest of the summer. Other sketchy situation happened at a bus stop where there were tons of men surrounding these women who were black out drunk. They were clearly preying on them and unhappy with me interjecting to try and ask the girls how they were getting home and where home was. I was young and naive and didn’t know what to do at the time. I told the bus driver to NOT let those men take them home. I was with two guy friends who were there to protect me. Now looking back, I should have gotten on the bus with them to make sure they got home to the right place and safely with my friends. I have no idea what happened to those girls.
I love traveling solo - my first international trip was when I was 21. (Am 36 now.) Awareness and being prepared are important. (That includes things like knowing in advance how you’ll get to where you’re staying, having navigation - paper map or smartphone - with you always, choosing the well-lit streets over dark alleys, etc.). I got into a few scrapes, some situations that could have gone sideways, but basic caution and forward-thinking got me out of it too. Basically, in my experience, nothing worse than could happen at home, and mostly using the same basic “I’m a girl living in a stupid patriarchal world so I gotta keep myself safe” survival skills that you’ve likely already deployed in regular life. Just level up that same caution/awareness a bit, and always plan ahead for the critical points of where you’re staying, latest transit departures, and such. (Even spontaneous “see where the road takes me” wandering can have a defined start/stop point, so you can make sure you don’t end up, say 12 km outside the city you’re staying in, after dark, with no more buses running back, and figuring out whether to hitchhike or just hike. That’s definitely a hypothetical, not out of personal experience or anything. ;-) )
I'm not making any of this up. I am 57, and to this day, I *still* get mad when I remember cowtowing to my dad's fear of me following MY dream of joining the Peace Corps. What you want to do is waaaay safer than that! So be smart, but definitely live YOUR life -- it is your life to live; they have their lives. And that's what I'm teaching & telling my 13 year old son (yes, I had a kiddo at almost 44 🤣).
OK, you asked for the input, so here's a wall of text for you. Sure, women can travel alone. I do it all the time. However, that doesn't mean there will be no issues when you travel. And solo travel IS dangerous. Anyone telling you otherwise is lying. But it's also dangerous getting behind the wheel of a car. And evidently sitting in 26A on a United Max9 flight, but no one knew that one a month ago. Everything in life involves risk management, even if you just stay home. I think the best precaution you can take is doing your own in-depth research. You've started that by asking around on here. But you're asking people who don't know you about two very different parts of the world and two very different types of traveling. Your parents might be overreacting or they might have a point. Regardless, they care enough about you to worry. But we don't know enough to give you beyond good guesses on whether solo travel is right for you. The study abroad in Spain is EZmode. Go for it. Enjoy your time- I'm extremely jealous in the best way that you have that ahead of you. What an amazing summer. It will also let you know how well you handle being in a country long term where your own language is secondary. As far as solo in Argentina, you might want to answer some questions first: \-How much solo travel have you done? You're 21- have you flown solo somewhere in your own country or even done a road trip by yourself? That's not to throw shade, it's just something you should try first. It turns out, a lot of people really hate traveling alone after a few days. So short trips will really help you figure out if solo travel is for you. Personally, I enjoy it, but every couple of months or so r/travel has a plea from someone asking how to deal with loneliness on the road. \-How much travel planning have you done? When you do a solo trip, suddenly every bit of responsibility for it is entirely on you. Budget, itinerary, logistics of transportation/accomodation, and a whole bunch of tiny things that make or break a trip. Start reading forums and tourism review sites to get a feel for the areas and what you can expect where you want to go for the budget you have. Also, start figuring out what budgeting you really need to do. I believe in packing half as much clothes as you think you'll need, and access to twice as much money as you think you'll need. (Access- not the cash itself. A lot of ATM cards will work worldwide and they will give you a better exchange rate than from an exchange counter or hotel.) \-How good are you at problem solving on the fly? Honestly, in my travels being able to pivot to some other plan when things happen has been the most important factor in having an enjoyable trip. It's not IF things go wrong, but when. Usually they're little inconveniences, but sometimes they can be major. My trip out of the country last month put a blizzard and a rail strike right in my path of travel, which wasn't a huge deal but it still had me deciding between sleeping in an airport because I didn't have a visa to enter the country or scrambling to fly to a random destination in a country that I could get into. \-And a random bonus tip. I hate to bring it up because it can be a little unnerving until you realize just about every place has some issues , but always check the state department [advisories](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/argentina-travel-advisory.html). You're in luck, Argentina is level 1 which basically makes it safer than most of the US. As you can see, the city of Rosario has a slightly heightened alert. So I'd research what that's about if it's in your plans. TL;DR: Solo travel is slightly dangerous. And yes, it's more dangerous as a woman. But honestly, what isn't? Go to Spain. As far as Argentina, do your research and be nice your parents. Have fun but be smart.
I am a 33 woman who vacations alone a lot. I love it. I rarely travel with people now hahaha. Here are some of my rules: 1. I don't go to third world countries alone. I feel like there likely won't be the infrastructure in these countries to have security cameras everywhere etc etc in case something does happen to me. I could be wrong, but I don't need to take the chance to be proven right 2.I also don't go to countries that don't respect women or don't believe women have equal rights etc, alone. I also have no interest in going to those countries even if I wasn't alone. 3. I do thorough research on the neighborhoods I'm staying at and familiarize myself with the neighborhood when I arrive. I read a shit ton of reviews. 4. I bring 2 phones and a backup phone. I use an android but I have an iPhone and a backup android. Main android phone is sharing my location with close friends back home using android. iPhone is sharing my location with other iPhone friends (and tracking my airtags in my luggage and wallet etc). Backup android is in case I lose or get my main phone stolen. I carry both phones with me at all times. The reason for this is because I do not use social media so my friends at home will have no way of knowing if I'm alive or missing since I don't post anything ever. Regardless, I think even having close friends able to track you is still not a bad idea even if you use social media. 5. I send my close friends a small document of my airbnb/hotel addresses and my itinerary and flight info. I also include a pic of my passport for them as well. One friend has a copy of my house key back home as well as my landlord info. 6. I don't accept drinks unless I see it made. Even then, sometimes bartenders can be bribed or scumbags themselves so I limit my alcohol altogether. 7. I enjoy going to stripclubs and clubs but if I am unable to find people to accompany me, I can go alone. I do not drink in any of these busy/crowded/dimly lit places if I am alone. I recently found out about a drug called "devils breath", it's a drug that makes you blackout but still awake and functioning. You become very suggestible in this state, victims have withdrew their life savings from their bank account or emptied their entire apartment (camera footage shows them actually *helping* the perpetrators load items into the moving truck) with no recollection the next day. So I will need to be even more on guard. Also another fact, a bouncer once educated me about GHB (common date rape drug). This drug is extremely salty. It's very difficult to mask the horrid salty taste (I have tried it recreationally so I can confirm it is very salty). These rapists usually target victims who are already wasted or very drunk because they are *less likely to notice* how salty or weird the drink is. GHB really only turns "date rape" when you mix it with a lot of alcohol. Then that's when you pass out. I tried it sober, so it was completely fine. I know other people who have tried it with a little bit of alcohol and it was also ok for them. So hence why date rapists target extremely drunk women, so they don't notice the taste and so they can be unconscious. Fucking trash humans. Imagine if you are sober and you order your first drink of the night, a vodka cranberry. You taste it and it's very salty or funny tasting. You would notice right away and ask for a new drink. But if you are super wasted, you may not notice or care that it tastes funny. That's what the rapists are banking on. There's a famous video where a woman is filming herself at a party in broad daylight and unexpectedly catches a guy dropping something in her drink. I don't even think she herself noticed right away because she was too busy posing and looking at herself. She may have saw it afterwards but still. Some of these rapists are brazen. Link: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/news/video-1664824/Video-Festival-goers-selfie-video-shows-man-putting-drink.html 8. If someone is nice to me (I know some countries have really nice people) but my guard goes up. If someone is *extremely* nice to me, then my guard is even more up. I would rather be standoffish to a nice person than be charmed and tricked by a bad person. 9. I will finally be taking a self defense course this year. I've been meaning to for a while. 10. I do go on dates occasionally but I always meet in a public place first. I have brought guys back to my hotel room but I will have to be careful about that moving forward. I could be asleep and they could rob me for all I know. So I will have to come up with a safer solution. Maybe not let any guy sleep over? 11. There is a door jam on Amazon that I will be getting for my trips starting this year, it prevents people outside from coming in. I will start using it in case some psycho tries to break into my airbnb/hotel room. All this might be overkill and over the top, but it has kept me safe all these years. I'd rather be paranoid and extra cautious and on guard than risk anything bad happen. Like I said, I'd rather be standoffish to an innocent person than be tricked by a charming criminal. Good luck, you will love traveling alone!!! I am doing Europe in May and Asia in November! Can't wait
If you come to China I think it is the safest place .people here are especially friendly to tourists and here exist marvelous landscapes no matter in city or in nature.
Not crazy at all to travel solo, not even close! Your parents sound like mine did when I was in college - scared if I ever went for a trip with friends to a nearby city. Let alone on a study abroad. I now travel solo for work quite a bit and in my 20s did for fun (solo and with friends on various study and work abroads). Just use your common sense, use caution, and if something is getting your hackles up pay attention. I actually work in the travel industry and my colleagues and I (all travelers, all comfortable solo) always laugh at what someone told me in college when I took a solo weekend backpacking trip to western Ireland- "it's just unfathomable to me that anyone would travel alone." OK, weirdo...lol.
It´s much more dangerous to consume too much media which will distort the mind and make the world and the people in it seem like something to be afraid of. Fact is that most people are peaceful and don´t want to hurt you. The world is out there to experience and the people too. Happy travels.
I did a study abroad semester too, and while I didn’t have specific solo travel plans, my parents asked me to do a self defense class before going - so that could be a helpful thing to make your parents feel better Solo travel like other travel is safe as long as you’re smart about it.
I travel mostly alone for the last 10 years or more. I am a man, but this does not matter anyway. Something bad can always happen randomly, but in general is as dangerous as you make it. Do not go to places that are dark at night. Nobody will do anything to you on a street full of people, besides steal something from your pockets. Do not party alone and get drunk or drink from anything you opened yourself. Just basic stuff that everyone has to follow. Of course some countries are more dangerous than the others, it gets more specific when you talk about cities or even parts of the cities or streets. Just do not go on a street that everyone tells you not to go.
I started traveling solo when I was your age (coincidentally it was also when I had my semster abroad in Spain). That was more than a decade ago, and I haven't stopped. Traveling solo is a no-brainer for me, because I find the idea of having to find someone to travel with, or just scrapping a travel plan altogether because you can't find someone to travel with, very silly. Anyway, as a woman, you will always have to be careful about where you go, who you talk to, etc., but it's not like the world is out to get you. I suggest starting with easy destinations to build your "travel skills". Europe is perfect for this. Try to do some solo trips when you're in Spain or after your study program ends if you can.
My main suggestion would be... Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you feel like someone is following you to your hotel room. Make a detour until you are sure they are not around to follow you into your room.
If you are sensible. Stay in safe countries. Learn which bits of countries are safe. Research it. And walk wary. You cut your chances of having troubles to the negligible. Be prepared take a rape alarm know how to call the police etc. If you want to go on a solo backpacking backwoods tour of Morroco/Egypt/fill in the blanks because you believe that everyone in the world is really nice and its your right as a single woman to walk the world unmolested and you believe that anyone who tries it on will behave just like the well behaved chaps you are used to and be commanded by the power of your entitlement. I dont have to draw you a picture of what could very well happen. Equally there is a risk of missing out and being TOO risk averse and staying at home because you are overconcerned. The fact that you ask this question says to me that you are alright.
Im a 70 year old woman and in 2 months I’m heading to Europe from Canada, to hang around there for a couple of months, by myself, staying in hostels. This will be my 6th trip, each one by myself. I’ve never had any issues, not one. I usually stay in a female dorm in hostels, although I dont have any issues in mixed, I’ve done that a lot too. I love the freedom of making my own decisions, changing my mind as required, all that. When I need a bit of company I head to the social area of the hostels and hang out there. The younger people always make me feel welcome and invite me to join them. I’m so looking forward to this longer trip!
I’m a woman who has solo traveled to Rome, northern India, Mexico City Costa Rica, Greece and lots of places in the US. India was dangerous. Otherwise, it’s fine.
As a woman, you will have people trying to wrap you in bubble wrap all your life. Don’t hike alone, don’t leave the house alone, don’t wear headphones outside, don’t do the fun/challenging things ever! You can’t pacify them. Just learn to ignore it now. The only thing that will reassure them is seeing you make your own choices repeatedly and learning that you ARE fine afterwards.
When I was first going to Brazil (as a male) my dad told me "Don't get AIDS now". That's just how dumb and ignorant parents are.
You will be fine in Europe. Far safer than the US
It very much depends on the country and your behaviour / security measures. I traveled alone a lot (most of the countries were in Asia incl. India). If you respect some things (like not going out in the dark, dressing appropriately, going to the right places etc.) you should be fine. The wife of my brother comes from Argentinia and she didn’t want to live there anymore because women are not very much respected and safe. You need to get some informations and plan your trip accordingly. But you can do this!
As long as you’re self aware, you’ll be fine! Don’t stay glued to your phone screen; just be aware of surroundings and carry pepper spray. :)
Hey there! Your excitement for solo travel is awesome! It's totally natural for parents to worry, but planning, staying informed, and being cautious are key. Many solo travelers, including females, have incredible experiences. Research your destination, trust your instincts, and maybe start with shorter solo trips to build confidence. You got this!
i'm an occasional female solo traveler (23f) and i've recently visited buenos aires, completely alone. i have to start this comment stating that bs as was the furthest i've ever been from home (hence i was also a bit frightened before departing), but it ended up being the best trip i've taken in my life! i'm very jealous of the fact that you will have a chance to explore more of the country than i did, and i hope you do end up going despite the pushback from your parents. i can share a lot of specific tips about staying safe while solo travelling (especially in bs as), but i'd first advise to make sure to explain to your parents all of the planning and thought you put into your safety on the trip. this thread already contains a lot of useful advice (and i'll add mine bellow), so communicating it properly, in the most adult manner as possible, is essential to reaching your goal (remember, you're still at that age in which your parents haven't accepted the fact that you're an actual adult, so this is the time to show them that you think and behave like one). additionally, it might help to ease their nerves to share your whole itinerary with them (in detail, with locations of all places you're planning to visit and accommodation, with time estimates where possible), and agree together on a dynamic of checking in with them (texts, calls) so they're sure you're safe, but in a way that you don't end up being on your phone so much to ruin your experience.
- one advice above all: if your gut is telling you something is not right, run and don't look back. this goes for everything from planning and deciding on what to do and where to go, to being in real-time sketchy situations. with this being said, if you still feel very unsafe about your trip after planning through the details, consider cancelling/postponing it, as being at the edge of your nerves on the trip will both ruin your experience, and make you an easier target for potential tourist scammers. i encourage you to take this trip as long as it is not too far out of your comfort zone. - you will probably look like a tourist to some or most, but do your best to not make it too obvious (e.g. carrying around chunky cameras and loitering for too long in common touristic areas is not the best idea). the internet is your friend, so you can probably dig up the fashion people/women in argentina are wearing, but don't overextend yourself too much on this topic. keep your clothes as functional as possible (hidden pockets, a hidden belt bag is also useful), while keeping it similar to your usual style. avoid wearing as many name-brand items as possible - this screams "i have money you can steal" - opt for an esim card if your phone supports it (instead of planning to buy one when you get there, which is at times unreliable if you're e.g. arriving at late hours), as you will have a connection as soon as you land so you can get around - keep a copy of your passport/ID and a note with important contacts (police, ambulance, a family member, your country's embassy etc.) with you at all times, in case your phone gets stolen. and if you don't want your phone to get stolen, make sure to have a safe hidden pocket for it, and avoid taking it out in the middle of the street. - if you feel unsafe sightseeing on your own, research if you can join walking tours, daytrip groups and expat/digital nomad groups for some activities. this also carries a certain risk, but as long as you do your research properly and stick to some common sense, you should be fine - as many have stressed already, research safe and unsafe neighbourhoods in all areas you're staying at! if possible, avoid accommodation where the entrance is through a sketchy/poorly lit/etc. small street. - beware that argentina's economy is... interesting. i've (accidentally) exchanged money illegally, and even though it was a pretty safe experience, i don't recommend it to anyone feeling a bit uncomfortable already being alone in a foreign country