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Solo Travellers Can't Get Enough of This Country

Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand | © gracethang2/Shutterstock

Mexico is proving increasingly popular with solo travellers, according to a new survey from Airbnb. Both Cancún and Playa Del Carmen saw ‘growth in single-person home bookings over 2016’ – 170% and 141% respectively. Take a look at the full list of trending solo destinations below, as we pick out some of the best experiences on offer.

Cancún, Mexico

With 240 days of sunshine a year, you’ll want to head to one of Cancún’s six public beaches with blue flag certification. Dive or snorkel around Cancún Underwater Museum and enjoy some of the water sports on offer at Playa Caracol.

Cancun, Mexico

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

It’s impossible to spend time in this foodie paradise without wanting to learn how to cook some delicious street food for yourself. Take a private cooking class, which also includes a trip to the local market to pick up ingredients.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Cologne, Germany

This city is perfect for culture vultures, packed with museums and galleries in which to while away the hours. Take a trip to Cologne Dome, one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic architecture, and Museum Ludwig – home to works by artists Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali.

Cologne, Germany

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

A little further South from Cancún you’ll find Playa Del Carmen, a playground for adrenaline junkies. Explore its crystal clear cenotes, swim with sea turtles in Akumal, or dip your toes in soft sand at Tulum. Take a trip to Xcaret, a natural theme park with underwater caves and zip lining.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Johannesburg, South Africa

To really enjoy this urban metropolis, you need to go up. Visit the Carlton Centre, Africa’s tallest building, for stunning views, have a drink at one of Johannesburg’s many rooftop bars and bungee from the Orlando Towers – icons of the Soweto skyline.

Johannesburg, South Africa

São Paulo, Brazil

While the Paulistos (São Paulo natives) work hard, they play even harder. Explore the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), enjoy an ice-cold beer in the up-and-coming neighbourhood of Vila Madalena and make new friends in the bars and clubs of Baixo Augusta.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

Auckland, New Zealand

This city on New Zealand’s Northern Peninsula is perfect for the adventurous at heart. Bungee jump off Sky Tower, hike up Mount Eden and learn the Haka – New Zealand’s maori war dance. Take a short trip to Waiheke Island and Whakanewha Regional Park.

Auckland, New Zealand

Mexico City, Mexico

Visit the Cineteca Nacional (an homage to Mexican cinema), the Basílica de Guadalupe and Palacio de Bellas Artes for big and bold architecture, and check out Monumento a la Revolución, Kiosco Morisco and the colourful trajineras (canal boats) for examples of local design.

Mexico City, Mexico

Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

This South Eastern city is a must-visit for sports fans. Take a tour of the NASCAR Hall of Fame or check out a game at one of Charlotte’s stadiums, including the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte Hornets (NBA) and the Charlotte Independence playing in the United Soccer League.

Charlotte, North Carolina

Busan, South Korea

This coastal city is home to one of South Korea’s most stunning temples. It’s best to visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple at sunrise or sunset for the best views, before heading into the city to explore the food markets, tent bars and more.

Busan, South Korea

About the author

Alex Jordan is a travel writer based in London.

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