Oh the joy of independent travel! There is nothing more thrilling than devising a vacation itinerary that completely indulges every last whim. It goes without saying that independent travel suits independent spirits, but it also works for those wishing to save money, see more and get the real deal on a destination. Traveling without the safety net (or strait jacket, opinions vary) of an organized vacation or tour company allows you the freedom to go with the flow, act on impulse, change plans, go places nobody else wants to go – it’s great!
So where are the top spots tempting independent travelers today? Let’s have a look at some inspiring vacation ideas for intrepid adventurers who like to go it alone.
Qatar
Water sports in Qatar
This small country in the middle east was relatively unknown until recently, when its bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022 was successful. Now Qatar is on the radar of travelers keen to get in early before the World Cup rush. Access to Qatar by air is into the capital Doha where Qatar Airways have a growing network. It is possible to enter the country by car or bus from neighboring Saudi Arabia.
Qatar is almost completely surrounded by sea, making it the perfect water-sports destination. Dune bashing in a 4X4 in the desert is a popular past time as is shopping in the many futuristic malls. Whilst not exactly a cheap destination, spending can be reduced by shopping in the souks and eating at roadside stalls. The country is small so seeing a lot in a short time is feasible.
Albania
Gjirokastër in Albania, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
This place is an independent travelers paradise. With beaches to rival its near neighbors Greece and Croatia and a verdant interior scattered with snow capped mountains and river gorges, Albania awaits discovery. Not so long ago this Eastern European country was under communist rule and fascinating traces of its history are to be seen everywhere. Not yet a member of the EU, prices in Albania are cheap, making it possible to go far on very little budget. Many carriers fly into the capital Tirana, making it inexcusable not to check out this uncrowded, unspoilt gem before the secret gets out.
Costa Rica
Suspense Bridge at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, in Costa Rica (Photo: baxterclaus, Flickr)
This South American country perfectly suits the nature of the independent traveler. Here is a land that appeals to those who dare to step off the well worn tourist paths to discover volcanoes, mountains and rainforests. For civilization, head to the cities where great food and friendly people are the norm. With oceans all around a laid back beach culture thrives in Costa Rica and surfing and diving are popular.
There are choices galore when it comes to accommodation with cheap hostels, mid-range hotels and luxury resorts catering for all budgets . Independent travelers get around cheaply by bus or by car and motorbike rentals.. Costa Rica is the ultimate, no-compromise destination for the independent traveler looking for great weather, wildlife and as much or as little adventure as they choose.
Feeling tempted? All three destination ideas require an element of thinking ‘outside the box’ which is something independent travelers do best. Thanks to their unique twist on the usual vacation fare these countries should have independent travelers hastily reaching for their passports in an instant.
travelling alone is scary. make sure your friends knwo your itinerary
I have always wanted to go to Albania. Just so many places to visit. Talking about that do come visit my blog. Last year we went to Canada and I went to south Carolina. We also went to Kentucky to the creation museum!
Albania is a must for me! I’m hoping to visit not to long from now!
@Rachel, I have seen bloggers posting about trips recently, it looks like a great spot!
I have always wanted to go to Costa Rica! It’s one of the places I have on my travel list. I have heard so many good things about it.
nice post, great info
I tried that and it suites me but I did not stick to the plan, no one was there to stop me, I think mixing this with tours 50-50 would be a better idea.
Costa Rica is an interesting place to go.Thanks for sharing this!
love it! Albania looks amazing. and definitely not the first place one would think to vaca!
Not sure I would have the guts to travel alone, but these places sound amazing. Would love to see Albania’s beaches or Costa Rica’s rain forests. Have fun on all of your travels!
Now I must see the rain forest in Costa Rica! Your shots are amazing!
I loved traveling alone when I was in my 20′s. I spent a lot of time in Ontario, Canada. I just adored it and was so much fun
I have always wanted to go to Costa Rica, it’s so pretty. I’m not an independent traveler as I have more fun traveling with my husband.
@Susan, I like traveling with my hubby too! Costa Rica is very nice!
I enjoy traveling a lot but I am not sure that I could do it by myself. Enjoyed your post very much though
I like to travel with my daughter . Going to Costa Rica and Albania looks amazing the bridge I could never go across I fear heights but other than that looks like an amazing trip to go on.
I have traveled long distances before, but alway with a Travel Group and Guide. Thanks for the information to start traveling alone.
I love to travel! don’t think i would go at it alone.
I’ve been on a few independent travels. I did India on my own and don’t recommend it. Thailand and Prague were simple and relaxing (while being adventurous the entire time). Qatar was a surprise to hear. I’ve always viewed the middle east as a ‘go with a man by your side’ destination after hearing some stories from friends living in Saudi. Thanks for opening my eye. Once I have the funds i’ll set my eye on Qatar (and Oman which has also been recommended to me)
I love traveling and now reading about and seeing photo’s of Costa Rica makes me wanna travel outside of the USA.