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NYC Solo Travel: Local’s Guide to Traveling Alone in NYC

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2024

Categories New York City

I get it. Some NYC solo travel ideas kind of suck. I mean, no one wants to watch a bunch of couples slobbering all over each other when they’re trying to find fun things to do alone in NYC. Am I right?

Okay, maybe it’s just me. And maybe I’m super bitter but still. Some activities are just better for solo travelers than others.

So if you are biting the bullet and going it solo in New York City, then I’ve got some epic solo date ideas in NYC for you!

So, here is a super savvy local’s guide that is filled with expert tips on all of the absolute best things to do alone in NYC. This way, you can get awesome ideas for your next solo date in NYC. 

And just so that you’re extra prepared for your New York solo travel experience, I’m going to:

• Answer all your most pressing questions about NYC solo travel
• Talk all about safety when you solo travel NYC
• Introduce you to all of the best things to do alone in New York City
• Tell you how to meet people in NYC
• Give you insider tips on where to eat alone in NYC
• Introduce you to the best hotels for NYC solo travel
• Share expert tips on how to get around while you solo travel NYC. 
• And so much more!

So buckle up because it’s gonna be one hella awesome ride (read long) as we swan dive into all things NYC solo travel. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my  disclosure  for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Where do Singles Meet In NYC?

Okay, so if you’re doing a bit of NYC solo travel and are looking for love in all the wrong, I mean right, places, then there are a ton of different ways to meet other NYC singles. 

Obviously, you could try dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and OKCupid. Just do yourself a solid and be totally clear about what you’re looking for prior to the start of the date.

Because regardless of whether you’re looking to date, hook up, or live out all of your juiciest Sex and the City fantasies, NYC is the place for you. 

However, you could always go the more traditional, non-tech route and meet someone at a bar. Because some of the best singles bars in NYC include:

• Salsa Con Fuego, Fordham Mainor, Bronx
• Judy and Punch, Astoria, Queens
• Le Bain at The Standard, Meatpacking District, Manhattan
• The Jane Ballroom, The Jane Hotel, West Village, Manhattan
• The Village Tavern, West Village, Manhattan
• Mr. Purple, Lower East Side, Manhattan
• Pianos, Lower East Side, Manhattan
• House of Yes, Bushwick, Brooklyn (closed right now but should open again soon)
• Union Pool, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
• Mood Ring, Bushwick, Brooklyn
• Ginger’s Bar, Park Slope, Brooklyn

How do I Meet People in NYC?

So, if you’re looking to solo travel New York City and want to make friends along the way – or are worried that you might get lonely – then never fear because NYC is here to meet ALL your solo travel needs. 

Because there are a ton of interesting and totally unique groups of people in NYC that are just waiting to be friends with someone like you. You just need to know where to go and what to do because trying to make friends with a Wall Street trader at 2:00 pm on a Tuesday is a total no go since we’re (the collective NYC “we”) busy people and generally don’t; have time for small talk while we’re on the go. 

But, if you’d like to make friends with someone who is a whole lot less busy than anyone in the financial district, then you might want to try:

• NYC Meetups on Reddit or  Meetup.com  – Regardless of your interests, there is a group of people in NYC that are meeting up to do something you LOVE. So, if you’re into films, running, clubs, board games, or just want to hang out, there is a meetup for you. FYI, there’s also a super chil, ongoing, Reddit-related meet-up that is held on Tuesdays at 7:00 pm at Peculiar Pub in Greenwich Village. 
• Couchsurfing  – I’m not a huge fan but I know TONS of people who swear by Couchsurfing. I’ve also heard that the NYC community is pretty active and is happy to give weary travelers free accommodations or host social events where you can meet people who share similar interests. 
• Join a Tour –  Honestly, I’ve to meet SOO many different people just by joining a group tour.  Because 9 times out of 10 people are on vacay, are super happy to meet you, and are even more curious about why you decided to solo travel NYC. Plus, they might be kind of sick of their travel partner and only too happy to connect with someone new. 

Is New York Safe?

Hell yeah, New York is safe! I know it kind of gets a bad reputation for being this rough and tough city where everyone’s out to get you but it’s really not (trust me, the NYC of your nightmares – a la the 80s and early 90s – is long gone). 

I mean, I’ve traveled to well over thirty different countries, have lived all over the world, have visited countless cities, and still consider NYC to be one of the safest cities in the USA, even today. 

That’s why, if you’re considering NYC solo travel then definitely go for it since NYC is a safe place to travel alone. 

But if you’re at all worried about traveling alone in NYC, you can check out this  NYC safety guide  and follow some of my fave safety tips below!

• Use Common Sense  – Seriously, staying safe while you NYC solo travel is pretty easy if you do what you would do in any major city. So, always be aware of your surroundings, always keep an eye on your personal belongings, and stay off your phone so that you can actually SEE WTH is going on around you. 
• Be Vigilant in Crowds  – if there’s a crowded place in NYC, then chances are that pickpockets are there too. Therefore, always be mindful of your belongings (especially on subways, in crowds watching street performers, and in touristy areas) and try to carry a crossbody bag that you carry in front of you and zip closed.
• Don’t Carry All Your Valuables  – Again, this is common sense and something you should do in any major city. But, try not to carry all your cash/credit cards around with you. Instead, bring only what you need for the day and then leave everything else back in the safe at your hotel. You also don’t need cash since almost everywhere you might want to go definitely accepts credit cards. 
• Be Mindful of Your Drinking  – Yup, more common sense info but it’s easy to get more than a little tipsy at Happy Hours and bottomless brunches where you want to drink fast and “get your money’s worth”. But, if you’re traveling alone in NYC and are new to the city, then you definitely don’t want to make yourself vulnerable to predators since your inhibitions are greatly reduced when you’re wasty pants. So, pace yourself and always let your hotel know where you’re going and when to expect you back. This way, if the worst should happen, they’ll know to alert the authorities. 
• Watch Out for Ovetly Friendly Strangers  – Yeah, most people in NYC are more or less in a constant rush. Therefore, if someone is super friendly and taking time to tell you a really long story then that’s a BIG red flag (danger, danger Will Robinson). Chances are it’s a scam, they’re trying to sell you something, or they want you to give them money. So, feel free to walk away, say you don’t have cash, or tell them you’re in a hurry. 
• Walk Fast and Keep Your Eyes Straight Ahead  – I’m gonna be real with you, there are a lot of CRAZY people in NYC. So, you’re traveling alone in NYC and see some acting crazy or shouting for no reason, don’t stare. Instead, walk fast and look straight ahead, and act as if you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, even if you’re not. 
• Don’t Give Money to Panhandlers  – While some of these people are probably in need, most of them are scammers and don’t deserve your money. So, if you want to help the less fortunate, consider making a donation to a reputable organization instead, like the Coalition for the Homeless. 
• Keep an Eye Out for the Exit  – If there’s an emergency you always want to know how to quickly and easily leave. 

Where Can I Stay Alone in NYC?

There are a ton of  amazing areas to stay in NYC , so much so that I actually have an entire article about it with expert hotel recs for you to check out. 

However, if you’re short on time and are looking for a quick list of the best areas to stay alone in NYC, then you might want to try the East Village, the West Village, Long Island City Queens, the Upper East Side, Park Slope Brooklyn, and the Upper West Side, just to name a few. 

Regardless of where you stay though, try to be within a 15-minute walk of the nearest subway station.

This way, you can avoid walking around alone at night for prolonged periods of time (you also might want to consider grabbing an Uber if you’re going back to your hotel late at night while you solo travel NYC). 

What are the Best Things to do Alone in NYC?

There are tons of amazing things to do alone in NYC, which is why I have devoted an entire section of this post to his very subject. But, if you’re looking for some cool solo date ideas in NYC , you can try:

• Check out the used books at Strand Bookstore
• Admire the Morgan Library and Museum
• Explore the MET (aka the Metropolitan Museum of Art)
• Do a street food tour of Queens
• Hop on the Staten Island Ferry
• Check out a Broadway Show
• Spend the day at the Spa
• Visit Governors’ Island
• And more! 

Big Mistakes to Avoid When You Solo Travel New York

This section is just a giant list of the most common mistakes that tourists make when visiting New York or as they solo travel NYC.

So, avoid doing anything on this list like the plague, and be sure to check out my full list of  local NYC travel tips  before your next visit the Big Apple.  

• Avoid Empty Subway Cars  – If there’s a totally empty subway car on a busy, Saturday morning then chances are there is something wrong with it and you should NOT go inside it. It’s usually something mundane like the AC isn’t working but someone also might have gotten sick in there and that is something you absolutely want NO part of. 
• Stay in a Place that Makes You Feel Safe  – Look, I know hotels in NYC are hella expensive and it might be tempting to stay in a shady neighborhood where rooms are much cheaper, but do what makes you feel comfortable. So, if that means staying in a more expensive hotel in a better area or calling an Uber to get you back to your hotel late at night, do it. Because feeling safe is WAY more important than saving a few dollars. 
• Be Respectful of the Fact that New Yorkers are Always in a Rush  – Yeah, we’re busy people. So, don’t bombard us with 10,000 questions or ask us for directions while we’re hurriedly walking down the street. Instead, ask someone at a tourist facility who has all the time in the world to answer all of your questions. And if you do need something, keep your question and convo short, sweet, and to the point. 
• Don’t Stop in the middle of the Sidewalk  – Do this and someone will 110% crash right into you. Instead, pull over to the side and do what you need to do. Also, don’t be a slow walker and walk as quickly as possible while on the streets of New York.
• Have Your Credit Card in Hand and be Ready to Pay  – The quickest way to get New Yorkers to HATE you when you solo travel NYC is to get to the cashier and then spend precious time rummaging around in your bag for your wallet. Instead, have your cash and/or credit card in your hand, ready to go. This way, you can quickly pay once you get to the check-out counter. Also, leave as soon as the transaction is complete so that someone else can step up to the counter. Yup, we New Yorkers are always in a huge rush. 
• You Don’t NEED to be Nice to Everyone  – Look, this is NYC. So, chances are pretty high that someone is gonna make you feel uncomfortable at some point during your trip. If this is the case, you do not need to be kind. You owe them nothing, Just get out of the situation or firmly let someone know that what they’re doing is not OKAY. Because regardless of who this person si, they have no right to make you feel ill at ease. 

20+ Amazing Things to do Alone in NYC

Guess what? NYC is commonly referred to as the city that never sleeps for a REASON. Because regardless of the day and time, there are ALWAYS a ton of amazing things to do alone in NYC. 

And although I only have time and space to share 20+ of my favorite things to do alone in NYC, this city definitely has a ton more to offer. 

So, if you want even more ideas about what to do when you solo travel NYC, then be sure to check out my  ultimate NYC bucket list  to get even more inspiration. 

1. Strand Bookstore

My life motto for the New York solo female traveler? Why talk to people when you can read a book?

Alright, that is a HORRIBLE life motto. Some people are without a doubt, absolutely awesome. I just love walking into Strand and practically frolicking through the endless stacks of used books.

Three Floors of Total Bookish Wonder!

So add this store to your itinerary when planning a solo trip to NYC. Plus, they have killer souvenirs like t-shirts that proclaim, “A well-read woman is a dangerous thing”. I mean really, do shirts get much better than this? The only answer to this question is no, they do not.

I could literally spend an entire day in  Strand Bookstore ! Just don’t forget to hop on the elevator and make your way to the third floor, where all the super cool and super vintage, rare, first edition books lie. Truly an amazing place to stand in awe of the enduring power of the written word.

Pro Tip:  Strand is right near West Tenth street,  the Flat Iron Building, and Washington Square Park. So these are just some of the other sites that you can check out while exploring this part of the city.

2. Morgan Library and Museum

Can you tell I have a thing for books? Weird ,  I know, but this place is even more amazing than Strand.

Just picture the library in Beauty and the Beast and you’ll have an idea of just how magical this vastly underrated library really is.

I mean, how can you not love a place that publicly displays a Guttenberg Bible and an original composition by Mozart? Throw in some stunning, historic architecture and you’ll have an amazing place to visit when you solo travel NYC.

Because while you’re here, you’ll never feel alone because you’re not really supposed to talk in libraries anyway.

Also, admission to the Morgan Library and Museum can be a bit pricey, like $25 pricey. So since you’re alone and don’t have anyone to split the cost of a hotel with, why not visit between 7 pm and 9 pm on a Friday?

Not only is admission free, but you’ll be able to experience a live jazz performance too! Yup, book nerd paradise found.

3. The Met (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Yes, this place really is the proverbial holy grail of Museums in New York City ! Plus, between the MET on 5th Avenue and the Cloisters, you could literally spend several days here, taking in all the magnificent artifacts that call the MET home (can I call the MET home? Pretty Please!)

But even if you LOATHE museums, the MET is still totally epic and a must-see! Sure, the MET is a traditional museum, but it is also so much more, in a totally non-cliched way.

Because in addition to the museum itself, they also have a rooftop bar that provides you with gorgeous views of Central Park and well, the entire city.

You can also sit and enjoy some live piano music at the cafe that overlooks the main entrance (basically where the photo below was taken).

Before you leave though, do not miss the Temple of Dendur! This Egyptian period temple (literally a whole temple that was just plopped, boop, into the City) is one of the most photogenic places in New York City.

Just try and beat the crowds by going on a weekday or as early as possible on a weekday or weekend. Also pre-book your tickets now so that you don’t have to spend hours waiting in line (yes, you read that correctly, hours). 

Pro Tip: Since the MET is located on the East side of Central Park, definitely visit Central Park, the Frick Collection, the Guggenheim, and Albertine French bookstore while you’re here. Also, just a friendly reminder that the MET is no longer a pay what you wish museum (womp, womp, womp). Only residents of New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, who present a valid id, can use the pay what you wish option. 

4. The Seaglass Carousel

Feel like being a kid again without schlepping all the way to Coney Island? Then why not catch a ride on the sea glass carousel a magical place that truly stands out amidst the natural flora of Battery Park.

For just $5 you can hop aboard an internally, LED illuminated fish, that swirls and twirls its way around the Nautilus-shaped building, creating a sense of awe and wonder in visitors of all ages.

Why the fish theme? Apparently, Park designers wanted to add something light, bright, and totally fun to the rather drab park interior. They chose fish because the park was the first home of the New York Aquarium (Boom! You can use that nugget of knowledge to win the final round of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire).

What, feeling a little blue because the ride is over? Well, never fear because this carousel is located in the one and only Battery Park.

Therefore, there are all sorts of things to do alone in NYC here. So, hop on the Staten Ferry and catch a glimpse of Lady Liberty, visit Ellis Island, walk over to Wall Street, or explore the nearby Irish Hunger Memorial (a truly moving monument that is well worth a visit).

5. Get Lost on West 10th Street 

Tucked away amongst the hustle and bustle of the Lower West Side, there lies a quaint neighborhood with a charm and character that is almost completely absent from New York City.

A place that you probably won’t find in any solo travel NYC guidebook .  A place where charmingly historic and insanely exquisite townhouses dominate the urban landscape.

Buildings that are adorned with a diverse assortment of botanical life; plants that help remind you that New York City really can expertly intertwine the beauty of manmade and natural structures.

Coming here, you will be transported into a bizarre world where the dirt, grime, and total chaos of New York City are almost completely absent.

A true gem of a street that you can use to walk Uptown, towards the Flat Iron building and the Empire State Building, in case you need a little more proverbial spice in your life.

6. Check out some great views and street art in DUMBO

Dumbo was once a heinous beast of a neighborhood!

But times they are a changing”! Now, formerly gross, centers of industry have been transformed into trendy, hipsters hotspots, I’m actually not quite sure I’m hip enough to hang out here but whatevs.

So, between the gorgeous street art that decorates the walls of these cobblestone streets, the stunning views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, and the unique retail stores, you may never want to leave!

Before you leave this neighborhood though, here is the best to-do list ever:

• Grab an ice cream at the fireboat house
• Listen to some music on the historic barge
• Walkthrough Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Ride the historic Jane’s Carousel
• Read a book at Powerhouse Arena
• Grab a slice of pizza at Juliana’s
• Take in a show at St. Ann’s Warehouse.
• Go shopping at some cheap stores in NYC

I know it’s a lot but let’s be real, you’re in the city that never sleeps. So did you actually expect to sleep? Exactly!

Pro Tip: Since you’re here anyway, I suggest taking the 6 to the last stop, City Hall. From here, you can easily access and walk along the Brooklyn Bridge, taking in some of the most enchanting views in the entire city.

7. Visit the Old City Hall Station

Okay, so technically speaking, t his activity isn’t entirely, 100% legal so if anyone asks, I never told you to do this.

But as you’ve probably heard, the former City Hall station is insanely gorgeous (so basically totally different from the nasty one we use now. Double yuck for sure).

Anyway, t he real question is, how can you sneak a peek at this marvelous, architectural wonder as you solo travel NYC?

Well, you could nab some rather expensive tickets from the Transit Museum, or you can do as the locals do and basically duck down, hide, and stay on the 6 train past the final stop at City Hall.

Why does this work? Well, the train actually has to turn around and pass the old City Hall station, before making its way back Uptown.

Therefore, why not take advantage of this fact and see this historic station for yourself? Glad we agree on this.

8. Check out some Cheesy Goodness at Murray’s

If you don’t like cheese, I don’t think we can be friends.

No really, unless you’re lactose intolerant, I just cannot fathom how any human CANNOT appreciate the salty, rich, and creamy goodness that is cheese.

Okay, I’ll still be your friend but only because I can eat all of your cheese.

Trust me, this is a sacrifice that I am willing to make.

But on a mildly serious note:

This artisanal cheese shop and specialty food retailer is quite literally the holy grail of cheese shops for any and all cheese lovers in New York City.

Not only is their cheese some of the best in the world, but they have more types of cheese than I ever thought possible.

I thought a store that sold Muenster, Swiss, and Cheddar had a great cheese selection. But this store sells so many cheese varieties that you feel like you’ve died and gone to cheese eutopia.

But I promise it’s real and Not some New York City-induced mirage!

So put on your comfy pants and try some fan faves like the truffle brie, Murray’s Cavemaster Reserve Hollander Special Edition, Cypress Grove Truffle Tremor, the Fourmage Gouda, the Bleu Mont dairy bandaged cheddar, and like ten thousand more.

***With locations in Grand Central Terminal and Greenwich Village, it’s pretty easy to make any and all of your cheese fantasies come true. 

9. Stand under the stars at Grand Central

I always forget that Grand Central Terminal is actually one of the better NYC attractions! I say this because I have taken the train into and out of Grand Central so many times, that I completely forget about the architectural beauty of this building.

Truly an enchanting place in NYC and one of the many great things to do alone in NYC 

Because between the historic architecture, the gorgeous blue ceiling – studded with twinkling constellations – and a stunning array of delicious and relatively cheap food options , Grand Central station is probably one of the best attractions in NYC.

Did I mention that tours are offered too? Yup, just nab an audio guide, between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm, seven days a week, from the Tours office in Graybar Passage,

They cost a mere $9 for adults and $7 for kids and are a fantastic way to better understand both the history and architectural nuances of this iconic New York City edifice.

Pro Tip: Now for the important stuff, FOOD! Magnolia Bakery, Shake Shack, the Oyster Bar, Zaro’s, Jacques ice cream and chocolate, and Murray’s Cheese are only some of the amazing food options available in Grand Central. So get your grub on. But you already know that since this is NYC and you’re gonna solo travel New York City like a boss!

10. Grab a Bagel at Ess-A-Bagel

Almost nothing is as New York as a bagel! That’s why failing to eat one as you solo travel NYC is basically like a crime against humanity.

Therefore, to stay in the good graces of the entire city, and probably the world, it’s best that you ingest one of these carborific creations while you’re in town.

But the question remains, where should I go? I mean, there is a bagel place on almost every street corner. And they all seem pretty reasonably priced, so it can be challenging to find a good bagel shop.

Well, let me tell you, I have been eating New York bagels since birth, and the one and only bagel place that I will EVER wait online at is Ess-a-bagel. Not only are their bagels amazing but their specialty sandwiches and cream cheeses are out of this world (I didn’t know chocolate chip cream cheese was a thing until I came here).

So put on a pair of sweatpants, grab $5, and hop in line for a bagel that carb lover dreams are made of (Go at like 2 pm and there won’t be a line).

When I go, I always get a toasted cinnamon raisin bagel with chocolate chip cream cheese (I tried it with strawberry cream cheese but the chocolate chip is better). I know it sounds weird but it is honestly one of the best bagels that I have ever had.

Pro Tip: Don’t think you can muster up the energy to eat a whole bagel alone? Or want to try more than one bagel flavor without feeling like a bloated whale? Then head over to Bantum Bagels in Greenwich Village. This bagel place offers an assortment of bite-sized, bagel flavors that are filled with a variety of different cream cheese options. Just grab a Bantum Bagel 6 pack so that you can try a bunch of flavors while you’re on the go. This way, you can expertly avoid awkwardly eating alone. 

11. Visit the New York City Public Library 

I call this home! Okay, not really since I’m not homeless but you get the idea. This place is practically the book mecca of the WORLD.

True story! Because with a copy of the Gutenberg Bible, and a set of the iconic stuffed animals that inspired the author of Winnie the Pooh, it’s easy to understand why the New York Public Library is one of the great things to do in NYC alone.

But it gets better. Between the gorgeous reading rooms (that are a great place for an Instagram photo op) and the exciting rotating exhibits in the Library Museum, you could definitely spend an entire day here.

Added bonus? Depending on what kind of pop culture maven you are, you might remember this building as the place where Big and Carrie were going to get married in the first, less awful, Sex and the City movie.

Yes Grasshopper, so much to see and so little time. Sorry, I just had to get all Karate Kid up in here. 

CUTEST COFFEE EVER!

Not only is there a super Instagramable, neon sign that reads, “sweet moment”, but this Chinatown coffee, tea, and dessert Mecca (think Bingsoo, waffles, cake, ice cream, etc.) are well decorated and spacious too. So no worries, you won’t have to sit on anyone’s lap just to get a seat.

But, if I’m honest, you’re not here for the coffee but for the most adorable tea art that I’ve ever seen!

Huh? Okay, the beverage art aka “cream art” is served as a cold brew, coffee, or black tea that comes in such funky flavors as chocolate, matcha, taro, and red velvet; all served with milk and some whipped cream on top.

My verdict? The drinks are yummy but super sweet. So honestly, the real draw here is that you can take a picture of a latte that looks like the cutest little bear that you ever did see.

But you know what they say? I did it all for the solo travel NYC gram. Oh God, I’m turning into a social media-obsessed, self-involved Millennial! Ahh, the horror! W-T-F? Wait, Brb, I’m totes upset.

12. Go on a Burroughs of the Dead Tour

We all know I’m weird and have some morbid fascination with all things that go bump in the night.

But, you know you’re onto something good when locals make up about 80 – 85% of your clientele. And Boroughs of the Dead is epically good.

Led by expert storytellers , t hese badass tour guides have thoroughly researched the darkly unusual history of New York City. And the result is amazing. tours that give you a true sense of dread as they reveal a chilling reality that is scarier than fiction.

Depending on the time of year, Boroughs of the Dead offers an exciting assortment of tours in each of the five boroughs, each with a different meeting point and ending location, depending on the borough you are in.

For the borough of Manhattan, t our options include the Ultimate Greenwich Village Ghost Tour, Weird Tales of the West Village, and The Forgotten Dark Histories of Lower Manhattan (Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door, with tours running for about two hours).

So go now! Now go! Whatever just get your ass there because it’s super fun and one of the best things to do alone in NYC. No really! Okay, I’ll cease and desist. 

13. Grab some coffee at Porto Rico Importing Co.

Throwback! Because this insanely amazing coffee company has been around since 1907!

And it really looks like the store hasn’t changed much since then, besides the use of electricity obviously. 

The entire store has this historic feel since they use open old-school potato sacks that are filled to the brim with whole coffee beans. Each bag also comes fully equipped with an enormous metal coffee scoop that you use to stock up on the coffee beans of your choice.

Plus, the staff are insanely helpful and know exactly what they’re talking about when helping you choose the perfect coffee roast for your NYC solo travel life. 

But what if you want a coffee to go? No problem! In between the shelves of coffee beans, and other coffee-related paraphernalia lies a small espresso bar in the back of the store.

Here you can procure the perfect cappuccino or other, expresso-related beverage of your choice. They don’t offer to seat though so make sure that coffee is to go.

And did I mention? They also sell super cool, super quirky bags that I almost bought impulsively. You know, bags that I don’t actually need but that say super inspirational things like, “I’m a delicate f@!cking flower!”.

Now you understand why my financial struggle is real!

14. Read a Book in Bryant Park

No one in the world is shocked to see this iconic, New York City park on this list of things to do alone in NYC, but whatever.

Just because this place is one of the most well-known and best attractions in NYC, doesn’t make it any less awesome.

Plus, this fantastic park is centrally located, right near Times Square, the New York Public Library, the Morgan Library, and Grand Central Terminal. So clearly there are a lot of cool things to do in New York, in a rather tiny area.

Therefore, before you leave Midtown, make sure to check out this delightful green space. Because between the ping pong table, the public lending library, and a kiosk that sells Chocolate Babka from Breads Bakery (one of the most amazing places to eat in New York), Bryant Park should be at the top of your list of places to explore in NYC.

Oh, I almost forgot! Bryant Park has a quaint little carousel that truly makes you feel like a kid again. Just do yourself a favor and don’t hoover a delicious waffle from Waffle and Dinges, right before you ride on this piece of childhood nostalgia. Nobody needs nausea in their life. No bueno indeed.

Pro Tip: If you solo travel NYC during the winter, Bryant Park is transformed into a lovely Christmas Market that has a fantastic ice skating rink that is less crowded and more reasonably priced than Rockefeller Center.

15. Grab a cup of coffee at Pietro Nolita

Not only is the coffee at Pietro coffee delicious, but…it is served in a to-go cup that says, “Pink as F@$k.” Yup, it’s as amazing as it sounds. Plus, there is bright pink splattered across every inch of the restaurant.

Therefore, between the kickass to-go cup and the insanely beautiful decor, this place really is an Instagrammer’s paradise. Just be forewarned that they open at around 11 am on Saturdays. So don’t get there super early and skulk around like me.

One more thing! Don’t feel weird walking in and asking for a cool ass, “to go” cup of coffee. Trust me, the staff are nice and know exactly what you want and why.

16. Read under the stars in Albertine

You’re probably wondering what Albertine is. right?

Is it some ritualistic, tourist sacrifice that is held for all those who solo travel NYC? Thankfully no (New Yorkers are nuts but not THAT nuts). It’s actually a French  American bookstore on 5th Avenue ( right across the street from the MET). Super exciting right?

Okay, you might be thinking, “Lame, I don’t even speak French! What the hell?”

Well, believe it or not, you’re not actually here for the books, even though they have a great selection \ to choose from. Nope, you’re here because this store is unlike any other bookstore you have ever seen.

I mean, you have to pass through a metal detector just to get into the store, which has an impressive, white marble atrium with gorgeous statues and exquisite column work that all welcome you into this historic space.

It honestly feels more like a royal residence than a bookstore. And once inside, walk upstairs and lookup. Because on the ceiling of the second floor, you’ll find a stunning kaleidoscope of stars and constellations that are set against a vibrant blue ceiling; a scene that is beautifully reminiscent of Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Plus it’s free so you have literally nothing to lose, except maybe the calorie you burned walking upstairs

17. Walk Along the Highline

Chances are, you’ve heard of the Highline, a former railway track that was turned into a super fab, elevated park that basically everyone descends upon during the weekends in the summer.

Therefore, to avoid feeling like you’re in a herd of cattle, I highly suggest visiting during the week. This way, you can check out the amazing views and beautiful street art of the Highline, without people practically smelling your armpits.

Okay, that was totally gross but you know what I mean. Anyway, besides walking the Highline, you can also play some games at Chelsea Piers, eat your face off at Chelsea Market, enjoy a show at the Highline Ballroom, hang out on the roof of the Whitney Museum of American Art, or get your laugh on at Upright Citizens Brigade Theater.

Talk about a lot of tourist attractions in NYC huh? I feel ya. Before I went, I really just thought that all you could do was walk along a former railway track, amidst a herd of mildly annoying people. Glad I was super wrong, per usual.

Pro Tip: The High Line runs from Hudson Yards to Chelsea, so just take the 1 or C train to the 23rd street station and walk up to Tenth Avenue. 

18. Visit the Oculus and World Trade Center

As a New Yorker who lived through the turmoil of 9/11, this one is a tough subject for me.

Yeah, visiting the memorial is always emotional, and it took me YEARS to visit the 9/11 Museum –  amazing and extremely well done but definitely a difficult place to visit. 

Therefore, although I do think visitors should experience both of these places, for me, it’s better for my emotional well-being if I head straight to the Oculus, a subterranean mall that is a true marvel of modern architecture.

FYI, this building is also a transportation hub for trains going into and out of the World Trade Center. Yup, probably one of my favorite buildings to visit and photograph.

I mean, even an incompetent photographer like me can somehow manage to take decent pictures of the Occulus. So head on over and visit this gorgeous building first hand as you solo travel NYC; a poignant combination of beautiful architecture with the sorrow of 9/11.

Pro Tip: As you can imagine, this area can get rather crowded, so the earlier you visit, the better. But this building is huge so even when it’s crowded, you don’t actually start feeling claustrophobic. 

19. Go to a Meow Parlour Cat Cafe

So unless you’re living in some sort of alternate universe where you are exposed to absolutely no pop culture trends, then you know that cat cafes are totally a “thing”.

As a result, I hopped aboard the pop culture bandwagon since I’m a wannabe “social media influencer”. Actually, as much as I loathe conforming to the masses, It was a pretty fun experience. I got to pet a ton of kitties and act like I was some sort of wannabe, Dr. Dolittle, in the process.

Plus, all the kitties are up for adoption so this café actually helps these kitties find some loving homes (Insert coos of approval here).

But how does it work? Just go online and make a reservation for a 30-minute time slot. And when you arrive just check in at the front desk, sign a waiver, take your shoes/coat off, go over the rules, and sanitize your hands.

Next step? Say hello to kitty paradise. Chill out, order some food, pet some cats, and live the dream for about a half-hour while you enjoy some of the best things to do alone in NYC . Just keep track of the time because they won’t remind you when your half an hour is up. And if you go over your time limit, you’ll be charged another $10.

But, It’s for a good cause and a unique way to enjoy the eclectic cafe culture of NYC.

20. Enjoy A Ride On Staten Island Ferry

There are loads of amazing things to do alone in NYC. If you do get tired of wandering around the city and looking at countless highrises, taking a ride on the Staten Island ferry is a must. For one, it gives you a lovely vantage point to see NYC from afar. Plus it is the perfect opportunity to get some great photographs of the NYC skyline. 

The ferry to Staten Island is pretty peaceful and should take you about 30 minutes to make it across. Did you know that there is no need to buy tickets? Yup! The Staten Island ferry is a service that is provided by the city of New York absolutely free of cost. So if you are looking for budget things to do alone in NYC, this definitely should make your list! I mean it is free after all!

Pro Tip: Once you get to Staten island you will probably be hungry. All that bobbing on the ferry will do that to you! Head to Enoteca Maria which is an epic Italian restaurant. The highlight of this is all the Nonnas. For those of you who don’t know what that means, nonna is the Italian word for grandmother. Enoteca Maria is special because the food is cooked by Italian grandmothers. 

21. See a Broadway Show

I am a HUGE theater lover and truly feel that you cannot solo travel NYC without seeing at least one Broadway or off-Broadway show. 

Because even if you’re not into musicals in the traditional sense, I pinkie promise that there is still a Broadway show out there that will eb perfect for you (Umm…can you say The Book of Mormon?).

And while I know you may think that Broadway shows are expensive, but they’re really not. Just use the TodayTix app to quickly and easily get 50% or more off your next purchase. 

Also, if you’re not 100% sure what to see, The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Wicked, and Chicago are also classics that pretty much everyone will love (Aladdin is also great for kids). 

Other iconic shows are Dear Evan Hansen (a poignant production about difficult topics. A really beautiful and thought provoking show. Also not for kids), Come From Away (moving and really uplifting about people who were stranded after 9/11), and Tina (empowering and amazing show about Tina Turner). 

Pro Tip: If you’re strapped for cash, try seeing an off-Broadway show instead of a Broadway show. The shows are just as good as Broadway shows but cheaper because they are off-Broadway and are therefore in smaller theaters. You can also check out these insider tips on how to score cheap Broadway tickets right now !

22. Go Nuts At The Color Factory

Let’s face it. One of the biggest disadvantages of solo travel is that there is no one to take your photograph. That’s why visiting the Color factory is one of the epic things to do alone in NYC. With numerous interactive installations designed by some of the best artists in the city, the Color factory is a treat to the eyes. 

The best part is that they have photo booths where you can pose and have your photograph taken. Trust me the colors in the background provide some serious insta worthy material. Oh and wondering how much they charge? Well nothing! They send the photographs to your email address for no cost at all. How cool is that?

Pro Tip: Wear some nice neutral colors so that you stand out against the myriad of colors in the background!

Other Fun Things to do Alone in NYC

Because there are so many fun things to do alone in NYC and just so little time when creating the perfect solo travel NYC itinerary. So, here are even more fun things to do up in NYC!

• Stroll through Central Park – Stop for a photo op at Bethesda Fountain, take a walk through the Ramble, check out the views from atop Belvedere Castle, visit Strawberry Fields, and have a picnic in Sheep’s Meadow. You can also rent a Citibike and do a low-key ride through the park too. FYI, some other great parks in NYC are Prospect Park and Riverside Park. 
• Check out the Awesome Street Art at the Bushwick Collective – Yes, the Bushwick Collective is ALL the way out in Brooklyn. But, there is amazing street art literally everywhere. Plus, you can stop for a slice of Artichoke Basile pizza while you’re here so it’s DEFFO worth the trip. 
• See a Show at the Apollo Theater in Harlem – This iconic theater in NYC routinely holds amateur nights where you can see amazing performances for under $30! So yeah, definitely stop by and soak up some of the magic of this place as you solo travel NYC. 
• Head to a Local Bar and Join a Watch Party – Because lots of people don’t have cable, many New Yorkers head out to their favorite watering hole to check out the latest and greatest episodes of whatever they’re currently binge-watching. So, join the masses, meet the locals, and watch a show in a bar with fifty of your closest friends – you just haven’t met them yet.
• Visit Chinatown in Flushing, Queens – I know everything thinks of Manhattan’s Chinatown first but I personally like the one in Flushing better. It’s also a lot better and home to iconic eateries like Nurlan (I like the Chicken Salat and the Pearl Noodle), Meat Me BBQ (great Korean BBQ place), and White Bear (get a #6 and the wontons). If you want, you could also leave it to the professionals and do a guided food tour of the area. 
• Stop by Governors’ Island – This place has become a lot more popular recently because of Gov Ball. But, even if you don’t attend this iconic concert, you can still grab the ferry to Governors Island (FYI it only runs during the summer) in Southern Manhattan. Once on the island, you can check out some abandoned buildings, hike to the top of Outlook Hill (the view is epic), slide down slide hill (it’s fifty-seven feet long), go glamping with Collective Retreats, or marvel at the many public art displays here. 
• Eat all the Feels at Eataly – Part Italian grocery store, part restaurant, this place is the beautiful brainchild of Mario Batali and now has locations all throughout the city. So, swing by today and eat some authentic pasta, enjoy a glass of Nero d’Avola, savor a scoop of fresh gelato, and order a shot of espresso to go. I also love the Flat Iron and World Trade Center locations. 
• Visit One of NYC’s Cool Museums – NYC is home to some of the most famous museums in the world. However, there are a ton of super rad, hidden gems here too. So, be sure to check out the Museum of the Moving Image in Queens, the Brooklyn Museum, the Frick Collection on the Upper East Side, the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn, and more! For a full list though, see this guide to 22 of the coolest museums in NYC . 
• Meet New People at Daybreaker – If you feel like getting up early, then why not check out daybreaker? It’s basically this totally weird, super cool, sober dance party that takes place early in the morning, during the week, right before work. Trust me, it’s one of the best things to do alone in NYC since the people there are super nice and will make you feel really welcome.  
• Go on a Food Tour – There are a ton of different food tours that take place in every neighborhood of the city and that introduce you to every type of cuisine imaginable. So, for a full list, check out my guide to the best food tours in NYC – although, I am definitely partial to Greenwich Village food tours and the Arthur Avenue Italian food tour through da Bronx. 
• Check out Smorgasburg – Open April through October, this awesome weekend market was once only in Brooklyn. However, it’s become so popular that it’s now in Manhattan too and operates, rain or shine.  So, if you want to try some wonderfully weird foods like deep-fried cookie dough and spaghetti doughnuts, then definitely add Smorgasburg to your list of things to do as you solo travel NYC. 
• Relax the Day Away at the Spa – Get your hair did, your nails done, and your back massaged at one of the best spas in NYC. And if you have the cash to spare, check out Aire Ancient Baths in Tribecca (it’s basically a chic AF Roman bath, and expect to spend $300 for two hours). Otherwise, try K-Town Sauna for a cheap but totally relaxing experience in Manhattan, You can also hit up their dining area for Korean treats while you’re there (Spa Castle in Queens is amazing too).  
• Visit the Botanical Garden – Whether you visit the one in the Bronx, Queens, or Brooklyn, they are all amazing and provide you with some much-needed natural serenity as you solo travel NYC. 
• See Sleep No More – This modern, highly interactive theatrical experience in the fancy Af McKittrick Hotel is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. It’s also one of the best things to do alone in NYC since you wear a mask and are supposed to be fully immersed in the show. 
• Hit up The House of Yes – This is an awesome place to meet people in Brooklyn and is known for hosting some of the weirdest raves and concerts in NYC. It’s famous though so if you want to get a bit more off the well-beaten path then check out Resident Advisor for some info on wonderfully weird events and concerts in NYC. 

Where to Eat Alone in NYC

Unlike many other cities in the world, it is totally, 110% normal to eat alone in NYC. Yup, people here really do dine solo all the time. So, if you ask for a table for a party of one, nobody will bat an eyelash. 

However, if you feel at all weird about eating alone while you solo travel NYC then you could always try eating in a cafe or sitting at the bar. Both are great options for anyone who is new to eating alone and feels a little awkward about it. 

I also prefer quiet, low-key places when I dine alone so that I can actually hear myself think, embrace the solitude, and fully appreciate the experience I’m having. 

Therefore, here are some of my fave places to eat alone in NYC:

• 108 Food Dried Hot Pot (Upper West Side) – This is an awesome Sichuan hot pot place where you’ll feel totally at ease dining alone among all the Columbia students. So, choose from over forty-eight different ingredients and build a delicious hotpot filled with chilis, peppercorns, and herbs. 
• Jg Melon (Upper East Side) – This iconic burger joint has been around since 1975 and is a great place to go for a classic burger. It’s also a hotspot among various celebrities so you know it must be good. 
• The Meatball Shop (Hell’s Kitchen) – This is a great place to go either before or after a Broadway show. You can basically make your own meatball by choosing a meatball base, a sauce, and then whether you want to add a grain to make it a plate. Plus, they have options for vegans and vegetarians too, and are pretty dang affordable. I usually go for the mac and cheese while friends like to order the meatball sampler so they can try three different meatballs. 
• Guantanamera (Midtown West) – A fantastic Cuban restaurant that is super low-key and just a great place to meet people. Try the s vaca frita, shredded skirt steak tossed with mojo, cubano sandwiches, and Cuba Libres as a drink. 
• Nami Nori (West Village) – This cute little spot in the West Village is perfect for solo diners and a great place to try delicious sushi rolls at a reasonable price – they start at just $6 per roll and are really good ( I like the Vegan Set but the Signature Set is great and just $28).
• Superiority Burger (Ukrainian Village area) –  This vegetarian restaurant is a great, informal place to go for a veggie burger that actually tastes good. Everything on the menu is also typically under $10 so you can actually eat here without going broke. Get the classic Superiority Burger with Muenster cheese and various other toppings for the ultimate foodie experience. 
• Uncle Boons Sister (Nolita) – This cheap, Michelin-starred Thai place is a great place to go for khao soi noodles and sai oua sausage with sticky rice. Just a great place to enjoy some traditional Thai cuisine in a chill atmosphere. 
• Trapizzino (Lower East Side) – This place is known for the iconic Roman street food of the same name which is basically like pizza except that the crust is on the outside and the toppings are on the inside, thereby creating this portable, pizza-like sandwich that you can eat on the go. Get the Parmigiana di Melanzane and you will not regret it. 
• Cocoron (Nolita) – This. is another great Japanese restaurant that is known for its hand made soba noodles with sesame broth and chicken. They also have great Goemon Japanese Curry and Shabushabu Macoron that is served to you at communal tables. So yeah. you definitely won’t feel weird about dining alone. 
• Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village) – Great place to grab a cheap and delicious slice of NY pizza. You also eat while standing at a table so you won’t feel awkward being there alone. 
• Cervo’s (Lower East Side) – Epic tapas joint where you can eat at the bar and enjoy great seafood dishes. Must-try faves include  Manila clams in vinho verde (small plate) and Spanish mackerel for an entree. 
• Ho Foods (East Village) – This low-key place is tiny and has about ten seats or so. That’s why, if you can actually manage to snag a seat, you’ll love the reasonable prices and the delicious, totally authentic, Taiwanese beef noodle soup that they serve up here. 

Best Hotels for People Who Want to Solo Travel NYC

When looking for a hotel while planning to solo travel NYC, there are a couple of things you want to look for. You want to make sure that the place is:

• Reasonably Priced – You won’t be splitting the bill with anyone and NYC hotels are notoriously expensive, to begin with. 
• Well-located – You want to make sure the hotel is in a safe neighborhood and has a central location so that you can see everything you want to see. 
• Safe – I think this is probably the number one concern for anyone traveling to NYC alone. So, you want to make sure that your hotel is in a nice neighborhood and that they have all necessary safety measures in place (locks on doors, safes in rooms, attentive staff, cameras, etc.). 

However, before you choose the perfect hotel for you, we should probably go over some of the best and worst areas to stay in NYC.

Best Areas to Stay in NYC for Solo Travelers –  West Village (beautiful brownstones, safe, and central), Chelsea Flatiron District, SoHo, East Village/Lower East Side (good for vibrant nightlife, Upper East Side/West Side (quieter, on the park, and more refined), Williamsburg Brooklyn (also a nightlife hot spot), Harlem (Nice and cheap although a bit out of the way. Do steer clear of east Harlem but 110th and 120th near Frederick Douglas is great), Midtown (fine bit not much character), Brooklyn Heights/Cobble Hill (cool Brooklyn neighborhoods and easy to get to Manhattan), Williamsburg (hipster central), Long Island City/Astoria (Queens areas with great food and easy to get to from Manhattan), 

Areas to Avoid in NYC for Solo Travelers – Manhattan 1st/York Ave and 11th-13th Ave (they’re just far from the subway), East Harlem (not great at night), Brownsville/East York in Brooklyn, Jersey City/Staten island/Hoboken (they’re safe but just hard to get to and so you’ll waste a lot of time and money during your commute), and the Bronx (Parts of the Bronx are really nice but the Bronx as a whole is just really far away from everything). 

So, keeping all this in mind, here are my fave places to stay for anyone planning to solo travel NYC.

• The Leo House (Chelsea) – While the hotel itself doesn’t have any religious affiliations, The Leo House is actually run by the Catholic Sisters of St. Agnes. Rooms here are also incredibly cheap (like $105 a night for a room with a shared shower cheap) and are centrally located since, well, you’re in Chelsea. Don’t expect anything posh though since quiet accommodations here are simple, but comfortable, and include in-room safes, access to a 24-hour front desk, cable TV, use of a beautiful on-site garden, and the option to enjoy a $9 breakfast buffet (the fresh baked goods are amazing). 
• The Jane (West Village) – Dating back to 1908, this sailor’s overnight spot is now a chic, boutique hotel in the West Village that is within walking distance of the Highline and the Witney Museum. Expect to find small, reasonably priced, nautical-themed rooms that include free WIFI, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, shared bathrooms (upgraded rooms have private bathrooms), and some bunk beds. You also have access to free bike rentals and can have a drink in their Victorian-style bar or try some French-Moroccan fare at their on-site restaurant. 
• The Library Hotel (Midtown East) – Booklovers who want to solo travel NYC rejoice because this is the hotel for you! Not only does each room have a different theme that revolves around the Dewey Decimal system (excuse me while I swoon), but this bookish boutique hotel is just a hop, skip, and jump away from the NY Public Library, Grand Central, and Times Square. So while it’s not the cheapest hotel on this list, rooms are well-appointed with book decor and premium amenities that make for a comfy stay. They also have an amazing rooftop lounge and offer guests free breakfast, complimentary wine and cheese in the evenings, and all-day refreshments in the reading rooms. 
• The Ace Hotel (Nomad) – There are soo many amazing hotels for solo travelers in NYC, but this one is probably my favorite. I mean, not only is the location amazing, but it’s just 2-minutes from the subway and super safe since you need a key to access the elevator. Rooms also have a vintage style about them, and include minibars, Wifi, flat-screen TVs, and more. There’s also a Stumptown Coffee in the lobby (so good) and a bar with wine on tap, making this an ideal place to stay. 
• HI NYC Hostel ( Upper West Side)- Honestly, I’m not super into hostels but if I had to stay in an NYC hostel, I’d pick this one. It’s pretty dang lovely, is safely located on the Upper West Side, and is a short 10-minute walk from Central Park. It also sits inside a gorgeous, Victorian-style house that features a light and airy dorm rooms with clean bathrooms and free Wifi. Guests can also access an amazing patio (with garden), use a full kitchen, enjoy a game room/tv room, can participate in nightly happy hours, can join organized nights out, or rent bikes right from the hostel. 

Wait, can I Couchsurf in NYC? Umm, heck yeah you can. NYC is just a popular destination so you’ll want to book WAY in advance.

I also don’t personally do Couchsurfing but have heard that before you stay with a host, be sure to check that they’re verified and have lots of solid reviews. 

And while I wouldn’t recommend that single women stay with single men, if you do, definitely check their hosting history. Because is this dude seems to only host women, then that probably means that he’s using Couchsurfing as a hookup service. 

You’ll also want to note that while Airbnb isn’t totally illegal, you are not allowed to rent out an entire apartment (so stay without the host) if you plan to stay in the city for 30 days or under. Over 30 days and you can rent an entire apartment without the host actually staying with you. 

That being said, the Airbnb police aren’t gonna go out and arrest you if you rent an entire apartment on Airbnb and stay for less than 30 days. Just keep it on the DL since the NYPD might if they catch you. 

Honestly, though, I would abide by this rule as you plan to NYC solo travel since it is designed to protect locals from potential housing shortages and increases in rent as a result of Airbnb. I would also only stay with a host when doing an Airbnb rental in NYC. 

How to Solo Travel NYC and Get Around Safely

So, you’re doing a bit of NYC solo travel and want to get around safely , am I right? Of course, I am! Because safety is a HUGE concern to most solo travelers. 

So, if you want to navigate your way through NYC like a real local, then the subway is the way to go. It’s $2.75 per ride and you can pay either with a MetroCard or any card you have that is a tap and pay card (you can also get a weekly pass for $32 or a monthly pass for $120). 

Pro Tip: Always check what direction your train is going in since some stations only go in one direction – uptown or downtown. Also, look up your route with Google maps BEFORE you enter the subway. Cell service can be spotty in the subway and you might not be able to access directions once you’re inside the station.

Not only is it super convenient – taking you literally anywhere you want to go – but it’s cheap, you don’t have to worry about traffic jams, and it runs twenty-four hours a day. 

And while I’ve heard it’s safe any time of day, I personally try not to take the subway late at night – like any time after midnight. 

You can take the bus for $2.75 per ride but I’m not a huge fan. They get stuck in traffic and just take forever in general. But, they are helpful for going crosstown or to certain areas that aren’t well-connected to the subway. 

In terms of cabs, I rarely take them because they are just so damn expensive, And if I do take a car of some sort, It’s usually an Uber or Lyft. Again, they’re not super convenient because they’re not dirt cheap and routinely get stuck in traffic. 

However, they are handy if you’re coming home late at night or have a ton of luggage that you don’t want to schlepp around the subway with you. 

And when all else fails, just walk it. Now, will you be able to walk everywhere you want while you NYC solo travel? No, not a chance. NYC is just too damn big. But, NYC is a very walkable city and a great way to get a feel for the pulse of different neighborhoods in the city.

Solo Travel NYC: Staying Safe 

So, before I attempt to FINALLY wrap up this insanely long post about traveling solo in NYC, I just wanted to share a few extra safety tips with you.

I mean, I think it’s safe to say that safety is probably THE most important thing to solo travelers who are headed to NYC for the first time. 

That’s why I want to share my top local tips for how to stay safe n the city that never sleeps as you solo travel New York. 

1. Catcalls and Sexual Assault – I don’t want to alarm you but if you’re a woman in NYC, you’ll probably get cat-called (Just ignore it since it’s annoying more than anything.

They’ll stop when they get zero reaction) and receive unwanted male attention. You’ll also want to keep your guard up since sexual assault is a HUGE problem in this city.

Usually, these crimes are committed by someone the victim knows but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings.

Also, try to stick to well-populated areas (especially at night) and avoid wearing your headphones in the evening so no one can sneak up on you. 

2. What to do if Someone Follows You – This happened to me in Athens. I knew some guy was following me so I ducked into a local store and was about to call the police/cab out of there if he persisted.

Thankfully, he walked away but if this happens to you (note, it probably won’t) just duck into basically any store and use your cell phone or a phone in the store to call for help.

If you explain what’s going on to whoever is there, 99.9% of people will be only too happy to help get you out of harm’s way. 

3. Always Let Someone Know Where You’re Going and When You’ll Be Back – I practice this tip regardless of where I travel. So, even if I’m traveling alone,

I always let someone at the front desk know where I’m going and when to expect me back. This way, if something does happen, they’ll know to call the police and come looking for me. 

4. Don’t Leave Drinks Unattended and Limit Drinking – Again, this is something I practice regardless of where I am in the world. I never leave my drink unattended,

I always watch how much I drink so that I’m not more vulnerable, and if someone makes me uncomfortable, I pretend someone is waiting for me and leave. 

5. I f Something Makes You Uncomfortable, Leave! – Honestly, never worry about someone else and hurting their feelings. Because if they make you feel uneasy, your number one priority is to take care of yourself and get the hell out of there.

No one has the right to make you uncomfortable, even if it’s unintentonal. You also don’t EVER have to do anything you don’t want to. You don’t owe anyone any damn thing. 

6. Always Carry an Extra Debit Card – Again, this is just a really good general travel safety tip but I’m throwing it in this New York solo travel guide because I think it’s super important. ALWAYS carry an extra debit card with you.

This way, if your wallet and primary debit card are stolen, you still have a way to access cash. And if you’re not sure where to get a second debit card, try Wise .

Not only can they set you up with a debit card, but they are international and facilitate cheap money transfers between countries (way cheaper than PayPal).

So, if you’re a digital nomad and receive payments from clients all around the globe, then they are an ideal choice too. 

7. Always Get Travel Insurance – Look, no one wants to think about bad things happening while they’re on vacation. But guess what? Travel often enough and they can and will happen.

And while you’re not in any great danger as you NYC solo travel, it’s always good to be prepared with a travel insurance policy (even if you’re traveling domestically).

I personally use and love World Nomads since they provide great coverage/customer service and are just an all-around great company. But for the full deets, you can read all about them (and the other budget travel insurance companies I use) in this in-depth budget travel insurance review . 

8. Use the BEST Travel Safety Gear – Most of the items on your NYC packing list  will be pretty standard. And if you want to look like a REAL New Yorker as you NYC solo travel, just wear lots of black. But, here are some of fave items that will help keep you super safe as you solo travel New York City. 

• Comfortable Shoes – This is not a safety thing but more of a general comfort thing since you’ll be walking a lot and need comfy/stylish shoes. I personally refuse to wear traditional sneakers and opt for stylish, slip-on sneakers like these STQ Women’s Loafers with memory foam insoles .  They’re also mad cheap and less than $40.00 per pair. I also LOVE these zip-up boots from Dream Pairs since they are comfy, cute, and come with a hidden pocket where you can put an extra debit card. 
• Crossbody Anti-theft Purse – I try and use a crossbody bag since I can see it at all times and that helps keep my stuff safe. I also love this antitheft Travelon bag since it’s sleek and stylish and just an all-around great bag. the one downside though is that it’s kind of small. So, if you need something a little bigger, you can try this bag here . It’s not the cutest bag on planet Earth but it is practical. 
• Travel Scarf with Hidden Pockets – This is my FAVE travel scarf of ALL time . It’s cheap, comes with a hidden pocket where you can keep all your valuables, and is SUPER cute too. 
• Portable Safe – While I personally have never had anyone steal my belongings out of my in-room safe, I’ve heard horror stories from friends. That’s why I always bring a Pacsafe Portable Safe with me wherever I go. Not only does it come in three different sizes (3, 5, and 12 liters) but it’s embedded with stainless steel to keep your valuables extra safe. It’s also fairly large (much bigger than most in-room safes) and can be affixed to any stationery item.

Additional NYC Travel Resources You’ll Love

• 20 Best Places to Shop in NYC on a Budget
• 4 Perfect Days in NYC
• One Day in NYC
• 22 Romantic Getaways in Upstate New York
• 21 Fun NYC Brunch Spots
• 17 Fun Things to do in NYC on Your Birthday
• 18 Tips for Backpacking NYC on a Budget

This concludes my not so brief guide to NYC solo travel and 20+ amazing things to do in NYC alone. 

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Best Things to do in NYC Alone FAQs

Is new york good for solo travelers.

Absolutely! The Big Apple is a vibrant, exciting, and safe city where you can find a ton of amazing things to do alone in NYC.

So, if you’re looking for one of the  best places to travel alone in the US , then definitely add NYC to your solo travel bucket list!

It’s also a really easy place to navigate and an overall amazing place to revisit since there is always something new to see and do here!

That wraps up this guide to the best things to do alone in NYC!

Did your fave things to do by yourself in nyc make the list if not then let me know now., and if you found this post helpful, sign up for our facebook group and email list for even more awesome tips..

Sunday 5th of December 2021

My first solo trip from Texas to New York and I appreciate the safety information from a female's perspective. In Texas we smile and say "Hi y'all" to everyone. I've been twice before with family but this trip I'm going alone and I'm a bit weary of staying at Hilton in Newark, NJ. I was trying to stay under $250 a day for a hotel in New York but I see that is impossible. I'm definitely excited to do a lot of what is on your list! Thanks again.

girlwiththepassport

Tuesday 7th of December 2021

Have an amazing trip and thanks so much for reading! I really appreciate it!

nguyen manh

Saturday 28th of March 2020

Thanks for what you have shared about the post here. This is one of the great information for me today. Have a nice day

Sunday 29th of March 2020

Thanks for reading and same to you!

Wednesday 18th of December 2019

I'm hoping to go on my first ever solo trip/first ever trip to NYC for my 30th next year and your list got me even more excited! I'm a mega introvert with social anxiety so I'm really looking forward to going outside my comfort zone.

Thanks for the tips!

Thank you so much for reading and I am so glad that you found my post useful. Have an amazing time! NYC is such a fun place to be!

Saturday 30th of November 2019

I'm making a very spontaneous FIRST trip to NY and will have a good bit of solo time between functions with friends. I'm so glad to find your list! I've gone from a bit bummed about the solo experiences to pumped.

Sunday 1st of December 2019

OMG you are gonna have SOOO much fun! NYC is such a great city for solo travelers! If you need anything else just let me know! I am REALLY excited for you and so happy that I could get you excited for your trip too!

Tuesday 3rd of September 2019

Best NYC solo Travel so helpful Blog!

Wednesday 4th of September 2019

Oh, I am so happy to hear that!

Privacy Overview

r/solotravel • u/AutoModerator • 5d ago

Accommodation /r/solotravel "The Weekly Common Room" - General chatter, meet-up, accommodation - June 09, 2024

This thread is for you to do things like

• Introduce yourself to the community
• Ask simple questions that may not warrant their own thread
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This thread is newbie-friendly ! In this thread, there is no such thing as a stupid question.

If you're new to our community, please read the subreddit rules in the sidebar before posting. If you're new to solo travel in general, we suggest that you check out some of the resources available on our wiki , which we are currently working on improving and expanding. Here are some helpful wiki links:

General guides and travel skills

• Basic trip planning
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Regional guides

• So you want to do a Eurotrip: A beginner's guide
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• Solo travel and mental health (with a focus on depression/anxiety)
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r/solotravel • u/WalkingEars • 7d ago

Europe Weekly Destination Thread - Malta

This week’s destination is Malta ! Feel free to share stories/advice - some questions to start things off:

• What were some of your favorite experiences there?
• Experiences/perspectives on solo travel there?
• Suggestions for food/accommodations?
• Any tips for getting around?
• Anything you wish you'd known before arriving?
• Other advice, stories, experiences?

Archive of previous "weekly destination" discussions: https://www.reddit.com/r/solotravel/wiki/weeklydestinations

r/solotravel • u/OddAbstraction9863 • 10h ago

Question losing yourself after solo travel?

Does anyone else feel like they've lost themselves instead of finding themselves after solo travel i've done 10+ solo trips across the globe to train new skills and i thought it was such an expansive thing to do..

I've figured out how to navigate new places, picked up foreign languages, and trained activities I never could've imagined doing. But despite all that, I still don't feel like I have any personality. I thought all this time alone with new experiences would help me explore the depths of my mind. but instead I feel depressed by how empty my mind is, especially compared to all the awesome people I've met on the road.

I would still highly highly recommend solo travel to anyone, but I'm upset that despite so many trips, the self exploration hasn't been fruitful. Maybe my brain is the problem :(

r/solotravel • u/garchican • 8h ago

Question Getting over jet lag

Hey folks, I’m on my first truly solo trip right now in Kenya. Been here since the early hours of Wednesday morning (around 1am), and I’m still not acclimated to the time change (hence posting this at 3:19am local time). Apparently I screwed up by taking my sleep meds on the flight over.

Trouble is, I have a ten-day safari scheduled that departs tomorrow evening. Is there something I can do to help ease the insomnia so I won’t be miserable the first 2-3 days of safari?

r/solotravel • u/Deep_Werewolf_5755 • 11h ago

Question Science-related solo travel?

Hello, I am a post-doc researcher and a big fan of science (esp biology/health/cognitive science), and I was wondering if any of you decided a travel based on this special interest? And if so, which museums/places did you visit?

I am a big fan of the following: -Louis Pasteur house (Jura, France) -Marie Curie Museum (Paris) -most exhibitions at the Cité des Sciences, though many explicitly target children and can seem a bit simplistic -most exhibitions at the Musée de l'Homme (Paris) -Conservatoire des arts et métiers (Paris)

Of note, I find "regular" science museums very interesting - however, I find that I am usually most interested in smaller museums that focus on a particular subject/scientist, probably because they are less intended for a general audience.

Would you have any places to recommend? (preferably in Europe)

Thanks in advance!

r/solotravel • u/rararar769 • 14h ago

Asia Help with an East Asia itinery

Hi everyone! I'm (23F) going to visit South Korea for three weeks between the end of August and the middle of September, and I am very excited, but also unsure about the itinery.

I am going to start and finish the trip in Seoul for sure, and I am planning to use it as a base, and taking day (or maximum 2 days) trips within the country. I have friends there who I am visiting, but I will be on my own quite a lot. Because, apart from a previous trip to Korea 7 years ago, when I barely saw anything from the country, I have never been to East Asia before, and it is unlikely that I'm returning very soon, I was thinking that maybe I shouldn't only stick to Korea, but fly to either Japan, or to some Southeast countries as well for a few days. And here comes my dilemma.

I came up with a few options: 1., I fly to Bangkok/Hanoi/Ho Chi Min City for around 3,5 days, as I am very interested in Southeast Asia and Buddhism (but the flight is almost 6 hours one way, and it's a bit pricey) 2., I fly to Osaka/Fukuoka with the same itinery, which is the same price for the tickets, but much closer – however, I'm less interested in Japan, as I would assume it's not so strongly different from Korea (I hope it's not offensive to say, haha, I also might be wrong) 3., I don't leave the country, but fly to Jeju, which is obviously the closest and the cheapest option, but it's within the country 4., I don't fly around, but might take a longer than a day trip to Busan or some other Korean town

I am travelling on a budget, and don't want to spend thousands, but I would like to make the most out of this trip. Additionally, I like to explore places, and don't want to just rush through everything. (I'm open to other country/city suggestions as well, with these in mind!)

Extra info: - I'm quite confident travelling alone, but I'm also a young female, so safety is also an important factor - As I'll have a big check-in luggage, my plan is to have a room in Seoul for all the 20 nights of my trip, and keep my things there – everything comes on top of that, so I don't want to go anywhere else for a much longer time ‐ I'll have a long layover in Shanghai going home, which will allow me a daytrip there in the city

r/solotravel • u/No_Organization411 • 6h ago

Itinerary Last minute Borneo Itinerary

Hey guys, I’m a female solo traveler and booked a very spontaneous trip to Borneo next week. So far I have only planned to visit the animal sanctuaries in sepilok and the Kinabatangan river cruise (3D2N).

Currently I’m looking into going to Danum Valley, but the only packages I could find are for min. 2 persons. Is there a (cheaper) way to visit or is it just not solo travel friendly?

If there are any alternative MUST dos in Borneo I’d be happy to hear about it. I’m not a diver, but would be down to do some snorkeling (I’m a bit scared of the ocean, but would face my fears). Ideally I’d like to see as much wildlife!

Also, it took me ages to find a website for bus tickets around Borneo (redBus) - surely there must be more options?

Highly appreciate any help :)

r/solotravel • u/sn00pscoop • 6h ago

South America solo peru travel tips - where should i go next?

hey all, i'm currently in cusco, peru - have just got back from doing the salkantay hike to machu picchu, have done the sacred valley, and doing rainbow mountain tomorrow

i have just over a week left, i can't work out whether i should:

a) fly back to lima, get the bus to huaraz, spend a couple nights here, and then go to mancora for a few nights as id really like some beach and chill before returning to the uk

b) fly to talara, 1 hr bus to mancora, chill for just over a week there, fly back to uk

i know i wanna do beach for a few days before the end of my trip, but it's just figuring out if worth going to huaraz before that or not ?? 🤷🏽‍♀️ any advice?

r/solotravel • u/marcthemarkpark • 12h ago

1 Month East Coast + Toronto Trip.

Hi, I'm a 25 year old male nurse from Sacramento, CA. This is my first vacation alone since I got employed (I traveled with my family and exes before, but that's a different story for now.) I have about $19K saved up from the job and investments. I'm leaving in November and going back in December just in time for Christmas with my family.

First, I'm planning on flying from our local airport to NYC. I'm booking an AirBNB with a dedicated bathroom in Brooklyn for 5 days. I want to go to Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Chinatown, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and the Grand Central Station (basically the tourist and movie spots). I'm probably visiting Columbia too if the student protests are over by then. I'm also planning on renting an SUV after landing in JFK.

Then I'm driving to Philadelphia just to see the steps where Rocky was filmed, then straight to Washington DC for 5 days, visiting the US Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and obviously, The White House. Also visiting the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery where President JFK is buried.

After DC, driving up north to Boston, stopping by Hyde Park along the way to visit FDR's home and grave. Then in Boston, maybe 3-5 days? I'm visiting Yale for the whole day, Harvard, and the Boston Public Garden and Massachusetts Capitol. Please recommend any good places around Massachusetts and surrounding areas, as I have a lot of days to spare anyways.

Finally, go back to NYC and fly to Buffalo to see Niagara Falls, then drive up to Toronto, stay another 5 days, I'm visiting the CN Tower and if yall can recommend any good attractions, then I'd really appreciate it. Then fly back to San Francisco this time, then get picked up and get drove back to Sacramento.

I have about 7 days to spare if yall have any recommendations to extend or any other good places that I could visit with my budget. I also appreciate it if yall left any good advice for me.

Thanks, Marc

Edit 1: The Pennsylvania Capitol was a mistake. It's not in Philly and it's out of the way, so I'm not going.

r/solotravel • u/HovercraftBoring9666 • 1d ago

Question Do you book the transport tickets first?

I was told it's best to first book one's plane/train/bus tickets and then to book the hotels or hostels? I guess that's common sense as you can always find a hotel available somewhere whereas plane and train tickets are usually more expensive if booked as you go. The only transport tickets I prefer to book as I go are the ones of suburban buses if I have to use them (say the bus from Veliko Tarnovo to the nearest town Gorna Oryahovitsa as it has a larger and better-served train station). What about you? Do you book transport first and then seek hostels, AirBNBs and hotels?

r/solotravel • u/doppler_effects • 10h ago

Itinerary Help with solo travel itinerary for Greek islands.

Hi everyone! I'm traveling solo to Greece in August and would appreciate any feedback on the itinerary I have decided on so far. I have 11 days in total and I want to spend time in quieter but beautiful islands. I also won't be driving and will mostly rely on walking and buses. So far, I've been thinking 5 days in Naxos, 3 days in Paros, and 3 days in Hydra/Milos. I'm not a big fan of visiting as many islands as I can but rather love spending enough time wherever I'm. I'm thinking of taking ferry services to visit these islands from Athens. Would you recommend adding or removing any islands from the list that I have currently? I'd also love any recommendations for where to stay on these islands. I'm on a moderate budget. Are there any cure Airbnbs that I can rent close to the beach/water? I won't mind hostels as the last option. I will be also in Athens for 6 days (work trip) and would love any suggestions on where I should be staying so that it's easy to visit more places in the city :)

r/solotravel • u/alaskafish • 12h ago

Question Entering/Exiting Kosovo Questions

Hello everyone!

I have a quick question about Kosovo-- for starters, I'm American holding a US passport.

I'm going to be visiting Serbia for a week later this month for some business. After that, I fly out to Bulgaria. I was trying to plan out a trip where after Bulgaria, I'll head over to Macedonia, take a bus to Kosovo, then take a bus to Albania.

I've been doing research, and this seems like it's perfectly fine and legal; however, I just want to triple check that this plan works.

My main concern is the following-- how exactly are the ground border crossings like? Are they de facto controlled by Kosovo, but de jure Serbia? I know you're not supposed to go to Serbia and then go to Kosovo immediately (otherwise you'll overstay your Serbian visa); however, are there any concerns I should be aware of? And lastly, are there any pieces of advice I should know before proceeding?

r/solotravel • u/Waihf • 1d ago

Personal Story My experience as a first time traveler.

I (30M) had never traveled outside of the North East my entire life up until a week ago. Had never been on a plane. I saw what I believed was a good deal on a round trip flight + 3 nights at a nice hotel in South Beach, Miami. So I decided why not, & booked the trip. I love the heat & the sun - And ever since I was a kid playing Vice City, I’ve always been interested in Miami culture. The beach, Ocean Drive & the neon lights are all very cool to me. I hardly have any friends so I’d be going alone. But that was totally fine because I’m used to doing things alone.

So flying for the first time was actually great. My whole life I thought I had a huge fear of flying, and it turns out I was wrong. Granted it’s only a 3 hour flight.. But I actually enjoyed being on the plane. Now having defeated my fear of flying I feel as if I’ve unlocked the rest of the world as potential travel destinations.

I landed in Miami and realized I wasn’t at the airport I thought I was going to be. I landed in Fort Lauderdale, when I thought I’d be in Miami International. This was of course my fault for not having read my itinerary closely enough. No big deal I thought as I was only about 30 minutes further away from my destination. So after a few bus rides, a train & a monorail, I was finally in South Beach. I’m sure it took longer than it should have , but I was unfamiliar with the area and it was also my first time traveling. I didn’t mind, as I was just excited to be somewhere new.

Everything was fine up until I got to my room in the hotel - Nothing bad had happened but I began to feel very nervous and a bit of an anxiety attack kicked in. I was fine the whole day, I’m not sure why it started when it did, but it was kind of bad. I felt like I had no business being there, & so far from my home. I felt so bad that I thought I’d need to find an early flight and leave the next day. I was probably just exhausted from having gotten very little sleep the night before, and having spent all day figuring out how to get to the hotel. I still managed to go get some food and walk around a little bit. Fortunately after a little sleep I felt completely better. Leaving early would have been very embarrassing and a huge waste of money.

The next morning I got up and went across the street and had a great breakfast. Next was to hit the beach. I love the sun and swimming in the ocean, so this was amazing. The beach there is so beautiful. Being in the water, you look one way and it’s nothing but horizon - You look back to shore and it’s all these giant hotels with really cool architecture. Planes fly right over your head here as they are preparing to land at Miami International, so I actually found that to be very cool. After the beach I decided to explore a bit. I walked on the boardwalk heading towards Ocean Drive. I went into a few stores, checked out the buildings that were used to film Scarface & The Birdcage. I saw a few lizards and Iguanas running around which I thought was cool. After all that I went back to the hotel and took a little nap & got ready to go out for the night. I thought maybe I’d go into a few bars and try and meet people- But being an introvert and going at it alone is kind of difficult. I wound up just having dinner, grabbing a cigar and walking down the boardwalk at night. It was actually very nice seeing Ocean Drive lit up at night. Lots of people having a good time.

The next day began the same. Breakfast and the beach. After that it was bicycle time. I knew one of the things I wanted to do while there was rent a bike & ride around Miami. I love riding bikes and thought it would be a lot of fun to do there. This was about two hours straight of riding all around South Beach in the blazing sun & heat. I loved it & had fun, but I did burn myself to a crisp. After riding I went back to the hotel to cool off & gear up again for the night. I left my hotel & I wasn’t sure where I was going to eat dinner - I just kept walking & walking down Ocean Drive until I came across a place that interested me. I wound up walking to the very bottom of South Beach. I was already aware of a really nice restaurant there that I had planned on having lunch at some point , but I decided to have dinner there instead. This was maybe the fanciest restaurant I’d ever eaten at. I asked to be sat by the water, and at first they were a bit apprehensive about sitting me there. They asked twice if I’d rather sit at the bar, to which I responded no I wouldn’t. I can go into any restaurant and sit at the bar - I was in Miami and I wanted to sit by the water. They accommodated me and it was actually very nice. I had a friendly waiter and the food was very good. Would be a great place to bring a date. After dinner I explored a bit more and then walked back to the hotel.

The next morning it was time to check out of the hotel. I walked around a bit more, did some shopping and had lunch. Eventually I decided that without my room to go back to and cool off, it was just too hot out to walk around all day. So I caught an Uber and went to the airport a few hours early. The flight back was another smooth trip with no issues.

All in all I had a good time & I’m glad I did it. It may seem like I didn’t do much while I was there - But it was a bit more difficult being alone than I thought it would be. Fortunately I was able to just enjoy being there. If you’re able to do that, then you can have a good time anywhere you decide to travel. The weather and the beach were beautiful, and Ocean Drive is amazing. This trip also opened myself up to the potential for future travel. Right now I’m deciding between Las Vegas and Puerto Rico. But I will try not to go alone next time.

r/solotravel • u/HovercraftBoring9666 • 10h ago

Question Is there a travel companion service?

Hello, all my friends live abroad, I'm single and my relatives rarely are free so I have to travel alone. I prefer traveling with company but as you know organized trips by tour agencies can be annoying. Still, I'd like to have someone to be with me on the plane/bus/train as I get panic attacks being on my own in planes and public transport. Are there tavel agencies that offer your personal travel companion or something? Or should I just book a group trip? Free walking tours don't do it for me because I need someone for traveling itself. Something like a personal assistant or idk.

r/solotravel • u/Affectionate-Wing704 • 20h ago

Europe Help plan itenary 1 week or more holland belgium

I have original plan but thinking of changing looking for advice which is better.

Day 1. Arrive brussels evening head to bruges and stay brugges. (Late arrival) Day 2. Bruges Day 3. 3 nights ghent.(weekend) Day 6. 2 nights Antwerp (meet friend) Day 8. 3 nights amsterdam (midweek) Day 11. Rotterdam/hague Day 12. Brussels few hours then airport (not staying brussels)

New plan considering less time some places and weekend in amsterdam?

Day 1. Arrive brussels head to antwerp (closer than bruges) Day 2. Rotterdam/hague Day 3. Amsterdam 3 nights (weekend means better or worse? More lively more crowds) Day 6. Antwerp again (easy travel from amsterdam and meet friend) Day 7. Bruges 1 night Day 8. 2 nights ghent Day 10. Brussels few hours then airport.

So basically is it better to have less days in brugges and ghent 1 and 2 rather than 2 and 3. And have weekend in amsterdam instead of ghent.

Other benefits of 2nd option. Easier to get to antwerp than bruges on arrival at brussels.

Easier get back to brussels from ghent than rotterdam when leaving.

Hostel more expensive amsterdam at weekend but save money on ghent not weekend.

r/solotravel • u/Mike_the_Motor_Bike • 20h ago

Europe 14 Days Enough for Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo?

I'm planning my first trip abroad since getting a new job so I have limited time to travel. I am in the US. I want to make the most of my leave so I will leave on a Friday night and come back on a Sunday, giving me 14 full days to see what I want to see.

I've decided that flying into and out of Tirana would be cost effective for me and would like to explore the surrounding countries. Is 14 days enough for Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo? This will be in November so no beach time. I figured each country is small enough that it could work but looking for your insight.

r/solotravel • u/Chegsta • 18h ago

Asia Philippines travel advice

Hi I’m thinking about travelling to the Philippines in December this year. I have read a lot, i’m getting so many mixed messages about the place. Such as when is good to go, transport, price of stuff. I ideally want to go for a month and spend no more than £2000 on my time there. (Not including flights)

I’m looking for paradise islands, (siargao it sounds) good food, nice bars and music, great tours. (I’ve been working flat out for over a year) I’m quite a chill person not picky on accommodation but not keen on tacky bars scene.

Is it worth me going, is there a risk of rinsing a lot of money fast with bad transport network and expensive hotels? Rather not find out I’m stuck somewhere for days… or have to fly everywhere 🌳

Will I get the same experience in S-E Asia or is it that much better (I’m going to Vietnam after)

Any suggestions on your favourite places outside S-E Asia welcomed. Thanks, I can’t makes a decision on my own! 😦

r/solotravel • u/msprofessorplum • 19h ago

Itinerary Review Solo Travel to Tennessee

Hi everyone!

I had planned this 8 day road trip through Tennessee for my bday in July with a friend. Knoxville, Chattanooga and Nashville. My friend can no longer go and I’m contemplating going alone with some tweaks. For example, changing the Airbnb stays to hotel stays so I am not completely alone. And booking some group tours to sightsee. I never was a tour person before but this will be my first trip alone. We had plans to visit Dollywood, hike by Chattanooga and explore some cool restaurants and shopping in Nashville. And visit some suburbs of Nashville as well.

Has anyone been to these places? Or is anyone willing to give me their input/advice. Has anyone visited these places alone? What was your experience?

I might not go to Chattanooga anymore as I am nervous to go hiking alone, I never have before. Some family/friends are completely against me going alone but I’m an adult and do not want to miss this opportunity. Thank you to anyone who comments!

r/solotravel • u/HovercraftBoring9666 • 12h ago

Accommodation Has anyone ever booked a diferent hostel or hotel for each different night?

I just decided to go for 3 nights to Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria and decided to book two guesthouses and one hostel that looks kinda sketchy but has common areas and a cat! On my last night I'll be staying at the closest possible location to the bus station because I'll be leaving on a bus to Sofia. Has anyone here ever booked more than one hostel/B&B/hotel or whatever? From Sofia to Tarnovo is just about 3 or 4 hours so I'll have about 3,5 full days because I'll arrive an hour before noon on the first day and depart in the late afternoon on the 4th day. Also, all 3 locations are very close so I won't waste much time moving my backpack between them.

I decided to do it out of boredom and because I can't be certain I'll get a nice view at all of them. I also love cats but the hostel looks kinda run down on the photos so I decided one night is a fair risk. Thankfully they had a private room available. I kinda feel I might end up liking this fast-pace nomadic thing. And I'll have formed opinions on not one but 3 properties! There are people out there staying a month at the same property but IMHO a different view from your room and a different front desk person could really alter your perception of a city. Now I'd never do this in a huge city like NY or London unless I stay at least 2 weeks but for the compact old town of Veliko Tarnovo I feel it will work out. what about you, have you ever done this? I know many people do this on road trips but in my case it's a several day city break. :D

r/solotravel • u/Ok_Vacation7443 • 2d ago

Question For those who have solo travelled, what's something memorable you did that you wouldn't have been able to do with a travel partner?

I love the freedom that solo travelling allows you. You can sit at a cafe for 4 hours and just people watch without anyone rushing you to go somewhere else. What's something you indulged in while on a solo trip (big or small) that you wouldn't have been able to do with a travel partner?

r/solotravel • u/1van-9 • 1d ago

Question Texas nature”hidden gems”?

Hi guys does anyone know any nature"hidden gems " in Texas near Austin/San Antonio. I live in Houston and love solo traveling into nature. I'm more so into blue/clear water places such as Pedernales Falls State Park and Garner State Park, but those places are really popular and require a payed entrance. I've seen people on YouTube and instagram visit beautiful preserved nature creeks, lakes, etc. No one ever gives the location of these places and i understand why, but I'm really intrigued by all of these unknown and lesser known nature spots. The narrows would be a good example of this^ I'd love if anyone can give me more information and details.

r/solotravel • u/HyenaClassic2731 • 1d ago

Solo travelling in Alexandria, Egypt

I am an Indian passport holder living in Singapore. I will be traveling to Egypt on the 20th and my return flight to Singapore is on the 27th. I have a full plan and itinerary, and I've booked my Airbnb but haven't booked my flight tickets yet. I will do that soon. I just have a question about the e-visa.

Has anyone used Atlys? I've read mixed reviews. I emailed the Egyptian consulate in Singapore, and I was told that, along with other documents, I need to provide a bank statement showing $10,000 and an employment letter with a minimum income of $5,000. Unfortunately, I am a student, and my part-time job doesn't pay that much. I do not have $10,000 in the bank, but I do have the funds for the trip.

I emailed the bank, and they said I should bring the rest of the documents, and the officer will guide me from there. Since Eid is approaching, the earliest I can do a walk-in appointment is on the 21st, so I will book everything by then. I also tried applying for an e-visa through their portal, and they stated that I need a letter from a travel agent, or else I will be denied entry to the country. That's why I emailed the embassy.

I was looking at Atlys as a backup option. I will obviously go through the consulate since that is reliable. However, if anything goes wrong, I have Atlys as a backup (yes, I know I need to apply early because their visa issuance dates can sometimes be later).

I just wanted to ask if anyone had problems with their already approved visa from Atlys and, even better, if anyone has used Atlys for an Egyptian visa.

Apart from all the visa issues, I am set to travel in 2 months. I am excited about this trip because it is a solo trip to enjoy my freedom before I start university.

r/solotravel • u/Mission-Tailor-4950 • 1d ago

Hardships got super sick, trip ruined

mostly posting to hear if anyone else is in a similar situation right now or has been in the past.

i have a tendency to get hurt or sick on my solo travels, specifically the last 2 summer trips i took. the first one was my first ever solo trip and i couldn’t handle being so sick alone so i went home a week early. last year i got hurt and missed out on most of what i wanted to do in naples (pompeii, path of the gods, etc)

this year, i’ve been extra careful just to avoid either situation. masking in the airport, on the plane, on public transit, and in ubers. it’s only day 5 of my trip and i’ve only eaten outside and done things outside (im in the balkans so most of what i planned was outdoors anyways) so i honestly have no idea how i managed to wake up deathly ill today. unfortunately, this means i’m missing out on what i was most excited for this trip (today+tomorrow activities)

i’m spending the entire day resting in bed but i’ll need to go out and find food somewhere. i walked down to the kitchen to make tea and even that was rough.

i have a private room in a hostel with a private bathroom so it could be worse, but i’m so upset at myself for letting this happen again. this trip wasn’t cheap and i worked hard to save for it. i have 9 days left and since a bad bout of covid, whenever i get sick i’m usually out for nearly 2 weeks. i cant help but feel like my entire trip is ruined and i just wasted so much money.

i could go home early and get back some of my money, but i don’t want to give up and look dumb to my parents. what if i do get better enough to do things in like 3 days? who knows.

any words of wisdom would be much appreciated!

r/solotravel • u/Flat_Examination6768 • 1d ago

Vietnam/Cambodia/Thailand - Trip Check

After some good feedback in my last thread, I've rearranged things a bit and would appreciate any guidance on this ~30 day trip.

About me: Early 30s M from the US looking for nature, unique experiences / cultural activities, and some relaxation. I'm aware the Vietnam portion is a bit heavy, but figured the back half of the trip is a bit slower allowing me to catch my breath a bit.

I'm debating swapping Ninh Binh and Ha Giang in the order, so if you think it would work better that way let me know.

• Hanoi: Land at lunch time in Hanoi after a very long flight from the US
• Hanoi: Acclimate and don't push too hard
• Hanoi/Lan Ha Bay: Head to Lan Ha Bay as I've heard its a quieter version of Ha Long with similar scenery. I assume boat company I'd book with will have transportation (open to suggestions)
• Lan Ha Bay / ?: After overnighting it on a boat, head to Nin Binh (I've heard this is possible to do from Ha Long, but would appreciate some guidance if it's better to do this via Hanoi). I've been told to stay in Tom Coc as it's nicer / close to scenery.
• Ninh Binh / Hanoi: Enjoy Ninh Binh and head up to Hanoi later in the day
• Hanoi / Ha Giang: Take a late afternoon bus to Ha Giang as to avoid the night bus
• Ha Giang: Day 1
• Ha Giang: Day 2:
• Ha Giang / Hanoi: Day 3, take an afternoon / evening bus back to Hanoi
• Hanoi: relax / treat myself after long 3 days on the motor cycle
• Hanoi / Siem Reep: Take an afternoon flight to Siem Reep, get settled
• Siem Reep: Ankor Wot day 1
• Siem Reep: Ankor Wot day 2
• Siem Reep: Ankor Wot day 3
• Siem Reep / Chiang Mai: Take a mid-day flight, with arrival in the late afternoon
• Chiang Mai:
• Chaing Mai / Koh Lanta: Travel day going via Krabi and speed boat to Koh Lanta
• Koh Lanta / Railey Beach: Speed boat back to be on a more visably interesting and more social beach
• Railey Beach:
• Railey Beach/ Bangkok: Morning flight to BKK
• Head back home to the US in the evening

r/solotravel • u/icylia • 1d ago

Asia First time solo-ing China

Hello travellers

I am having a difficult time deciding on my China itinerary for Dec-Jan. It will be my first time in these cities and first time having no one to follow around in China. I have solo travelled before.

I want to go everywhere but only have 2.5-3 weeks available of leave (subject to approval).

My narrowed down choices: Tibet, Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie, Harbin, Shanghai

Interests: Snow/White Christmas (I know not guaranteed but best chance in China is Harbin), nature, local culture and lifestyle, seeing ancient China, Silk Road, off the beaten track, less westernised parts of China

Cities I even narrowed down further to: Beijing, Harbin, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie and Xian.

I will be entering China from Hong Kong (connecting flight) and I have found flights to/from Beijing and Xian.

So my itinerary in terms of cities:

Hong Kong > Beijing (connecting only) > Harbin > Beijing (stay a few days) > Chongqing > Zhangjiajie (which I imagine I may need to go back to Chongqing again? confirmation would be appreciated) > Xian > Hong Kong then fly home.

Is there an easier and less back and forth way to do this itinerary? I will be flying to the cities as from what I can see, the trains will take 7 or more hours.

I am also concerned about the payments. I have a couple of credit cards I plan to bring as well as cash. Do I need (as in must) to download WeChat and AliPay? I heard the apps also limit transactions to 1000RMB a day? Can I buy a transportation card like the Octopus card in Hong Kong, Suica card in Japan, Oyster card in London? Can I use credit card to tap for public transport?

r/solotravel • u/Reasonable_Edge2411 • 1d ago

Gear/Packing I have a cannon mk2 but fear might be stolen on travels whats a good point and click camera good zoom?

Just wanting to spend about £500 gbp dont want to take my expensive cannon camera with me.

And dont say iphone already got one just want the pleasure of taking pics whiles on holiday what do all u guys use as ur goto.

I have a trip to London in july may not seem like much considering where am from.

r/solotravel • u/Testing12Trees • 1d ago

Europe Help with a 2 week trip to Italy (14 days - 15th is traveling back)

Help with a 2 week (14 days - 15th is traveling back)

Venice 2 days, one for Murano/Burano > Milan 3 days, one for day trip to Cuomo and Bellagio > Florence > 3 days > one for pisa (Rome > Naples was the original plan)

Here is where I am wondering if I should hold off on Rome and Naples. I am an explore everything traveler and think I would prefer breaking up the N and the S into two separate two week trips.

Come back for Rome, Naples, Capri and Sicily during another trip.

Considering rearranging to Venice 3 days > Florence Pisa/Siena/Bologna trips 4 days> Cinque Terre for 2 days > this is a longer stretch than I necessarily need to do, but the train runs across the coast and I think I would enjoy the views and deal with the time Milan Cuomo/Bellagio 4 days.

Thoughts and ideas for anyone bored and reading out there? :) Thank ya!

This will be my second international and first solo trip as well.

18 Best Things to Do as a Solo Traveler in NYC

TripSavvy /  Brakethrough Media

Think you have to travel to New York City with a group to have fun? Think again. Whether you're planning a completely solo trip to New York City  or you have a few hours or a day away from your group, there are plenty of fantastic ways to spend time on your own in The Big Apple, no matter what your interests are. While the idea of being alone in the big city may seem daunting, you'll find that striking out solo gives you more opportunities to take in New York City's world-class museums, dine out at the trendiest restaurants (which are almost impossible to get into with a large group!), and merely meander through landmarked neighborhoods, all at your own pace. 

Enjoy Live Theater on or off Broadway

Fresh photos from all over the world / Getty Images

There's nothing like a show on Broadway, so why miss out on one of NYC's greatest experiences just because you're there by yourself? You're actually more likely to snag a better seat at the TKTS booth in Times Square or score a discounted seat in a theater lottery line by being alone instead of with a group, so take your pick and enjoy the show. Don't limit yourself to Broadway shows either, as there is plenty of talent to be found in smaller off-Broadway theaters across NYC's five boroughs (Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx).

Eat Your Way Around Town on a Food Tour

Eat Your World

Work up an appetite and try some of the best food in the world on a guided walking tour. Nosh Walks offers tours in each borough, focusing on specific foodie-friendly neighborhoods like Astoria and Flushing in Queens, known for their Greek and Asian specialties, respectively. There are plenty of Manhattan tours to choose from, though Secret Food Tours, Sidewalk Food Tours , and Foods of NY offer some of the best.

If time allows you to explore NYC beyond Manhattan, head up to the Bronx for a delicious walk along Arthur Avenue, where you'll hear more about the history of the area and sample fresh bread, cannoli, mozzarella, Roman-style pizza, and rainbow cookies with Arthur Avenue Food Tours. Enjoy a pizza-filled adventure with A Slice of Brooklyn , a bus tour with stops at several famous pizzerias, Coney Island, the Brooklyn waterfront, and a few other places you'll recognize from the big screen. In Queens, check out Eat Your World's walking tours through Jackson Heights and Elmhurst, which let you sample food from India, Colombia, Tibet, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, and Ecuador in just a few hours—Queens is one of the most ethnically diverse counties in the world, after all.

Visit the Outer Boroughs by Ferry

FrankvandenBergh / Getty Images

Take a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Jersey City as you sail from Lower Manhattan to the borough of Staten Island (either stick around to check out local shops and restaurants or take the ferry right back to Manhattan, it's up to you).

Otherwise, for the same price as a subway ride, you can travel between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx on the NYC Ferry , which offers routes from Midtown West and Battery Park City in Manhattan to Staten Island, up to Throgs Neck and Soundview in the Bronx, and to points as far east as Sunset Park in Brooklyn and Rockaway in Queens. Other connections link Manhattan with Queens neighborhoods like Astoria, Roosevelt Island, Long Island City, and Hunters Point South as well as Brooklyn neighborhoods like Greenpoint, North Williamsburg, South Williamsburg, Brooklyn Navy Yard, DUMBO, Atlantic Avenue, Red Hook, and Bay Ridge. There's also seasonal weekend service between Wall Street in Manhattan and Governor's Island, a lovely NYC green space that's open to the public in the summer.

Explore the Frick Collection

New York City is home to some fantastic art museums, which are lovely to visit alone. At the Frick Collection  on the Upper East Side, you can see paintings, sculptures, and decorative art pieces inside Henry Clay Frick's mansion, the current home of the museum. Docent talks and an audio tour are included with the price of admission.

Eat Solo at a Bar

Want to enjoy a great meal without the hassle of securing a difficult reservation? Solo diners can dine at the bar (sometimes with minimal wait) at restaurants where reservations are notoriously hard to get. If you're in SoHo, try  Balthazar , an always-bustling brasserie. If you like people-watching while you eat, you can't beat the delicious French bistro food and fun atmosphere. Seats at both tables and the bar of another NYC favorite,  Gramercy Tavern , are taken on a first-come, first-served basis and while the tavern menu is a bit simpler than the dining room one, you'll still be able to enjoy classic American cuisine inspired by the season.

Circumnavigate Manhattan on a Scenic Cruise

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

Want to see New York City from the water? A sightseeing cruise will give you a wonderful sense of the city's landscape and layout. If you're not in a rush, try Classic Harbor Line's three-hour cruise that circumnavigates Manhattan, crossing under all 18 of the island's bridges.

Take Yourself to a Movie

Going to see a movie by yourself might not be the first idea that comes to mind, but in New York City, you'll be in good company if you're at the movie theater on your own. And lucky for you, you can see whichever one you want, whether it's the latest blockbuster on a big screen, a foreign film, or a new indie movie that hasn't gotten broad release yet. In the summertime, you might even be able to catch a movie on the big screen in Bryant Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and other parks throughout the five boroughs.

While traditional megaplexes are concentrated in busier parts of the city (think Times Square, Union Square, and Columbus Circle), NYC has no shortage of smaller theaters that are always showing exciting films. Among the most popular are the West Village's Film Forum—New York City's only independent nonprofit movie theater—and Alamo Drafthouse, a Texas transplant with outposts in Lower Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn that lets moviegoers dine on special themed menus while they watch the latest blockbusters.

Get Lost on the Streets of New York City

Pick a neighborhood, any neighborhood, and get lost wandering and following your instincts on which way to turn. You're sure to see parts of the city that you never would on a tour or even with a friend. Maybe you'll find a spectacular bookstore. Or the perfect café. Or enjoy a beautiful sunset. Some favorites for this activity are ​ Greenwich Village and Brooklyn Heights , both of which have beautiful buildings, cobblestone streets, and wonderful places to explore and discover.

People Watch in the Park

New York City has no shortage of people-watching opportunities. If the weather is nice, stake out a spot in Bryant Park , Central Park , or Washington Square Park. There are also some great pedestrian areas with seating in Herald Square and Times Square . If you're looking for something indoors, many of the city's best coffee shops, like Stumptown Coffee Roasters on West 8th Street, have window seating where you can sip your latte and watch the world wander by.

See the City on Two Wheels

Toshi Sasaki / Getty Images

Thanks to NYC's bike share program, Citi Bike, it's easy to grab a bike for the day (or just a few hours) and explore the city at your own pace. Bicycles are situated at docking stations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Hoboken, and Jersey City, and you can check one out with just a swipe of your credit card. If you want a guided cycling experience, Bike the Big Apple by Unlimited Biking offers small group tours with friendly guides, an excellent choice if you're going to dig a little deeper into New York City's neighborhoods.

Take a Double-Decker Bus Tour

Graham Morrison / Stringer / Getty Images

If you're looking for a great way to get an overview of New York City but don't want to brave the streets all by yourself, a bus tour is an easy and flexible option. Gray Line's double-decker bus tours are a classic way to experience The Big Apple, plus, the tours allow you to "hop on, hop off" so they function not only as a guided tour but also as your transportation around the city. You may be surprised at how friendly the other people on tours are and how easy it is to interact with other visitors, so it's great whether you're looking to meet people or keep to yourself.

See One of the World's Best Collections of Modern Art

Modern art lovers will enjoy visiting the MoMA (Museum of Modern Art), which is home to many iconic examples of modern art, as well as a number of exciting temporary exhibitions. Museum admission includes guided and audio tours, as well as film screenings and access to PS1 , MoMA's contemporary collection in Queens, within 30 days of entry, giving you even more art to explore.

Browse the Met's Galleries After Dark

There's never a  bad  time to visit New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art , but there are certainly better times for a solo traveler to view its extensive collection without fighting against large tour groups for a glance at Van Gogh's  Self-Portrait in a Straw Hat . For a more tranquil look at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (also called "The Met"), visit during the museum's late weekend hours—on Fridays and Saturdays, the galleries are open until 9 p.m.

Browse an Independent Bookstore

 TripSavvy / Kelsea Watkins 

For a bibliophile, it's easy to lose yourself in a good book—or bookstore—for a few hours. And while New York City has lost its fair share of local stores to online behemoths and chains, there are still plenty of charming local shops worth your time. Books Are Magic , in Brooklyn's quaint Cobble Hill neighborhood, replaced a long-time favorite, Bookcourt, and regularly hosts authors for talks and Q&A sessions. Other favorites include SoHo's McNally Jackson , the quirky Three Lives in the West Village, and Strand, a haven for used book lovers near Union Square. 

Take a Fitness Class at a Hip Studio

Mile High Run Club

If pumping iron at a cramped, crowded gym doesn't appeal to your fitness goals, you'll delight in the fact that New York City is home to tons of unique exercise studios, each offering one-of-a-kind classes. Test your treadmill mettle at Mile High Run Club or try an upbeat boxing class at the punk-inspired Overthrow Boxing . Yoga lovers, meanwhile, can embrace cool vibes and great instructors at Sky Ting Yoga.

Spend a Relaxing Day at the Spa

Mario Tama / Getty Images

New York City is home to tons of high-quality day spas offering flat rates for admission. While there are some ​luxurious hotel spas where you can enjoy a pricey massage or facial followed by a flute of Champagne, the city also has plenty of "casual" options, like the authentic Russian bathhouse Brooklyn Banya and the Russian and Turkish Baths in the East Village. Further afield, Spa Castle, located in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens, has giant warm outdoor pools where you can luxuriate for a whole day if you like. 

Hit the Beach

Alan Schein / Getty Images

New York City's beaches and beachside amusement parks aren't open year-round, of course, but if you're visiting during the summer months, you'll find them to be bustling gathering places for families, groups of friends, and singles alike. In Brooklyn, Coney Island is known for its kitschy boardwalk, amusement park rides—take an unforgettable ride on The Cyclone Roller Coaster at Luna Park or try out the swinging Ferris wheel seats on Deno's Wonder Wheel—and delicious Nathan's Famous hot dogs. It's also a nice stretch of sand to relax on for a day. In Queens, the Rockaways have beautiful stretches of sand, a selection of restaurants and food vendors, and an affordable ferry that will take you from lower Manhattan directly to the beach.

Gallery Hop in Chelsea

David Zwirner Gallery

New York City is home to a considerable number of art galleries, most of which are concentrated in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood between 10th and 11th Avenues. Best of all, admission to most galleries is always free, making it a great and affordable way to see artwork by some of the city's best up-and-coming artists. Time your visit for Thursday evening, when all of the galleries open their new exhibitions, often serving complimentary wine and cheese for noshing. 

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How to Make Friends in NYC

Posted on Last updated: December 21, 2023

Taking a New York solo trip can feel daunting, especially if you aren’t sure how to make friends in NYC. Let’s face it: going solo to any big city can be overwhelming, especially one as fast-paced as NYC. After all, it is the city that never sleeps—people in NYC are always busy, and it’s not easy to strike up a conversation with random strangers on public transport without being looked at like a crazy person.

While making friends in NYC during a solo trip to New York might feel impossible, it’s not. If I can manage, you can too! New York is one of those cities that, if you know where to look, you can find anything you like, including new friends. Let’s jump into this guide to how to make friends in NYC.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Best Hostels for Making Friends in NYC

Finding hostels in New York City where you can easily make friends can be a great way to enhance your solo trip to NYC. Here are some hostels known for their social atmosphere and opportunities to meet fellow travelers:

• HI NYC Hostel : This hostel is one of the largest and most popular in the city. They organize regular events and group activities to help guests connect and make friends.
• The Local Hostel NYC : This boutique hostel in Queens has a cozy atmosphere and a common area for socializing. They often host events like movie nights and group outings, so it’s the perfect place to stay during a solo trip to New York.

How to Make Friends in NYC During a New York Solo Trip

On my last solo trip to NYC , I decided it was time I made some friends and started going out more. I’ve been traveling the world solo for years now, and even though I know NYC well and have been more times than I can remember (my mum lives there), I had no real friends in New York .

I met some super cool New Yorkers and forced them to be my friends (kidding, haha). So, in the spirit of “sharing is caring,” here are some fun things to do alone in NYC if you want to meet new people and make new friends.

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best NYC Tours :  Click here to check out the top NYC tours Best NYC Accommodation:  Click here to check out the best accommodation in NYC Best NYC Transport:  Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in NYC

Attending a New York meetup is a simple but often overlooked strategy for making friends in NYC. All you have to do is sign up for an account on a meetup website, check your likes, and join some groups. Then, wait for your inbox to fill up with invitations to cool events where you can meet others with similar interests!

Facebook Groups

Facebook groups have saved me from despair on more than one occasion. I’ve met some fantastic people through Facebook who became virtual and then real-life friends. Just do a few searches for things like “visiting NYC,” “traveling in NYC,” “backpacking in NYC,” or take a chance and post in worldwide groups like GoWonder .

Once you’ve found a group, post a cool picture of yourself and tell people you’re visiting/moving to NYC and would love to meet some fellow travelers during your solo trip to NYC. People will respond, and you’ll make friends, I promise!

Facebook Events

To make friends in NYC using Facebook events, search “events NYC” and scroll through all the fun and exciting events hosted throughout the city. Attending events is one of my favorite things to do alone in NYC because I always meet interesting people from different backgrounds.

Latin Party (If You Like to Salsa)

Latin Party is for my salsa-loving friends ! If there’s one thing that living and breathing Latino culture for a few years has taught me, it’s that they know how to party south of the border. If you want to dive into NYC’s vibrant Latino community, I suggest signing up for Latino Party events. Don’t know your Salsa from your Samba? Not to worry—almost all activities include a beginner’s dance class.

There are events every night of the week, but I usually attend the Sunday events. Classes start at 5 p.m. and are hosted in a dance studio on the same block as the Empire State Building .

Latin Party was often the highlight of my week as I got to practice my Spanish and dancing skills simultaneously. The best part is that it’s okay not to drink, so you don’t have to worry about feeling like the odd man out if you stick with something non-alcoholic.

FAQs: Making Friends in NYC During a Solo Trip to New York

Is making friends in nyc hard.

While it can be intimidating to make friends during a solo trip to NYC, there are endless opportunities to socialize and meet new people. Be open to trying new things and making new friends, and you’ll have an unforgettable New York solo trip.

What Are the Best Things to Do Alone in NYC?

I recommend going to meetups and social events and joining NYC Facebook groups.

How Do You Make Friends During a Solo Trip to New York?

You can make friends in NYC by attending events, parties, and meetups. Latin Party is an excellent option for anyone who likes to dance.

How to Make Friends in NYC: Final Thoughts

These are just a few suggestions of things to do alone in NYC during your New York solo trip if you want to make friends in NYC. New Yorkers may seem cold and a bit aggressive at times, but there are plenty of kind and friendly people there, too. Good luck with making friends in NYC—you can do it!

NYC Travel Guide Planning

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in NYC?

I strongly recommend using  Bookaway . You can book almost all transport in the major tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in NYC?

I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . They have a lot of options!

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Traveling to NYC? Take a read of my other guides:

10 British-Inspired Places to Visit in New York City

The 11 Most Instagrammable Places to Eat in New York City

How to Spend 5 Days in New York City

How to Spend a Weekend in New York City

5 Ways to Win at Christmas Shopping in New York City

This post was proofread by Grammarly .

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

New York City Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to NYC ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• New York City (NYC) is the most populous city in the US, with around 8.4 million residents.
• Manhattan is just one borough of NYC (along with The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island). The five boroughs were consolidated into a single city in 1898 .
• NYC is a global center of finance, culture, media, art, fashion, education, technology and entertainment; the city is sometimes considered the unofficial capital of the world (sorry, London!)
• Nicknames: NYC, The Big Apple, the Empire City, Gotham City, The City (referring to Manhattan).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  US Dollar  (USD)
• Spoken languages: primarily  English  (over 800 languages are represented in NYC – it is one of the most diverse cities in the world!)
• Best time to visit: in the  spring or fall . The best of the city blooms in the spring, and autumn is similarly pleasant. Many well-heeled New Yorkers leave the city during late summer, due to high heat and humidity. Summer also sees the most tourists.
• Arriving via  John F. Kennedy airport (JFK): A $5.00 AirTrain ride will take you to an MTA subway station with lines that go to Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. Public transport directions (Google Maps). You can buy a Metrocard (needed to ride the subway and bus system in NYC) along with the AirTrain ticket at the same time. Taxi cost: about $75 .
• Arriving via  Newark airport (EWR): public transport to Penn Station. Taxi rides are ~ $50 .
• Arriving via LaGuardia airport (LGA): c ity buses run from LaGuardia to train stations in Queens and Manhattan for just $2.25 (you must have exact change). Otherwise, there are plenty of taxis waiting outside, and trips to the nearest train station start around $10, with rides to Manhattan starting around $20.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers: The Local NYC . A clean, safe, and welcoming establishment in Queens (you can be in Manhattan in minutes via the subway). Great atmosphere, and a common area with books – perfect for hanging out and meeting fellow travelers. You won’t find better for the price in NYC – book ahead!
• Accommodation here does not come cheap! If you’ve got the cash, the West Village , Chelsea , and Soho are the areas to be in. In Brooklyn, Williamsburg is the hip area.
• Midtown and FiDi (Financial District) are a good compromise of price and location: these are not considered “sexy” areas, so accommodation is more manageable.
• If you’re looking for more affordable accommodation, check out Brooklyn ( Greenpoint , or the area near Bedford Av. station). Another potential area is LIC (Long Island City) in Queens – with very fast subway connections to Manhattan.
• Public transport is good here (arguably the best in the States), so just about anywhere in Manhattan below 90th street would be a good place from which to check out the city.

GETTING AROUND

• New York is a perfect walking city – it’s flat, fascinating, and immense. If you plan your day right, you may only have to use the subway a couple of times per day (the rest can be explored on foot).
• Cycling is gaining steam in the city as a free, eco-friendly and fast way of getting around. Brooklyn has a big bike scene and there are plenty of public rides to join. However, traffic is notoriously hectic in New York – wear a helmet, obey all traffic laws, try stick to bike lanes, and stay aware.
• The NYC subway is one of the largest systems in the world, and runs 24 hours a day! Subway rides are $2.75, and   add-value (MetroCard) cards are available at most subway stations.
• Buses are widely available in all five boroughs, with lines usually running down one street or main avenue. For example, the M6 travels down 6th avenue in Manhattan.
• Taxis are everywhere in Manhattan ($2.50 initial charge, credit cards accepted) but harder to come by in other boroughs. Most residents prefer using Uber or Lyft .

NYC NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 21 , and last call is usually just before 4 AM . Just like everywhere else in the USA, ID is usually checked at the door.
• Check out Lower East Side and/or Williamsburg for the bar scene. If you’re looking for dive bars (cheap drinks), head to the East Village . Meanwhile, the West Village is more upscale.
• No visit to New York is complete without a drink on one of Manhattan’s rooftops. Check out the Flatiron and Midtown to get your fix (there are solid options in Williamsburg, too, with skyline views of Manhattan).
• Greenpoint and Williamsburg in Brooklyn are the hipster capitals of New York, with a bunch of live rock venues. Park Slope, Downtown Brooklyn and Carroll Gardens bars have a calmer ambiance, as they are more family-oriented than other neighborhoods in Brooklyn.
• Great bars in Manhattan for solo travelers: Mama’s Bar (dive), Welcome To The Johnsons (dive), McSorley’s Old Ale House (oldest bar in NYC – lots of tourists, great for extroverts).
• Brooklyn dive bars: Ontario Bar, Redd’s Tavern, Harefield Road, Alligator Lounge, Berry Park (rooftop views), Union Pool,  Barcade (arcade games – there’s one in Manhattan too).
• Cocktail bars to check out: The Summit Bar, Death & Company, Employees Only.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• There are many great museums in NYC. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) is an absolute must see – the exhibits are world-class. Other great museums include: MoMA (Museum of Modern Art), the Guggenheim , and the Museum of Natural History .
• The Brooklyn Museum  houses the city’s second-largest collection of artwork, and is donation-based. You can make an afternoon out of people-watching in the plaza out front or strolling the grounds of the adjoining Brooklyn Botanical Garden .
• Check out the largest train station in the world at Grand Central Terminal , whose main concourse ceiling displays a stunning astronomical mural.
• Head to Lincoln Center for a classic New York scene: 16 acres of Modernist buildings dedicated to the performing arts. Its fountain and various theaters are brilliantly lit up at night.
• Union Square Park is a public park that symbolizes Downtown New York culture. The best time to see it is on weekends, when the Farmer’s Market stretches on the North side and artists sell their eclectic wares on the South. Other interesting parks to check out include Madison Square Park, Bryant Park, and Central Park.
• Check out to the roof of the Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock) for stunning views.
• Visit the Transit Museum to see how the city’s public transport developed over time.

INTERESTING WALKS

• The High Line is an elevated park developed on the site of an old train line and stretches for one mile in Chelsea.
• A walk around The Ramble or Strawberry Fields in Central Park is all but obligatory.
• The Brooklyn Bridge has long been a symbol of New York City itself, and a sunset stroll from Manhattan to Brooklyn (or reverse) is one of those quintessential city experiences you can’t miss.
• The Botanical Garden in The Bronx is the biggest in the city, offering the most expansive green hideaway within New York.
• Walk along the trendy streets of SoHo and the West Village , packed with restaurants and boutique shops.

LOCAL WISDOM

• New Yorkers are not that rude – they are just in a hurry!
• New York is a multicultural melting pot containing all walks of life. Don’t be surprised if you see a drag queen in line at McDonald’s, teacup terriers in elaborate dress on the Upper East Side, or a Bronx mother with five children next to supermodels on the subway.
• Homelessness is a big problem in NYC and you will most likely be asked for change more than once every day.
• Anyone who rides the MTA is subject to random search by the New York Police Department, so stay calm if it happens to you.
• Where to find good cheap eats : Queens is where you can find the cheapest food. Its high number of immigrants brought street food scenes here that are generally lacking in the U.S. Taco trucks, samosa stands and falafel carts especially line the streets of Jackson Heights, Sunnyside and Astoria – the latter of which has a strong Greek food culture. In Manhattan, the cheapest good eats are at the Chinese restaurants, with the most affordable, insanely delicious bites found in Chinatown .
• Dangerous areas : while the city has gotten safer over the years, it still has a high crime rate. You generally want to stay out of residential neighborhoods (more common in the outer boroughs) and stick to crowded, well-lit areas at night. Manhattan is generally safe, along with upscale parts of Brooklyn (e.g. Williamsburg).

Recommended trip duration:  4-5 days

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New york , new york city, alone in the big apple: solo travel guide to new york city.

• Published May 4, 2022

The Big Apple, The City of Dreams–call it what you will. New York is a city that never sleeps, but somehow still rejuvenates you with its never-ending thrill and inspiration. Keep this guide in your back pocket during your solo trip to NYC. Just a single step out of the subway will give you infinite ideas for exploration, but it does help to have a cheat sheet of fun ideas on hand. From Broadway to fine dining to cultural immersion, New York City has an excursion for travelers of all speeds. Whether you’re remote working in one of NYC’s beautiful and breaking out at night, or spending long days in the street looking for adventure, NYC’s got you covered any hour of the day.

Finding The Best Places To Stay On Any Budget

Finding a place to stay is sometimes the hardest part for a solo traveler. Do you stick to the hostels? Book yourself a luxury hotel room? Utilize Airbnb? Whether you’re sticking to a budget or splurging for your trip, NYC has a suitable place to stay for any traveler.

Right in the heart of Manhattan, there are ample hostels ranging in price from about $50-$100 a night depending on location and whether you decide to bunk up or get a private room. Hostels are great for someone looking to meet travel partners along the way, as most usually host group outings or events for solo travelers to link up.

If you’re working from home and need stable Wi-Fi in the daytime, go for a hotel in a different borough such as Brooklyn or Queens. Transportation into Manhattan is still a breeze, but the boroughs offer a more laid-back stay that’s likely to be a bit more quiet. Opt to stay in a surrounding town if you’re really eager to cut down on costs–Hoboken or Jersey City, New Jersey are just a train ride away from the Big Apple.

Transportation Around The City As A Solo Traveler  

The cost of cabs, Ubers, and Lyfts can easily add up as a solo traveler. Luckily, the NYC MTA (subway system) is easily accessible and cost-effective for any budget. When you arrive in the city, purchase a Metrocard at a kiosk for $1, and load up for your rides. A single ride costs $2.75, and most trains offer free transfers to the next line. Unsure if you’re going the right way? Just use the Google Maps app on your device to follow along with the train stops, or tap a passerby on the shoulder. NYC locals are surprisingly friendly and helpful.

NYC also offers scooter and bike rentals for cheap if you are feeling adventurous. CitiBikes are prevalent and offer a 24-hour pass or 7-day rental, so get your exercise and sightseeing in with one great deal. After all, New York is a super bike-friendly city, and the best way to “take it all in” is to do so above-ground. 

What To Do As A Solo Traveler In NYC 

Finding entertainment .

So you’ve mastered accommodations and transportation. Now, what to do all day? New York City is famous for providing opportunity at every turn, and that includes opportunities for fun. Head to 42nd street, buy a single seat ticket and catch a show on NYC’s iconic Broadway. With dozens of shows playing any given month, it’s easy to score a budget-friendly ticket, especially if you head to the ticket booth on a last-minute whim.

If plays or musicals aren’t your mood and you’re looking for some laughs, search for comedy shows. NYC is a comedy haven with plenty of “underground” and emerging comedians performing at local clubs for cheap. Purchase a single ticket and don’t forget ID, because most clubs require a two-drink limit per person. If music is your jam, opt for local bars putting on shows for a truly unique experience, and it’s a great way to mingle with locals. All musicians make at least one stop in New York City on their world tours, so a quick “concerts near me” search just may surprise you.

For The Cultured Crowd

New York City is full of iconic museums. Start by heading to the Metropolitan Museum of Art on 5th Ave, better known as “The Met,” and either have a photo op on the steps, or splurge on the $25 ticket for a day of art and culture appreciation. Other museums to add to your bucket list should include The Guggenheim, The MoMA, The Whitney, and the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. All unique in their own way, museum-hopping is perfect for someone looking to spend the day alone appreciating art. It’s best when you can take the galleries at your own pace, anyway.

The Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side, a national historic site, celebrates migrant stories and provides a peek into the average New Yorker’s day-to-day as far back as the 1800s. For insight into the immigrant lifestyle and struggle, upon which New York City was built, The Tenement Museum is a must-see.

Spend The Day Outdoors 

Believe it not, NYC actually offers plenty of green space. Grab a blanket, an NYC bagel with cream cheese shmear, and head to historic Central Park to start. You’d be hard pressed to find another urban oasis as legendary as Central Park. 

If you are looking for a more modern, artistic experience, explore the 1.45 mile long elevated park called The High Line. Railroad-line turned green public park, this all-purpose walking, biking, and picnicking path provides top-notch views around the city, perfect for endless selfies.  

Shop Til You Drop

In recent years, SoHo has emerged as one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in all of NYC. Landmark stores like Bloomingdale’s and Prada can be found among the cast-iron architecture and cobblestone streets of SoHo, as well as more hip, newer spots like Supreme and Kith. Window shop for inspiration or swipe your card all day– when you’re ready for a break, there are plenty of cute cafes and trendy eateries along the streets.

Leave Space For Spontaneity

When it comes to New York City, plan to not plan. The city’s magic is in the sidewalks, the subways, and the stumble-upons. Neighborhoods like Greenwich Village (The “West Village”) are brimming with interesting pop-up shops, eateries and galleries at every corner. The atmosphere can’t be beat– it’s no wonder Greenwich Village has been the bohemian backdrop for countless plays, novels and movies over the years.

With all this exlporing, you’ll definitely need a bite, bookmark Where to Find the Best Italian Food in NYC’s Little Italy.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Best Places to Stay in New York City for Solo Travelers

November 4, 2022 by Janice Waugh

New York City! It's such a great destination but the price of hotels can be a bit daunting, especially for solo travelers. So, as always in such circumstances, we went to our community and asked for their recommendations on the best hotels and places to stay in New York City for solo travelers.

The response was fabulous. From budget to luxury, from pods to efficiency units, we have some great recommendations for you. And the best thing about this list is that individual solo travelers have stayed in these accommodations and recommend them to others.

Before getting into the details, it's important to know that New York City is not just Manhattan. While people often think of the city as simply the island of Manhattan, it actually includes four other boroughs including Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

The city is served by three airports:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens is the largest airport with 8 terminals. It is 40 minutes by taxi to Times Square.
• LaGuardia Airport in Queens. It is 30 minutes by taxi to Times Square.
• Newark International Airport in Newark, New Jersey. It is 35 minutes by taxi to Times Square, though it will be more expensive than the above due to the cost of road tolls.

To learn how to get from each airport to your destination in the city, use Rome2Rio .

For affordable things to do in New York City, read Solo on a Budget in New York City: 50+ Tips to Make NYC Affordable .

Table of Contents

Great Hotels in Manhattan for Solo Travelers: Recommendations by Neighborhood

Let's start by getting the lay of the land. While New York has five boroughs, Manhattan is the most popular for its entertainment and attractions for travelers. It is broken into 53 neighborhoods, according to the city's planning department. However, for practical purposes, there are three main areas of Manhattan: Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown. In Uptown and Midtown, avenues travel north and south while streets go east and west, making it relatively easy to navigate. Downtown streets get a little more complicated.

Favorite Manhattan neighborhoods for travelers are listed below with hotels in the area. Prices quoted were for a one-night stay on November 6, 2022. Since hotel pricing is dynamic, the price will go up or down depending on how many rooms are available. The prices below are just an indication of where the hotel pricing is on the budget to luxury spectrum.

• Theater District – Midtown West Times Square, at the center of the Theater District, is always buzzing with people, costumed characters, digital billboards, and lots and lots of light. It is also where the TKTS booth is located which sells tickets to Broadway shows running at the area’s historic theaters. The most budget-friendly recommendation we received for this area is the Hotel Edison at US$159/night. There's also the Ameritania which goes for US$161/night. For something a little more special, stay at the Archer Hotel at US$368/night. Or, stay right in Times Square at the Marriott Marquis for US$500/night.
• Midtown East – Bryant Park The stunning, Art Deco Chrysler Building is in this area and, just a bit south, the famed Empire State Building. This is also the place to stay for high-end shopping along 5th Avenue. There are also tourist landmarks like Grand Central Terminal train station (you've seen it in so many films) and the UN Headquarters building. Recommended hotels for this area are The Pod 39 at US$179/night and The Pod 51 at US$129/night or the Archer Hotel at US$368/night .
• Central Park – Museum Mile This area includes the south end of beautiful Central Park and the Museum Mile which has six museums, including the Guggenheim Museum, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Jewish Museum. It is also near Carnegie Hall and The Plaza Hotel which comes in around US$1185/night. But that doesn't mean you can't stop in for a drink or tea! Recommended hotels for this area are The Park Hotel at US$244/night and the Manhattan Club at US$309/night.
• Greenwich Village Two universities and the famous Washington Park are all within the Village. Recommended hotels for this area are The Jane , a budget hotel at US$155/night (with communal bathrooms) and Washington Square at US$243/night.
• Chelsea Chelsea is a residential neighborhood of townhouses, low-rise apartment buildings, and some luxury high-rises. The High Line, the elevated park built atop former railroad tracks, hundreds of art galleries, and the Chelsea Market are located there. Recommended accommodations are The Leo House with single rooms at US$159/night and The Gem Hotel at US$309/night.
• Upper West Side The Upper West Side includes the grand apartments of Central Park West, the Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet, and the American Museum of Natural History. It is also Seinfeld's ‘hood, so if you watched the show, there will be a few landmarks to see. This is an expensive area. The recommended hotel is Hotel Beacon at US$287/night with some rooms containing small kitchens.
• Lower East Side Historically, this was a Jewish neighborhood of tenement buildings. It's now trendy with lots of upscale apartments and trendy bars as well as the original buildings. Take the tenement tour when there. It's very interesting. Recommended hotels are Hotel Indigo at US$269/night and the luxury Citizen M New York Bowery Hotel at US$675/night.

Budget to Luxury: Best Hotels for Solo Travelers in New York City

This is a companion piece to Solo on a Budget in New York City: 50+ Tips to Make NYC Affordable though not quite so budget focused. After all, when you head to New York City, you just might want to do it in a big way. So, I'm going to break it down, from budget to luxury.

One note about Airbnb in New York City. It's actually illegal to rent out a home for fewer than 30 days unless the resident is present. So, while you might rent a room through Airbnb, it's not legal to rent a whole home for a short stay.

Best Budget Hostels and Hotels in New York City for Solo Travelers

There isn't a lot in the way of budget accommodation in New York City, but here are a few spots that were recommended by readers.

• The Pod 51 in Midtown East. The rooms are small and cozy, perfect for one. I felt safe at both. US$116/night .
• The Jane in the Meatpacking district (north west Village) was recommended by two readers. Note, it has communal bathrooms. US$145/night .
• HI NYC Hostel . HI (Hosteling International) hostels are pretty reliable and this one is recommended by Scott. This one is located on the Upper West Side and comes in at US$158/night .
• Leo House . Cindy thought it was nice and reasonably priced with single rooms at US$159/night .
• Hotel Edison is near Times Square and suggested by Lauren. It’s a 100 year old Art Deco hotel and very much Old New York. US$159/night .
• The Pod 39 in Murray Hill (east, mid-Manhattan). US$160/night .

Moderately Priced New York Hotels for Solo Travelers

What is considered moderately priced in New York might be a bit different than you would find elsewhere. Here's what our readers recommend.

• The Blakely at 55th Street between 6 and 7th Avenues is recommended by Marianne. She says to ask to stay on the 55th Street side. US$200/night
• Manhattan Club has efficiency units. US$201/night
• The Park Hotel on 7th, across from Carnegie Hall is a quiet hotel with no restaurant but plenty of food nearby. US$208/night .
• Ameritania is located in the theater district. US$225/night .
• Hilton Garden Inn is recommended by Barbara. She likes the one on 54th Street. US$269/night .
• Hotel Beacon Jeanne thought the location on the Upper West Side was the perfect location for a solo traveler, plus the rooms all had a little kitchen area. US$287/night .
• Hotel Indigo is on the Lower East Side and recommended by Charlene. US$289/night .
• The Gem Hotel in Chelsea. US$309/night .
• Archer Hotel is recommended by Kristin who uses it as her base for going to the theater. US$369/night .

Luxury New York Hotels for Solo Travelers

• NH Collection New York Madison Avenue . “Lovely hotel, great staff,” says our reader. US$427/night .
• Marriott Marquis in Times Square, which is perfect if going to the theater. US$500/night .
• Citizen M New York Bowery Hotel is where the East Village meets the Lower East Side. US$900/night .
• The Plaza Hotel which comes in around US$1180/night .

Hotel Taxes and Fees in New York City

New York is famous for promoting one rate for a hotel room and adding fees and taxes at checkout. There is the Hotel Room Occupancy Tax collected by the city as well as city and state taxes. In addition, some hotels will charge a Resort Fee. This can break a traveler's budget and leave a sour feeling after a wonderful vacation.

The above links go to Booking.com. When you look at the price for a room, see the print under the price to know what the taxes and charges will be on the room so that you have a better financial picture. Then, before going to “Final Details” click on “What are my booking conditions”. Under “Taxes and service charges” you'll see something like: “14.75 % Tax is excluded. US$3.50 City tax per night is excluded. A Property service charge is not applicable.” I have not been able to confirm that this means that there is no resort fee, but that's how I would interpret it.

Pro Solo Travel Tip

One last word to the wise: if you're flying to New York City, make sure you have travel insurance . It's tough enough to find reasonably-priced New York City hotels for solo travelers when you have time to plan ahead and wait for a deal. But with so many flight cancellations at this time, it can really blow your budget if you find yourself stranded at the airport and have to find accommodation with availability at the last minute.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Why wait? The world is calling you now!

When it comes to traveling, one of the most stressful parts can be the planning, making sure each member of your family or friend group is in agreement on the itinerary, hotel, spending and more. Want to avoid all of that?

We recommend a solo trip!

Traveling on your own can seem scary, but with the proper preparation and a good head on your shoulders, the world is ready for you to explore it right now. Going it solo, there are a few less things to worry about like a hotel room size (you just need one bed!) and group flights, but there also some nuances to make note of.

That’s why we interviewed a professional solo traveler, who now helps others get outside of their comfort zone and off into the great unknown.

We chatted with Jen Tenzer, founder of The Soloist , a luxury solo travel advisory site with all the tips and tricks you could need when going it alone. She let us in on some insider tips, plus mapped out where the best places to venture solo are, from the Americas to Asia, Europe and beyond.

The best places to solo travel in America

The best places to solo travel in south and central america, the best places to solo travel in europe, the best places to solo travel in asia, the best places to solo travel in the rest of the world.

Plus, read on for tips and tricks for who should travel solo

• Solo travel FAQ

What our experts say: “Sedona, Austin, and New York City — These cities are very concentrated and accessible, with tons of activities to keep solo travelers busy. Consider a wellness hotel in Sedona, a foodie walking tour in Austin, or a solo museum visit in NYC,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: What can I say — since New York City is on the expert list and I totally agree. As cliché as it may be, the Big Apple has endless options for solo travelers, from watching a Broadway show to seeing landmarks or just exploring the many museums and parks the five boroughs have to offer.

Sedona, Arizona: If you’re in need of a wellness moment, go it solo to the southwest and head to Sedona, Arizona. For an actual retreat, check out the Sedona Mago Center for a SunTao spa. If you prefer solo excursions, head here for hikes and tours to do solo.

Austin, Texas: For a true blue Texas trip, consider going alone to Austin. This is the best place to catch a live show and vibe with likeminded people, or, as our expert recommended, join a food tour and leave full of BBQ and great memories.

New York City, New York: What can’t you do in New York? Our expert first recommended a Broadway show, and we couldn’t agree more. Find tickets here and then plan the rest of your trip, with tours designed for solo travelers like you.

What our experts say: “Costa Rica and Peru — Same as above! These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English,” said Tenzer. “I love the idea of a wellness-focused surf and yoga retreat in Costa Rica or joining a group trek to Machu Picchu!”

What our editors say: I need to add Brazil to this list, since I did take a trip there myself. For a more friendly and party atmosphere where you are bound to meet other backpackers and solo travelers, Rio de Janeiro would be a great home base. I also took a solo trip into the Amazon Rainforest, which was a crazy adventure, but when done right, was a life-changing and introspective trip to do on my own.

Costa Rica: Per our expert, unwind and relax with a yoga retreat, staying at the Pura Vida Retreat & Spa . You can also book surf lessons to stay active or book a multi-day tour here so you don’t have to make your own itinerary.

Peru: Machu Picchu is a top bucket list destination for many, so why wait for a group to go? Instead, join an EF tour that also takes you to Lima and Cuzco, and even the Amazon Rainforest should you opt to extend. If you’d rather explore on your own, book a highly-rated hostel for budget lodging, sorted by city.

Brazil: Brazil is a huge country, so we advise you to pick a few places or spend a long time exploring. For a true cultural explosion, Rio is the place to be and you can take daily tours of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain and more. For the more adventurous, take a flight to Manaus and enter the Amazon Rainforest. We did it in spring 2022 and took our tour here.

What our experts say: “England, Portugal, Italy… I could go on and on! European cities in general make for perfect for solo trips because everything is walkable, there’s tons of activities to keep you busy, and the expansive European train network makes it easy to transfer between cities,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I added two countries to our expert list: Spain and Switzerland. Spain is a great one to tack on to the end of any European adventure, as it is super closely connected to Portugal and Italy from the list. You can go from the northern Basque country to the south of Valencia and see a huge range of culture, food and architecture in just one country.

England: To start, flights from the US to England aren’t too hard to find, and savvy travelers can use Skyscanner to find the best deals. Once you’ve arrived, rent a cottage for a relaxing stay in a town of your choice or head into the thick of it and go to London for a full itinerary of solo things to see and do.

Portugal: Portugal is a great country to explore solo, with Lisbon and Porto as standouts for a great combo of nature and city life. If you like to be solo but also experience a place as the locals do, consider a tour or activity with a local guide , like a cooking class or a walking tour.

Italy: Italy may seem like a place of romance, but it can also be a place of self-love for the solo traveler. Use the railroads to book trains throughout the country so you can see it all, from Rome to Florence to Venice and beyond to see the country for yourself. You can also book a solo tour through EF and not worry about making your own itinerary.

Spain: Architecture, food and culture blend seamlessly together in Spain. See it for yourself, with a trip through the country. We personally started in Barcelona and then headed to Madrid and Valencia, all via train or bus. Then load your days with museums, walking tours or even dance classes to fully immerse yourself in the Spanish lifestyle.

What our experts say: “Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam — These destinations are safe for solo travelers, have a well-established tourism infrastructure, and most people interacting with tourists will speak English. There’s so much to see and explore here,” said Tenzer.

What our editors say: I have to agree 100% with Thailand, as I lived there on my own for six months. The country is easy to explore via public transit, cabs and even short flights, inexpensive to travel in and has some of the best food, nature and culture I have been exposed to.

Thailand: What can I say about Thailand? I personally lived there for six months and still never ran out of things to do alone, and also ran into plenty of other solo travelers and backpackers throughout the country. If you want some guidance, consider a tour with an itinerary. If not, be sure to keep your wits about you and make sure to visit Bangkok , with a trip north to Chiang Mai and a trip south to the islands of Krabi or Phuket for the full Thailand picture.

Bali, Indonesia: Once you’ve booked your ticket to Bali, the rest of the trip is all about relaxing, unwinding and taking in the incredible nature. It is also a surfing hot spot, should you like to take a lesson from just $14. Bali is also famous for yoga, so why not stay at a spa and yoga retreat to charge up for your next adventure?

Vietnam: There are plenty of things to do in Vietnam, making it another hot spot for backpackers and solo travelers who want to explore Asia . Built on the water, be sure to take some tours down Halong Bay and the Mekong River, or take an island day trip to get all the sun and sand you need.

What our expert says: “Another less-obvious way to travel solo is by joining a group retreat or cruise ! You’re still traveling alone to a new destination and surrounding yourself with strangers, but there’s a comfort in knowing that you’re not  truly  alone in an emergency. It also takes some of the stress out of things when everything is pre-planned for you. Group travel experiences are a great way to tiptoe into solo travel,” said Tenzer.

• Search Expedia for multiple destinations
• Plan a Princess cruise
• Shop for cruise deals and discounts at MSC Cruises
• Get a single stateroom for the Celebrity Cruises solo traveler

Solo travel FAQ with an expert:

What is the appeal of traveling alone? “Solo travel offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with your core wants and needs,” said Tenzer. Solo travel enables you to explore wherever and whenever you want, stick to a tight budget or truly treat yourself and fill your days with whatever activities light you up! It’s a newfound freedom that allows you to return from vacation actually refreshed.  You’ll return re-motivated to show up for everyone in your life as your best self!”

What are some benefits of solo travel? “Solo travel is incredibly empowering,” said Tenzer. “You don’t know how capable you truly are until you’ve pushed yourself beyond your comfort zone. Solo trips always come with the added benefit of a self-confidence boost. Solo travel is also a fantastic way to meet like-minded new friends. I know it sounds counter-intuitive, but I’ve met infinitely more people traveling solo than when traveling with a companion.”

Who should solo travel? “There’s a bit of cliché around solo travel; that it’s best suited for 20-something single backpackers on a gap year,” said Tenzer. “In reality, there are all sorts of reasons why someone may choose to travel alone: A major life transition like a breakup, career change or the loss of a loved one. Maybe they’re feeling burnt out and craving a personal recharge, or maybe they’re just sick of waiting for other people’s travel schedules and budgets to perfectly align. I’ve had solo travel clients in their 20s and in their 70s. The common tie amongst solo travelers isn’t a certain demographic, it’s a certain state of mind — ready to shake things up and have an adventure.”

How long do I need to solo travel for? “Solo travel doesn’t have to mean an intimidating 2-week trip to some far flung destination. The same solo travel benefits can be obtained from a weekend away to a nearby city you’ve always wanted to explore,” said Tenzer. “I always recommend starting small in your own city. Try visiting a museum on your own or dining out alone. Or, if you’re traveling with family, maybe you spend some time alone during the day and meet up with everyone else at dinner.”

When choosing lodging, what are some tips and tricks for solo travelers? “It’s important to pick a hotel that’s centrally-located in the heart of your destination,” suggested Tenzer. “This is not the time to pick a budget hotel located outside the city in a remote area. Ideally, your hotel is walkable to all of the major sights and attractions, so that you have the freedom to come and go as you please without being reliant on taxis. I also don’t recommend Airbnb’s for a first big solo trip, and prefer the support and safety that comes from a front desk staff who can help in a pinch. 

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Take a Look at the First Round of Skift Global Forum Speakers

Brian Quinn , Skift

June 11th, 2024 at 10:35 AM EDT

Top travel industry CEOs set to take the Skift Global Forum stage this year including speakers from JetBlue, Booking Holdings, MGM Resorts, TripAdvisor, Wyndham, Marriott International, and so many more.

Brian Quinn

The largest and most popular travel industry event of the year, Skift Global Forum , is back this September 17-19 in New York City. For the eleventh year, we plan to welcome some of the best and brightest that the travel industry has to offer during exclusive on-stage interviews.

Top CEOs Who Plan to Take the Stage

• Aaron Gowell – CEO and Co-Founder of SilverRail
• Anthony Capuano – CEO of Marriott International
• Ariane Gorin – CEO of Expedia Group
• Christal Bemont – CEO of Direct Travel
• Eric Gnock Fah – Chief Operating Officer & Co-Founder of Klook
• Geoffrey Ballotti – President & CEO of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
• Glenn Fogel – CEO & President of Booking Holdings
• Greg O’Hara – Founder and Senior Managing Director of Certares
• Issam Abdul Rahim Kazim – CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing
• James Thornton – CEO of Intrepid Travel
• Joanna Geraghty – CEO of JetBlue
• Johannes Reck – CEO of GetYourGuide
• Matt Goldberg – President & CEO of TripAdvisor
• Matthew D. Upchurch – CEO of Virtuoso
• Steve Hill – CEO & President of Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA)
• William Hornbuckle – CEO and President of MGM Resorts International
• Zita Cobb – Founder and CEO of Shorefast & Fogo Island Inn
• View the growing list of Skift Global Forum speakers here

Don’t Miss Out

These are just some of 30+ Skift Global Forum speakers who will join us this year. Stay tuned for further updates as we unveil additional speakers and delve deeper into the themes and topics that will define this year’s forum. Stay up to date here .

So many exclusive interviews and sessions await at the leading travel industry conference of the year. Make sure to be a part of it.

Skift Global Forum 2024 Registration

Discounted price of $2,695 (Solo) and $2,345 (Group) for a limited time only. Full-price tickets are $3,495 (Solo) and $3,145 (Group).

Register now for an in-person ticket to the New York event.

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The Best in Travel, From New York’s Fifth Avenue Hotel to a River Lodge in Bhutan

A host of world-class properties that take luxury stays to breathtaking new heights..

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The Big Idea: Alone in a Crowd

Don’t bother buying a hotel. There’s no need now, as it has never been easier to enjoy the feeling of your own private resort (if temporarily). Call it an owner’s lodge, a royal villa, or the principal’s home: The must-have of the moment is a mansion-size, hotel-run lodging that has access to all of the amenities but keeps you far away from fellow guests.

This trend is influenced by a permanent shift in travel patterns. According to Black Tomato’s Sunil Metcalfe, bookings for eight people or more increased by 35 percent in 2022 compared to 2019. Such group travel now makes up almost a third of the company’s bookings. “The private-villa and private-staff trend that was massive during Covid is on the wane, but what’s stayed is a desire for private residences within desirable hotels,” he says. Adventure specialist Gray & Co. has seen a similar shift: In 2023, multigenerational travel had doubled.

Properties from urban centers to beach resorts are adding offshoots primed for such buyouts: Oslo’s Sommerro offers the smartly named 11-room Villa Inkognito . At Caiman, the resort-cum–wildlife preserve in Brazil’s wetland Pantanal region, the private villa Baiazinha sleeps 12. And on Lizard Island, in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the deck of the Lizard House overlooks a beach David Attenborough is said to have called one of his favorite places in the world.

Need more than just a single structure? Not to worry. Fiji’s Kokomo Private Island has five residences with three or more bedrooms, each perched on a hilltop. At Long Bay Villas on Anguilla, you can book a trio of homes separately or together. One&Only’s new Greek property Kéa Island , meanwhile, looks more like a village of luxury homes than a hotel. And in Africa, the luxury-safari realm’s move toward micro camps, such as Botswana’s North Island Okavango or Tarkuni Homestead (on South Africa’s Tswalu game reserve), is also driven by this trend.

On St. Barts, Eden Rock takes this a step further, offering a catalog of 200 privately owned homes dotted around the island. The program is so successful it has spawned both clones (local rival Hotel Le Toiny has its own portfolio of over a dozen) and expansion. Eden Rock operator Oetker is now offering a similar service along the Côte d’Azur. It’s a reminder of that well-worn piece of financial advice: Why buy when you can rent?

Safari Camp: Loapi, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa

You wouldn’t expect to stumble upon six cutting-edge glass, steel, and canvas structures in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. Unless perhaps you’re within Tswalu, South Africa’s largest private game reserve. The Oppenheimer family, which owns it, has been restoring these lands since 1999. While conservation and sustainability are top of mind here, so are privacy and high design. Loapi , the aforementioned collection of micro camps, is the third and newest addition to this 282,000-acre reserve. It offers a private guide, a butler, and a chef who can cook everything from tapas to curries to freshly baked bread.

The views from the rooms and outdoor terraces are staggering: Grassland and red soil meet the low mountains that jut upward into a cerulean sky. The interiors are stunning, too, appointed with intricately carved wood-paneled walls, cork ceilings, and coffee-colored rounded bouclé couches that beg for a post-safari nap. From $2,428 per person

Beach Resort: Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort, Hawaii

When news spread that the posh Rosewood brand would resurrect Hawaii’s beloved Kona Village resort , which was decimated by a tsunami in 2011, there was both celebration and concern. Could the laid-back vibe guests returned for year after year be re-created? By the time it reopened last July, it had Wi-Fi, plus a striking new spa improbably built into the lava flow and a sea-to-table restaurant with an outstanding selection of white Burgundy (both impressive additions).

But the soul of the place lives on at the restored Shipwreck Bar, a beached schooner-turned–watering hole that belonged to the founders. The vessel, where Jim Morrison once infamously consumed a record 21 mai tais, miraculously survived the storm. (Staff joke that the only thing stronger than the drinks is the boat itself.) Take a seat and listen closely enough, and you can overhear guests reminiscing about stays here as long ago as the ’60s. It’s proof that even with modern upgrades, the place can still transport you to the Hawaii of another era. From $1,800

Luxury Adventure: Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal

You don’t have to leave the remote grounds of Nepal’s Shinta Mani Mustang , the third property in architect Bill Bensley’s eponymous hotel collection, to feel immersed in the culture of this ancient mountain kingdom. Guests can join a monk in the on-site puja room for sunrise chants or partake in a healing session with the resident amchi, an 11th-generation doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. The surrounding powder-dusted peaks are perfectly framed in each bedroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows, the yak-fur-lined bar serves local apple brandy, and the restaurant’s nine-course momo tasting menu schools guests in the region’s staple steamed dumplings.

But hotelier Jason Friedman, a partner in the project, intended the 29-suite retreat to be a cushy base camp. Guests can enjoy immersive excursions, such as a trek to a medieval village believed to be the last place in Mustang where the pre-Buddhist religion of Bon is still practiced, or a lunch of Thakali curry cooked in a local home. The real luxury, Friedman says, is getting to explore a region few people have ever seen. From $1,800

Natural Immersion: andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, Bhutan

If you’ve traveled to andBeyond’s African camps, you know to expect the unexpected: Makeshift bars set up near watering holes frequented by elephants and zebras; picnics arranged in the bush as giraffes graze in the distance. So how does the seasoned operator transport that experience to the Bhutanese countryside? At first glance, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge ’s six sumptuous, tentlike lodgings may seem familiar to safari-goers, but the ethos is distinctly local. There are no game drives here; instead, tours lean into the Himalayan kingdom’s rich history and Buddhist traditions: archery lessons, treks to sky-high temples, and visits to secluded mountaintop villages, all surrounded by snowcapped peaks. But (spoiler alert) the surprises continue—a breakfast spread overlooking a temple might await you at the end of an early morning hike, lunch can materialize on a cliff surrounded by colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and drinks appear on a sandy riverbank as the sun sets over the 17th-century Punakha Dzong monastery. Suites from $890

Historic Conversion: La Palma, Capri, Italy

The long-delayed two-and-a-half-year gut renovation of Capri’s oldest hotel , which dates back to 1822, was finally completed last summer. And it was worth the wait.

The 50 or so rooms and suites were reimagined by interior designer Francis Sultana in a palette of pale sherbets. They have every possible amenity—yes, that’s a branded bath pillow—and guests receive a generous gift every night at turndown, from cookies to night masks, as is typical at Oetker-operated hotels. The configurations of the rooms differ wildly, but the splashiest is the 861-square-foot La Palma suite. Social butterflies will prefer the smaller suites on the second floor (numbers 110 to 115) whose terraces have direct access to the new pool.

On an island where sandy beaches are rare, La Palma’s greatest asset is off-site: Its shore club, Da Gioia, is a time- warpishly fabulous hangout offering a jolt of dolce vita glamour, even in midsummer while crowds throng nearby. Book the private cove, which can accommodate up to six people and is thankfully close enough to the restaurant to keep the rosé flowing. And spend at least one evening at the nightclub in the basement, Anema e Core. The branded tambourines you’ll use to tap along to the house band are the best souvenir. From about $2,677

Updated Classic: Maroma Riviera Maya, Mexico

Interior designer Tara Bernerd brought her swaggering style to the multimillion-dollar reimagining of this property , the first of Belmond’s historic North American hotels to benefit from the deep pockets of new owner LVMH.

She met the challenge magnificently. Checking into one of the 72 rooms or villas, decorated in a style best described as Mexican midcentury modern, feels like staying at the beachfront home of a sophisticated friend. The airy spaces are heavy on earth tones, with dashes of turquoise and yellow on details such as the floor tiles—made, like 80 percent of the decorative elements, right here in Mexico. The suites are jam-packed with thoughtful touches, too: Take the branded sunglass-cleaning cloth, or the minibar and its full cocktail-making set, plus unisex cotton caftans (not robes) to wear in the room or on the beach.

The Curtis Stone–helmed restaurant, Woodend, is fine, but the food’s just as good at the hotel’s own all-day spot, Casa Mayor. Make sure to order its Catch of the Day in Molcajete, a tart, corn-studded ceviche of locally caught fish. Better yet, make it two. One won’t be enough. From $1,095

Renovation: Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia

In 2020, wildfires incinerated nearly half of Kangaroo Island, the hardscrabble, beautiful landform off the coast of South Australia. Its premier property, Southern Ocean Lodge , was razed; after nearly four years of renovations, it reopened in December. It’s a credit to the architect, Max Pritchard, that few realize this is a close replica of the original. Suites—the only room category—still project like a tentacle from version 2.0 of the airy, central great room. And a sense of residential comfort still dominates. There are books everywhere. The dining room doesn’t take reservations. (Guests simply call ahead to say when they’d like to eat.) The central bar is self-service. Want wine? Just walk into the cellar and take what you like. At oversize resorts, they call this sort of thing “all inclusive,” but here, it’s just easy, the way it would be at home.

Veterans will notice discrepancies. There are now 25, rather than 23, rooms. The bar is longer. There’s a new four-bedroom suite overlooking the lodge. What hasn’t changed are the daily guided excursions through this resilient landscape, rich with penguins, seals, koalas, and of course, kangaroos. From about $2,200

Aegean Retreat: Avant Mar, Paros, Greece

Don’t be surprised to see general manager Anna Asimakopoulou floating around this small property in the heart of Naoussa, her shaggy dog, Athena, trailing behind her. Like Mrs. Madrigal of 28 Barbary Lane, she’s equal parts warm and firm, which helps the 38-room property stand out from many of its rivals, where service is slapdash at best. Catch the eye of any staffer, and they’ll smile and offer to help without missing a beat.

Its design looks inward, centered on a 180-foot pool—don’t miss the chance to take a selfie or two at the infinity-edged end nearest the ocean. It’s a new build, which allowed extra amenities to be squeezed into the compact footprint. Matsuhisa Paros, Chef Nobu’s restaurant at the hotel, reopened in June, but there’s also an all-day bakery serving homemade Greek pastries right by reception. A gin-and-tonic-focused bar called the Bridge, the newest addition to the property, offers views of the Aegean and the nearby Naoussa port.

As for the rooms, the best will be one of the seven with a private plunge pool, each of which has a superb view over the beach and to the town beyond. From $772

Local Charm: Violino D’Oro, Venice, Italy

Think of this 32-room hotel , which opened in November, as a contrast to the bombastic names that dominate the hotel scene here—one powered by a generosity that only family-run properties can offer. (The jars of candy in the lobby are, dangerously, regularly refilled.) Owner Sara Maestrelli painstakingly restored a trio of buildings minutes from Piazza San Marco, and the gemlike result acts as a tribute to traditional Italian crafts. There’s glass everywhere, from elaborate Murano-blown chandeliers to the keepsake-like key fobs; the headboards are upholstered in custom fabrics by local textile house Rubelli. Even the gold-leather menu holders are made-to-order by Consani e Giannini.

Rooms 21 and 22 don’t connect, but they do share a discreet private staircase, so they’re perfect if you’re traveling in a small group. Or you can dispense with superstition and book room 13, Maestrelli’s favorite, which sits at the heart of the hotel, with its own private terrace hidden from the hubbub below. And yes, there is a golden violin, though it’s easy to overlook, in a glass vitrine right by the entrance. From $865

City Chic: The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York City

For those craving a cozy antidote to sprawling anodyne luxury, the charming Fifth Avenue Hotel has opened its doors at long last. Owner Alex Ohebshalom and designer Martin Brudnizki have transformed a 19th-century McKim, Mead & White building, plus an adjoining new 24-story glass tower, into a colorful and kaleidoscopically eclectic take on clubby Manhattan hotels of yore. This is hospitality with a point of view—specifically, Gilded Age New York through a heady psilocybin buzz. Rooms hum with color, pattern, and texture, from pink and pistachio-mint walls to hand-painted bone china to a Murano-glass chandelier dangling a rainbow-hued harvest of fruits. Several of the 43 suites come with terraces; the sprawling Flaneur penthouse includes an outdoor soaking tub and Japanese garden overlooking the skyline.

The experience is one of dreamlike intimacy—the feeling that at the end of an ornate, Alice in Wonderland hallway sits your own Flatiron pied-à-terre with 24-hour butler service and an on-demand martini cart in the evenings. In true high-low N.Y.C. fashion, the seductively chic Portrait Bar offers both osetra caviar and a hot dog au poivre. Or head upstairs to Andrew Carmellini’s eponymous café, buzzing with Art Deco glamour, where the longtime star chef continues the reverie, serving his impeccably elevated Italian fare beneath a pair of soaring sculptural trees. From $895

Mark Ellwood

British-born, NYC-based Mark Ellwood is Robb Report's editor-at-large. He has lived out of a suitcase for most of his life, covering luxury in all its forms across the world. Among his favorite…

Paul Croughton

Paul Croughton is the editor-in-chief of Robb Report. He was the launch editor of the British edition of Robb Report in 2016, before moving to New York in the summer of 2018 to take over the American…

Josh Condon

Josh Condon is Robb Report's deputy editor. A former staffer at Details, Gear Patrol, Road & Track, The Drive and Cargo, he has written about the men's lifestyle space for the New York Times, Esquire…

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Unconventional Sex Let Anglerfish Conquer the Deep Ocean

During a chaotic period some 50 million years ago, the strange deep-sea creatures left the ocean bottom and thrived by clamping onto their mates.

A female anglerfish, with a bioluminescent lure, in waters off Hawaii. Credit... Doug Perrine/Alamy

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By William J. Broad

• May 30, 2024

How did the ghoulish creatures known as anglerfish pull off the evolutionary feat that let them essentially take over the ocean’s sunless depths?

It took peculiar sex — extremely peculiar sex.

Scientists at Yale University have discovered that a burst of anglerfish diversification began some 50 million years ago as the ancestral line developed a bizarre strategy to ensure successful reproduction in the dark wilderness.

To mate, tiny males would clamp with sharp teeth onto the bellies of much larger females. Some males would let go after mating while others would permanently fuse into the females. The males that stayed attached became permanent organs for sperm production.

“We found that a cascade of traits, including those required for sexual parasitism, allowed anglerfishes to invade the deep sea,” Chase D. Brownstein , a graduate student in the ecology and evolutionary biology department at Yale who was the study’s lead author, said in a news release.

Today, there are more than 300 species of anglerfish, which makes them the most varied family of vertebrates in the ocean’s lightless zone. The region starts about 1,000 feet down — just beneath the photic zone, which gets enough sunlight to support photosynthesis and most of the sea’s plants — and descends for miles. The team’s study was published last week in the journal Current Biology.

Finding a mate in the deep sea can be extremely difficult because of the environment’s incomprehensibly vast size. By some estimates, the dark zone amounts to more than 97 percent of the planetary space inhabited by living things, mainly because the ocean plunges to a maximum depth of nearly seven miles. In contrast, land habitats make up less than 1 percent of the planet’s biosphere because the band of life is so narrow, making its volume quite small.

The anglerfish’s bizarre mating routine is seen as counteracting the otherwise slim chances of finding a mate in the world’s largest ecosystem. It is the only known vertebrate that employs sexual parasitism, and that gave it an evolutionary edge.

Over time, the male can physically fuse with the female, connecting to her skin and bloodstream. Eventually, he loses his eyes and all internal organs except for his testes. A female can carry several males on her body.

The Yale team documented how immune systems that attack foreign threats changed over time so the female hosts would not reject the parasitic males.

Anglerfish get their name from how females use rodlike appendages with glowing tips to lure prey into their needlelike teeth. They’re fish that fish . Their mouths are so large and their bodies so flexible that they can swallow prey up to twice their size.

The Yale team used fossils and genetic data from more than 100 living anglerfish species to determine that the burst of diversification came during a major global heat spike between 50 million and 35 million years ago. The world’s oceans were thrown into turmoil, and the bottom-walking ancestors of the anglerfish began to explore the wider oceanic world.

“It happened in the blink of an evolutionary eye about 50 million years ago,” Mr. Brownstein said in an interview. “It was like whales going back into the ocean. It was amazing.”

The team found that, simultaneously, the fish developed their unusual reproductive skills. It was unable to determine which came first — temporary or permanent attachment.

Some female anglerfish can grow quite large, reaching more than three feet in length, but most are smaller. The free-swimming males typically are a few inches long.

How do they find the females in the perpetual darkness of the deep sea?

Mr. Brownstein said the males have enlarged nasal organs that are thought to let them follow faint trails of female pheromones through the darkness in order to find their partner.

“You sniff out your mate, literally,” he said.

William J. Broad has reported on science at The Times since 1983. He is based in New York. More about William J. Broad

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