Solo travel is not just for teenagers and millennials. Even those in their 40s can go solo backpacking too and enjoy the world!
In fact, traveling in your 40s can even be more rewarding and, well, easier. After all, you are mature, aware, and adeptly in tune with what you love. Isn't that the perfect time to travel the world?
On a getaway alone to soak up some culture, here are the best destinations:
1. Greek Islands, Greece
You could spend all day on the white sand and pebble beaches and still come back for more. The most well-known islands are probably Santorini or Mykonos, but there are over 200 inhabited islands to choose from.
Crete is the largest Greek island, rich with beaches, historical sights, hiking spots, and small cities.
The Ionian Islands have popular destinations such as Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zante. The best nightlife is found in this island chain.
2. Beijing, China
One of the oldest cities in the world is Beijing. Your first and most important stop will be the Great Wall of China, from the Palace Museum to the Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square.
In a city bursting with more than 11m people, Beijingers move with purpose. Don't be shy at queues and crossings, and assume English will be spoken.
You can also get a good travel credit card with a lucrative sign-up bonus to save money on flights to Asia.
3. San Juan, Puerto Rico
You can walk through the El Yunque National Forest. With El Yunque Tours, tour leaders will help navigate you through the area and give interesting information about the rainforest.
Wear your swimsuit to Yokahú Tower, La Coca Waterfall, Cascada La Mina, and the Angelito Trail that leads to a swimming hole.
Grab a bite at the La Bombonera in Old San Juan, where glasses of fresh-squeezed orange juice, cafés con leche, and spongy mallorcas with cheese are served.
4. Kyoto, Japan
Despite Japan's advancement, its old capital, Kyoto, remains perfect for cultural travel with its hilltop temples and fascinating ancient alleyways.
More than 1000 Buddhist temples will give you some much-needed peace of mind. You'll also have the perfect meditative, relaxing holiday with its pristine gardens and spectrum of colors.
If you're curious, check out the Geisha/Maiko dancers at Gion, a district in Higashiyama ward, which used to serve as the entertainment district.
5. New York, USA
Your 40s wouldn't be complete without seeing "The Greatest City in the World."
Its beating heart -- the iconic Central Park -- is surrounded by the concrete jungle, as the city pulsates with relentless energy.
Enjoy fine wining and dining with New York's incredible food scene. You can also explore iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the fascinating museums.
It's never too late to travel, even if you haven't tried it before. It could be a little scary, but trust us -- with all the travel destinations we mentioned -- it will all be worth it!
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
