Iceland was
never just another place on my list of destinations to see. I made a
self-promise to go there when I was ready to recover confidence, think
straight, and be able to stand on my own two feet.
I finally bought that single ticket after years of saving, waiting, and second-guessing, and it ended up being one of the most powerful experiences of my life.
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| I Traveled to Iceland Alone - Here's What Every Solo Female Should Know |
Why Iceland?
Just the fact
that Iceland was listed as one of the safest places for women to travel solo
comforted me.
Beyond safety,
yet, the attraction of remarkable scenery, volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls felt
almost like an image for the inward journey I was about to go on.
I knew I
could handle anything if I could hike through lava fields and relax in hot
lagoons by myself.
Touchdown in Reykjavik - First Impressions
On a gloomy
morning, my plane touched down in Reykjavik,
and the cold air felt like a wake-up call. The airport was peaceful and simple to
use.
Yes, I drove
solo! I picked up my rental car and headed into the city.
Reykjavik was
immediately hospitable. Everything was exceptionally clean and clearly marked
in English, and people were courteous.
While staying
at Kex, a women-only hostel, I made friends with other solo travelers, some of
whom were as experienced as I was.
The Golden Circle - Confidence on Four Wheels
It was an unexpectedly refreshing experience to drive the Golden Circle alone. When I wanted to, I stopped.
When I felt like it, I ate, took selfies near waterfalls
and geysers. Nobody passed judgment. Nobody rushed me.
My Favorite
Places to Visit,
Thingvellir National Park - Walking between the tectonic plates felt like straddling two worlds.
Geysir Hot Springs - I caught Strokkur erupting every few minutes.
Gullfoss Waterfall - Powerful, misty, and humbling. I cried a little here.
Not only was
driving alone manageable, but it also gave me more self-assurance. There is
very little traffic on Icelandic roads, which are kept up nicely.
For real-time
updates, download the SafeTravel app and exercise caution during the winter
months.
Feeling Safe as a Solo Woman
I never once
felt in danger.
People were
courteous and helpful, even in isolated places. Gender equality is deeply
rooted in Icelandic society. I was rarely stared at or catcalled by locals, and
I was always greeted with politeness.
But be wise,
- Do not hike alone in unmarked regions.
- Never neglect the weather.
- Never fail to notify someone of your route.
Soaking in the Blue Lagoon (Alone)
I was anxious
about the part where I would be alone and soaking in a spa with strangers.
But believe
me, whether you arrive alone, with pals, or with a significant other, the Blue
Lagoon doesn't give a damn. Everyone is too preoccupied with unwinding to
notice.
I sipped a
smoothie, treated myself to a silica face mask, and relaxed under the pale sky,
letting go of all the strain.
What Every Solo Female Traveler Should Know
Here are some
things to consider if you think about traveling to Iceland solo,
Plan for Weather - The weather in Iceland is
unpredictable. Pack waterproof gear and layers.
Budget Wisely - Iceland is costly. Plan ahead or
select inexpensive lodging.
You’re Never Really Alone - You'll meet into nice strangers or
other solo women even while you're by yourself.
Nature Heals - The natural beauty of Iceland
provides perspective. You'll be a different person when you return.
Trust Yourself - You underestimate your own abilities.
You'll see that in Iceland.
Final Thoughts
I didn't
realize I needed the peace, wonder, and bravery that Iceland alone offered.
Women are
frequently advised to use caution, maintain our petite stature, and wait for
the ideal moment.
Yet, I came to the realization that there is no "right time" to make a decision while standing in Iceland under the Northern Lights, my hair frozen and my heart blazing. You simply leave.
Do it if
you're thinking about it.
You will see
more than just Iceland.
You'll
recognize yourself.
Read: The
Surprising Things I Regret Not Packing as a Solo Female Explorer
