The world is full of fascinating countries that are often unfairly labeled as unsafe for solo female travelers. But are these reputations truly deserved? Sabina Trojanova, a 31-year-old author and content creator known best for her travel adventures, set out to shed light on this by visiting countries she was warned against exploring as a woman on her own. In a video she shared, Sabina ratings these destinations out of 10 based on how safe she felt during her visits. Her experiences offer a nuanced perspective on what it’s like to travel solo as a woman in these often-misunderstood locations.
Starting with India, a country Sabina acknowledges has troubling statistics regarding violence against women, she shares that her personal experiences were largely positive. She recommends visiting Kerala, a state in southern India, as a great introduction to the country for solo travelers. Sabina describes Kerala as less chaotic compared to other parts of India, making it an ideal starting point for those looking to ease into the vibrant but often overwhelming culture of this diverse nation. Guatemala, on the other hand, scores an 8/10 in her ratings. Sabina highlights the breathtaking views from hiking Volcan de Fuego, an active stratovolcano, though she notes that the hike itself is physically demanding. Her enthusiasm for Guatemala reflects the country’s natural beauty, even as she acknowledges the need for caution.
Another destination Sabina focuses on is Palestine, which she also rates 8/10. Despite her wonderful personal experiences, she lowers her score due to broader safety concerns tied to the ongoing Israeli occupation. Sabina shares her love for Nablus, an ancient city in the West Bank, calling it one of her favorite places in the world. She recommends visiting Nablus not only for its rich history but also for its famous dessert, knafeh, a sweet spun pastry. Her story shows that even in places with complex political situations, there is beauty and hospitality to be found. Kyrgyzstan, which she rates 7/10, is another highlight of her travels. She describes it as a true adventurer’s paradise, with limited tourism infrastructure that makes for an authentic and unforgettable experience. Sabina recounts a memorable three-day horseback ride to Song-Kul, a remote freshwater lake nestled in the mountains, as one of her most cherished moments.
Sabina’s travels also took her to Mexico, which she gives an 8/10 rating. While she finds it difficult to pinpoint just one must-do activity in such a diverse country, she suggests steering clear of the heavily commercialized Yucatan Peninsula in favor of less touristy destinations. This advice reflects her preference for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. In contrast, Albania earns a higher score of 9/10, with Sabina calling it a hidden gem for adventure travelers. She recommends visiting Gjirokaster and Berat, two historic UNESCO-listed cities, for their rich history and charm. These destinations, she says, are perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Europe’s lesser-known cultural treasures. Kosovo, which she rates 7/10, is another destination she highlights as a great option for shorter trips, given its small size and ease of exploration.
When it comes to how she determines her ratings, Sabina explains that they are a mix of her personal experiences and broader safety trends. She believes it’s important to present a balanced view, neither ignoring the dangers that exist nor promoting an overly optimistic picture of the world. Sabina emphasizes that safety concerns for women are not exclusive to foreign countries; they exist everywhere, even in places like the UK, where statistics on violence against women are alarming. Her goal is not to scare women away from traveling but to encourage them to approach it with awareness and preparation. She firmly believes that solo travel is not something to fear and that the benefits far outweigh the risks when done responsibly.
For those just starting out with solo travel, Sabina advises beginning with destinations that feel more familiar or have fewer cultural and language barriers. Places like Thailand, which are popular among solo travelers, offer a supportive environment for building confidence. However, she also believes that more challenging destinations, like the ones she visited, are worth exploring once you gain experience. Ultimately, Sabina’s message is one of empowerment and curiosity. She wants women to feel inspired to explore the world, trusting in their ability to navigate its complexities while staying informed and cautious. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to challenge the narrative that solo female travel is inherently dangerous and instead show that it can be a life-changing adventure. Follow Sabina on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @girlvsglobe for more of her travel insights and inspiration.
