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 Spain is as good as it gets.
Spain is the best country for traveling alone, according to more than 16,000 people from four different regions who filled out surveys for the 2016 Best Countries rankings. 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 Best Countries to Travel Alone including Italy, Brazil and Portugal, scored highest on a compilation of seven country attributes: culturally accessible, friendly, fun, pleasant climate, safe, scenic and unapproachable. Pakistan and Iran — 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 World Tourism Organization. The country also tops the World Economic Forum’s 2015 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index, 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 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, 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 Brazil would receive 6.4 million international tourist arrivals in 2014, with the World Cup giving it a boost of about 1 million. The largest country in South America draws tourists eager to see its rain forests, tropical beaches and large metropolises, such as Rio de Janeiro.
No. 4: New Zealand
New Zealand had more than 2.8 million international visitors for year ending in September 2014, according to Statistics New Zealand. Australia is New Zealand’s largest tourism market, contributing more than 1.18 million visitors each year. Many visitors come to New Zealand seeking adventure and take advantage of bungee jumping, white water rafting and other opportunities.
No. 3: Australia
Australia drew in 6.6 million international visitors in 2014, according to the World Tourism Organization — 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 Sydney Opera House or the wine country near Melbourne.
No. 2: Italy
Italy was the fifth-most popular tourist destination in 2014, drawing in 48.6 million international visitors, according to the World Tourism Organization. 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 Florence for authentic Tuscan food or take a water taxi in Venice.
No. 1: Spain
Spain was the third-most popular tourist destination in 2014, drawing in 65 million international visitors, according to the World Tourism Organization. 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 Seville, a city marked by Jewish, Christian and Muslim influences, or strolling down Barcelona’s tree-lined Las Ramblas.
Want to Know More?
Click to see the full list of Best Countries to Travel Alone, or visit the U.S. News Best Countries homepage 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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Spain Tops the List of Best Countries to Travel Alone, Survey Finds originally appeared on usnews.com
