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I binge travel shows the way some women watch Hallmark movies. I even keep a spreadsheet of places I’d love to see. But after I lost my husband in 2020 — followed immediately by the pandemic — I wasn't sure I could travel on my own.
My biggest concern was personal safety. I also knew I needed to choose countries where women are respected and foreigners feel welcome.
Luckily, several global organizations have researched the best destinations for women travelers. Criteria include low crime rates, accessibility, friendliness and respect for women as a cultural norm.
The countries below score highly in each category, so I felt comfortable planning a trip to one of them. I added a few requirements of my own, including ease of booking and familiarity with American tourists.
I chose a North American airline to avoid language barriers and glitchy booking apps. In addition to U.S. options, I found that Air Canada had a high safety rating and offered convenient flights to Europe and Asia (as well as Canada) at very competitive prices, thanks to favorable exchange rates.
Another exciting discovery: U.S. hotel chains like Hilton, Marriott and Radisson will accept your points anywhere in the world. This is a great way to get upgrades and free nights at hotels that feel comfortable and familiar.
Here are four of the safest countries for women to visit now:
CANADA
Gorgeous, friendly and close to home, our northern neighbor is a fantastic destination for female travelers. From rugged mountains to cosmopolitan cities and world-class cuisine to the magic of the Northern Lights, you’ll be amazed at the range of experiences. Grab your bestie for a long weekend in Montreal or Quebec City, unwind at a rustic spa in British Columbia or Banff, or hit the slopes at world-class Whistler Mountain. More information: travel.destinationcanada.com.
ICELAND
Named the world’s safest destination by the Global Peace Index, this expansive, sparsely populated island is like no other place on Earth. “The Land of Fire and Ice” is known for its dramatic landscapes, including some of the world’s largest volcanoes, glaciers and natural hot springs. Getting around is easy — there’s only one major highway, the Ring Road, circling the entire country, a distance of more than 800 miles. Nearly everyone speaks English, especially in the capital city of Reykjavik, where you can visit museums and galleries, shop for souvenirs in the bustling Laugavegur district and enjoy the waters of 18 thermal spas. More information: visiticeland.com.
IRELAND
The Emerald Isle took the crown for the safest European country for travelers in 2024, followed closely by Switzerland and the Netherlands. Check out Vagabond for a wide range of small-group tours, from music and culture to hiking, surfing and sea kayaking. Or, just base yourself in Dublin at the boutique Morrison Hotel (Hilton) or Radisson Blu Royal Hotel and arrange day trips through the Tourist Information Centre at Barnardo Square. More information: Ireland.com.
JAPAN
Japan is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Asia — and it was at the top of my bucket list. But I still felt nervous because it was farther geographically and culturally than other places on the list.
I decided to go for it and I am so glad I did! Since I love to hike, I combined a small-group tour from Walk Japan with Hilton hotel stays in Kyoto and Osaka. I used three English language apps — Klook, Google Maps and Google Translate — to make reservations and get around.
I made plenty of mistakes, like ordering ramen that was so spicy I broke into a sweat and forgetting to take off my shoes at the entrance to a traditional ryokan (inn). But I loved every exotic, incredible minute of it. More information: www.japan.travel/en/us/.
HELPFUL TIPS
No matter how safe a destination may be, travel experts recommend you follow these tips for peace of mind abroad:
1. Buy travel insurance. Companies like Allianz, American Express and TravelGuard offer comprehensive trip delay and medical coverage for a fraction of what you'd pay if things went wrong.
2. Make photocopies of documents and store them in a separate place, like your hotel room. I also keep photos of my passport, license and health insurance card on my phone. Write out your emergency contacts and carry the list with you at all times.
3. Buy an international travel plan from your cell phone carrier to ensure uninterrupted service and data.
4. Share your location with loved ones — but keep specifics, like the name of your hotel, off social media.
Remember, being safe doesn’t always mean feeling comfortable. Each country has its own customs, and until you learn the ropes, you are likely to feel like an outsider. My advice? Treat these differences as part of the adventure. Whether you’re sleeping on a futon or learning hot springs etiquette, dive in and savor the experience.
Have you traveled alone or with girlfriends? How was it? Let us know in the comments below.
