As a solo female traveller, finding the right accommodation can make a huge difference to your overall experience. It ensures a sense of comfort and security throughout your journey. Whether you're an adventure-seeker, an experienced traveller, a novice, travelling on a budget, or willing to splurge, tailoring your choice of accommodation to your personal preferences and expectations, can make your journey more interesting.
Before booking anything, zero in on the neighbourhood you want to stay in. Choosing an accommodation that is centrally located is a good idea as all the amenities—from cafes to pharmacies—are at your disposal, should you need anything. It is best to avoid areas that are deserted, don't have much happening around, and are far away from the attractions you would want to visit during your stay. The best way to know if your accommodation is located in a safe area is to check user reviews and confirm with the staff of your hotel while making the bookings.
When you have narrowed down your options, you need to find a trustworthy and convenient way to book your accommodation. There are many platforms available, such as online travel agencies, direct websites, apps, and comparison sites. You should look for a platform that offers secure payment methods, clear cancellation policies, verified reviews, and customer support.
As solo female travellers, it is important to ensure that certain basic requirements pertaining to safety and amenities are met. Before booking, check if the hotel has things like a strong WiFi connection, airport pick-up and drop facilities so that you reach your accommodation safely, group tours so that you can meet with fellow travellers on your solo adventure. If you are staying in a hostel, definitely look up if there are options for female-only dorms and lockers. While you can get such information from their website or social media, always read the reviews for first-hand knowledge.
There are many types of accommodation to choose from, such as hotels, hostels, guesthouses, apartments, homestays, and more. Each type has its own pros and cons, depending on your needs and preferences. For example, if you want more privacy and comfort, you might prefer a hotel or an apartment. If you want to save money and meet other travellers, you might prefer a hostel or a guesthouse. If you want to experience the local culture and hospitality, you might prefer a homestay or a couchsurfing.
Hostels are a popular option for budget-conscious and sociable travellers who are looking for communal accommodations. Staying at hostels can be a great way to meet other travellers who share similar interests, especially for solo female travellers who may not want to be alone all the time. Even if you don't want to find a travel buddy, hostel guests are often willing to share tips and advice for the journey ahead. However, do explore the option of female-only dorms for safety.