Your first solo trip shouldn't be your hardest, and the destination you choose makes an enormous difference. Pick somewhere known for being safe and welcoming to solo travelers — a place with good public transport, widely spoken English, and a well-trodden traveler trail. Confidence builds remarkably fast once you've navigated one gentle city entirely on your own.

Booking your first night's accommodation in advance also removes a lot of arrival-day stress. Landing in a new country is disorienting enough without hunting for a bed; give yourself the gift of a confirmed room, and improvise from there once you've found your feet.