Traveling alone as a woman can sometimes be intimidating, especially when certain countries have a reputation for being unsafe.
But are these concerns always justified? Sabina Trojanova, a seasoned adventurer and content creator behind @girlvsglobe, recently shared her personal ratings of places she’s been told to avoid, giving them a score out of 10 based on how safe she felt during her solo trips.
Here’s what she had to say about some of these often-discussed destinations.
India: A Complex Experience
India has often been a point of concern for solo female travelers due to the country’s high rates of violence against women.
Sabina, who has visited India twice, acknowledges these serious issues but also reflects on her personal experience, which was largely positive.
“Despite the statistics, I had a wonderful time,” she shares.
“For anyone looking for a less chaotic introduction to India, I’d recommend Kerala, which has a calmer vibe compared to other parts of the country.”
Rating: 7/10
Guatemala: The Adventure Destination
Known for its rich culture and beautiful landscapes, Guatemala is another destination on Sabina’s list.
She highlights the challenge of hiking Volcan de Fuego, an active volcano, as one of her most memorable experiences.
While physically demanding, the views from the top are breathtaking.
Despite safety concerns in certain areas, she still feels confident recommending this adventurous spot for travelers.
Rating: 8/10
Palestine: Rich in History But Complex
Sabina visited the West Bank in Palestine and had an overall positive experience.
However, she adjusted her rating due to the ongoing safety concerns caused by the Israeli occupation.
Her trip included a visit to Nablus, an ancient city famous for its knafeh (a delicious dessert), which she calls one of her favorite places in the world.
Rating: 8/10
Kyrgyzstan: Off the Beaten Path
If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, Kyrgyzstan might be just the place.
With its rugged landscapes and limited tourism infrastructure, it offers an authentic experience.
Sabina reminisces about a memorable three-day horseback trip to Song-Kul, a remote freshwater lake surrounded by mountains, calling it an unforgettable journey.
Rating: 7/10
Mexico: A Diverse and Dynamic Destination
For those thinking about traveling to Mexico, Sabina recommends exploring beyond the heavily commercialized Yucatán Peninsula.
There’s so much to do and see, from vibrant cities to serene beaches, making it difficult to choose just one place to visit.
Still, she advises travelers to focus on less touristy areas for a more authentic experience.
Rating: 8/10
Albania: A Hidden Gem in Europe
Albania may not be at the top of many travel lists, but Sabina considers it a European gem, especially for those who love history.
Cities like Gjirokaster and Berat, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, offer rich cultural experiences and picturesque landscapes, making them a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Rating: 9/10
Kosovo: A Quick Getaway
Kosovo, though small, offers an interesting and compact experience for travelers.
Due to its size, you can explore the country in just a few days, making it an ideal destination for a short break.
While the country’s status is still disputed, Sabina finds it an accessible and enjoyable stop for solo travelers.
Rating: 7/10
How Sabina Rates These Destinations
When rating these countries, Sabina uses a mix of personal experiences and general safety trends.
She explains, “I try not to sugarcoat things but also don’t want to create fear.
The narrative that solo travel for women is inherently dangerous is problematic.
Yes, risks exist everywhere, but they shouldn’t stop women from traveling.”
Sabina stresses that, sadly, danger can exist in any country—whether it’s home or abroad.
For example, in the UK, one woman is killed by a man every three days, and a staggering 97% of women report being harassed or assaulted.
With that in mind, it’s important for travelers to remain aware of risks and make informed decisions.
Is a Perfect 10 Possible?
When asked if any destination could earn a perfect 10 rating, Sabina responds, “In today’s world, no place is perfect.”
She believes that every destination has its pros and cons, and it’s important to be realistic about the potential challenges, especially as a solo female traveler.
Is Solo Travel Safe for Women?
Sabina is a strong advocate for solo travel, but she offers this advice: “If you’re new to solo travel, these countries might not be the best place to start.
Build your confidence first and perhaps choose destinations where the culture or language barrier isn’t too difficult.”
She suggests starting with well-established solo-friendly destinations, like Thailand, before venturing to more challenging locations.
She concludes, “Solo travel should not be feared.
Bad things can happen anywhere, whether you’re at home or abroad.
It’s all about being prepared, doing your research, and listening to safety guidelines.
Fear should never stop anyone from exploring the world.”
Follow Sabina on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for more travel insights and tips.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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