There’s no need for a partner during a late night stroll by the Alhambra. Flamenco can be watched at a table of one. And tapas taste just the same alone as in a crowd.
When it comes to being a solo tourist, many people think is as good as it gets.
Spain is the best country for alone, according to more than 16,000 people from four different regions who filled out surveys for the . The rankings, formed in partnership with brand strategy firm BAV Consulting and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, aim to gauge global perceptions of the world’s biggest economies in terms of specific attributes associated with countries.
The including , and , scored highest on a compilation of seven country attributes: culturally accessible, friendly, fun, pleasant climate, safe, scenic and unapproachable. and — two countries criticized by human rights groups — were perceived as the worst countries to travel alone.
Spain, celebrated for its rich history, varied terrain and cuisine, has long been a magnet for tourists. Spain was the third-most popular tourist destination in 2014, drawing in 65 million international visitors, according to the . The country also tops the , which measures many factors, including environmental sustainability, price competitiveness, and transport and tourism services infrastructure.
Spain is also a relatively safe country, so solo tourists can saunter back to their hotel after a Rioja-fueled dinner with minimal fear. According to the , Spain’s homicide rate is 0.6, significantly lower than the OECD average of 4.0.
Top 5 Countries for Solo Travel
No. 5: Brazil
The World Travel & Tourism Council, an industry forum, predicted would receive 6.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2014, with the. The largest country in South America draws tourists eager to see its rain forests, tropical beaches and large metropolises, such as .
No. 4: New Zealand
had more than 2.8 million international visitors for year ending in September 2014, according to. Australia is New Zealand’s largest tourism market, contributing more than 1.18 million visitors each year. come to New Zealand seeking adventure and take advantage of bungee jumping, white water rafting and other opportunities.
No. 3: Australia
drew in 6.6 million international visitors in 2014, according to the — receiving 8 percent more international visitors than the year before. While it may take a while to get Australia, many think the travel is worth it. Visitors can check out sites such as the Opera House or the wine country near .
No. 2: Italy
was the fifth-most popular tourist destination in 2014, drawing in 48.6 million international visitors, according to the. The country posted 2 percent growth in terms of international arrivals. Italy has a wealth of history, architecture and cuisine to explore. Travelers can head to for authentic Tuscan food or take a water taxi in .
No. 1: Spain
was the third-most popular tourist destination in 2014, drawing in 65 million international visitors, according to the. The country was No. 2 in tourism earnings and first in Europe, bringing in $65 billion. There is much to do in Spain, including checking out , a city marked by Jewish, Christian and Muslim influences, or strolling down tree-lined Las Ramblas.
Want to Know More?
, or visit the to find news and more rankings. The 2016 Best Countries report and rankings were formed in partnership with brand strategy firm BAV Consulting and The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania.
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2016 Best Countries Rankings Unveiled
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